May this New Year bring you more happiness, success and more opportunity to help those around you to find it as well...
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Two weeks 'till the Outdoor Youth Ice Fishing day! Free fishing day for kids, just dress them (and you) warmly, all gear is provided. Kids have a great time fishing through the ice and it's lots of fun to watch them at it! Nothing needed to "sign up", just show up between 10 am and 3 pm on the 12th! www.facebook.com/events/284482428330688
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Merry Christmas to my family and friends... I hope each of you are spending it, like I am, with the ones you love.
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Our latest WyWF newsletter is a fantastic quarterly review! Enjoy it, then decide how you too can be involved...bit.ly/UO7PDM
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My advice for Vice President Biden: We have banned "assault style" guns, high capacity magazines and have declared many "gun free zones" in our history. Data clearly show, these actions have had little to no effect on the crimes we've recently seen when those bans were in effect. I suggest reviewing the results of the studies from the VA Tech shooting that indicate that the "gun free zone" was one of the attractions of that killer, it was a place he knew he would not be challenged (this has also been validated in other "gun free zone" shooting studies). Police officers that have attended the briefings of these government/law enforcement studies no longer promote these zones. I suspect the Naval Observatory doesn't have a "Gun Free Zone" sign in your front yard either as it would surely attract more mischievousness than is currently dealt with by the Secret Service.
In order to carry concealed, in Idaho (each State determines their own requirements), one must attend handgun training and show competency to carry. The final determination is made by the local Sheriff after background checks have been completed. One doesn't have to be a "professional" to properly learn how to manage handgun safety and the proper use of a gun, you just need to be educated that these are not video game toys and that pulling a trigger in "real life" has serious consequence.
Since 9-11, we have ALLOWED Pilots, with the proper vetting and training, to carry a gun in the cockpit of the planes we fly daily and haven't had a highjacking or killing on a plane since. The effect of having an unknown threat that someone else might be able to match a "bad guy's" threat is proven through sound study after study that it is one of the most effective means of stopping these types of crimes. Many don't realize it, but Police carry a gun to protect themselves, not you, and few crimes with guns happen in their presence. Maybe we should use them as another example of what works? ALLOWING our trusted Teachers, Professors and educational staff to go through the proper vetting and training and then carrying a handgun for personal protection is no different that what we now have successfully done in the air with our Pilots...
There are hundreds of published incidences where the proper vetting/training and concealed carry by average citizens stopped what could have been similar massacres. The person that tackled the shooter in the Gabby Gifford shooting was carrying and wisely elected not to use his gun when he had viable, safer alternative choices. Preliminary reports indicate in the recent shooting in the OR mall was stopped after the shooter had killed two people and then saw someone else, who had a concealed carry permit, had pointed their handgun at him... At which time he elected to take his own life. Who knows how many lives have been saved by these people that voluntarily had some simple training on the do' and don'ts of safely owning a gun.
History is a great teacher Mr. Vice President, little need to re-invent the wheel here, look at what has worked and what has not in deterring/limiting crimes and leverage those processes and actions that have worked. While at the same time, we search for the real cause of the mentally confused that seem intent to do harm others... or make this a political "feel good" solution that doesn't focus on the core issue of mental illness and bad societal influences, it's now your call.
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Between dentist appointments, had productive meetings with Meridian's Mayor Tammy on legislative concerns and Idaho Power's interest in supporting our Wyakin Wounded Warrior Academy in Boise.
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This day in 1775, Congress established the Navy's Warrant rank (the first in our armed forces). Chief Warrants have since filled a critical and vital leadership role in our Nation's military history... happy Birthday to those whom have walked the talk and then led others to do the same.
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You never win a fight by turning your back to it. Muster your resources and face it until you prevail or determine you can't win... Turning away is only a sign of weakness and forfeit.
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Good review of Idaho Transportation issues for Dist. 3 today. We are still facing a shortfall of ~$262M just to keep our roads/bridges in fair working condition, not sure how we are going to solve that. Any suggestions?
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Senate is organized and ready to go in Jan. I've been assigned H&W, Transportation and Judiciary and Rules committees. Let's do this...
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I'm humbled being a member such a strong team of GOP Senators, anyone in the Caucus could be on our Leadership team, we've got a deep bench!
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Associated Taxpayers of Idaho conf today with our Senate Leadership selection this evening, full day!
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Has Iran and al-qaeda effectively executed the "break them economically" play from the Reagan Play book against the Soviets on us? We must react differently than our Cold War adversary did, or our destiny will be the same...
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The Foundation's Guardian Ball was a fantastic event! Great speakers, dancing and fundraising efforts... thanks to all the volunteers and foundation members for their tireless work in putting together such a memorable evening. Thanks to all who attended, please share your pictures and experiences with others and remember the online auction is still going through the 6th! www.wyakin.org
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The Wyakin Warrior Foundation Guardian Ball is SOLD OUT! But you can still be involved in our auction supporting educating wounded vets at www.wyakin.org. They served, they sacrificed... Now it's OUR turn!
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Idaho State Scholarship Application Window Opens December 10!
The online application for state scholarships will be available on Monday, December 10, 2012. Students can apply via the online application until February 15, 2013, which is also the deadline for students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Applications for additional scholarship opportunities are available through Idaho’s colleges and universities. High school seniors who apply for a scholarship must take their SAT, ACT or COMPASS test no later than December 2012 in order to have test results back by scholarship deadlines. Find more information on scholarships at www.boardofed.idaho.gov/scholarship/scholarship_ju...p.asp.
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Fun day! Started with the Press kick-off of the ID Suicide Prevention program, off to lunch with Congressman Labrador and then set up the seating for the 1st Wyakin Warrior Guardian Ball for next Saturday. We have 600 people attending so far, we had some ticketing issues so have extended ticket sales through Wed. Www.wyakin.org to get yours!
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Spent a fun Thanksgiving with Mom and Dad Hagedorn in Riggins. The Best Western at the confluence of the Salmon and little Salmon puts on a great holiday meal/room package and you can't beat the views! It's a handy 1/2 way point between the Southern and Northern Idaho families...
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Thanks to the Parma Lions club for hosting me for lunch to tell them the Wyakin Warrior Foundation success story! www.wyakin.org
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Met with my friend and previous House Page, Dan Johnston for coffee this morning. Good to see he is continuing to better himself after his time as a Marine and is now at BSU halfway to a Political Science degree! Now on to speak at the Lions Club in Parma about our Wyakin Warrior program...
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Auction now open for a great cause! You DON'T need to be in Idaho to support our returning wounded warriors!
Original art work by national cartoonists Johnny Hart AND his grandson Mason Mastroianni (B.C.), Jeff Keane (The Family Circus), Steve Moore (In the Bleachers), Todd Clark (Lola), Stephan Pastis (Pearls Before Swine), Ed Steckley (MAD), Mike Peters (Mother Goose and Grimm), Michael Ramirez (Investor's Business Daily), and many other award winning cartoonists. Many of them will place your name in their strips, then send you the originals!
Lots of other great stuff too. Or hey, join us in Boise for the Guardian Ball supporting the Wyakin Warrior Foundation and see for yourself at www.wyakin.org!
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Busy day full of "history". Spent a couple hours at the Warhawk museum doing a question/answer video on my military history in an effort to record as many veterans as possible for the Congressional Record. Then on to the celebration for our retiring Senator Denton Darrington after 30 years in the Idaho Senate (the longest serving Senator in Idaho's history). Thanks to the Darrington family for allowing Denton to serve Idaho for so long.!
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The "silver lining" in the cloud of Students Come 1st being repealed is that there is ~$81 Million now available for H&W and tax reduction!
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Thank you to the voters of Dist 14! We had one Precinct with over 96% voter turned out with no Precinct voter participation under 80%... I'm proud to be the Senator (elect) of such a great Idaho citizenry! Now it's times to pick up signs...
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Early/Absentee ballots counted, looks like I'm up 70% to 30%, still waiting for precinct counts which could change things up...
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In 1776 each of us was given a gift. A gift that has been coveted and protected through the blood of our forefathers and family members since, so each American could independently decided how to "spend" that gift on this day as we chose. Generations of Americans have shaped our nation and changed our history by spending this gift before us. Now it's up to each of us to keep the great American experiment alive, please do your part... spend your gift wisely. Vote.
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Well done to the ID Press Tribune for understanding Props 1, 2 & 3 and getting it right: bit.ly/UbrG4r
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Most signs out, then lit drops today, once the legs turn to rubber it's time to stop for the day. Thanks to all that have been involved!!!
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Students Come First Prop 2 (Pay for Performance) was agreed to by the Unions in 2010 for a "Race to the Top" federal grant (starting at the bottom of pg 71). Why are the Unions spending so much money to overturn it now? Something's not passing the "smell test".... bit.ly/RtLfi6
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The Wyakin Warrior Foundation has been selected as Business of the Week! We will interview on 670 KBOI Monday morning at 7:35 am, join us!
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Had a good meeting in the City of Star last night about Props 1,2 & 3. If you are confused on how to vote, look at the website that includes all the information about the laws and data about school districts that was created by the laws the Unions want to overturn. SB-1108 (Prop 1), SB-1110 (Prop 2) and SB1184 (Prop 3) are now Idaho law and this site reflects exactly what we passed after 3 full months of rewrites and hearings, you elected us to represent you in the Legislature and the majority of us approved the final versions. Please do your homework before casting your vote: www.studentscomefirst.org
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Prop 3 on the Idaho Ballot is the one that provides the guidance for a long term goal of a 1 to 1 ratio of computing devices in our k-12 classrooms AND also provides authority for college concurrent classes to our high school students. I've heard discussions about the computing services at a cost of ~$300/student at full roll out to be "too high". Considering that we now pay ~$13m/year for books (and are never caught up) and a huge amount for current computer labs where we have to purchase the equipment, software licenses and the maint. services, this will be a bargain! It's been recognized by the School Districts and is why 85% of the High Schools in Idaho have already signed up to get them the first year of deployment! I witnessed a concurrent Phyc 101 class going on at the College of Southern Idaho and there were High School kids from all parts of the state virtually "sitting in" that college course having the same interaction as students actually there. Imagine the savings to the parents and the motivation for our kids to go-on to college after graduation if they already have some credits under their belts? People, these laws have been on the books almost 2 years now and positive things are happening today for the students in our schools. Please support them by voting YES to all three school propositions (1, 2 and 3)!
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Between campaigning, I've been brushing up on Idaho's Fiscal Facts for 2012. It's a great ref put together by our talented LSO Budget & Policy Analysis staff. The most recent publication is on the web at the attached link. Clearly shows where tax revenue comes from and how it's allocated! legislature.idaho.gov/budget/publications/FiscalFa...e.htm
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The word getting around the nation about the Wyakin Warrior Black Tie ball Dec 1, will be a huge event! bit.ly/RkxHcc
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Interesting meeting House Leader Cantor along with Congressman Labrador this evening, both so focused on the economy and jobs, as it should be! Glad someone's working on it...
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Someone had to say it... and it's a powerful truth! bit.ly/PFEHvf
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Would you take 2 min and write a quick letter to the editor on my behalf? www.idahostatesman.com/submit-letter/#navlink=subn...ubnav
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Well done to Leadership Boise for the Legislative lunch today! Also to Mountain View HS for the video production of upcoming Celebrate Meridian where we "taped" John Burns, the Mayor and I discussing Idaho's veteran services, the Rock of Honor and the Wyakin Warrior Foundation... bit.ly/R7nUGq
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Anyone else notice POTUS brings up the 47% comment in the final 2 min where no rebuttal would be allowed?
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City of Start Lions had a great fundraiser for their foodbank this evening, great job to those staying involved in their community!
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Humbled by all that have donated to my Senate campaign, from $1 to $500, thanks for your help! www.marvhagedorn.com
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Campaigns cost money, I need your help to continue in the Idaho Legislature. Would you consider a small donation? bit.ly/X1kAxn
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It's outside the box thinking like this that makes our Commerce Chief so successful in bringing business to Idaho! bit.ly/SydhhY
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Ran into Ben Stein today at the Capital, has a place in Sandpoint ID. He was as excited to be touring the capital as I was to meet him! Beuller?
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The Division of Financial Management reports General Fund revenue collections through the month of September were $3.4 million more than expected from the revised forecast. Health and Welfare reverted $1.8 million to the General Fund from the Cooperative Welfare Fund. Additionally, Health and Welfare carried over $38.6 million from FY 2012 which will be spent in FY 2013. After accounting for the amount the Legislature must reimburse deficiency accounts for fires, pests, and hazardous material incidents that occurred last year (line 15), the estimated ending balance for FY 2013 is $40.4 million. This is $36.0 million more than expected at Sine Die 2012. One major caveat to the projected ending balance, there are $18.3 million in General Fund supplemental requests which will be studied once the Legislature convenes in January.

