**Michigan * State Representative Lee Gonzales blog

Advanced Battery Technology

2009-04-15T12:33:00.000-07:00

Gonzales: Plan to Bring High-Tech Businesses to Michigan Creating Jobs
Battery tax credits to spur $1.7 billion in economic development, create 6,600 jobs

— April 14, 2009

LANSING – State Representative Lee Gonzales (D-Flint Township) today hailed the announcement that four companies plan to invest more than $1.7 billion and create more than 6,600 jobs in Michigan in order to take advantage of Michigan's tax credits for advanced battery technologies, a plan that was the first of its kind in the nation. The tax credit plan, originally proposed by Gonzales, was recently expanded to $555 million.

"This is a great day for Michigan, which is poised to become the world leader in advanced battery technologies," Gonzales said. "These investments are proof-positive that Michigan is ahead of the game when it comes to attracting the new, dynamic industries of the 21st century economy. Today's announcement is a key step on the road to recovery for Michigan's economy that will benefit workers and businesses alike."

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation today announced that four companies were awarded state refundable tax credits for the production and development of advanced battery technologies, such as those found in hybrid or electric vehicles. Facility locations are pending a final site selection by the companies involved.

The four companies are:

Johnson Controls-Saft Advanced Power Solutions LLC, which plans to invest $220 million for a new manufacturing facility to produce lithium-ion cells for automotive use.

LG Chem-Compact Power Inc., which plans to invest $200 million to manufacture lithium-ion battery cells in Michigan.

KD Advanced Battery Group LLC, which plans to invest $665 million for a new 800,000 square-foot facility to produce its Superior Lithium Polymer Battery technology for electric vehicles.
A123Systems Inc., which plans to invest more than $600 million for cell manufacturing and battery pack assembly.

"With all the bad economic news we've been hearing recently, it's good to know that our plans to revitalize Michigan's economy are bearing fruit," Gonzales said. "By positioning Michigan to be a magnet for this developing industry, we can spur future economic development and lead the way toward a greener, more sustainable future.

The Kings visit.

2008-09-21T08:15:00.000-07:00

Swedish king's visit signifies state's promising alternative energy effort
by Lee Gonzales Guest Writer
Sunday September 21, 2008, 12:27 AM

When the king of Sweden comes to Flint this week, you will be amazed to hear how his country is solving the problems of high energy costs and global climate change. A recognized international leader in alternative energy, Sweden's ability to generate biogas is decades ahead of the U.S., providing an innovative road map for Michigan.

Sweden and Michigan are comparably populated and our northern latitudes and great boundaries of water have many similarities, including miles and miles of wooded terrain. In Linkoping, Sweden, a comparably sized city to Flint, Swedish Biogas has built an enterprise that now employs 1,100 people. Working with our Swedish partners will further strengthen Michigan's competitive advantage in biofuels. With an alternative energy market that stretches across North America, Michigan's potential employment opportunities are endless.

As we celebrate General Motors' 100th anniversary and its importance in our community, it is time to move toward energy independence through Centers of Energy Excellence. Globalization and international trade demand it. Given that only 4 percent of our transportation fuels come from Michigan, we must launch our region and state into a whole new era of technological innovation and prosperity.

This energy excellence concept allows a business to partner with universities and local and state governments to attract federally funded research and development into the advancement of new technologies in alternative energy. The partnership involving the city of Flint, Swedish Biogas International AB, Kettering University and the Michigan Economic Development Corp. holds the promise of a number of new industries stemming from the initial project that will turn municipal waste into energy.

In its earliest stage, the business model would take waste from the wastewater treatment plant and convert it into clean-burning biofuels that can be used in public transportation buses and municipal vehicles. When fully implemented, the technology can be installed across the U.S. with equipment made by Michigan's manufacturing sector.It is important to note that Sweden utilizes other alternative energy practices. For example, rather than covering its landscape with landfills, Sweden turns almost every possible type of waste into energy.

Enabling Michigan to establish Centers of Energy Excellence is why it was so vitally important to fast-track legislation earlier this summer. Signed into law on July 17 by Gov. Jennifer Granholm, this initiative firmly positions Michigan in the alternative energy sector as we compete in the new global knowledge economy.

This Friday, we turn the page on a new chapter in Genesee County's history. King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden will come to Flint to showcase and celebrate the historic partnership that brings his country's alternative energy technology and strategies to our state. As we lay the foundation to implement the Flint Center of Bioenergy, the ceremonial groundbreaking at Kettering University on Friday will certainly be a day we remember long into the future.State

Rep. Lee Gonzales, D-Flint Township, is chairman of the House Transportation Committee. He is a former development director for Genesee County and has a master's degree in public administration from the University of Michigan-Flint.

http://www.mlive.com/flintjournal/voices/

OUR NATIONS PROMISE!

