OGDEN FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES OFFICIAL SELECTIONS May 25, 2017
OGDEN, UT – After receiving submissions from all around the world, the Ogden Film Festival selection committee has announced seven official selections to be featured. The event will take place on Friday June 2, 2017 at Peery’s Egyptian Theater from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. Tickets to the event are only $5 and can be purchased at smithstix.com or at the Peery’s Egyptian Theater box office.
“We felt strongly that there was a need for a film festival in Ogden and receiving submissions from all over the world proved that others were just as excited about it as we are,” said Kasey LaRose, Festival Director. “This inaugural year is a community partnership with CIRCA3, the Ogden Arts Festival and Egyptian Theater Foundation and we’ve been encouraged to help it grow over the coming years to more screenings and multiple days, which I think will happen."
Official Selections
Lumiére, directed by Tay Steele. From Hawaii to Tahiti, Lumiére takes us behind the lens of North Shore photographer Amber Mozo, to find what the ocean gives to her in spite of what it took away. Lumiére is an emotional distillation of the story of Amber Mozo, daughter of iconic North Shore photographer Jon Mozo, who passed away from head injuries sustained photographing Pipeline when Amber was just 9 years old.
The Inside, directed by Spencer Allred. After moving into a new home an artist struggles to complete her work while facing a sinister presence.
11:47, directed by Andrew Matthews. A grieving father confronts his daughter’s killer on the anniversary of her death.
Marcos El Muerto, directed by and starring Nick Garrett. Marcos, a down on his luck Mexican man, wants to make his way into the U.S. With border security tightening up, he takes to Craigslist to find help sneaking in. Two cluelessly ignorant and dim-witted Americans take him up on the offer devising a less than half-baked plan.
The Loner, directed by Lenni Uito. In search of her daughter after society collapsed in this WROL scenario The Loner shows us that all hope is not lost.
The Magical Wishing Washing Machine, directed by Brigham Sunday. Mr. Torres’ life has always been the same; a strict routine, an endless supply of hand sanitizer, and of
course, his laundromat crush-Rosie. Will today be the day he talks to her? Not without a little help and a little magic. Features the hit band, Imagine Dragons.
Rain, directed by Matt Glass. One town, sixty years without sunlight or rain, a tyrant who controls the only source of water for the people and a mysterious wanderer offering a bright side to it all.
Festival Feature
After the short film segment, a the 40-minute film Under An Arctic Sky by renowned photographer Chris Burkard & Sweatpants Media will be held. The film details a surfing expedition to Iceland, braving subzero temperatures and winter storms to find the perfect wave.
“From the very beginning our goal wasn’t just to put in on iTunes but to take to these intimate screenings, festivals, and these more personal events where we could actually share the intimate experience of being there and what it was like,” said Burkard.
About the Ogden Film Festival
For more info visit www.ogdenfilmfestival.org or facebook.com/ogdenfilmfestival Link to Ogden Film Festival Trailer: https://vimeo.com/218864563
Ogden Film Festival is a film festival based in Ogden, Utah, featuring short films of 15 minutes or less each. Its mission is to present quality films from around the world as well as support, recognize, and honor filmmakers. The Ogden Film Festival celebrates the best in local film and talent.
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LIVESTOCK SLAUGHTER – APRIL 2017 UNITED STATES HIGHLIGHTS
Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 3.97 billion pounds in April, down slightly from the 3.98 billion pounds produced in April 2016.
Beef production, at 1.96 billion pounds, was slightly below the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.46 million head, up 2 percent from April 2016. The average live weight was down 23 pounds from the previous year, at 1,325 pounds.
Veal production totaled 5.8 million pounds, 3 percent below April a year ago. Calf slaughter totaled 39,000 head, up 12 percent from April 2016. The average live weight was down 36 pounds from last year, at 257 pounds.
Pork production totaled 1.99 billion pounds, down 1 percent from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 9.34 million head, down slightly from April 2016. The average live weight was unchanged from the previous year, at 285 pounds.
Lamb and mutton production, at 11.5 million pounds, was down 10 percent from April 2016. Sheep slaughter totaled 179,500 head, 5 percent below last year. The average live weight was 128 pounds, down 7 pounds from April a year ago.
January to April 2017 commercial red meat production was 16.7 billion pounds, up 3 percent from 2016. Accumulated beef production was up 5 percent from last year, veal was down 4 percent, pork was up 2 percent from last year, and lamb and mutton production was down 4 percent.