Individual income withholdings and filings were the best performers in the month of September, they were up $13.5 million from last year at this point. There was also strong growth in sales taxes, which were up $6.2 million from last year. Product taxes grew $0.3 million, but corporate income taxes and miscellaneous revenues were down $0.1 million and $0.6 million, respectively. Revenues were up a total of $19.3 million from last September and cumulatively they are up $36.3 million or 1.4% for the year. With three quarters of the year remaining, revenues will only have to grow at the DFM forecasted pace to hit its mark of 3.2% growth.

Increased income withholdings and an increase in sales tax indicates more people are working, making money and spending it... great news for Idaho's economy, but a couple months of good news does not yet make a trend...

Please see the attached document or for more information, visit our website under the heading"General Fund Budget Monitor”: legislature.idaho.gov/budget/publications.htm
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Successful large org leadership & management encourages and requires good communications and collaboration between departments. POTUS has held 2 Cabinet meetings this year... is it a wonder Homeland Security, Sec. State, AG, Commerce and other departments are running amuck? History teaches us that during times of a lack of leadership, unqualified people can/will step up to fill that vacuum with unexpected or planned outcomes.
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A very well written opinion on Idaho's Students Come 1st Prop 1 from the ID School Boards Assoc. YES for Local Control! bit.ly/R81phF
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Idaho ranked as "Most improved State for Business" rank moved from 31 to 13! But, we still have work to do... tinyurl.com/8vwtr6w
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Chandlers tonight with my Sweetie for our anniversary... great steaks and company. I'm a lucky man...
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Thanks to the NRA for their endorsement with a grade of "A" for my support of 2nd Amendment rights! tinyurl.com/93sxrx2
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Working a frustrating Obamacare issue. It has impacted all children of active duty military and their ability to access state bulk purchased drugs for vaccinations through their primary care doctors. There are an estimated 11,000 kids in Idaho impacted by this new law!
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Productive mtgs this week in Star, Eagle and Meridian. From Mayors, Chambers and citizen groups... nice to see people involved!
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ID Transportation Board passed their 5 yr plan that included the replacement of the Meridian Interchange! We should see work starting in '14
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Idaho's Treasure Valley Ranked nation's #2 Best Metro Service Area For Raising A Family! Forbes looked at the 100 largest MSA's in the United States, ranking each in seven categories: median income, overall cost of living, housing affordability (what pct. of the market is affordable to a family at the median income), commuting delays, percentage of families owning homes, crime rate and education quality (mainly test scores). Overall, these ten take the prize. Congrats to the leadership of each of our Cities in the Treasure Valley... now, let's make #1 on that list!
(*sources: Census Bureau, Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness, National Association of Home Builders, Wells Fargo, Texas Transportation Institute, FBI, www.greatschools.org.) www.forbes.com/pictures/eddf45gihi/no-2-boise-idah...ntent
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Going 3 days straight! Always fun to meet with Dist 14 folks at the 0700 coffee at Rembrants in Eagle, then to Boise for a meeting with a good friend regarding our new suicide hotline, off to strategic planning meeting for Wyakin followed by a celebratory drink with friends for accomplishments, then dinner with family. Saturday was catching up on honey-doos then the a wonderful fundraiser at the Ada County GOP Roundup followed by another fundraiser at the Eagle Wine and Food Festival... today, we topped the weekend with a wonderful Wyakin Warrior Volunteer Appreciation BBQ...whew!
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Great St Lukes news tomorrow, looking forward to our Advisory Board lunch. Dr. Pate and his crew are always thinking outside the box!
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Met with Sen Winder, Sen Fulcher and representatives of the Idaho Board of Education (Higher Education oversight board) regarding updates on our higher ed progress in streamlining information/credit exchanges. Also an update on proposed State Scholarship consolidations and effectiveness. Then a great lunch with my friends on the St. Lukes Advisory Board. CEO, Dr. David Pate, is an amazing leader and brilliant thinker... he truly understands our healthcare issues and has proposed ways to resolve them. I recommend his blog (he personally does)... drpate.stlukesblogs.org
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If you didn't get the chance to see Paul Ryan's speech, find it... This guy truly gets it! Ryan defined "knocking it out of the park"!
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Help us put more severely wounded vets through school and join our 1st annual Guardian #Goff Tournament, slots still open, sign up today!


