Dale Peterson Plans to Take the Hill and Make a Difference for Alabama

Posted on Mar 05, 2010

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There are only two people who hold positions within the state government of Alabama that allow those who hold those positions to leave Alabama and represent it, as well as obligate it for millions of dollars. Would anyone care to guess which two seats hold this power? If you guessed Governor, you’re right about one. The other one is the position of Commissioner of Agriculture & Industries. And, let this sink in; the Governor can’t do much without legislature approval, but the Agriculture Commissioner doesn’t have that problem. It is a very powerful job that isn’t generally recognized as such. Should the wrong person be in that job, abuse of power and the job could cause problems.

There are several candidates running for this job in Alabama. We interviewed one of them today and learned a great deal about the importance of this job. Dale Peterson of Shelby County, Alabama is running for this job because, as he said, “I’ve created and operated successful businesses and along the way gained a wealth of negotiation and marketing experience. My 40 years of successful experience, combined with my total lack of political experience, make me well suited to serve the people of Alabama as their Commissioner, especially understanding that Alabama is now a player in a global market. This state has been good to me, and I want to give back at a time when our state and nation need more and more business minded men and women to step up to the political plate.”

Mr. Peterson is dead serious about this job, and he knows exactly what needs to be done and how he plans to accomplish it. “I attended the greatest leadership institution in the world, Paris Island in South Carolina,” as he proudly points out that he served our country as a United States Marine during The Vietnam War.

“The status quo needs to change within politics here in Alabama, and that includes the Commissioner of Agriculture as well. In the past, we’ve had people holding that position who had no business experience and who didn’t realize the importance of principles of management. Had we, Alabama agriculture would not be in the mess it finds itself in today. Whether we like it or not, Alabama is now competing in a global economy, and old ways of doing business have to change.”

Peterson echoes feelings that are commonly heard these days about our state, country and the federal government. Said Peterson, “…over the years, we’ve let things go. It hasn’t been just one particular thing or situation but a combination, and we must get control and get government out of the way and out of our lives. When we do that, we can fix anything.” Mr. Peterson stated something that many people don’t often think of, which is, “John Q. Public needs to be made aware of the necessity for the Alabama family farms to remain strong and to be a buffer to imported foods. Without this farm buffer, food safety will be stretched to the breaking point, and the cost of food will skyrocket. Therefore, the more we import, the more it costs the citizens of our state and our country. We have enormous amounts of natural resources here in Alabama that are not being utilized effectively.”

We asked him what he planned to do in order to begin to implement change in Alabama’s Agriculture Industry, “My team and I will develop and implement a customized, cohesive agribusiness marketing program that will educate Alabamians about the importance of agriculture and will help Alabama farmers and ranchers.  For example, Alabama doesn’t have a large commercial meat processing plant.  Such a facility would bring jobs to our state as well as create an immediate market for our ranchers. The Commissioner of Agriculture should facilitate negotiations with local retail companies to buy locally processed meat produced by Alabama ranchers. That would have an immediate impact on agriculture, commerce, jobs and help rural communities.”

Mr. Peterson is down-to-earth and straight forward. “In 2005 Alabama became a net importer of food. We’re exporting the very same products we are importing, and that’s just stupid!  We so often see stickers on products that say ‘made in China,’ and I would love to see products in our grocery stores that show a product is Alabama-grown. Alabama must become more self-sufficient. In some cases, we may have to rethink what products we grow here in Alabama, but we certainly have some of the richest farmland in the United States. We can use it and at the same time not harm the environment.”

Peterson made a good point about crop subsidies when we discussed that subject, “Although crop subsidies are steadily diminishing, these programs implemented by the federal government are the only programs the federal government has ever been a part of that hane been successful. Some who do not understand may disagree, but when a farmer comes up short on profit in a bad year, which is more and more often these days, these subsidy programs help to keep the farmers viable. They help maintain level pricing for consumers as well.” He has a good point.

We asked Mr. Peterson how he planned to make the job more effective, “This is an important position to the people of Alabama and the United States of America. I would like to partner with Agriculture Commissioners in other states within our region. We could pool our resources to get more done and be cost effective in doing it. For example, it might be possible to facilitate a program with seed producers to sell at better pricing levels and immediately lower overhead for those who raise crops within our region. This is just one example of how this position can help commerce.”