For a full copy of the Livestock Slaughter report please visit www.nass.usda.gov. For state specific questions please contact:
Arizona – Dave DeWalt 1-800-645-7286 Colorado – William R. Meyer 1-800-392-3202 Montana – Eric Sommer 1-800-835-2612 New Mexico – Longino Bustillo 1-800-530-8810 Utah – John Hilton 1-800-747-8522 Wyoming – Rhonda Brandt 1-800-892-1660
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Dear Friends,
The work has begun on crucial action items that require immediate attention. We've already met as a UTGOP officer board, along with office staff, to address our financial situation. Presently, our Treasurer is in the process of acquiring the resources to conduct a thorough and complete audit which we hope to commence straightaway.
We have some exciting initiatives that we will begin to implement soon. One key area is to improve our messaging to delegates, elected officials, and you. We are also working on streamlining communications from Republican candidates directly to you.
We look forward to hosting the upcoming Utah Republican Party Congressional District 3 Convention in Utah County on Saturday, June 17, 2017. Details will be forthcoming regarding the time and location. We anticipate a high delegate turnout as this is a very important election. I encourage all delegates in CD3 to participate.
On a personal note, thank you to everyone who supported me at convention. I have been humbled by the outpouring of support. I reaffirm my pledge to restore integrity to the UTGOP, as well as transparency and accountability. Furthermore, I am grateful that both of my opponents have reached out to me to extend their support to me as well. We are a large family. Always remember that what unites us is stronger than what divides us.
Finally, as we approach Memorial Day 2017, I'd like to extend a special thank you to all Veterans who served on behalf of our country. We especially honor those who gave their lives for our freedom. May we always be mindful of their sacrifice. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13)
"O beautiful for heroes proved in liberating strife, who more than self their country loved, and mercy more than life! America! America! May God thy gold refine, till all success be nobleness, and every gain divine."
(America the Beautiful)
Sincerely,
Rob Anderson
Chairman
(801)533-9777
117 E. South Temple Street
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
rob@utgop.org
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Heartbroken Mother on Terror: ‘We Are Better Than This’
From a caring mom, strong and specific advice for raising kids to be alert, safe — and happy
by Maureen Mackey | Updated 25 May 2017 at 8:31 AM
Kimberly Fletcher can’t stand it. She can’t stand watching violence and destruction, no matter where it occurs or whom it harms. As are so many other parents, she’s terribly dismayed by the terrorist actions in Manchester, England, at the Ariana Grande concert on Monday night, which took so many young lives and injured more. And she’s concerned, in general, about the growing prevalence of violence in the world even as millions of parents are doing their best to raise great kids, provide a stable home, and prepare their children for a successful future.
Fletcher’s beliefs are firmly grounded in a respect and love for the family — she is heartland America all the way. Based in Ohio, she’s the wife of a retired Air Force officer, the mother of eight children (six boys and two girls, ages 12 to 30!), and the president and founder of Homemakers for America. In addition, she is the author of the book “WOMEN: America’s Last Best Hope” — and writes for a number of outlets. She also helped create an upcoming event in September of this year called Moms March for America, which seeks to bring together the voices of scores of mothers who remain focused on the health of their families — and the future of their children.
Question: As a mom, you feel it's critical to speak up about this incident right now and share your views. Why?
Answer: As a mother I am heartbroken when I see other mothers suffer so needlessly. There is way too much anger, chaos and destruction going on in the world — and in our own country. I speak with other mothers all the time who share their anguish and frustration with the direction our nation is heading and the future we are leaving our children.
But it isn't just the future they're worried about. They are concerned for their children right now — their safety, the negative influences, the distorted history, propaganda and anti-family, anti-American rhetoric heaped on them every day. Mothers are very frustrated because they don't feel they have a voice — and the only voice the media seem to be listening to are women who are, knowingly or not, supporting and promoting the very policies that threaten the safety, health and freedom of our children.
Related: Talking to Kids About Terror
It's time to raise the bar of humanity and decency in our nation and the world, and it is the mothers who have the power to do it — to stand up united and say "enough." Our children should be able to go to a concert, enjoy themselves, and come home safe. We are better than this. But the fact is, we can't always be there and our children will be in unsafe situations, so as mothers, I think it is vital that we strengthen, encourage and empower our children to be prepared and empowered to face any situation with calm courage.
Q: How, specifically, do you teach your own children about responding in emergencies?
A: The most important thing I do for them is reinforce the idea that they don't have to be a victim even though they may be victimized. If our children walk out the door thinking everyone and everything is out to get them, they will live in fear — that is not how I want my children to live. That's not living.
I want them to enjoy life, reach for their dreams, serve others and live their lives to the fullest. Unfortunately there is evil in the world, and my children will and have faced it in many forms. But if they can differentiate between what is a real problem and what is not, it helps them to know how to deal with it.
"My children don't have to be victims even though they may be victimized."
Q: You talk a lot as a family about being prepared, you say — largely because of 9/11. Tell us more about what you discuss.
A: That really woke us up to the reality of the world in which we live. My husband was stationed at the Pentagon on 9/11. Through a series of miracles, he came home that day — but it was a very difficult day for our family and for many of the families in our community.
