23 Dec 2011

Grassley Law Recovers Another $2.8 Billion of Taxpayer Money Otherwise Lost to Fraud

By Grassley Press

More than $30 billion has been recovered thanks to federal False Claims Act

WASHINGTON - Senate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Chuck Grassley today said that the federal False Claims Law has recovered an additional $3 billion to the U.S. Treasury.  Grassley is the author of the 1986 qui tam amendments to the law as well as an update to the False Claims Act in 2009.  According the U.S. Department of Justice, the qui tam amendments alone recovered $2.8 billion of taxpayer money.  The total amount recovered through the False Claims Act since Grassley's 1986 provisions were signed into law is now more than $30 billion.

"Year after year, the federal False Claims Act proves to be the most powerful tool in rooting out fraud against the federal treasury.  Not only does the law help recover billions of taxpayer dollars, but it deters untold more, and is a real savior for taxpayers tired of Washington ways," Grassley said.  "The whistleblowers who bring these cases to light know the secrets hidden by those who are ripping of federal taxpayers.  Unfortunately, alerting federal officials about fraud often puts them at great employment peril.  Our 1986 qui tam amendments have empowered these people to come forward and risk their livelihoods to do what is right."

The amendments Grassley championed 25 years ago along with Rep. Howard Berman of California strengthened the Civil War-era False Claims Act which was originally signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln.  The 1986 Grassley-Berman qui tam amendments empowered whistleblowers to file suit on behalf of the United States against those who fraudulently claim federal funds, including Medicare, Medicaid, contract payments, disaster assistance and other benefits, subsidies, grants and loans.

According to the Justice Department, since the 1986 Grassley-Berman qui tam amendments were signed into law, whistleblowers have filed more than 7,800 actions under the qui tam provisions, including a peak of 638 this past year.

In 2008 Grassley introduced legislation that would further update the federal False Claims Act.  Many provisions of this legislation were included in the Fraud Enforcement Recovery Act that was signed into law in 2009.  The legislation overturned several court decisions that threatened to limit the scope and applicability intended by Congress in the 1986 update.  Grassley said the update helps ensure that no fraud will go unpunished because of legal loopholes.

Fraudulent claims by defense contractors during the 1980s prompted Grassley's initiative.  Today the qui tam amendments also recoup billions that would otherwise be lost to health care fraud.  This year alone, most of the $2.8 billion in recoveries were in the Medicare and Medicaid programs administered by the Department of Health and Human Services, the TRICARE program administered by Department of Defense, the Federal Employees Health Benefits program administered by the Office of Personnel Management, and Veterans Administration health programs.

 

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________________________________________________________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                        CIV

MONDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2011                           (202) 514-2007

WWW.JUSTICE.GOV TTY (866) 544-5309

 

JUSTICE DEPARTMENT RECOVERS $3 BILLION IN FALSE CLAIMS ACT CASES IN FISCAL YEAR 2011

Department Sets Records for Recoveries in Health Care and War-Related Fraud Annual Recoveries in Whistle Blower Cases Reach All Time High

WASHINGTON - The Justice Department secured more than $3 billion in settlements and judgments in civil cases involving fraud against the government in the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2011, Tony West, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Division, announced today.  This is the second year in a row that the department has surpassed $3 billion in recoveries under the False Claims Act, bringing the total since January 2009 to $8.7 billion - the largest three-year total in the Justice Department's history.

The $3 billion total for fiscal year 2011 includes a record $2.8 billion in recoveries under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which is the government's primary civil remedy to redress false claims for federal money or property, such as Medicare benefits, payments on military contracts, and federal subsidies and loans.  The department has recovered more than $30 billion under the False Claims Act since the act was substantially amended in 1986.  The 1986 amendments strengthened the act and increased the incentives for whistle blowers to file lawsuits on behalf of the government.  That in turn led to an unprecedented number of investigations and greater recoveries.

"Twenty-eight percent of the recoveries in the last 25 years were obtained since President Obama took office,"Assistant Attorney General West said.  "These record-setting results reflect the extraordinary determination and effort that this administration, and Attorney General Eric Holder in particular, have put into rooting out fraud, recovering taxpayer money and protecting the integrity of government programs."