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Had a wonderful "meeting" with Stan and Eileen (Hagedorn) Smith from Eagle for a couple hours yesterday. Great people from CO loving ID and worried about where we are going. Dr. Smith taught at NM State for 40 years and is very pleased with Idaho's education direction and believes there's room to expand many of the new K-12 concepts into higher education as well!
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Just found out Chuck Norris doesn't have a Twitter account... because NO ONE follows Chuck Norris! ;-)
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Thanks to RADM Heinrich (runs Navy Supply) for visiting the Wyakin Warrior and Vet Services Center at BSU today on behalf of the Chief of Naval Operations. Great meeting, it's always wonderful when briefing someone who really "gets it". Thanks to Ens. Brian Dietrich of our local Navy Reserve Center at Gowan Field (and a WyWF volunteer) for getting this set up!
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Thanks to the Boise Metro Chamber for a great lunch and guest speaker! Gov Otter understands lower taxes combined with fewer, more effective and consistent State, County and City regulations means increased employment! Idaho's unemployment rate has dropped once more because we have sent a clear message to businesses in Idaho and other states that "Idaho is open for business!" and we intend to continue that trend!
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From our friends at the Fleet Reserve Association:

The Physical Disability Review Board (PDBR) announced that more than half of reviewed claims have been upgraded to a disability rating of 30 percent or more. The PDBR was mandated by the FY2008 Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to reassess the accuracy and fairness of combined disability ratings of 20 percent or less for service members who were separated from service, rather than medically retired because of medical conditions. In order to be eligible for a PDBR review, service members must have been medically separated between September 11, 2001, and December 31, 2009, with a combined disability rating of 20 percent or less, and found ineligible for retirement.

This review panel is authorized to recommend an increase in a disability rating, uphold the previous finding, or issue a disability rating when the previous board did not assign one. The board, however, is not able to recommend a lower rating. Eligible veterans can request a board review by submitting a Department of Defense Form 294, Application for Review of Physical Disability Separation from the Armed Forces of the United States, which is available at www.va.gov/vaforms

Veterans requesting a review must mail their completed and signed DD Form 294 to SAF/MRBR, 550 C St. W., Suite 41, Randolph Air Force Base, TX 78150-4743. Applicants may submit statements, briefs, medical records or affidavits supporting their application. Visit www.health.mil/about_mhs/organizations/mhs_offices....aspx for additional information.
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A pretty cool picture of my buddy, Emily Anderson, and I inside the "Moly" shovel in the mine near Challis a couple weeks ago!


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If I told you 2+2=4, would you question it because it came from a Republican? Some do, but facts are facts...


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I heard about this video today between meetings about classified info being leaked lately, worth the watch!...


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An interesting letter about State vs. Federal Insurance exchanges by Congressman Labrador: tinyurl.com/9dhjthy
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Romney selecting Paul Ryan is a great pick, Ryan truly understands the country's budget and needs as the Chairman of the House Budget team!
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Attended a wonderful Hagedorn family reunion an hour west of Olympia, WA this weekend. Drove over with JD on Friday and back today, great seeing everyone... I don't get to see my Aunts, Uncles and Cousins as much as I would like... family will always be part of your core, nourish it as much as you can!
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Sen Harry Reid is full of BS, Romney's 2010 released tax return indicates he paid just over $3 Million in Fed income tax on his return alone! c4230422.r22.cf2.rackcdn.com/1040-2010.pdf
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The worst economic recovery in US history impacts all sorts of "business", US population growth rate is the lowest it's been in 5 yrs!
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Wyakin Warriors Matt Watson and Kyley Trausch represented the Foundation on a river rafting trip hosted by the American Legion Post 119 in McCall. Matt and Kyley had a great time and met lots of new friends last week on the Salmon River. Thanks to the folks at Post 119 for stepping up!


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Received this heads up today, ID Transportation Board approves upcoming projects (including Meridian interchange):
7/19/2012

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Board approves plans to expedite key projects in Idaho Transportation Investment Program
COEUR d'ALENE – The Idaho Transportation Board today approved a resolution that will expedite approximately $180 million of highway construction projects in key corridors to improve mobility, safety and economic opportunity for Idahoans.
"With low interest rates, the need to improve safety, grow the economy through construction jobs, remove bottlenecks to commerce and improve traffic flow, the board decided unanimously to advance these projects,” said Jerry Whitehead, chairman of the Idaho Transportation Board."Saving money and putting it right back on the road reflects well on the people and management of the Transportation Department.”

The projects will be advanced through:

• Department efficiencies, cost savings, and cash management
• Lower-than-anticipated costs in all of the department’s construction programs
• Inflation and interest savings, and a
• Transportation board decision to issue GARVEE bonds totaling $80 million.

Projects selected for advancement in the Idaho Transportation Investment Program (ITIP) include:

• Improvements to U.S. 2 in Sandpoint that will improve safety and mobility
• Realigning seven miles of U.S. 95 from Thorn Creek to Moscow
• Reconstructing the Meridian, Broadway and Gowen interchanges on I-84 in the Treasure Valley
• Restoring pavement on I-84 between the Meridian Interchange and Five Mile Road
• Completing the I-84/U.S. 93 interchange near Twin Falls
• Constructing a new interchange on U.S. 20 in eastern Idaho
• Adding a turn bay on Idaho 39 west of Blackfoot

Interest rates for Grant Anticipated Revenue Vehicle (GARVEE) bonds are currently 4 percent, but are subject to the prevailing rate when bonds are issued.

The Idaho Legislature authorized the Transportation Board to issue up to $855 million in GARVEE bonds that allow Idaho to borrow money for highway projects, then repay it with future federal highway funds.

Project selection was based on readiness, pavement condition, congestion and safety factors.

U.S. 2, Lake Street to Cedar Street, Sandpoint: This project straightens curves on a ½-mile stretch of U.S. 2 in Sandpoint. Estimated cost for the project is $7.5 million. There was no construction date set for this project. Construction now is expected to begin in 2013.

U.S. 95, Thorn Creek to Moscow: This project realigns seven miles of U.S. 95 between Thorn Creek and Moscow. The board allocated $20 million that will be combined with $20 million previously committed by Congress. Initially there was no construction date set for this project. Construction now is scheduled to begin in 2015. Estimated cost for construction is between $40 million to $45 million.