2008-08-29T02:49:00.000-07:00

Title: Speaking About Our Nation's Promise!

While speaking in new venues, Barack Obama laid out his vision about how the U.S.A. should work. Obama was impressive in describing America's promise, and saying, "this race is not about me, it's about you (the American people)." The speech was inspiring and intimate and at one point he stated, "I really am one of you."

As he boldly attacked the status quo, he was thorough and he filled his remarks with detail.

Obama said what America thirsts for is a new politics for a new time. Barack Obama's speech was crystal clear and resonated as an insistent summons to move forward as we face a turning point in our nation's history.

Knocking it out of the ball park at Invesco Field in Denver, Obama delivered a hit heard around the world!

He addressed it all, from pocketbook issues and the American Dream to national security and the need to improve our standing in world affairs. It was an electrifying event with 85,000 people in attendance.

What a great experience I have had as a first-time convention delegate! Wow!

Democrats have reached the unity phase.

We are organized, energized and mobilized.

It is all about our nation's promise

Lee Gonzales 8/29/08
http://leegonzales.blogspot.com/
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Lee Gonzales is a State Representative 49th District Flint/Genesee Michigan USA, Democrat http://049.housedems.com/
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Flint Well Represented.

2008-08-28T09:06:00.001-07:00

LEE GONZALES CONVENTION BLOG 8/28/08
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Title: Flint Area Well Represented

Flint and Genesee County have been very well represented at this shining 2008 Democratic National convention! Along with all the delegates whose names have been listed in the Flint Journal, guests attending from the Flint area include Jay Kommarreddi, Susan Soderstrom and Brenda Williams.

Superior Image, a Flint area business located in my House district on Flushing Road, printed Denver "08 " Michigan Delegation" windbreakers, which were provided as mementos by Gov. Granholm and Lt. Gov. John Cherry. A tote bag was provided by the Lt. Gov. as well. I want to note these items are American & Union made.

So while all eyes are on the Big Speech tonight at Invesco Field, I just wanted to let our community know about our local participation. Everybody understands the historical significance of this year's convention and its great to witness here in Denver the dynamic circle of friends who support our cause and our vision. By the way, I plan on posting some convention photos on this BLOG in the next few days.

LEE 8/28/08
http://leegonzales.blogspot.com/
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Lee Gonzales is a State Representative 49th District Flint/Genesee Michigan USA, Democrat http://049.housedems.com/
440/1340

Bravissimo

2008-08-28T02:28:00.000-07:00

LEE GONZALES CONVENTION BLOG 8/28/08
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Bravissimo! Bravissimo! Bravissimo!

That is Italian for Democrats kick butt. For the third consecutive day the 2008 Democratic National Convention gets more exciting and more uniting! On Wednesday the convention nominated Barack Obama as our Presidential nominee by acclamation and Joe Biden as our VP nominee.

It really is exciting to participate as a delegate and listen to forward-looking ideas that embrace our nation and provide a blueprint for taking our nation in a new direction. Among the many stars showcased at the convention, four individuals have achieved the alpha star (the brightest star) category. They are Michelle Obama, Hillary Clinton, Bill Clinton and Senator Joe Biden--and in their speeches a common thread describes a fairly remarkable Democratic Party transformation.

President Bill Clinton's remarks included the need to rebuild the American Dream and restore America as a respected leader in the world community. Clinton was engaging and convincing in his support of the Obama-Biden campaign.

Senator Joe Biden also gave an impressive speech. He observed how Barack Obama is a great American story and that from their upbringings they share a common story. In addition to telling his life story, Sen. Biden covered foreign policy and spoke about pocketbook issues for everyday Americans.

What a historic day! Inspiring! Uniting! Stay tuned for Thursday evening.

LEE 8/28/08
http://leegonzales.blogspot.com/
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Lee Gonzales is a State Representative 49th District Flint /Genesee Michigan USA, Democrat http://049.housedems.com/

440/1340

8/27/09 Lee Gonzales Convention blog

2008-08-27T04:01:00.000-07:00

LEE GONZALES CONVENTION BLOG 8/27/08
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My Viewpoint on Hillary Clinton's Speech Tuesday at DNC

It is no secret that I am a Hillary Clinton supporter, and thus, proud of her inspiring message about strongly supporting Barack Obama, along with a sincere call for party unity. Hillary cares deeply about America 's future, and passionately believes we ought to imagine an even greater nation--and that Democrats can deliver on this aspiration.