Assistant Attorney General West noted that the $3 billion recovered this year included $2.4 billion in recoveries involving fraud committed against federal health care programs.  Most of these recoveries are attributable to the Medicare and Medicaid programs administered by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).  They also include the TRICARE program administered by Department of Defense (DoD), the Federal Employees Health Benefits program administered by the Office of Personnel Management and Veterans Administration health programs.

Fighting health care fraud is a top priority for the Obama Administration.  On May 20, 2009, the Attorney General and HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced the creation of an interagency task force, the Health Care Fraud Prevention and Enforcement Action Team (HEAT), to increase coordination and optimize criminal and civil enforcement.  Since January 2009 alone, the department has used the False Claims Act to recover more than $6.6 billion in federal health care dollars.  This is more recovered under the act than in any other three-year period.

The historic $2.8 billion recovered in whistle blower cases came from suits filed under the qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act.  These provisions allow private citizens, known as relators, to file lawsuits on behalf of the government.  In the 25 years since the False Claims Act was substantially amended, whistle blowers have filed more than 7,800 actions under the qui tam provisions. Qui tam suits hit a peak of 638 this past year, after hovering in the 300s and low 400s for much of the decade.

Assistant Attorney General West thanked the courageous citizens who have come forward to report fraud, often at great personal risk:  "We are tremendously grateful to whistle blowers who have brought fraud allegations to the government's attention and assisted us in this public-private partnership to fight fraud," he said.

In 1986, Senator Charles Grassley and Representative Howard Berman led successful efforts in Congress to amend the False Claims Act, including enhancements to the qui tam provisions to encourage whistle blowers to come forward with allegations of fraud.  In this 25th anniversary year of the 1986 amendments, Assistant Attorney General West paid tribute to the bill's sponsors, saying that "without their foresight, the breadth of the recoveries we announce here today would not have been possible."  He also expressed his gratitude to Senator Patrick J. Leahy, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and to Senator Grassley and Representative Berman for their support of the Fraud Enforcement and Recovery Act of 2009, which made additional improvements to the False Claims Act and other fraud statutes.

Assistant Attorney General West also applauded Congress' passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 2010, which reenforced the government's ability to redress fraud in the nation's health care system.  Among many other changes, the ACA amended the False Claims Act to provide additional incentives for whistle blowers to report fraud to the government and strengthened the provisions of the federal health care Anti-Kickback Statute.

Enforcement actions involving the pharmaceutical industry were the source of the largest recoveries this year.  In all, the department recovered nearly $2.2 billion in civil claims against the pharmaceutical industry in fiscal year 2011, including $1.76 billion in federal recoveries and $421 million in state Medicaid recoveries.  These cases included $900 million from eight drug manufacturers to resolve allegations that they had engaged in unlawful pricing to increase their profits.  Additionally, GlaxoSmithKline PLC paid $750 million to resolve criminal and civil allegations that the company knowingly submitted, or caused to be submitted, false claims to government health care programs for adulterated drugs and for drugs that failed to conform with the strength, purity or quality specified by the Food and Drug Administration.

Adding to its successes under the False Claims Act, the department obtained 21 criminal convictions and $1.3 billion in criminal fines, forfeitures, restitution, and disgorgement under the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FDCA).  The FDCA's criminal provisions are enforced by the Civil Division's Consumer Protection Branch.

In addition to health care, the department continued its aggressive pursuit of fraud in government procurement and other forms of financial fraud, including grant, housing and mortgage fraud that emerged in the wake of the financial crisis.  In November 2009, President Obama established the Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force to hold accountable the individuals and corporations who contributed to the crisis as well as those who would claim illegal advantage through false claims for funds intended to stimulate economic recovery.  Of the $3 billion in fiscal year 2011 recoveries, these non-war related procurement and consumer-related financial fraud cases accounted for nearly $358 million.

Overall, the department recovered $422 million in fiscal year 2011 in procurement fraud cases, including $89.3 million in recoveries in connection with the wars in Southwest Asia.  This brings civil fraud recoveries in connection with the wars in Southwest Asia since January 2009 to $153.4 million, and the total amount recovered in procurement fraud cases during that time to $1.5 billion, again a greater amount than in any previous three-year period.

Assistant Attorney General West expressed his deep appreciation for the dedicated public servants who contributed to the investigation and prosecution of these cases.  These individuals include attorneys, investigators, auditors and other agency personnel throughout the Civil Division, the U.S. Attorneys' Offices, HHS, DoD and the many other federal and state agencies.