I-84, Meridian Road Interchange: This project reconstructs the interchange on I-84 at Meridian Road. There was no construction date set for this project. It now is expected to begin late in the 2013-14 construction season. Estimated cost for construction is $40 million. (Partial GARVEE funding)

I-84, Meridian Interchange to Five Mile Road: This project will restore four miles of pavement in both the east- and westbound lanes. Construction was scheduled for 2016 but now will be advanced to late 2012. Estimated cost for the project is $20 million.

I-84, Broadway Avenue Interchange: This project reconstructs the interchange on I-84 at Broadway Avenue. There was no construction date set. Construction now is scheduled to begin in 2014. Estimated cost for construction is $44 million. (Partial GARVEE funding)

I-84, Gowen Road Interchange: This project reconstructs the interchange on I-84 at Gowen Road. There was no construction date set for this project. Construction is expected to begin in 2014. Estimated cost for construction is $28 million. (Partial GARVEE funding)

Junction Interstate I-84/U.S. 93 Interchange Stage 2: This project constructs a new eastbound interchange. The westbound portion of the interchange was completed in 2003. There was no construction date set for this project. Now construction is expected to begin in late 2012. Estimated cost for the project is $14.7 million.

U.S. 20, Thornton Interchange: This project constructs a new interchange on U.S. 20 near 4700 South or Smith Road. There was no construction date set for this project. Construction now is expected to begin in 2017. The cost of the project is estimated at $16.9 million.

Idaho 39, Thomas Road Turn Lane: This project adds a turn lane on Idaho 39 at Thomas Lane west of Blackfoot. Construction was scheduled for 2016, but now will begin in 2014. Cost for the project is estimated at $500,000.

The public will be able to view and comment on the proposed projects in the state’s five-year ITIP by visiting the transportation department website, itd.idaho.gov. The project list will be available soon. In addition to making comments online, individuals can mail comments to:

Public Involvement Coordinator
ITD Office of Communications
3311 W. State Street
Boise, ID 83707-1129
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Dentist, Wyakin Warrior business and finishing some home projects this morning then took the rest of the day with my son to fish in the Boise river. Caught some nice fish and cooled off in the 104' heat wading in this great waterway...
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My council to Mitt Romney: "I will see your tax returns and raise you my high school and college transcripts!"
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Had a great conversation with one of Idaho's premier Ag Teachers, Shane Stevenson, about how Districts are using the Professional Technical Education funds for continuing education after school's out. Our Ag Teachers are still busy with many students carrying on that training into the summer months... We are lucky to have folks like Shane working for Idaho and our kids!
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Nice mtg this morning with Eagle Mayor Jim Reynolds, then a WyWF mtg with Ed Lodge at Century Link... Now on to an ITD state freight management mtg!
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108' here yesterday with the entire week in the 100' range, with humidity in the teens fire hazards surround us... be careful out there!
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San Diego fireworks go off all at once, oops! tinyurl.com/dxrw5kt
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Happy Independence Day, remember has been earned and kept for us all by those who serve around the world everyday... thank a vet for today!
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SCOID makes a decision on State endowment cottage site leases that won't make those with existing leases happy: tinyurl.com/6qwxed3
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Idaho was the 1st state in our nation to direct our AG to file suit to stop Obamacare. I have confidence SCOUS will stand with us...
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The fires in CO are just another example of the lack of ability of the federal government to manage the vast range and forest lands in the West. The destruction of property, rangelands and forest are a direct result of years of litigation by environmental groups that have paralyzed the federal ability to manage. Allowing the states to manage these lands as they do their own would create jobs, better protect the environment and save federal firefighting and litigation tax Dollars!
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Finally getting to some yard work and catching up on some GOP Central Committee items that need taken care of. Good visits with GOP folks today... we will see what sprouts from these discussions.
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Big thanks to LtGov Brad Little for his involvement in the WyWF Induction ceremony today! tinyurl.com/bmzaur8
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We will be inducting 6 new students into the Wyakin Warrior program this Thursday, the time & bios found here: tinyurl.com/ccu6t4h
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Great meeting today with Farmers Insurance Co. to bring them up to speed on the WyWF and our efforts to transition Vets to the community...
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Had a very informative meeting this morning with ITD Dir. Ness, his team is creating some tremendous savings for the taxpayers through innovation and thinking outside the box! Thanks to Mike Brassey for meeting with Jennifer Burton and I regarding Wyaking Warrior Funding ideas as well... Then to Marsing to do some disking for fire breaks on the property.
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Had a great fundraiser for the Wyakin Warrior Foundation today by the American Legion Riders, was a great ride around beautiful Idaho!
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Stopped on my way back from Sun Valley to check on my friend Donna Jones (ID State Controller) and take her some get well flowers. She's doing well and in great spirits... Smiling and joking just like Donna has always done!
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You don't have to be a large city to think big! Potlatch leveraging Idaho's strengths! lnk.nu/foxnews.com/2296
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Spent a cold, snowy and rainy weekend camping at Cascade Lake... But we got away from the phones and web, so life was good!
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Interesting day: Replaced the worn out front disc brakes on the Rubicon with new EBCs, then met with Jamie Holtzclaw (New Dist. 20 Rep) tom compare notes for the upcoming session and came home to a power outage during the storm where I was able to try out the transfer switch I installed with the generator, all worked like a champ!
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Was hoping for a better outcome, our prayers are with this Meridian family... tinyurl.com/d4qy6kg
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A couple of great fundraisers coming up in June for the Wyakin Warriors... This one looks pretty cool! idaho44.com/IdahoFortyFour/Welcome.html
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Finally found the time to rotate the tires, change the oil and filters and grease the Jeep today... Whittling that list down!
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There are always opportunities for a lesson... teach the next generation why this weekend is important.


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Congrats to Dave Case! Selected to fill in for the vacant Ada Co. Commissioner seat... tinyurl.com/7xbs6t5
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The eople of my home town Potlatch thinking outside the box, well done! tinyurl.com/cfbuffk Leverage your strengths Idaho!
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Job Opening: Mountain States Group’s job posting for our new Suicide Prevention Hotline Director tinyurl.com/c9mfe95
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Your local property taxes could go up, get/be involved in your local city and county budget setting process! tinyurl.com/cp4pj5s
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Finally got the garden in, had a good Wyakin contract meeting and then snapped a few pics of the Eagle Field of Honor on the way home...


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Getting to watch finance shows this morning. We need to attract more capital and business to ID because of governance, not in-spite of it!
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Great day spent on the Wyakin Warrior Benefits council where we tailor the program to each new student's needs. We have some outstanding new students starting the program next month!
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Collecting the campaign signs is always the best part of a campaign for me... means it's over... At least until November!!
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Thanks to my volunteers & family for their help and encouragement, but mostly thanks to the folks of Dist 14 for their vote of confidence!
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If your 2nd Amendment rights are important to you, the NRA has a good site where you can see the grades of those you will be voting for today (I am graded as an A+)... www.nrapvf.org/grades-endorsements/2012/Idaho.aspx
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All the signs are out, mailers completed, last "meet and greet" this evening, 10k palm cards delivered, now we see who the voters choose...
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My "Candidate Rebuttal" sent to the Idaho Statesman before noon last Friday and is still not on their website, so I thought I would post it here:

Candidate Rebuttal: Hagedorn, a Record of Service and Accomplishments:
As a member of the Idaho Legislature, I have a strong record of serving the people of western Ada County. I have a proven public record of accomplishing success by building relationships, identifying problems, and taking action. The people of my district have reaffirmed my leadership abilities by sending me to represent them at the Statehouse for three terms.