As she spoke about Democratic Party ideals, Sen. Clinton pointed out in the race for the White House we must keep going, and it is time to get going in terms of mobilizing. I took it as a call to arms for the Democratic Team of Obama-Biden. She included gracious comments for both Barack and Michelle Obama, and that was greeted with enthusiasm by convention delegates.
Overall, the speech was very well received. It will be interesting to hear what the political analysts will say with their coverage.

It would be inaccurate to say we have one hundred percent harmonious consensus relating to Sen. Obama's nomination, but the naysayer numbers are dwindling in my opinion. There are a few strident supporters in both camps. But in life we know at times there are arguments among family members that must be resolved so it is not unusual to have some level of bickering between campaigns in the same political party, which need resolution.

In my opinion Hillary Clinton's speech was right on target and we will see how it plays out for the unity aspects of this campaign for President. But my guess is it will help with our success. Let me know what you think.

LEE 8/27/08
http://leegonzales.blogspot.com/
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SYZYGY & the DYNAMIC DEMOCRATIC CONVENTION

2008-08-26T02:38:00.000-07:00

LEE GONZALES CONVENTION BLOG 8/26/08
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SYZYGY & the DYNAMIC DEMOCRATIC CONVENTION

It is the wee hours of the morning after a 16-hour convention day on Monday. Starting off with a Gov. Granholm sponsored Michigan Delegation breakfast with U.S. Senator Carl Levin and Illinois Senator Richard Durbin, one could feel the anticipation of the official first day. I am struck by the passion and conviction expressed by many individuals I have spoken to concerning the need to change the direction of our country.

Senator Edward Kennedy and Michelle Obama both gave very poignant remarks on pocketbook issues and the American Dream. Sen. Kennedy pledged he would see Obama in the White House. Mrs. Obama wspoke inspiring words about the possibility of a new America. The convention was truly moved by each presentation that made the first day a resounding success. Prior to their remarks were a myriad of national leaders giving their viewpoints on the strengths of our Democratic Party.

There were few protesters outside the Pepsi Center where the convention is being held. While the media seems hell bent on finding wedge issues between Senators Obama and Clinton, the vast majority of delegates is already organizing, energizing and mobilizing. More on these developments will be provided in future BLOGS.

The word syzygy comes to mind from my Harvard Kennedy School of Government training back in 2003. Syzygy is the shortest word in English with three y’s, and is a term in the field of astronomy relating to an eclipse where the earth, sun and moon reach a rare alignment.
We need to reach syzygy when it comes to aligning the supporters of Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton in order to take back the White House for the betterment of our nation. Please let me know what your think. Good night.

LEE
8/26/08
http://leegonzales.blogspot.com/

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ARRIVED IN DENVER

2008-08-24T19:03:00.000-07:00

LEE GONZALES DEMOCRATIC CONVENTION BLOG ************************************

Our Grandson Arrives Shortly Before Takeoff and Dems Preach Party Unity on Sunday!! As the clock was ticking around 8 hours prior to my flight taking off at noon from Bishop International Airport , a spectacular family event occurred which helped clear my family schedule for my convention duties.

Our daughter Gretchen and her husband Ethan had their first child early Sunday morning. Their son Asher Quinn Davidson weighed in at seven pounds, four ounces and twenty inches tall. My wife Brenda and I are now grandparents for the third time, and Asher now complements Zachary (age 13) and Abigail (age 20 months).

Talk about just in time delivery! You can probably imagine the uneasiness I felt concerning how to balance my family life and my first-time opportunity and commitment as a delegate to the 2008 Democratic National Convention.

My daughter's wonderful delivery created an exciting weekend, along with Senator Obama's announcement on Saturday naming Sen. Joe Biden as our Democratic Party VP nominee.

As I arrived in Denver late Sunday afternoon, it is crystal clear how Senator Barack Obama and Senator Hillary Clinton are working together in regard to the nuts and bolts of the convention and toward party unity and mobilization. Additionally, on Sunday afternoon the Credentials Committee restored full voting rights to Michigan and Florida .

I have received several e-mails from both Senators and I am certain Convention Delegates from across the country will reach synergistic intensity by week's end. I intend to go each of their gatherings and other meetings.

Now, as Democrats, we must also engage America . At times, I like to draw parallels to our nation's founding fathers. The founders cared our country's future and the opinion of the future.