He was quick to point out that in January, 2010, our state reached two milestones. One was another national championship for the Crimson Tide, and the other was the fact that Alabama had the worst rate of rural unemployment in the nation. “Large corporations are not going to move into a rural area without adequate infrastructure. Economic development in this industry is so very important and has largely been overlooked for many years.”

He went on, “Alabama’s Black Belt counties have some of the most fertile land in the nation. There’s a great water supply available. We need to use these resources and still maintain responsible environmental standards.” Certainly those counties are in dire need of more jobs.

“Someone must tackle these issues, and I’m willing to. We have to do it together, think outside the box and bring fresh ideas to the table that will help make a better life for our farmers, ranchers and all Alabamians. It is essential a communication path from the Commissioner’s office to the people is created. For instance, we might have a website that lists the top five priorities at the Agriculture and Industries Department. It would be updated weekly so people can see what this department does and how we’re developing and spending the people’s money. We might also add long-term goals as well. This communication is vital in order to inform our public not only of what we are doing but also of how their hard-earned money is working for them. Heretofore, progress has been impeded by career politicians and the good old boy network. People need to be informed. After all, it’s about the people.”

Peterson is a supporter of the idea of mentoring individuals and training in order to assure that jobs within the agriculture industry are filled with people who know exactly what they’re doing and what must be done. He believes in term limits. “Eight and out,” says Peterson.

“My country needed me in 1963 when I joined the Marine Corps, and in 2010 my state and my country need me again. Hopefully the people of Alabama will understand the business and leadership qualifications needed for this job and give me the nod. When I leave this earth, I’d like to leave behind something good for the next generation. That is what is important.”

After an informative talk with Dale Peterson, it is amazing at the innovative ideas he has that could help our economy. This man who has served his country, has built many successful businesses and who intimately knows agriculture through his own involvement with farming makes it evident that he loves our state and understands the issues we face today. So, when you vote, remember just how important the Commissioner of Agriculture & Industries is to your family and to our well-being.

Bamabelle

NOTE: Dale Peterson has put signs up all over the State of Alabama. Most of these are 4×8 signs and he has had the permission of the owner of each piece of property on which he placed these. He recently put many in Baldwin County, AL. On a trip to Baldwin County this week, he was shocked to find that these large signs had been CUT DOWN. Destroyed. I made a comment on this blog and it was subsequently removed. I am adding this addendum to my blog that this occurred and am personally adding the following comment. There is a candidate who is running against Dale who has a home in Baldwin County, and family in Baldwin County. He also has a home in Montgomery. This seems more than a coincidence. Could be one, but it’s worth pointing out that this HAPPENED to happen in that county and NO WHERE ELSE.

MAMA MIA! ¿Qué pensarán de la próxima?

Posted on Mar 02, 2010

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The lengths to which the Democratic Party will go in order to push their ever-growing Socialist agenda on the American people are boundless. Rigging an election is nice work if you can pull it off. With the help of ACORN and others, many believe they managed to do that in 2008. And Democratic majority in the U.S. House of Representatives appears to be trying to do it again as it votes next week on the misleadingly named Puerto Rico Democracy Act, which is designed to confer statehood on the island commonwealth by sheer deception. The bill is wrongheaded on so many levels that opponents in the Senate ought to filibuster it to death if it passes the House, as expected.

Puerto Rico has enjoyed a special status with a degree of autonomy since it became a commonwealth of the United States of America in 1950.  Puerto Rico is under a self-drafted constitution.  It enjoys advantages such as offering tax-free profits to American companies that do business there. There have been a few “token” attempts to seem as if they are interested in becoming a state but voters there have always rejected this proposal. Personally, I’m certainly not against Puerto Rico becoming a state. I’m not against them choosing their form of government. What most of us are against is having something rammed down our throats or, in this case, outright deception.

Because Puerto Rico leans heavily toward the Democratic Party, our congressional Democrats are looking for two new senators and maybe six new House Members who would be added to their caucus if statehood were to pass. Oh my! The things that make us go hmmm, hmmmm, hmmmm.