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23 Dec 2011

Looking for 2011 Tax Relief? There's Still Time

By Rick Martin
Expert Shares Tips for Saving on Your Income Tax

If you're just beginning to think about your 2011 income tax return, you've got a late start - but it's still not too late to cash in on some savings.

"A lot of the deductions associated with the economic stimulus package will disappear in 2012, so if you want to take advantage of them, you've got only until Dec. 31," says Jessica James, CPA and author of Justice for None (www.AuthorJessicaJames.com), an insider look at IRS tactics in a tax fraud investigation and trial.

But, she says, there's still plenty of time for some other measures to ease your share of the tax burden. Now is also a good time to resolve to start earlier in 2012 to minimize that year's tax bill. Here are a some tips for both 2011 and 2012 savings.

• Contribute to retirement accounts. If you haven't already put money into your traditional or ROTH IRA account for 2011, you've got until April 17 to do it. If you have a Keogh or SEP (Simplified Employee Pension Individual Retirement Arrangement for businesses), and you get a filing extension to Oct. 15, you've got until then to make your 2011 deposits. The maximum IRA contribution for 2011 is $5,000, or $6,000 if you're 50 or older by the end of the year. For self-employed people, the maximum for SEPs and Keoghs for 2011 is $49,000.

• Don't fear the home office deduction. In the past, many tax filers didn't claim a home office deduction because it was seen as an IRS red flag. But the requirements and forms have been clarified so people can do that properly - and not make mistakes that can lead to an audit. Also, the rules have been expanded so more people can claim the deduction. If you use a home office exclusively for business, even if you don't meet your clients there, you're eligible. For instance, a handyman who does his work other people's houses can claim the deduction if he does his paperwork at his home office. Another change is that, in the past, if you claimed 10 percent of your home as an office, that amount would not be included in the $250,000 tax-free profit from the home's sale that's allowed for an individual by the IRS. Be sure to make your claim reasonable, or it will get questioned; a $25,000 home office deduction for a business with $50,000 annual gross revenue is not reasonable.

• Maximize your Flexible Spending Account. The Health Care Act will limit the maximum you can put into these pre-tax medical expense accounts in 2013. So 2012 is the last year to use an FSA to pay for orthodontics and other large medical expenses using pre-tax earnings. A medical expense flexible spending account, or FSA, allows you to use before-tax earnings to pay for medical or health care expenses not covered by your health insurance. Assuming a 25 percent tax rate, you avoid $25 in taxes for every $100 you spend from your FSA.

• Need to sell an investment? Next year may be the time. The Tax Relief Act maintains the tax rate cap on capital gains and dividends at 15 percent through 2012. In 2013, the cap for capital gains will increase to 20 percent and for dividends, 39.6 percent. The Health Care Act also created a 3.8 percent Medicare tax on investment income, effective in 2013. Given those scheduled increases, plan to take advantage of the rates next year.

James is an author pseudonym used because she fears her novel may provoke IRS retaliation. It's a fictionalized account of her experience as a minor player swept up in an IRS probe that included anyone associated with the primary target, a corporation. She says that, though she was innocent of any wrongdoing, she was coerced into accepting a plea deal by the IRS, which was bent on amassing adjudications of guilt to justify the investigation's expense. She pled guilty to a count of falsifying a tax return and continues to work as a CPA.

About Jessica James

Jessica James is a CPA and the author of a novel, "Justice for None," about her experiences as a minor target in a major federal tax fraud case.  After her ordeal, she decided to write about it as a warning to others who think they can take on the government and win.

23 Dec 2011

Braley Works to Help Families Traveling Over the Holidays

By Jeff Giertz

Presses Transportation Secretary LaHood to stop airlines from sending parents and kids to the back of airplanes 

 

Washington, DC - As the holiday travel season ramps up again this week, Rep. Bruce Braley (IA-01) today urged US Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood to ensure airlines aren't treating parents traveling with young children unfairly.

A Wall Street Journal report last month raised questions about the perils many parents face when traveling by air with young children.  The Journal reported that many airlines have adopted seating policies that relegate parents traveling with children to the back of the plane.  Many airlines also restrict the type of strollers that can be gate-checked.  Some airlines count diaper bags toward carry-on bag allowances, and charge parents who check both a car seat and a stroller.