No one knew how to handle the situation. Parents were flooding the schools to take their kids home because they thought the world was ending. There was so much chaos, confusion and fear — and it scared the kids. I overheard one mom respond to her children's questions about why she was picking them up that day by saying, "Because our country was attacked, and we might be going to war."
The children were visibly shaking with fear. I didn't want my kids to fear. I wanted them to know that, no matter what, everything was going to be OK because we would make it OK. I wanted to comfort and assure them even though I was crumbling inside.
Related: Imperfect Parents Can Do Great Things
Since then, we've had a lot of discussions on everything from "if they get lost in a public place" to "what to do in a natural or manmade disaster." If the children get lost, they know they are to look for a grandmother or a mother with children and ask for help. If there is an accident, we encourage them to help others if they can, but not to get in the way. We've of course talked to them about not talking to strangers but also stressed the importance of one's personal space and what is and isn't appropriate touch.
Q: You talk about being at the "crossroads" of your children's day. What do you mean by that?
A: I'm right there. I am with them. I ask them about their day. That communication helps them know they can come and talk to me, and it creates an atmosphere where they feel comfortable doing so. I let them know over and over again if there is anything that makes them feel uncomfortable or scared, they should bring it to me and we'll talk about it.
I think the best way they learn is by our example, and I have always tried to be a good example of calm in any situation — which is very hard at times, especially when your children are hurting or in danger. One very valuable thing is the power of a mother's voice. One day my son let go of my hand and ran toward a busy street. He was just chasing a butterfly and didn't know he was in danger, but I immediately recognized the imminent danger and screamed: "Stop!"
Related: The Secrets of Raising Happy Children
My son instantly stopped right where he was, giving me the few seconds I needed to reach him. I realized at that moment that if he heard me yell all the time, then he wouldn't have paid any attention when I yelled that day. He stopped because it was not normal, and it caught him off guard. It saved his life.
"Let your children guide the conversation, but be aware of any changes in their behavior."
Q: How about discussions of violence — how have you handled that?
A: We've had a lot of talks as a family about what to do in cases of violence. I've taught our children to stay safe by being alert to their surroundings and not putting themselves in dangerous situations. Unfortunately, those situations sometimes find people no matter how cautious and alert they are, so I encourage them to get down, stay calm, evaluate the situation and their surroundings, get safe as best they can — and help others if they can.
And then, to talk about it. That's important. If you just shut an incident away, it haunts you, but you don't want to dwell on it, either. They need to move through it so they can move beyond. It may take time, but it is absolutely doable. Let your children guide the conversation, but be aware of any changes in their behavior that may alert you that they aren't handling things well and need you to reach out more with understanding and support.
Above all, teach them to forgive. Help them understand that forgiveness doesn't mean the person isn't wrong or shouldn't be punished — it means you let it go. The people who committed that heinous crime in Manchester, England, don't care whether or not you forgive them. But if you hold onto it, you will be enslaved as their victim forever. Let it go. Don't give them that power.
When the Words of a Dad Mean Everything'Your kids might not tell you this — but as a pediatrician, I'm letting you know what matters'
Q: It's such a conundrum, isn't it. We want our kids to be kids and enjoy their innocence, yet we must deliver the hard realities of life for them.
A: I've had to really think about the best way to handle this. When I was a kid, the world was my playground and the "mom standard" was, "Be home when the lights come on." Now we're afraid to let our children leave the front yard. I want my children to enjoy their childhood. I want them to be able to ride their bikes to the park or play with their friends down the street, but I also want them to be safe. I can't always be there — but if I can prepare them as much as possible to protect themselves, it gives me the peace of mind to let them venture out.
In the end, I decided honesty was the best policy. I've let my children know there are people in the world who hurt other people and do bad things. We have set up safe standards such as meeting the parents of the children they play with, and having the children call me when they get to that house and when they leave that home. As they get older, I let them venture farther; they can ride their bikes to the park or the store, and they know when they are due back home. I don't want to teach my children to fear — I want to teach them to be responsible and aware.
Related: Hardest Part of Raising Kids Isn't the Kids
Q: Final words to other American moms and dads across the country?
A: Be at the crossroads of your kids' lives — talk to them about their joys, sorrows, triumphs and challenges. No matter what they face, if you are there when they come and go, they will know they can talk to you. That relationship is the best thing you can give them. It is the safe place they can turn to no matter what, and need a place of refuge from the cold world.
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Today, congressional Democrats and a coalition of progressive organizations kicked off the long-anticipated infrastructure jobs fight, launching a massive campaign for public investment in millions of new jobs in Utah and across the nation.