This is why our convention is so vitally important. Conventions matter, given what happens at these assemblages, what is being said and what will be offered as ideas to ensure a better America .

In this blog, I'm sharing some of my experiences leading up to the convention. I hope all this technology will continue to link from Denver as I finish these final edits as the plane approaches Denver . This will get emailed to my friend and confidant Terry Bankert, who is facilitating this BLOG with his know-how, verve and focus, which I very much appreciate.

Friends in the Flint area, et. al., let's stay in touch!

LEE 8/25/08 http://leegonzales.blogspot.com/

PRE CONVENTION Conference call with Senator Hillary Clinton.

2008-08-21T03:56:00.000-07:00

On August 19th in the evening Senator Clinton hosted a delegate conference call to discuss this year痴 historic convention. As a Hillary Clinton delegate, I was asked to participate in the call. In the spirit of the 2008 Olympic Games, she passionately affirmed that Senator Obama and our Democratic Party must cross the finish line in first place to ensure a better America.

Senator Clinton mentioned she has been and is working closely with Senator Obama and his team to make sure we have an exciting, energized and unified convention. Senator Clinton stated she would cast her superdelegate vote for Senator Obama, as well as release her delegates next Wednesday. (By the way, I知 still learning procedurally how the roll-call process will work.)

It was an inspiring dialogue that included background on the Democratic Party Platform. She outlined some of the key elements calling for national healthcare (not as an aspiration, but a real action plan), the need to value families rather than talking family values, and an economic message that is forward-looking and engages entrepreneurs and innovators as we compete in the new global knowledge economy.

It sounds like we will soon know our Democratic V.P. candidate, a selection I知 certain who will complement Senator Barack Obama. In order to win this race for President and cross the finish line in first place, this absolutely calls for your support, advice and mobilization.

The Democratic Nomination, just days away!

2008-08-19T14:39:00.000-07:00

The Democratic nomination of Barack Obama as the next President of the United States is just a
few days away!

To have the chance to represent local Democrats at the Democratic National Convention is exhilarating and humbling. Highly thought-provoking is another way of describing what I'm feeling in preparation to do my best as a convention delegate.

We are witnessing an unprecedented transformation of American politics, along with a
realignment of the electorate in the quest for the Presidency. The results of Nov. 4 will be a defining moment for our nation.

Through this BLOG I plan to provide daily updates on a delegate's role and other convention happenings. I recognize the value of this opportunity to dialogue and work with Democrats from all walks of life.

We all view the world though many lenses and individual experiences. In my case, I'm a son,
husband, father, grandfather, proud of my family, university graduate, a prideful American & patriot, proud of my ethnic heritage and an elected state representative. Because of these motivations, I am very passionate about serving our community and moving it forward.

Historian David McCullough eloquently observes in the following passage about our nation’s history, "The American experiment was from its start an unfulfilled promise. There was much work to be done. There were glaring flaws to correct, unfinished business to attend to. Improvements and necessary adjustments to devise in order to keep pace with the onrush of growth and change and expanding opportunities."

From my perspective, this is why the 2008 Democratic National Convention is so vitally important because it is an essential component of the course of human events in our great nation. So please stay tuned and share your thoughts.

MY BACKGROUND

2008-08-16T02:18:00.002-07:00

The following is from my home page.http://049.housedems.com/

State Rep. Lee Gonzales is a dedicated fighter for the people of the Flint area and Genesee County.

As a State Representative, his top priorities include:

Creating jobs for Genesee County workers

Stopping the outsourcing of Michigan jobs.

Raising the minimum wage to support working families.

Protecting Michigan’s working families from corporate crooks who threaten workers’ pensions and 401(k)s. Work History

Gonzales has more than 29 years of experience in local, state and federal government. He served for seven years as assistant treasurer for Genesee County and was instrumental in establishing a land bank to use Michigan's property tax laws as a community economic development tool.

From 1992 to 1996, Gonzales served as Genesee County’s development director; he was responsible for writing the grant application resulting in the $25-million Flint/Genesee Job Corps Center, funded by the U.S. Department of Labor. This facility includes a child development center and a solo-parent dormitory.

Gonzales also worked as an administrator for the Michigan Department of Agriculture, as a program specialist and local government liaison for Gov. James J. Blanchard, as assistant to U.S. Rep. Dale E. Kildee (Flint) and as assistant director for the Spanish Speaking Information Center in Flint.Family

Gonzales and his wife, Brenda Galloway Gonzales, have been married for 33 years. They have three children, Ehren, Gretchen and Elijah, and two grandchildren, Zachary and Abigail.
Education

Gonzales holds a bachelor’s degree in urban studies/urban administration and a master’s of public administration from the University of Michigan-Flint. During his graduate work, he was awarded two Rackham Graduate Fellowships.