Each candidate brings unique skill sets to the table. The Idaho Statesman Editorial Board has placed a great deal of value on service, and I too value service. Daily I crisscross our county working with leaders in business, city and county government, and our area colleges and universities to bring people from all sides together to resolve the big issues and concerns facing Idahoans.

As a leader I have a record of results. Most recently, I worked closely with Governor Otter to reduce Idahoans’ income taxes for the first time in 12 years. We put $35.7 million of your tax dollars back into the economy by placing the spending authority of these monies where it belongs – directly in the hands of the Idahoans who earned it. My opponent opposed this action. These efforts, like those to eliminate personal property taxes or Use tax, do not happen overnight, they happen by joining stakeholders at the table and looking for viable solutions.

As a retired Naval"Mustang” Officer, I am the voice of veterans at the Idaho Legislature. I not only champion efforts for our State’s veterans at the statehouse but also as the co-founder and Vice President of the Wyakin Warrior Foundation (a mentorship and scholarship program for our nation’s wounded warriors at BSU and CWI), I work closely with these heroes’ successful transition from the"battlefield to business.”

As a legislator, I am committed to constituent service, my most lauded accomplishment by those that I serve. I was humbled this past year to assist an Idaho soldier in obtaining recognition of his bravery in battle. I coordinated an Idaho State recommendation to the White House for the Medal of Honor, which was overlooked by the military. The opportunity to serve constituents, such as this young man, is why we serve at the Statehouse.

My opponent has a record of service, but no record of accomplishments. I have both. I ask for your vote on Tuesday, May 15th.

Representative Marv Hagedorn
Candidate for Senate District 14
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Today we celebrate our Son John's (JD's) graduation from BSU. He served his country right out of High School for 5 1/2 years, including 15 months of duty as a Forward Observer during the surge in Iraq. He came home focused on attaining his degree in business economics and achieved just that, without any debt. He has invested his time and money well and is now very prepared for success in the private or public sector. He continues to serve our nation in the Navy reserves, I can't wait to watch what he will achieve next. I'm a very proud Dad today because my Son has worked for and already achieved great successes in his life... Congrats JD, you've made us all very proud.
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I've met some of the nicest folks in walking the new District 14. Yesterday, I spent with some of our seniors playing bingo and Ms Emma (legally blind, 84 years young) has more energy than the energizer bunny! I am enjoying getting to know so many new friends in Eagle, Star and Meridian... thanks to all for your words of encouragement and support... One more lit drop today, meet at our home at noon!
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A nice endorsement by the Senate Caucus Chairman, thanks Sen. Fulcher!

I support Marv Hagedorn in his bid for the Idaho State Senate in legislative district 14.
Marv understands the importance of the free market and the real factors that drive economic growth. During his years in the House of Representatives, Marv has been a relentless defender for Idaho’s taxpayers. He has also provided thoughtful, innovative leadership on a wide variety of policy issues.
Marv has credibility with colleagues and constituents alike. In challenging times like we face today, we need Marv’s skills, experience and leadership in the Idaho Senate. Please join me and support Marv Hagedorn for Idaho Senate with your vote on May 15
Sincerely,
Russ Fulcher
Majority Caucus Chairman – Idaho State Senate
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Idaho State revenue numbers for April are in, we are about $500k over $400m projection! Pretty good considering April brings in ~23% of our year's revenue. As it stands in April, we will put ~$60M in our Rainy Day Funds but, if we remain on our current revenue glide path, we could see as much as $100M put away by the end of June. These funds kept us whole through our economic downturn, I'm glad we are able to restore those savings once more while balancing our budget AND reducing taxes!
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Looking forward to seeing all of you at Mayor Tammy's Meet & Greet tonight at 6 pm! www.marvhagedorn.com/Meet-and-Greets.php
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Walked LOTS of Eagle neighborhoods today and ended with a wonderful meet & greet at Bob and Gloria Bruce's home. Good to meet so many folks!
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Big thanks go out to the Meridian Chamber and the Prof. Fire Fighters of Idaho for endorsing my campaign for Senate!
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Thanks to Bob Hoover, President and CEO of the Idaho Community Foundation for being our guest speaker tonight in our Wyakin Warrior Professional Development lecture series. Bob gave some great insights to giving back to your community, how to start and accomplish a service project. Each of our Warriors need to plan, achieve board approval and successfully execute a community service project in order to complete their WyWF education program.
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I've been contacted by a great Idaho company that wants to hire 4 energetic vets here in the Treasure Valley to put on events for them around the state. $12 -$14/hr. Email me at marvhagedorn@q.com for the info!
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Spent the day walking & talking to Dist. 14 folks, all very receptive to my campaign for Senate. Let's all ensure we mark May 15th to vote!
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Join me at 6:30 this evening at Tom and Carolyn Harrison 2147 South Riverbirch Place, Eagle for a "meet and greet", lets talk...
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Thanks to Richard and Kathy Kartchner for opening their home this evening for a wonderful "meet and greet" with their friends!
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A well written, and unexpected, endorsement by long-time Idaho Conservative Blogger Adam Graham! tinyurl.com/6mdksqj
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Apparently, I’m supposed to be more outraged by what Mitt Romney does with his money than by what Barack Obama does with mine....
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I received a nice endorsement from the Idaho Fraternal Order of Police (FOP). A great team that puts on "Day at the Range" for legislators to become familiar with the tools of their trade. Some legislators never had the opportunity to shoot, this is always a great way to introduce them to guns, safety, use and dispel myths. Thanks to the FOP for their support and putting on a great educational and fun afternoon for legislators!

"The Idaho Fraternal Order of Police proudly supports Marv Hagedorn for District 14 Senate.
Hagedorn has been a strong supporter of law enforcement and is a true patriot. Hagedorn recognized the need for officers and their families to be protected from threats, so he worked with the FOP and sponsored the address confidentiality bill for police officers. For his work and dedication Hagedorn was awarded the Fraternal Order of Police Legislator of the year in 2010. Hagedorn sponsored the "hoax device" legislation which made it a crime to place phony explosive devices with the intent to cause fear and panic. Hagedorn is tough on crime and has been a huge advocate for police officers and their families all across Idaho and in his home district. He has taken time to meet with police officers and spend time out in the streets to fully understand what officers face on a daily basis. Hagedorn won the FOP "Top Shooter" award in 2009 and 2012." -The Idaho Fraternal Order of Police








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Have quite a few "meet and greets" scheduled by friends in Eagle, Meridian and Star. If you would like to host an evening event, drop me a note! I'd love to get to know your friends and neighbors and them to get to know me and what I've been able to accomplish for them and will continue to do in the Legislature.
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Walked and talked in Star today, worked on getting out more signs and met a lot of nice folks... burning some shoe leather! Donations of any size get a FREE "Hagedorn for Senate" sticker! www.marvhagedorn.com/Donate.php
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I've received a great endorsement for my Senate race in District 14 from our Congressman, my thanks go to Raul Labrador:

"Marv Hagedorn has shown true leadership by using his real world experience to serve the people of Idaho. That's why he is the best choice for State Senate in my home district. I ask that you join me in voting for Marv Hagedorn on May 15th."
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Gov. Otter puts a Sage Grouse Team together to get ahead of ESA issues, a good move to ensure Idaho management! tinyurl.com/7nte8ds
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Campaign website is up with lots of info! Please consider a donation and help me get elected to the Idaho Senate! www.marvhagedorn.com
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I was happy to receive an NRA endorsement this week for my Senate race with a grade of A+... walkin' the talk is how progress is made!
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Great meeting with my Eagle friends this morning. Thanks to Rep. Reed DeMordaunt (14) for his endorsement for my Senate race, I'm looking forward to his continued partnership!
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Got signs out today, walked some subdivisions in Star and met some very nice folks and got the "Haginator" ready for action!