As Utah lawmakers move toclean Utah Lake of discharge from wastewater treatment plants, the grassroots Millions of Jobs Coalition teamed up with Congressional Progressive Caucus members to unveil 10 principles that must be true of any jobs plan that passes into law. These principles, encapsulated in a new House resolution supported by dozens of congressional leaders, include prioritizing public investment over corporate giveaways and selling off our roads, racial and gender equity in jobs, environmental and worker protections, investment in 21st century clean-energy jobs like wind and solar, and requiring the wealthy to pay their fair share.
The resolution is supported by a wide swath of Democrats in Congress, from Progressive Caucus members to members of diverse other caucuses. The Congressional Progressive Caucus and Millions Of Jobs Coalition will urge all House Democrats to co-sponsor the resolution and draw a sharp contrast with Trump.
The American Society of Civil Engineers gaveUtah a C+ grade in its 2015 report card -- meaning the majority of the state’s infrastructure is in poor condition or insufficient to meet its needs.
“We are launching a massive campaign for millions of new jobs through investment in our water systems, public roads, and bridges -- in Utah and across the nation,” said the Millions of Jobs Coalition.“Democrats are fighting to create millions of new jobs by rebuilding crumbling highways, bridges, and schools -- and we will highlight the local impact of these ideas in communities across America. Instead of creating jobs repairing roads and aging wastewater systems, Trump will sell them off to Wall Street billionaires and foreign governments -- allowing them to double tolls and put billions of our dollars in their pockets.”
The Millions of JobsCoalition includes Manufactured Housing Action, Communications Workers of America, Center for Popular Democracy, Progressive Change Campaign Committee, ColorOfChange, Working Families Party, MoveOn.org, NextGen Climate, 350 Action, Roosevelt Institute, Demos Action, Food & Water Watch, PICO, and others.
At an event Thursday with congressional leaders at the U.S. Capitol, the Millions of Jobs Coalition announced that events will be held across the nation next week, touting local support for the Democratic push to create millions of jobs.
"Air pollution is a major issue here. The SLC valley is regularly choked with unbreathable air and it affects children with asthma the most. It hasn't been addressed because the pwe only care about our wallets’ Republicans have a deadlock on the government due to gerrymandering," said Wendy B., a Ogden resident and PCCC member.
The Trump administration has made clear they support little direct public investment in jobs and will rely heavily on privatization and corporate giveaways:
Trump’s proposal would result in a net negative in direct infrastructure investment. The Washington Post reports, “Despite his much-touted plans to spur significant increases in infrastructure investment, President Trump’s budget would actually cut more federal spending on such programs than it would add, according to an analysis by Senate Democrats.”
Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao confirmed that Trump’s supposedly-trillion dollar proposal will include only $200 billion in direct federal funding -- and that’s after “$206 billion in cuts to an array of infrastructure programs.”
Last Monday, Politico reported a Fox News interview in which Chao said Trump’s plan will center on “some kind of public-private partnerships” and “maybe some sale of government assets as well." According to Bloomberg News, the Trump plan will likely include selling $40 billion of American infrastructure to Saudi Arabia.
Trump has also pledged to roll back environmental protections and other regulations as part of his plan. A coalition of conservative advocacy groups supports weakening those rules and also urges a repeal of labor protections.
The Congressional Progressive Caucus resolution, announced Thursday, clearly differentiates Democrats from Trump. It lays out 10 principles that must be true of any jobs plan:
Invest in creating millions of new jobs.
Prioritize public investment over corporate giveaways and selling off public goods.
Ensure that direct public investment provides the overwhelming majority of the funds for infrastructure improvement.
Prioritize racial and gender equity, environmental justice, and worker protections.
Embrace 21st century clean-energy jobs.
Protect wages, expand Buy American provisions, encourage project labor agreements, and prioritize the needs of disadvantaged communities -- both urban and rural.
Ensure the wealthiest Americans and giant corporations who reap the greatest economic benefit from public goods pay their fair share for key investments.
It must not be paid for at the expense of Social Security and other vital programs.
It must not weaken or repeal existing rules and laws protecting our environment, worker safety. wages, or equity hiring practices.
Prioritize resilient infrastructure that can withstand natural disasters and cyber or physical attacks.
The Congressional Progressive Caucus and Millions Of Jobs Coalition will urge all Democrats in the House of Representatives to co-sponsor the resolution and draw a sharp contrast with Trump.
On the same day as the announcement of the resolution, Rep. Ted Lieu (D-CA) unveiled a separate planthat is the first in the House to meet all 10 principles in the new resolution. It would invest heavily in roads, bridges, public transit, water and sewer systems, clean-energy jobs, high-speed Internet access, repairing veterans hospitals, and other priorities -- including $35 billion in the first year to make critical improvements to wastewater systems and ensure clean drinking water. It would create millions of living-wage jobs for workers in all communities, targeted to especially benefit women and people of color. It would be paid for by requiring Wall Street, giant corporations, and the wealthiest Americans to pay their fair share.