Traditionally, Puerto Ricans have preferred being a commonwealth over statehood because of the independence they enjoy. So, the Democrats have come up with a BRILLIANT scheme to first hold a vote with just two options:

1. Commonweath of one side, anything else on the other.  If supporters of all three other options ban together, they might vote to rule out the commonwealth without knowing what would replace it.

2. IF and ONLY IF that first vote succeeds would a second vote be held to determine which of the other three options would apply – with commonwealth status off the table.

In order to further their agenda, the (Democrats) House bill would explicitly allow people to vote in this election who were born in Puerto Rico but no longer live there. Nothing appears to bar somebody from voting on statehood while being a registered voter of, say, New York or Rhode Island or even the District of Columbia. If Congress passes this bill and if Puerto Rican voters decide to choose the statehood option, Congress still controls the decision to make the island a state. But, it is thought that if Puerto Rico sends a full delegation claiming OFFICIAL STATUS and the (false) legitimacy of a (tainted) popular vote, a Democratic Majority would seat the delegation instantly.

This scenario (which is real) poses problems for American citizens. First, Puerto Rico does not consider English its first language. Most residents of Puerto Rico speak Spanish. No non-official-English state has ever joined the union. Canada’s experience with official bilingualism has proven to cause discord and balkanization. Don’t get me wrong here, there’s nothing wrong with allowing free people to decide or reanalyze their governing status. It is quite another thing to rig the very process that statehood is meant to celebrate.

As I write this and as you read it, Congress is planning a stealth move which would pass legislation THIS MONTH (remember to always watch what the other hand is doing….we have learned this!!!) that is rigged to allow Puerto Rico to become the nation’s 51st state. Oh, I forgot to mention that Artur Davis, Congressional Representative from Alabama is a Co-Sponsor of this legislation. You know, the one who is running for Governor. His office and his press secretary were contacted to give a statement regarding this bill and they didn’t bother to bother. What does that say? Volumes.  Congressman  Bobby Bright was not listed as a co-sponsor but this writer can find no evidence that he has taken a stance against it, either. His office was contacted for a statement as well as that of Parker Griffith. No one cared enough to make statements.

“H.R. 2499  Puerto Rico Democracy Act of 2009 is rigged to guarantee a vote in favor of statehood in Puerto Rico without much debate and without considering the impacts,” said CONLAMIC Chairman Rev. Miguel Rivera. “Every Member of Congress needs to sit up urgently and pay attention to this deceptive bill. There are massive costs and economic and social impacts of admitting Puerto Rico as our 51st State. These questions must be answered in a fair, open process before any this process goes forward.”

Here is an excerpt from the Bill:

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

    This Act may be cited as the `Puerto Rico Democracy Act of 2009′.

SEC. 2. FEDERALLY SANCTIONED PROCESS FOR PUERTO RICO’S SELF-DETERMINATION.

    (a) First Plebiscite- The Government of Puerto Rico is authorized to conduct a plebiscite in Puerto Rico. The 2 options set forth on the ballot shall be preceded by the following statement: `Instructions: Mark one of the following 2 options:
    • `(1) Puerto Rico should continue to have its present form of political status. If you agree, mark here XX.
    • `(2) Puerto Rico should have a different political status. If you agree, mark here XX.’.
    (b) Procedure if Majority in First Plebiscite Favors Option 1- If a majority of the ballots in the plebiscite are cast in favor of Option 1, the Government of Puerto Rico is authorized to conduct additional plebiscites under subsection (a) at intervals of every 8 years from the date that the results of the prior plebiscite are certified under section 3(d).
    (c) Procedure if Majority in First Plebiscite Favors Option 2- If a majority of the ballots in a plebiscite conducted pursuant to subsection (a) or (b) are cast in favor of Option 2, the Government of Puerto Rico is authorized to conduct a plebiscite on the following 3 options:
    • (1) Independence: Puerto Rico should become fully independent from the United States. If you agree, mark here XX.
    • (2) Sovereignty in Association with the United States: Puerto Rico and the United States should form a political association between sovereign nations that will not be subject to the Territorial Clause of the United States Constitution. If you agree, mark here XX.
    • (3) Statehood: Puerto Rico should be admitted as a State of the Union. If you agree, mark here XX.

SEC. 3. APPLICABLE LAWS AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS.