Gonzales also completed the Senior Executives in State and Local Government program at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.Community Involvement

Gonzales is the former chairman and a current member of the Hispanic Caucus of Genesee County.

House Democrats are committed to building a stronger Michigan for every resident. We have a bold vision to strengthen Michigan's economy and to make our state a powerhouse in the 21st century global economy.

By focusing on creating jobs, protecting health care, strengthening education, safeguarding our Great Lakes, bolstering consumer protections and promoting renewable energy, we can create a brighter future for the State of Michigan.

State Representative Lee Gonzales is a member of the following Committee: Appropriations (Subcommittees: (C) Transportation; (VC) Higher Education; Joint Capital Outlay).
(C)-Chair, (VC)-Vice Chair

Democrats to convention

2008-08-16T02:18:00.001-07:00

Genesee County delegates preparing for Democratic National Convention
by Kristin Longley The Flint Journal
Thursday August 21, 2008, 5:34 PM

After more than three decades with the Democratic Party, state Rep. Lee Gonzales is finally realizing one of his political dreams.

See
http://www.mlive.com/flintjournal/index.ssf/2008/08/genesee_county_delegates_prepa.html

The Flint Township resident will join at least six other locals next week as Michigan delegates to the Democratic National Convention in Denver.The coveted spot will afford the delegates a first-hand view of a historic presidential nomination, as U.S. Sen. Barack Obama becomes the first black nominee of any major political party.

"It's exhilarating," Gonzales said as he prepared for his Sunday departure. "This is a valuable opportunity."

For Gonzales and at least two other area delegates, this is the first time they will travel to the convention, where their only official duties are to hobnob with party leaders, cheer wildly and cast their votes for a presidential nominee.

A typical day at the convention includes meetings and convention business, but there's usually time to squeeze in some sightseeing and local nightlife.First-time delegate Michael Behm, a Flint attorney, said he's received a flood of invitations to convention events, meetings and discussions.

He already has mapped out a calendar of the most interesting occasions."It will be really interesting just from a fly-on-the-wall perspective to see how things operate," he said. "I'm not entirely sure what's going to occur, but I think it will be fun.

"In an effort to share the experience with others, Gonzales has started a convention blog. He plans to write about the daily goings-on, important announcements and his thoughts on being a delegate.

"The events are really varied and diverse and I want to take in as much as possible," he said. "Denver is a really neat community, and each day's schedule is completely full."Technically, Obama is to get 59 of the state's delegates, while Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton is to get 69, according to a formula proposed by the state party and approved by the Democratic National Committee.

There also is a contingent of unpledged superdelegates.But the Michigan Democratic Party expects all of the Clinton delegates to vote for Obama, spokeswoman Liz Kerr has said.Local Clinton delegates include Gonzales, Behm, Genesee County Democratic Party Chairman Ron Duncan and Flint resident Vicki Price. Obama delegates include Genesee County Democratic Black Caucus chairwoman Gerri Hall, county party Secretary Sally Shaheen Joseph and former state Rep. Floyd Clack, husband of current state Rep. Brenda Clack. Both U.S. Rep. Dale E. Kildee of Flint and Lt. Gov. John D. Cherry Jr. of Vienna Township are superdelegates.

Gonzales said he also is looking forward to learning the vice presidential pick.With the convention opening Monday, Obama has remained quiet about his running mate. But he plans to appear with the person Saturday, after the pick is announced via text message to supporters.

Possible running mates are Govs. Kathleen Sebelius of Kansas and Tim Kaine of Virginia, and Sens. Evan Bayh of Indiana and Joe Biden of Delaware.

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2008-08-14T12:52:00.000-07:00

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************Michigan *********** State Representative Lee Gonzales blog

Advanced Battery Technology

The Kings visit.

OUR NATIONS PROMISE!

Flint Well Represented.

Bravissimo

8/27/09 Lee Gonzales Convention blog

SYZYGY & the DYNAMIC DEMOCRATIC CONVENTION

ARRIVED IN DENVER

PRE CONVENTION Conference call with Senator Hillary Clinton.

The Democratic Nomination, just days away!

MY BACKGROUND

Democrats to convention

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**Michigan * State Representative Lee Gonzales blog