"Many Iowans will be traveling by air over the holidays," Braley said.  "But too often, it seems like families flying with young children have to play by a different set of rules.  From airlines purposefully keeping parents and kids in the back of the plane to charging parents fees for strollers and diaper bags, airlines should treat parents traveling with kids just like any other passenger.  That's why I've requested that Transportation Secretary LaHood immediately review airlines' policies."

 

The full text of Braley's letter to LaHood follows.  A copy of the letter can also be downloaded at the following link: http://go.usa.gov/N0C

--

 

December 19, 2011

The Honorable Ray LaHood

Secretary, Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE

Washington, D.C. 20590

 

Dear Secretary LaHood:

I want to direct your attention to a recent article that appeared in the Wall Street Journal.  This article details the travel nightmares that many families with small children go through while flying.  I've included a copy of the article for your reference.

As a parent, I know firsthand how stressful traveling can be with young children.  A parent's worst nightmare is being separated from their young child because the child's seat was re-assigned to the back of the plane.  This is something that clearly happens quite frequently.

As we approach the holiday travel season, millions of families with small children will be traveling by air around the country.  That being said, I would like to know what rules the Department of Transportation has in place to ease the stresses placed on families with small children who travel during the holidays.  Please provide me with an answer to the following question:

What rules does the Department have in place to ensure that airlines do not separate children from their parents when traveling by air?

If there are no rules in place, please explain why.

I ask that you please provide me with a response to this letter within 10 business days.  Thank you for your attention to my request and please feel free to contact me if I can provide further assistance.

 

Sincerely,

Bruce L. Braley

 

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23 Dec 2011

Ron Paul to Visit Eastern Iowa for Eight Town Hall Meetings

By Gary Howard
Will hold eight town hall meetings over two days in large population centers and rural areas
ANKENY, Iowa - 2012 Republican Presidential candidate Ron Paul will visit eastern Iowa for a series of town hall meetings as the campaign draws nearer to the pivotal 2012 Iowa Caucus.

The visit will take place on Wednesday and Thursday, December 21st and 22nd.  All eight of Dr. Paul's events this time around are town hall meetings featuring a speech, followed by a question and answer session.

"The Iowa team is pleased to welcome Ron Paul for another set of town hall meetings where he will give voters straightforward answers to questions concerning America's pressing challenges.  If past is prologue, voters will leave these gatherings knowing that Dr. Paul makes every effort to be engaging, informative, and uncommonly candid," said Iowa Campaign Chairman Drew Ivers.

Details of the events are as follows.  All times Central.

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

10:00 a.m.
Lee County Town Hall Meeting
Comfort Inn & Suites
6169 Reve Court (Hwy. 61 & Hwy. 2) 
Fort Madison, IA 52627

12:00 p.m.
Henry County Town Hall Meeting
Civic Center Meeting Room (old High School)
307 E. Monroe Street
Mount Pleasant, IA  52641

3:00 p.m.
Washington County Town Hall Meeting
Washington Public Library
115 W. Washington Street 
Washington, IA  52353

7:00 p.m.
Quad Cities Town Hall Meeting
Quad Cities Waterfront Convention Center - Iowa Room
2021 State Street 
Bettendorf, IA 52722

Thursday, December 22, 2011

10:00 a.m.
Jackson County Town Hall Meeting
Historic Clinton Engines Building
605 E. Maple Street  
Maquoketa, IA 52060

12:00 p.m.
Dubuque Town Hall Meeting
Grand River Center - Meeting Room #4
Port of Dubuque 
500 Bell Street 
Dubuque, IA 52001

3:00 p.m.
Delaware County Town Hall Meeting
Delaware County Fairgrounds
200 E. Acers Street 
Manchester, IA 52057

7:00 p.m.
Cedar Rapids Town Hall Meeting
The Hotel at Kirkwood Center - Suites D & E
7725 Kirkwood Center   
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404

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23 Dec 2011

More news from the Ron Paul Campaign

By Gary Howard
Ron Paul Campaign Releases Updated TV Ad 'The One' Ad argues that Paul and his 'Plan to Restore America' will remedy Washington's ills
LAKE JACKSON, Texas - The Ron Paul 2012 Presidential campaign unveiled an updated version of its path-breaking television ad "The One," this time arguing that a Paul presidency and its fiscal plan will counteract Washington afflictions while ushering in economic prosperity.