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I was proud to receive the following endorsement for my Senate race today:

The Idaho Fraternal Order of Police proudly supports Marv Hagedorn for District 14 Senate.

Hagedorn has been a strong supporter of law enforcement and is a true patriot. Hagedorn recognized the need for officers and their families to be protected from threats, so he worked with the FOP and sponsored the address confidentiality bill for police officers. For his work and dedication Hagedorn was awarded the Fraternal Order of Police Legislator of the year in 2010. Hagedorn sponsored the "hoax device" legislation which made it a crime to place phony explosive devices with the intent to cause fear and panic. Hagedorn is tough on crime and has been a huge advocate for police officers and their families all across Idaho and in his home district. He has taken time to meet with police officers and spend time out in the streets to fully understand what officers face on a daily basis. Hagedorn won the FOP "Top Shooter" award in 2009 and 2012.

The Idaho Fraternal Order of Police supports Marv Hagedorn for District 14 Senate.
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H 546 ‐ Creates the Global Entrepreneurial Mission Grant Fund and transforms the Idaho Innovation Council at the Department of Commerce to the Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission (IGEM) Council. The intent of IGEM is to leverage private‐industry guidance and the talent and expertise of Idaho’s research universities to commercialize innovative and viable technologies that will strengthen Idaho’s economy. IGEM provides the tool that will enable us to leverage Idaho's Intellectual Property (IP) that has been developed in our Colleges and Universities for Idaho business and to attract new business (read "JOBs") to our state! I have been working this issue since I started in the Legislature 6 years ago and we were finally able to bring all the right folks together to make it happen.... www.legislature.idaho.gov/legislation/2012/H0546.h...6.htm
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Idaho ranks 4th in the nation for suicide and the only state without an individual crisis intervention program. As you can read in the attached site, veterans suffer at even a higher rate with more veterans dying by their own hand EVERY YEAR than the total of those killed in the Iraq and Afghanistan war combined. This is the reason I was able to bring a bi-partisan group together in JFAC to support seed funding of $110k to start a self supporting/funded crisis intervention program in Idaho. We must do better as a society in reaching out to our neighbors...
www.nytimes.com/2012/04/15/opinion/sunday/kristof-...share
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Idaho enacted H481 that removed the growth limit of six new public charter schools per year, and removed the cap of one new public charter school per district per year. This was a bill many of us have worked on for years, it will allow that list of kids waiting to attend charter schools (which are public schools in Idaho) to hopefully attend the one they desire! tinyurl.com/6wptwbj
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This was a great little bill we did this year. You can, as of July 1st, use your smart phone or device to show proof of insurance for your car, should save citizens hassle and the state/counties a ton of money in court costs! lnk.nu/legislature.idaho.gov/200l.htm
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"oh-dark thirty" for the Mayor's Prayer Breakfast, and what a breakfast it was! The Keynote speaker was retired Marine Lance Corporal Joe Lowe. Joe comes from a respected family of Marines here in Meridian who was tragically injured in Iraq in 2005. It's great to see Joe has re-descovered his roots and is leading others to overcome adversity regardless of what's thrown at them... remember, change in your life can happen in a heartbeat, focus on the positive and have faith... Thanks to Joe for his sacrifice to our Nation and for continuing to give back, he makes me proud to be an American.
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Started the day with the Idaho Statesman Editorial team for a candidate interview, ran into Rep. Perry and Congressman Labrador, then to the BBB for a show and tell. Met with my partners Rep. Palmer and Rich Hahn from Idaho Power for lunch... then to BSU Vet Services Center for a WyWF show and tell for Congressman Simpson. Then, Taco Bell Arena for GOP billing discussions and after that, finished the evening with an 8 pm lecture for a BSU Business Administration class... whew!
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LOTs of folks stepping up to endorse my campaign for the Senate race: Gov. Butch Otter, Sup. Luna, ALL THREE city mayors, House Speaker, Senate Pro-Tem, Senate Caucus Chair, city council members and many other citizens from Meridian, Eagle and Star... and the list keeps growing! I truly do appreciate your support!
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Had a great lunch with the Eagle City Chamber this afternoon, good folks on the right path to bring in more business!
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Idaho State revenue numbers come in ~$4m above forecast putting us ahead of forecast for FY12 at $36.6m. The excess above forecast will be swept (minus $5m for contingencies) into rainy-day funds. This will add to the ~$40m that we dedicated to savings already AND we lowered income taxes by $35.7m! Idaho, on the comeback trail..!!!


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Great meeting this morning with the Eagle City movers and shakers reviewing the "goods and bads" of the past legislative session, looking forward to working with these folks as their Senator!
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Thanks to the Meridian Chamber for putting on the Candidate forum this afternoon, these discussions are important for folks to know who is running in their district, their experience level and what they stand for...
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Was able to catch up on yard work today between the radio interviews and campaign meetings... looking for volunteers, are you game?
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Enjoyed my coffee with Sen Winder this morning and then "honey-do's" around the house. Got the irrigation lines for the pond working agin and then welded up a shift lever on a buddy's motorcycle, it's good to get back to normalcy again...
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The Idaho Legislative session is complete, Sine Die. Thanks to the citizens of Dist 20 for allowing me to be your Representative in the House, it truly has been a whirlwind 6 years. Together we have accomplished some great things, I could not have done this without you great communications, understanding, patience and support. This session will end with us putting over $60m in rainy day savings, reduced taxes by over $35m and lived up tp our commitment of making teacher's salaries whole again... There were other accomplishments, too many to list now. It's time I give the Dog a bath and get to the overdue "Honey-Do" list...
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Final deals to finish the session falling in and out of favor. In the mix are Income tax reduction, Teacher salary backfil and savings...
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"Forced Ultrasound Bill is Dead" Says Chairman... www.spokesman.com/blogs/boise/2012/mar/27/forced-u...-dead
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We are in the final hours of the Idaho Legislative session, our Income Tax reduction bill is still in play in the Senate!
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As committed, my bill to fix the flag protocol of the POW/MIA flag has passed. Now vets that have defended, fought for and died under the flag of this nation will determine the proper protocol for flying all flags over state lands (now to include memorials and cemeteries!). H443 has passed both houses and is headed to the Governor for signature.
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Finally, someone is noticing that we've sent one of our Idaho Gems to Washington! politic365.com/2012/03/26/who-is-raul-labrador
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Thanks to the ID Charter School Network for their letter of appreciation recognizing my efforts to lift the caps on schools available in ID!
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Long session on the Floor, we lost a constitutional amendment to require 2/3rds vote to increase taxes or fees, passed one that will be on the ballot on the Right to Fish and Hunt, diverted an anti-business bill to the amending order and passed a few budgets. Still awaiting action in the Senate on our Income Tax reduction bill...
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Had a good meeting this morning with Gov. Otter about overcoming the roadblocks for our ID Youth Challenge program... we have work to do.
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The House just passed the S1274 Texting while driving bill: legislature.idaho.gov/legislation/2012/S1274Bookma...k.htm
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Kicking out the bills today! From state budget growth caps, veteran's professional certifications, Drainage district assesment leveling, specialty plate sideboards to codifying the U of I Rangeland Center. Lots of budgets were also passed as we try to get closer to the end of the session by finishing what we were sent here to do...
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Attended the Central Valley Expressway Coalition quarterly meeting at 7 am this morning to discuss Idaho transportation and economic concerns. What a great group of folks working on finding common solutions!
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Not too surprised at the attempt of this story to paint this as a gender issue when only taking into account the number of employees a Director manages. Dan asked me for my input last week and I wrote him the following that wasn't included in his story:

"Dan,
I wasn't able to get to the file before I left work tonight and I don't know what your deadline is, but at first blush from your comments about the pay delta between the genders of our Directors, I would provide the following feedback:
Leading a department is not all about people (and, from your comments in the email, it appears that's your main metric for the pay delta)
-The size and complexity of the budget should be another consideration
-The complexity of the technicality of the department being led as well as it's mission should also be another consideration
-The requirements for managing external working relationships with both local and national partners is another consideration
-The availability of other leaders with the skill sets needed for that particular job and the competitive nature of salary considerations will also play into how much the State might have to pay to get that level of skill set required for the job at the time of hire.
-The complexities of Department of Transportation are vastly different then those of the Dept of Administration. Both have different challenges that I would expect we would have to pay their Directors according to those challenges, expectations and skills/experience one brings to the table.
Without looking at your file, for me, these would be just some of my first considerations when looking at the pay differentials before making a judgement on if there are some department heads or division heads under/over paid. The above list is only a minimum criteria that I would use when building a matrix to then plug in the salaries required for each position... only then would I consider looking to see if the person filling that role was a man or woman. In my mind, gender is not a consideration when hiring for any of the leadership positions that the State has... the skill set one brings to the table and the availability/value of that skill set for the task at hand is what I'm paying for.
I understand what you are looking for and would suggest that you also take some of these thoughts into consideration before pulling the trigger on what your thoughts might be based on salary vs. gender alone...
Hope this helps. Sorry I couldn't get back to you sooner, it's been a very long day.
Cheers,
Marv"

www.idahostatesman.com/2012/03/18/2040540/in-otter...t=pop
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Ran through a lot of bills on the House floor this morning, moving budgets, stopping bad bills forwarding the good... the end is near!
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Sitting in for a couple of my colleagues in the morning at 8:30 am for a radio interview/update on the session: www.670kboi.com
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Dissappointed that this report card came out the day after I tried to provide a cost effective capability to take care of our failing bridges in Idaho... tinyurl.com/6oz66wm
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What a day! Got to run the House floor as Speaker this morning, not as easy as Speaker Denney makes it look! Passed the Veteran Services budget on the floor and then lost S1317 (adding bridges to the list of available GARVEE projects to fund). Did have a great meeting this morning before I got to the House with Star Mayor Nate Mitchell... good guy, Star is lucky to have him.
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Tomorrow many of you will have the opportunity to vote on local school levies. Please educate yourself and get out and vote. If you are not sure where to vote, here's a link that lets you know if you are registered and where to vote: tinyurl.com/2esuur2
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Heard from Sen Jim Risch on the House floor this morning, he had a simple message: The Federal government spends ~$3.8 billion per year yet only brings in ~$2.2 billion and we borrow the rest. Until we cut the budgets and scope of the federal government, we are going the way of Greece or Italy and will need someone to bail us out. We are Americans, we are better than this!!!
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Budgets set, no JFAC this morning... felt guilty not getting up at 5am. Full board of bills to debate on the House floor this morning!
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Nice, relaxing weekend! Got some work caught up around the house, tax info put together for the accountant and just chilled with my sweetie
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Well, the final challenger list is out for the Senate seat in Dist 14. Looks like I have a boat load of challengers!
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JFAC Committee again balanced Idaho's books by setting all budgets with a balance of ~$62m left over for savings/tax relief. This does not include the extra revenue we are seeing coming in (~$20m) or the $13.3m AG settlement due in this year!
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Passed another Rubicon Jeep this morning on the way in at 0615 with his top off. I take mine off mid Apr, but with Boise at 65' today, it's tempting!
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ID House just passed H587 opening our boarders allowing business to shop for medical insurance nationwide! tinyurl.com/84uvrlp
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Want to know how YOUR stimulus money was spent around the US? Thanks to Denny Knot for sending this to me: tinyurl.com/785s28o
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Just ran into AZ Gov. Jan Brewer getting a tour around our Capital by Gov. Otter. What a nice lady... and stands up for the right things!
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Idaho State revenue up 21% over last year! ~$19m over forecast... some timing issues with income tax returns will lower that number slightly, but the trend is very good news for our state! tinyurl.com/89pqeze
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Passed Agriculture, Soil Commission, Gov's, Park & Rec, Lava Hot Springs and Legislative budgets out of committee this morning... Hit a lot of bills on the floor, then had a lunch meeting with Dan Harbeke from Union Pacific Railroad. UP has graciously given a grant 2 years in a row now to the Wyakin Warrior Foundation! They are great sponsors of a great cause...
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Long day finished with an interesting meeting this evening on a method to self fund for large infrastructure projects like highways... then came home to walk the dog at 9:30 where it was still very comfortable outside. I think I needed a little walk too....
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Passed this years Education and Corrections budgets out of JFAC this morning, they are on their way to the floor after some great debate...
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2.5 hr Wyakin BOD meeting tonight where we selected the 1st round of our 2012 class! Some great candidates, we had a tough time, but we've got the makings of a great Wyakin Warrior class to start at BSU or CWI in 2012!
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Passed the Transportation budgets out of JFAC this morning and got the Vet Pref bill reprinted in Ways & Means. Start to a good day!
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Proudly passed our Income Tax reduction bill on the House floor that reduces income taxes from 7.8%/7.6% to 7.4% (H563)!
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S1317a bill Sen Winder and I have worked on to add bridge repairs/replacement to GARVEE projects passes Senate! tinyurl.com/7ygj4ul
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Included in a $39m Veteran's Services Div. budget is included some seed funding for a State Crisis Hotline tinyurl.com/7ck9yrm
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Congrats to my great friends, Ryan and Kim Tucker on their wedding day! I wish you everlasting love, happiness and enjoyment of each other.
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Vet Pref update bill H568 was held in committee today. We are re-writing it to reflect required changes and will get it back in the queue..
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Had a good lunch meeting with Sup. Luna, Jason and Luci regarding the K-12 Education budgets. We need to ensure clarity in what we are proposing for the various budgets surrounding Education. Specifically ensuring the teacher pay for performance and salary equalization is comparable to the rest of the State 2% CEC, or have some explanation as to why it should be different. We are lucky to have such great folks working for K-12!
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Passed H563, Income tax reduction bill out of committee to the House floor with a "do pass" recommendation, Idaho is "open" for business!
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The House passed a bill removing the cap limit of 6 on how many Charter Schools can be created per year in Idaho, now on to the Senate!
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An excellent story on our efforts to recognize an Idaho hero: tinyurl.com/89t4n6j
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What a whirl-wind week. I've had so many meetings on so many topics that I've not been able to report on here... from meetings with BSU President Bob Kustra to Col. Russel (ISP) and Gen. Saylor (ID Military Div.) on many budget and process issues. Recommended ISP use more Motors (motorcycles) in their fleet mix to save fuel and cost of long term ownership... worked the Div. of Vet services budget request with Rep. George Eskridge to try to get the most bang for our buck as well. Finished the day with an interview for Idaho Public TV on our concerns of state employee compensation process ($17m of what the Legislature supplied for employee compensation was turned back in last year due to process problems) that will air at 8:00 PM MST this evening and then a final stop by KTVB Channel 7 for a quick interview of our HJM7 Medal of Honor memorial for Sgt (ret) Chris Tschida that will air at 10 PM MST this evening.... Leaving the house near 6 am and coming him after 10 pm this week seemed to be the norm, I'm ready for some time with my sweetie...
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On Monday I will be filing to run for the Senate Seat in the new District 14.

I have learned a great deal about Idaho's governance and how it’s intended to serve the citizen's needs. I’ve also learned of the great deal of wrangling required to work with all the folks in the Legislative and Executive branches in affecting governance to meet those needs. This was a job never on my"bucket list” but I’ve grown because of it over the last 6 years and thank the citizens of Meridian for the opportunity to serve them.