    (a) Applicable Laws- All Federal laws applicable to the election of the Resident Commissioner shall, as appropriate and consistent with this Act, also apply to any plebiscites held pursuant to this Act. Any reference in such Federal laws to elections shall be considered, as appropriate, to be a reference to the plebiscites, unless it would frustrate the purposes of this Act.
    (b) Rules and Regulations- The Puerto Rico State Elections Commission shall issue all rules and regulations necessary to carry out the plebiscites under this Act.
    (c) Eligibility To Vote- Each of the following shall be eligible to vote in any plebiscite held under this Act:
    • (1) All eligible voters under the electoral laws in effect in Puerto Rico at the time the plebiscite is held.
    • (2) All United States citizens born in Puerto Rico who comply, to the satisfaction of the Puerto Rico State Elections Commission, with all Commission requirements (other than the residency requirement) applicable to eligibility to vote in a general election in Puerto Rico. Persons eligible to vote under this subsection shall, upon timely request submitted to the Commission in compliance with any terms imposed by the Electoral Law of Puerto Rico, be entitled to receive an absentee ballot for the plebiscite.
    (d) Certification of Plebiscite Results- The Puerto Rico State Elections Commission shall certify the results of any plebiscite held under this Act to the President of the United States and to the Members of the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States.

In the 1990s, debate over Puerto Rico statehood, studies showed that the cost to the US Treasury of admitting Puerto Rico as a state would be more than $25.9 billion a year. “But those numbers were before unemployment hit 16% and Puerto Rico’s public debt reached almost $50 billion. The costs of extending all Federal benefits to Puerto Rico’s population today would be astronomical,” Rev. Rivera added. “How can congressional leaders be focusing on this when we have unmet needs, high unemployment and budget pressures right here in the 50 United States?”

The Washington Times said the bill would establish an “underhanded” process to achieve statehood “by hook or crook,” creating “major problems.”

An article addressing this issue from The Washington Examiner adds, “statehood has traditionally been granted only to territories whose residents show, in referendum or otherwise, overwhelming support for statehood. There is no such support in Puerto Rico. Status—whether Puerto Rico should become a state, should become independent or should retain in current terms or somewhat modified terms the current status which in English is called commonwealth but in Spanish the more descriptive estado liberado asociado—has been the single most important issue in Puerto Rican politics since the 1940s.”

The National Coalition of Latino Clergy and Christian Leaders (CONLAMIC) calls on Congress to put an end to closed-door deals that affect our future.

“This legislation is reportedly going to be voted on in just a few weeks, yet nobody has heard about it. It’s time to open the process and to have an honest debate about Puerto Rican statehood,” Rev. Rivera concluded.

CONLAMIC represents over 16,000 Churches across 34 states within the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Each of these churches represents hundreds of individuals who attend church services and related activities every week. They are the largest Latino Christian advocacy organization in the United States of America.

Hector J. Ferrer Rios, President of the Popular Democratic Party of Puerto Rico, in a letter to House Speaker Pelosi dated February 2, 2010 stated, “…HR2499, the so-called ‘Puerto Rico Democracy Act of 2009′…which provides for ’self-determination’ process for the people of Puerto Rico, is not only wrong, but is unfair and undemocratic.”

“I want to take this opportunity to explain why HR2499 is a filthy trick…HR2499 is actually a statehood bill. HR 2499’s aim is to set forth a twisted, predisposed and disturbing process designed to get rid of Commonwealth in order to steer the people of Puerto Rico towards a predetermined outcome…it stacks the deck against the Commonwealth option.”

“The bill is exclusionary and divisive…it endangers the principles that are the foundation of America and does not take into account the will of the majority of the people of Puerto Rico.”  Hmmm, sounds familiar.

I advise each Tea Party Member within our state to call your friends, family, neighbors and contact your Representative (and all of them if you have time) and express your  “displeasure” and further deception by this  majority who obviously will do ANYTHING to get their way and care nothing about the U.S. Constitution nor the American people.  It seems they are trying to also pull a fast one on the people of Puerto Rico, who may want statehood, but have historically voted against it. We seem irrelevant to Congress, they seem to only care about pushing their agenda.  It’s time to stop them.

We attempted to contact Congressman Parker Griffith, Congressman Bobby Bright, and Congressman Artur Davis for a statement on this.  No statements or comments from any were forthcoming. They were told if they did not give statements, this would be noted.