The 60-second ad, presented in a movie trailer style, will run on broadcast and cable television in Iowa and New Hampshire beginning today.  The ad points the finger of blame at Washington - "a lost city" - focusing on "failed policies, failed leadership...smooth talking politicians, insider deals, games of he said-she said, rhetoric, and division." 

The ad then presents Ron Paul as the only Republican presidential candidate that stands tall against such a poisonous atmosphere, instead "voting against every tax increase, every unbalanced budget, every time."  The ad touts provisions of Ron Paul's "Plan to Restore America" including cutting $1 trillion in year one of a Paul presidency, eliminating government waste, and achieving a balanced federal budget.

"With the U.S. economy in shambles, Americans are demanding leaders that are knowledgeable about how the economy works and how to ensure that Washington creates the proper climate for sustainable growth and lasting prosperity.  This updated ad shows Ron Paul as the sole candidate with an economic plan to restore America, and at the same time singles him out for his unimpeachable integrity," said Ron Paul 2012 National Campaign Chairman Jesse Benton.

To view the television ad online, please click here.
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Ron Paul Iowa Team Welcomes Additional 'Homeschoolers for Ron Paul' Members
Latest families who value education choice reside in Polk, Kossuth and Pottawattamie counties
ANKENY, Iowa - The Ron Paul 2012 Presidential campaign welcomed new additions to its already-substantial "Homeschoolers for Ron Paul" nationwide coalition.  The new additions hail from Polk, Kossuth, and Pottawattamie counties, all Iowa.

The continued growth and geographic diversity establishes Ron Paul as a candidate with strong support among Iowa's homeschooling families and organizations.  Furthermore, it illustrates that Dr. Paul might receive tangible support for his principled positions on education freedom, as the 12-term Congressman from Texas seeks a strong top-three showing in the January 3rd Iowa Caucus.

A smattering of the latest "Homeschoolers for Ron Paul" members have stepped forward with the following public statements of support:

Maria Maher of Ankeny is a mother of nine children ages four to 26 years of age.  After the passing of her husband, she goes the extra mile to continue her 18-year tradition of homeschooling her children but sees it as welcome effort. 

"The government is constantly stripping parents of basic rights, assuming these rights as their own.  I treasure my freedom to do what is right and my liberty to teach my children virtue.  I don't want some governmental agency telling me or my children what is right and wrong, as this has always been up to the parents," said Ms. Maher.

She continued, "Ron Paul's principles are thoroughly Christian, as he is the stalwart defender of peace through strength and treating our neighbors with respect, not contempt.  We need to let him awaken in us a sense of citizenship in the most traditional way, the constitutional way, the way our founding fathers laid it all out then and for future generations."

Proud mother of two and grandmother of eight Wanda Burdick has been in the homeschool movement since 1984.  The Burdick family has operated Teenworks, a tutoring assistance service that for about three decades has helped homeschool students learn from a Christian worldview.  It was featured in the Globe Gazette here and here.

"Having been involved with homeschooling since 1984, we appreciate the freedom to choose to homeschool.  Ron Paul supports that freedom and many other freedoms that we enjoy.  Dr. Paul believes that the federal government does not have the authority to intercede with children, acting against the wishes of parents when it comes to medical care, education, and other aspects of raising children," said Mrs. Burdick of Wesley.

Wrapping up this rollout are homeschoolers Steve and Cindy Anders of Council Bluffs, offering the following words of support:

"My family supports Ron Paul for President because of his well established, long record of strict constructionist interpretation of the Constitution.  Ron Paul believes in limited government and knows parents have the God-given right to educate their children, not the government.  Dr. Paul is the only candidate that can defeat Obama and bring our government and economy back down to the level the founding fathers intended," the Anders couple wrote.

Mr. Anders' support was showcased by The New York Times in a recent article detailing the extensive support Ron Paul receives from many voting segments. 

Those interested in joining the active "Homeschoolers for Ron Paul" nationwide coalition are encouraged to visit the official page by clicking here.  Those residing in the Hawkeye State should email Iowa Voter Outreach Director Meghann Walker at meghannw@ronpaul2012.com for more information about how to join.

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Ron Paul Interview Surrogates
LAKE JACKSON, Texas - The Ron Paul 2012 Presidential campaign invites members of the major print, broadcast and online media to speak to Dr. Paul's interview surrogates.

Surrogate names and titles are as follows.  Please note that they are listed in the order of their availability.