Unions representing millions of American workers also endorsed the progressive framework, and Rep. Ted Lieu’s specific proposal to create jobs through direct public infrastructure investment. Labor endorsers include North America's Building Trades Unions; Transportation Trades Department of AFL–CIO; Teamsters; United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing, Pipefitting and Sprinkler Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada; International Union of Painters and Allied Trades; American Federation of Teachers; National Educators Association; Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers; International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers; and Amalgamated Transit Union.
Below are statements from members of the Millions of Jobs Coalition, members of the Congressional Progressive Caucus and other congressional Democrats.
Stephanie Taylor, Progressive Change Campaign Committee co-founder: “This bold plan can be summed up in three words: Jobs, Jobs, Jobs. Democrats have a plan to put millions of Americans to work rebuilding bridges, roads, and schools in local communities -- and to create 21st Century jobs in fields like clean energy. It’s ridiculous that Trump wants to sell off our public roads to Wall Street investors and foreign corporations who would put up tolls and keep the money for themselves. The difference between the progressive Democratic vision of job creation and Trump’s vision of jobless corporate giveaways is night and day, and the Millions of Jobs Coalition will ensure voters see this contrast.”
Heather McGhee, Demos Action president: "Progressive Democrats in Congress are showing America what a 21st Century economy can look like -- millions of living-wage jobs and economic growth for struggling communities, women, and people of color. Donald Trump believes America is for sale, but Americans won't buy his vision of selling off our roads, bridges, and other public resources to Wall Street and foreign companies. The Millions of Jobs Coalition will show the public a more positive vision of direct public investment in jobs and our communities."
Dan Cantor, Working Families Party national director: "From his steaks to his university, Trump believes he can stamp his name on junk and call it gold. His so-called infrastructure plan will be nothing more than a massive giveaway to Wall Street, and he'll stick our children with the bill for generations to come. Progressives have a plan to create millions of jobs, build a 21st century economy, and pay for it by taxing the big banks that still never paid the bill for crashing the economy almost a decade ago."
Rashad Robinson, ColorofChange executive director: “It’s time for a new vision, and that’s why we stand with the principles released by the Congressional Progressive Caucus today that, if enacted, would repair the physical fabric of our country and create millions of jobs for our communities. Black communities have seen firsthand the devastation that can occur when our country's infrastructure is privatized and run by corporations. Whether it's the poisoning of public waters like we saw in Flint or the creation of new highway tolls that force working class folks onto overcrowded roads, our very health and livelihood is threatened by the hollowing out of America’s infrastructure.”
Rhana Epting, MoveOn senior fellow: "Nationwide, millions of Americans are standing together to call for a renewed commitment to invest in public infrastructure and job creation -- and resisting efforts by Donald Trump to privatize our public goods to benefit billionaires and foreign corporations. This coalition represents millions of grassroots activists who are devoted to creating jobs in communities that have been left behind and prevent the Trump administration’s dangerous policy agenda from making it worse.”
Cristóbal J. Alex, Latino Victory Fund president: "The principles released by the Congressional Progressive Caucus today represent the right vision for our country. We need a comprehensive infrastructure bill that will create good paying jobs benefiting all Americans and not just Trump's billionaire friends. Latinos would highly benefit from an investment in infrastructure which would generate millions of jobs for the economy as a whole, as well as hundreds of thousands of jobs for the Latino community. It's time to invest in our future and these principles offer a critical roadmap."
Tom Steyer, NextGen Climate president: “The American people deserve good jobs and a vibrant economy that works for all of us, fueled by clean energy that protects our air, water, and climate. That requires a modern infrastructure that meets 21st century needs. This plan will help ensure a just transition to clean energy, make our economy stronger and fairer, create millions of good-paying jobs, and protect our most vulnerable communities.”
Rafael Navar, Communication Workers of America national political director: "The question is, will we have a 21st century infrastructure plan that will create millions of jobs and strengthen the backbone of our communities or will we privatize everything for corporate profit and further the decline of this country."
Felicia Wong, Roosevelt Institute president: “This plan leads with the simple and essential principle that public money should go toward the public good. This plan bring millions of jobs and public investment to the communities that need it most -- putting the needs of people with disabilities, low-income families, blue-collar workers, rural workers, areas with persistent un- and under-employment, and communities of color front and center. Instead of funding essential investments in clean energy, broadband, and water, Trump will line Wall Street pockets with public funds. The stakes are simply too high for us to let that happen.”