I've appreciated being the voice in the House for the citizens of District 20 and now would like the opportunity to focus the skills and experience I've garnered as a voice for the citizens of Eagle, Star and Meridian in the Senate. Having served in the Business, Transportation and Defense, Natural Resources and Conservation and Joint Finance and Appropriations committees, as well as, multiple Taskforces through the summer periods for the last 6 years I believe I've got a strong foundation to help continue to make Idaho a greater place to live, work and play.

I hope I can count on your continued support.
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Ran into some unintended consequenses on the Vet Pref bill (H586), so will be taking it to the amending order for some minor changes and have organized a taskforce over the summer to align what needs to be fixed with all the stakeholders.
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Here's the link to the radio interview I did early morning yesterday about various legislative issues and our Medal of Honor memorial:


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We were pretty busy around the Capital yesterday moving a number of bills on the House floor to the Senate, then Transportation & Defense Committee approving some bills to head to the House floor. Finished the evening in meetings and discussions with some County Commissioners and Congressman Labrador working on a pilot program to allow the State management of Forest Service forests...
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Early start to the day at 6 am on KIDO radio 580 with Kevin Miller discussing the Medal of Honor HJM7 & other critical bills we are working
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Thanks to Mr. Gordon Smith (former CEO of the Simplot Corp) for speaking at this months Wyakin Warrior Seminar Series tonight on his perspective of"What a CEO Looks for in an Employee”. He fielded some great questions with sage wisdom and experience for our attending students.
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Completed a number of budgets today in JFAC and identified some issues with our employment system that greatly hinders getting personnel compensation increases to our state workers. Discussion is ongoing on how to fix that. Passed various bills on the House floor, and heard many Fish and Game bills in Committee (all these bills and info are available on the Legislative website: www.legislature.idaho.gov).
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The Capital is such a quiet place at 6:30 am... it's cool how the whole building just starts to come alive as the day wakes...
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Ran some supplemental budget requests this morning, now honoring House members that have passed away in the past year in the House..
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Good Board of Directors meeting for the Wyakin Warrior Foundation tonight, we decided to open up applications to Purple Heart recipients too
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Finally able to check on my pond in the daylight today and it seems I've had a Poopsalot visiting, no Shibukin left, only my large Koi!
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We finally got our Income Tax reduction bill printed, working on co-sponsors...legislature.idaho.gov/legislation/2012/H0563.pdf
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Just informed the GARVEE bill (S1317) will be held and some minor changes made into a new RS. On a good note, I was able to get the State Vet Preferance's hiring changes bill printed this morning. I will post it's bill number as soon as it's assigned.
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I'm sorry to report that H537 that would have allowed Gold Star lic. plates to the families of all active duty members lost did not pass today out of committee on a 5 -7 vote. Idaho still has a Gold Star plate, but it's only authorized for the families of members killed in a DOD designated combat zone. (Sorry to the families of the USS Cole and others like them)
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Time to hit it again! JFAC will be hearing from various committee Chairman today in regards to their concerns of how we should focus revenue
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Going to miss this bunch of Pages, they've been very helpful during this session...tinyurl.com/775f27h
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Frustrating day trying to keep good bills alive and make sure bad ones never see the light of day. We do have some great State Directors, Jeff Anderson is doing a bang up job with the Lottery and Div of Liquor maximizing ROI that goes back to Education, the building fund and recovery programs.
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Passed H443 (POW/MIA Flag protocol) bill out of the House today, on to the Senate... tinyurl.com/6lvz2mo
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Spent a nice weekend with my folks, good to see meet them at Riggins (a great halfway point for all to meet and relax). Thanks Mom & Dad!
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Has been a busy week! Have 5 bills I've authored working through the system and a few more ready to pull the trigger on, co-sponsored many more. Everything from bonding for deficient bridges, POW/MIA flag protocol, speed limit changes, Highway Districts, Veteran Hiring Pref. points to the Medal of Honor memorial... Oh, and I've had 2 committee meetings and floor session everyday as well. Time for the weekend!
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Reviewed budgets for ISP, The Arts Commission, Millennium Fund, HR and Office of Evaluations today. Trying to wrap our arms around how much to budget where once we get a final number to budget to. Good news is revenue was up $6.3 million in Jan over forecast, that light at the end of the tunnel might not be a train!
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View from 30k': Marriage isn't mentioned in the US Constitution, why government (State or Federal) involved in this religious concern?
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Couldn't take it anymore, toothache killing me so had to bust out early to see my dentist... back at it in the morning!
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Quote from a good friend: Gun control is like trying to reduce drunk driving by making it tougher for sober people to own cars...
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Honored today to present HJM-7 on the House floor asking the Whitehouse to bestow the MOH to Sgt. Chris Tschida, few dry eyes in the House..
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Got home in time to watch the 4th quarter, was a squeaker... not sure about the other 3, but that was a great quarter to watch, good job NY!
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Sad to hear of Micron CEO Steve Appleton's death this morning, our thoughts and prayers are with his family
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$40m for 1550 jobs? Why not just eliminate some forest regulations, might cost a bit less... lnk.nu/idahostatesman.com/1wxl.html
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SB1229 to make speed limits all the same for cars and trucks died today in the Senate Xport committee on a 5-4 vote...
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We Americans love our abbreviations. I've worked in many industries and each have their own language, the State is no different: BURP, LUST, SUDS... the learning curve of all these mnemonics is no different either!
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Early start reviewing State Department budgets of all sorts, passed a few bills on the House floor then off to Resources to do some rules and print some bills about gas/oil drilling and Fish and Game. Then off to the Mayor's State of the city (Kudo's to Mayor Tammy and city workers) and the Taste of Meridian, finished with a glass of wine discussing business development at Corkscrews... time to do emails!
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I was honored today to be able to introduce a Joint Memorial requesting the President to bestow the Medal of Honor to a local hero who was never recognized for his deeds... legislature.idaho.gov/legislation/2012/HJM007Bookm...k.htm
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It appears the new district lines will hold, so I will be running for Senate in Dist. 14 after I finish this year's work in the House...
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I needed to fly to California this week for a funeral and business and would like to thank Rep. Dave Tucker (Meridian) for standing in. Reports are that he's done a great job. I've tried to keep up with the streaming media committee meetings and his pass downs and am excited to get back to the House on Monday! I've positioned a few bills that are now ready to go... Some of the issues tackled this week were:

Camping on state owned and managed facilities – The legislation cleared the House on Thursday with a vote of 54-16. This legislation will have a hearing in the Senate State Affairs on Wednesday, February 1st.

o FACTS: The Dept. of Administration was notified by the Occupy Boise group of their intent to commence an"indefinite vigil” on the grounds of the Capitol Annex. There is NO current state law that administers these activities on state-owned or leased properties across the State.
o The Dept. of Administration has received several calls from citizens requesting they be allowed to set up encampments in response.
o Rumors the Annex is an abandoned building and the grounds are due to be turned into a parking lot are not accurate, it is the future home of the Idaho Law Learning Center.
o There have been numerous instances of vandalism, violence and trespassing as a direct result to the Occupy Boise participants. As late as Wednesday night, security had an encounter w/ members of Occupy Boise, they stated their residence was maintained on state property and therefore were not trespassing. BPD was called to address the issue.
o Currently TWO sex offenders are living in the encampment and are using the address of the Annex for their registry requirements.
o This legislation shall not apply or affect policies, rules, statues or leases on endowment lands, department of parks and recreations lands or department of fish and game lands.
o This legislation will not infringe upon the First Amendment Rights of Idahoans.

Economic Outlook – The recommendations from the committee to JFAC are $33.3 million below Governor Otter’s estimate. It is important that we watch the next month’s revenue numbers as they come in before setting our budgets. Besides individual Department budgets, the Governor’s recommendations include $45 million for tax cuts, $60 million to the rainy-day funds and $41 million in one-time bonuses for state employees IF the revenues are on target. It is important that we recognize our quality state employees in weighing our budgetary priorities!
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