Doug Wead, Senior Advisor for Coalitions

Gary Howard, National Press Secretary

Jack Hunter, Official Campaign Blogger

John Tate, National Campaign Manager

Jesse Benton, National Campaign Chairman

All surrogate interviews are booked through Megan Stiles, the campaign's National Media Coordinator, by emailing Ms. Stiles at megans@ronpaul2012.com.

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Ron Paul Endorsed by Pastor of Nora Springs Christian Church
Floyd County minister cites Dr. Paul's prolife stance and defense of traditional marriage in Congress
ANKENY, Iowa - 2012 Republican Presidential candidate Ron Paul received the endorsement of Glen E. Bandel, Pastor of the Nora Springs Christian Church, located in Floyd County.

"I am giving my support to Ron Paul as he seeks to be the next President of the United States.  Dr. Paul has shown his support of life for all unborn and to all living to old age.  He is only for marriage of one man and one woman and would enforce the federal Defense of Marriage Act," said Pastor Bandel.

"Dr. Paul has the best foreign policy of any candidate seeking the office, namely one that ends interfering in the business of other countries, brings our soldiers home to protect our country, and pays our domestic debts using money we currently send around the world," said Bandel.

Pastor Bandel added that, in making his endorsement, he was acting as a private citizen and not necessarily speaking on behalf of Nora Springs Christian Church congregants.

"We appreciate Pastor Bandel's endorsement, as it adds to the growing number of religious, civic, and political leaders whose endorsement brings us closer to a strong top-three caucus finish," said Ron Paul 2012 Iowa Chairman Drew Ivers.

Mike Heath, Iowa State Director for the Ron Paul 2012 campaign, is visiting Christian churches across Iowa to do outreach and discuss Ron Paul's candidacy.  To date, Heath has visited 256 houses of worship across the state toward that end.  Heath is an ordained Christian minister.

If ministering in Iowa, local pastors interested in discussing an endorsement are invited to email the Iowa Director of Voter Outreach, Meghann Walker, at meghannw@ronpaul2012.com.

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23 Dec 2011

Ron Paul to Hold Major Salute to Veterans Rally in Des Moines

By Gary Howard
Alongside Iowa Chair Drew Ivers and Rep. Glen Massie, Air Force veteran Ron Paul to assembleveterans, discuss their issues, and thank them
ANKENY, Iowa - Air Force veteran and 2012 Republican Presidential candidate Ron Paul will hold a major veterans rally in Des Moines, demonstrating his commitment to veterans, active-duty military men and women, and their families.

The event, which is open to supporters of all ages regardless of veteran status, will be held on Wednesday, December 28th at the Knapp Learning Center, located on the State Fair Grounds in Des Moines.  Doors will open to the public at 6:30 p.m.  To enter 30 minutes early and secure a seat near the front of the room, RSVP for the veterans rally featuring Dr. Paul by clicking here.

The salute to veterans rally is of particular importance as U.S. troops are returning from Iraq, and are deserving of a warm welcome home.  Another function of this event is to answer the growing demand of the "Veterans for Ron Paul" nationwide coalition, which is among the strongest voter associations benefiting Dr. Paul in Iowa.

"My country called and like Ron Paul I left my family, friends, and career behind, in my case serving in Vietnam.  Now Dr. Paul is again offering himself to serve our great nation as president in a time of urgent need," said Ron Paul 2012 Iowa Chairman Drew Ivers.

"I've never met a more humble, honest, and capable patriot in my lifetime.  As Ron Paul salutes his fellow Veterans here in Iowa, I'm proud to return that salute," said Mr. Ivers, himself a combat-wounded U.S. Army veteran awarded a purple heart for injuries he sustained while serving in Vietnam.

"Like many other veterans and active-duty military men and women, officers and enlisted alike, I wholeheartedly support Ron Paul for our President and Commander in Chief," said Iowa House Rep. Glen Massie (R-Des Moines).

Rep. Massie is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and was the first Iowa legislator to endorse Dr. Paul for the Republican nomination. 

During the 1960s, Dr. Ron Paul proudly served in the U.S. Air Force as a flight surgeon.  Today, the 12-term Congressman from Texas has stood up in defense of veterans benefits and as a friend to veterans has helped returning veterans receive honors and awards never bestowed them. 

In recognition of Paul's own military service, his promotion of a strong national defense, and his service to veterans, active-duty military personnel contributed more to Paul's campaign than to those of all Republican presidential candidates combined, and more than that of incumbent President Barack Obama, in 2Q and 3Q of 2011.