Jason Kowalski, 350 Action policy director: "For Progressives in the Trump era the best defense is a good offense. Trump’s climate-wrecking agenda is designed to help fossil fuel billionaires profit while our planet cooks. Our plan is the exact opposite: creating millions of 21st Century jobs through 100% clean energy for all. This plan acknowledges that there’s no time left for incrementalism. What we really need is massive public investments in clean energy infrastructure that will create millions of jobs -- starting with communities that need it most. Our movements for justice are as aligned as ever and we are not looking back.
Diana Best: Greenpeace USA senior climate and energy campaigner: “Trump's proposed infrastructure plan prioritizes corporate special interests at the expense of everyday Americans and our communities. Instead of supporting infrastructure that would create more livable communities powered by renewable energy with healthy air and water, the Trump administration wants to give another hand out to the fossil fuel industry and lock us into decades of disastrous projects with only short- term benefit for a few of the richest people in this country. It’s up to elected officials who work for their constituents, not billionaire donors, and to all of us to support a future that is built for everyone.”
Jennifer Epps-Addison, Center for Popular Democracy Network president & co-executive director: "Donald Trump doesn't care about marginalized Black and Brown communities nor about struggling white communities too often forced to choose between their health and the only decent pay in town. Rather than a real plan investing in our families, Trump's infrastructure plan is little more than a redistribution of our tax dollars to Trump's corporate backers. That is why 47 of CPD's affiliates across the country are coming together to protest more privatized infrastructure. Our communities deserve real infrastructure projects that bring good jobs to our communities, protect the environment, and strengthen our economy, not corporate tax breaks and giveaways. We won't support any infrastructure plan that doesn't benefit all of our communities."
Bishop Dwayne Royster, PICO political director and Working Families Party national vice-chair: “This campaign would create jobs, wealth, and economic opportunity for the masses, but especially for those that have been marginalized, oppressed, and left out. Psalms tells us ‘The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it,’ so we must demand that this legislation benefits the land and the people. Public investment must put families above profits, benefit those who have been left out of the job market, in particular families of color and the poor, and create communal wealth that builds communities instead of privatization that benefits only the wealthy.”
Craig Aaron, Free Press Action Fund president and CEO: “Free Press Action Fund commends these progressive legislators for proposing policies that create new jobs and new economic opportunity by narrowing the digital divide and making affordable Internet access a reality for millions of Americans. By bringing high-speed broadband Internet to places it isn't available, more people will be able to find jobs, start their own businesses, and get an education.”
LeeAnn Hall and George Goehl, People’s Action co-directors: "The Congressional Progressive Caucus proposal is what a real infrastructure program for our country looks like; living wage jobs to make our communities and families safer and more resilient while serving the common good. We applaud the CPC for their forward-looking and aggressive plan to pump badly needed jobs into communities of color by putting people and planet first. Trump's plan is nothing more than a trillion-dollar privatization scheme, designed to enrich his own family and their millionaire friends. For elected officials foolish enough to believe that Trump is trying to create jobs, he really does have a bridge in Brooklyn that he'd like to sell them."
Wenonah Hauter, Food & Water Watch executive director: “The water shutoffs in Detroit and Baltimore and poisoned water in Flint, East Chicago and other communities should serve as a wakeup call: Our nation is facing a water crisis, and nothing short of a massive, direct federal investment in publicly-controlled water systems will save it. Abdicating control of our water services to corporations is not the answer. Instead, we need the federal government to renew its commitment to funding community water and sewer systems. Repairing and updating our nation’s water infrastructure will create nearly a million jobs while ensuring that water service is safe and affordable for everyone in the country.”
Rep. Keith Ellison (MN-5)
Rep. Raul Grijalva (AZ-3)
Rep. Mark Pocan (WI-2)
Rep. Ted Lieu (CA-33)
Rep. Jared Polis (CO-2)
Rep. Ann Kuster (NH-2)
Rep. Lacy Clay (MO-1)
Rep. Barbara Lee (CA-13)
Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-6)
Rep. Jan Schakowsky (IL-9)
Rep. Val Demmings (FL-10)
Rep. John Conyers (MI-13)
Rep. Yvette Clarke (NY-9)
Rep. Katherine Clark (MA-5)
Rep. Lois Frankel (FL-21)
Rep. Mark Takano (CA-41)
Rep. Jared Huffman (CA-2)
Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17)
Rep. Rick Nolan (MN-8)
Rep. Carol Shea-Porter (NH-1)
Rep. Chellie Pingree (ME-1)
Rep. Jerrod Nadler (NY-10)
Rep. Keith Ellison (MN-5): “Rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure is about so much more than construction projects. It’s about replacing the pipes in Flint that poisoned an entire community, making our roads and bridges safer, and rebuilding crumbling schools. As Democrats, we believe we must improve the lives of millions of hardworking families, putting millions of Americans to work at good jobs, and make our tax system fairer by making the wealthiest pay their fair share. The Republican infrastructure plan is nothing more than another tax break for millionaires and billionaires.”
Rep. Mark Pocan (WI-2), Congressional Progressive Caucus co-chair: “Democrats are leading the way for millions of jobs. Donald Trump wants to sell off our roads to foreign governments and give taxpayer dollars to Wall Street billionaires, and he calls that job creation? Maybe that will create jobs in countries like Russia, but not for hard-working Americans. Democrats are determined to take this fight to the people. Our country is in dire need of a bold vision to repair our crumbling roads and bridges, clean our air and water, restore our children's unsafe school buildings, and connect our communities to each other with high-speed rail and internet. While President Trump and the Republicans are busy concocting a trillion-dollar Wall Street giveaway under the guise of infrastructure, Democrats believe big corporations should pay their fair share to support dignified employment and build a more sustainable and vibrant economy for everyone.”
Rep. Raul Grijalva (AZ-3), Congressional Progressive Caucus co-chair: "Democrats can lead the way in creating millions of new jobs by using true public investment to rebuild our crumbling roads, bridges, and outdated water systems. But any plan we pursue must adhere to a set of fundamental principles of social, racial, and environmental justice so our infrastructure planning workforce reflects the needs of our diverse communities. Any good plan, such as the 21st Century New Deal for Jobs, must provide significant investments to create jobs by addressing the current needs of our country --such as modernizing our outdated schools and replacing our lead-ridden pipelines that have destroyed the public health of children in Flint. Overall, it must commit public money for the public good."
Rep. Jared Polis (CO-2): “Now is the time for a direct and bold federal investment in jobs and infrastructure, addressing everything from roads and bridges to broadband, public rail, to our crumbling schools, and energy grid. We need an infrastructure plan that doesn’t aim to provide giveaways to special interests, but helps all Americans and Coloradans and creates millions of jobs across our country. In my district we have to address problem-areas that range from I-25 between Denver and Fort Collins, I-70 which has millions of people traveling to and from the mountains, or the North West line commuter rail that is 35 years behind schedule. A wise infrastructure plan will alleviate traffic, invest in our schools, increase energy efficiency, encourage commerce, and create millions of good-paying jobs.”
Rep. Rick Nolan (MN-8): "America's infrastructure is the cornerstone of our national security and the key to job creation, business development, comfortable lives and quality communities. When we invest in our roads, bridges, airports, waterways, ports, pipelines, rail lines and broadband systems, we invest in ourselves and pay prosperity forward to future generations. So we can't be shortsighted. We need to think big, plan ahead, and make rebuilding our infrastructure the priority it needs to be."
Rep. Ann Kuster (NH-2): "Smart meaningful investments in our infrastructure are absolutely critical to creating jobs and increasing our economic competitiveness in the 21st Century. We can’t allow our economy to fall behind our global competitors due to inaction. Improving our aging infrastructure will create jobs, expand our economy, improve public safety, and ensure that our businesses and industries are able to thrive. It’s common sense. I'm proud to support this resolution with a set of principles for job creation and infrastructure investment that will help move our country forward."
Rep. Barbara Lee (CA-13): “We need to invest in creating millions of jobs rebuilding our crumbling roads and bridges, expanding the green economy, and bringing broadband to communities across the country. We need to invest in these infrastructure jobs so that communities – especially communities of color – are empowered for a 21st century economy.”
Rep. Ted Lieu (CA-33): “America’s infrastructure is desperately in need of repair -- this year, the American Society of Civil Engineers estimated $4.6 trillion in infrastructure needs, of which more than $2 trillion did not have estimated funding. The American people deserve to have a serious conversation about how to address these needs. To fund infrastructure projects, President Trump's relatively small and incoherent plan would use irresponsible tax gimmicks that benefit Wall Street at the expense of taxpayers. My colleagues and I know that Americans cannot afford to settle for this scam. Instead, we have introduced the 21st Century New Deal for Jobs to ensure that Congress boldly addresses our infrastructure needs and supports a plan that creates millions of jobs without sacrificing protections for workers and the environment.”
Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17): “While Trump’s plan has no commitment to expand vital Internet service, progressive Democrats have a 21st Century vision of increasing jobs and economic opportunity in all our communities. Our plan will expand economic opportunity by bringing high-speed Internet access to all Americans -- including new access for rural communities and incentives to increase adoption in low-income communities. By doing so, we will help create millions of new jobs and start ups in rural America, in tribal areas, and in urban centers that have yet to see the gains of the technology revolution.”
Rep. Lacy Clay (MO-1): “This principles in this resolution will not only rebuild our crumbling roads, bridges, ports, airports, schools, water systems and other vital infrastructure projects. They will also lift up hard-working families in St. Louis and across the nation. The long-overdue investment that we make in public infrastructure will generate millions of good American jobs and it pay huge dividends for many generations to come. I’m proud to cosponsor this important set of principles that will move our nation forward.”
Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-7): “Donald Trump’s cruel budget eliminates billions in funds that invest in our transportation, air quality and safety. In stark contrast to Trump’s misguided values, we at the Congressional Progressive Caucus have prioritized infrastructure to ensure success for our communities. Day in and day out, our children, families and communities rely on safe school buildings, up-to-date transportation, secure roads and bridges and a steady paycheck.”
Rep. Carol Shea-Porter (NH-1): “Too much of our infrastructure is in fair or critical condition, even though there are hard-working people across New Hampshire and our nation ready to do the job. It’s time for Congress to work together on a comprehensive infrastructure plan that follows these basic principles to address our urgent needs, invest in our future, and create good jobs.”
Rep. Chellie Pingree (ME-1): “American workers must be front and center as we develop proposals to modernize our aging infrastructure. There is a human cost of our decaying bridges, roads, and public buildings, and the Republican plans do nothing to ensure this funding will support the people who will rebuild our crumbling infrastructure. Maine ranks 49th in the nation for broadband access— and significant investment is needed to help our state expand access in rural areas and become attractive to younger workers and business owners. A new federal infrastructure package represents an opportunity to bolster Maine’s workforce both for those who will implement these projects and those who will benefit from them down the line.”
Rep. Mark Takano (CA-41), Congressional Progressive Caucus Vice-Chair: “The 10 principles outlined in Rep. Lieu’s resolution introduced today, ensure that an American infrastructure plan prioritizes public investment, racial and gender equity, environmental justice, and strong labor protections. One of the first things I did when I was elected to office was investigate the state of transportation and infrastructure in my district. I heard from my constituents about the need to improve roads, reduce congestion, and invest in public transit. The Congressional Progressive Caucus’ 21st Century New Deal for Jobs does all of this and more by taking a comprehensive look at our community’s needs and by creating solid, good paying jobs. In particular, for my constituents, clean air is a priority and I am committed to supporting technologies like battery energy storage that can make renewables dependable and move us away from fossil fuels. The Progressive Caucus’ infrastructure plan is a plan for all Americans.”
The 21st Century New Deal for Jobs plan would create 2.5 million new jobs by investing $2 trillion in public investment over 10 years rebuilding crumbling highways, bridges, schools, and veterans’ hospitals. The plan would also invest in clean-energy jobs like solar and wind power and rebuilding water systems so our families can drink clean water.
The plan would be paid for by making Wall Street, giant corporations, and the rich pay their fair share -- not new tolls or fees that hurt working families.
The 21st Century New Deal for Jobs plan gives precedence to the infrastructure needs of people who are struggling the most. Lower-income people and communities of color coping with elevated unemployment—both rural and urban alike—will play a leading role in determining their own infrastructure gaps and solutions. It also calls for local and regional planning that considers equity of access to transportation across communities.
Job training and local hiring will reflect the racial and gender diversity of the community’s workforce and those seeking employment.
Federal procurement will prioritize minority- and women-owned businesses, cooperatives and employee-owned firms, and community-owned and municipal enterprises. The plan would also boost federal funding for programs that help small businesses, like Historically Underutilized Business Zones.
Supporting efforts to enact a bold jobs and infrastructure package that benefits all Americans, not just billionaires.
Whereas the Nation’s crumbling roads, bridges, and schools, unsafe drinking water facilities, and outdated energy systems are in need of major transformation, and a plan is needed to rebuild the Nation and create millions of good jobs;
Whereas the Nation’s taxpayers should not subsidize billionaires and Wall Street banks that will profit from privatizing roads, bridges, drinking water and sanitation systems, and utilities;
Whereas any investment in the Nation’s roads and bridges must support the repair and rehabilitation of existing assets, improve resilience to more extreme weather, and support targeted expansions to reduce congestion, improve air quality, and enable job growth;
Whereas the Nation must ensure that every child who attends a public school has safe facilities that contribute to a high-quality education, and therefore the Nation must invest to construct, renovate, repair, and modernize its schools;
Whereas direct public investment in the United States public transportation network can meet the Nation’s infrastructure needs without selling off roads and bridges to private investors and foreign entities;
Whereas any clean water initiative must prioritize investment in communities most in need, ensure safe drinking water for millions of Americans, and protect the Nation’s rivers, lakes, and oceans;
Whereas any infrastructure package should include building high-speed internet facilities to ensure that this increasingly essential resource is available to all Americans through direct funding, tax credits for low-income workers, and investments in municipal broadband to promote economic development, public safety, and a vibrant quality of life;
Whereas any investments made to update Federal Aviation Administration facilities and United States ports, waterways, dams, and levees should ensure that these entities remain public, improve security, and facilitate commerce;
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