As a first basic step, those wanting to join the "Veterans for Ron Paul" nationwide coalition should visit the official page by clicking here.  Those residing in the Hawkeye State should email Iowa Voter Outreach Director Meghann Walker at meghannw@ronpaul2012.com.

Due to strong demand and space limitations, members of the media are asked to RSVP for the event by sending an email to RSVP@ronpaul2012.com.

Details of the event, which is free of charge and open to the public, are as follows.  Time is Central.

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

7:00 p.m.
Knapp Learning Center
State Fair Grounds
E. 33rd Street and University
Des Moines, Iowa 50317

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23 Dec 2011

COMMENTARY -- Saluting Service and Sacrifice

By Sen Chuck Grassley

Saluting Service and Sacrifice

by U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley

Iowans will welcome friends and family home for the holidays this month to celebrate the joys of the season together.  Kids home from college and relatives from far and near will gather under one roof to enjoy each other's company.

For U.S. military families, the return of 45,000 troops from Iraq arguably wins the best homecoming present of the season.  Nearly nine years after the war started in March 2003, American troops have fought to defend freedom and protect U.S. national security interests in and around Afghanistan and Iraq. The men and women in uniform who put their lives on the line in service to our country have earned a debt of gratitude from the American public.

The American public cannot afford to become complacent about the mission and contribution of the U.S. military.  The military serves in many cases as the world's first and last line of defense for freedom, liberty and democracy at home and abroad.  Ultimately, it is the courageous members of the U.S. Armed Forces who serve on the front lines to protect our American way of life here at home.

Iowa has a long-held tradition of honoring members of the Armed Forces and the citizen-soldiers of the National Guard and Reserves.  Local communities and veterans' service organizations for generations have organized celebrations for hometown heroes deploying to and returning from military service, as well as memorials for those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

In Washington, I work to square the needs of a strong U.S. military and the sacrifices of the taxpaying public.  Recently, I've worked to raise awareness and increase federal help for our members of the Armed Forces who suffer from service-related mental health conditions and injuries.  An increasing number of veterans return from the battlefield with invisible wounds.  In 2007, I worked with Iowa lawmakers to pass the "Joshua Omvig Veterans Suicide Prevention Act" in honor of an Iowa veteran who took his own life after returning home from active duty.

Seeking to help military veterans re-enter the civilian workforce, I worked to help secure passage this year of a federal tax incentive that would make it easier for small businesses to hire qualified military veterans.  In recognition of their skills and service to our country, I've also called upon federal agencies to hire qualified military veterans.  As a result, the IRS has hired thousands of vets in the last four years.

During this season of joy and celebration, let's remember to salute the service and sacrifice made by America's veterans and members of the U.S. Armed Forces.  Thanks to their commitment to duty, honor and country, America continues to be the land of the free and home of the brave.

Monday, December 19, 2011

23 Dec 2011

Q & A on Country of Origin Labeling

By Sen Chuck Grassley
U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley

 

Q:        Why do people have a beef with labeling the origin of the meat sold in grocery stores?

A:        A lot of people want to know where the food on their tables comes from.  Today, many food retailers are required to inform consumers about the country of origin of fresh fruits and vegetables, seafood, peanuts, pecans, macadamia nuts, ginseng, and ground muscle cuts of beef, pork, lamb, chicken and goat, thanks to legislation first passed as part of the farm bill in 2002, and updated along with the farm bill in 2008.  The origin of almost everything you buy in the United States is labeled, so it's a no-brainer to provide the same information about meat and produce.  Consumers deserve to know, and for producers, it's a positive opportunity to build consumer confidence.  Unfortunately, making the law a reality for meat labeling, in particular, was a long and difficult process.  For too long, the U.S. Department of Agriculture delayed implementation by relying on inaccurate information provided by meat processors and containing gross over-estimates about the cost of providing this information to consumers.  Before the 2008 update, congressional committees responsible for funding agricultural programs withheld funds for COOL.

Q:        What's the situation today?

A:        In November, the World Trade Organization (WTO) sided with Canada and Mexico in a challenge by those countries both to COOL rules and voluntary suggestions from the administration to provide useful origin information to consumers.  A trade dispute resolution panel of the WTO said the United States has the authority to require labeling, but the way our program works is unfair to livestock producers in Canada and Mexico.  That's baloney.  The labeling system in place in the United States gives imported livestock the same opportunity to compete in the U.S. marketplace that it had before COOL was implemented.  What's more, Canada, Mexico and other countries require country-of-origin information to be provided to consumers in their own countries.

Q:        What can be done about the WTO ruling?

A:        At this point, the panel decision either will be adopted by a WTO Dispute Settlement Body, or an appeal to the decision will be considered by a WTO Appellate Body.  Some groups are urging the administration to find a way to settle the dispute without further WTO proceedings, but it's time for top U.S. officials to appeal without delay.  In December, I urged the U.S. Trade Representative, Ron Kirk, and the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Iowa's former governor Tom Vilsack, to challenge the panel decision.  Eighteen other senators signed the letter which also urged these agency leaders to make sure that the COOL program meets international trade obligations while continuing to provide valuable information to consumers.  The administration's handling of this WTO dispute will be closely monitored by many of us in Congress.  I encourage them to take all necessary steps to defend our COOL regulations.  America's farmers deliver an abundant, affordable and safe food supply, and they deserve credit for it.

Monday, December 19, 2011

23 Dec 2011

Caucus Night Viewing Party Set

By Tiffany Tauscheck

Official Caucus Viewing Party

DES MOINES, IOWA - Americana Restaurant and Lounge, Greater Des Moines Partnership and Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau invite locals and visitors to Americana for the Official Caucus Watch Party in Greater Des Moines. Americana, located at 1312 Locust Street, is in Downtown Des Moines and provides a multi-level dining experience and street side lounge with a panoramic view of the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park.

Greater Des Moines' Official Caucus Watch Party will begin Tuesday, January 3 at 6 p.m. Live results and media coverage will appear on televisions throughout the lounge. The Watch Party will run until close, 11 p.m. Caucus Night.

Reservations are not required, but recommended, at (515) 283-1312 or www.americanadsm.com.

Americana is an urban restaurant and lounge that celebrates the swagger of the cocktail culture. The restaurant features a variety of classic cocktails, a large wine list and serves a Modern American/Continental menu specializing in freshly prepared small plates, signature entrees, gourmet burgers, contemporary classics and much more.

For more information on the Iowa Caucus happenings in Greater Des Moines visit www.CaucusDM.com.

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to promote Greater Des Moines as a fun, vibrant and affordable destination statewide, nationally and internationally. Our focus increases visitors to our community through meetings, conventions, sports events, leisure travel, and group tours, thereby contributing to the local economy.

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23 Dec 2011

Winegard Company Wins National Safety Council Award for 1 Million Work Hours without an Occupational Injury

By Shelby Kraus

Company credits teamwork and commitment in attaining important milestone

BURLINGTON, Iowa - (December 19, 2011) - Winegard Co. claimed a significant national award for surpassing one million injury-free work hours at its facilities. That means no work time lost to injuries in more than a year for the antenna manufacturer that proudly makes its antennas in the U.S.A.

The National Safety Council recognized Winegard for notable performance in occupational safety and health with the Million Work Hours Award. This award recognizes the achievement of one million consecutive work hours without an occupational injury or illness resulting in days away from work or death.

"It took a tremendous amount of teamwork to achieve this award," said Vic Kohlhof Winegard safety director. "Only a very few elite companies ever achieve such a phenomenal goal and we're proud to be one of them. I'd like to express our gratitude to everyone at the company for their commitment to our safety programs, from all the team members to the hiring manager."

"Safety compliance and an accident-free workplace allow Winegard to keep costs down," added Kohlhof. "It allows us to provide our customers with the lowest-total-cost-products made by skilled, experienced workers in the U.S. enabling Winegard to be competitive in the global marketplace."

About Winegard
Winegard Company is a respected world leader in the design and manufacture of innovative antenna products for satellite and terrestrial communications. Since its founding in 1954, Winegard's pioneering solutions have shaped the industry for home, recreational vehicle (RV), truck, marine, medical and automotive antennas. The company's VSAT 2-way antennas provide real-time broadband solutions for extreme and remote environments in support of the oil and gas industries, as well as military and emergency response teams. Winegard is a privately-owned company that designed the first antenna for the U.S. It has designed more than 1,000 antenna models and does custom antenna design and development work. To learn more about Burlington, Iowa-based Winegard, visit http://www.winegard.com or call 800-288-8094.


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