*Source Washington Times February 26, 2010, “The Deck is Stacked for statehood” (Editorial)

*Source The Washington Examiner, Beltway Confidential, “Puerto Statehood Bill”,February 2010
*Source National Coalition of Latino Clergy and Christian Leaders
Special thanks to Ed  for the heads up.

Bamabelle

Looks Like the “Fix” Is In, Action Alert NOW

Posted on Feb 27, 2010

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At a place called Blair House, the President’s official guest quarters across the street from the White House, Barack Obama played host to a select small group of legislators to find “common ground” for passage of a healthcare reform bill. Well, that was the White House’s version, anyway.

As we now know, that’s not what happened.  In reality, the so-called “summit” was an elaborate magic show, complete with sleight of hand, illusion and elaborate misdirection,all designed to resuscitate the once-thought-dead ObamaCare bill. Did you really think they’d cave so “easily”? Certainly they will not. We’ve held the line this long, we can’t let them win now!

This political theater took place in the space of seven and a half hours.  The President had already destroyed the credibility of the meeting on Monday by publishing his Trillion Dollar plan that looks, coincidentally, a whole lot like the discredited Senate version of ObamaCare -including abortion funding!

We were expected to believe that legislators could deal with over two thousand pages of a bill that amounts to a government takeover of an estimated 16% of our economy in just a few hours! Unbelievable!

Of course, the President never had any intention of finding “common ground.”  In fact, the invitation to the summit came with a PS:  If you don’t go along with me, I have “reconciliation” ready in the wings!

In other words, “the fix was in.” And from what we can see, this eleventh-hour attempt to ram socialized medicine down the throats of the American people is more dangerous than
any that has gone before.

There was more to this “Hail Mary” than met the eye. There was an even more telling activity going on behind the scenes this week. Utilizing the same technologies and strategies that propelled him into office, Obama’s cohorts launched “One Million Voices for Healthcare Reform: A Virtual March on Washington.”

This scheme was almost as elaborate as its title. Here are statements from its organizers:

“The nation’s leading progressive [read, radical left] organizations are joining forces for A Virtual March on
Washington” to send Congress one million messages urging action on health care reform. This is designed to be the single largest action yet in the health care fight.”

“The Virtual March on Washington: A Million Voices for Change” campaign is bringing together some of the largest progressive organizations in the nation including, MoveOn.org Political Action, Progressive Congress Action Fund, Health Care for America Now (HCAN), and Service Employees International
Union (SEIU)….

President Obama, who has failed to effectively govern throughout his first year in office, has re-hired his
campaign staff to try to regain the popularity he enjoyed while running for office!

The highly orchestrated political theater we witnessed on Thursday would be merely pathetic if it wasn’t such a dangerous and dishonest abuse of presidential power.

We must NOT cave in to this manipulation!

We must act NOW to counter this outlandish strategy. The next few weeks will be crucial as members of Congress are being pressured to accept the Obama/Reid/Pelosi reconciliation plan.  We cannot allow the only messages Congress hears to be from the “Obama for President 2012″ crowd!

The pressure is mounting as ultra-liberal activists redouble the use of corrupt “Chicago-Style” politics of coercion and bribery that have so dramatically overshadowed Capitol Hill for the last year.

Here’s just one measure of their audacity: When the American people cried, “Foul!” over the Cornhusker Kickback, the President then decided to extend the exorbitant bribe that bought Senator Ben Nelson to the ENTIRE SENATE!

Now, we have a sort of “Omnibus Kickback” on the table – all of it paid for by you and me, the hapless American taxpayers!

Amazingly, when Obama’s team heard the uproar over certain Senators getting bribes, they thought it was because all the other Senators wanted one, too!  What a low view of our nation this administration must have. This is outrageous!

CONTACT YOUR REPRESENTATIVES IN WASHINGTON, D.C. AND YOUR SENATORS AND TELL THEM NO GOVERNMENT-RUN HEALTHCARE! Tell your family, your friends and anyone else who may still have their head in the sand that they need to get off of the fence and take action NOW!

If anyone ever WONDERED WHY Tea Party Chapters MUST ENDORSE CANDIDATES and MUST KEEP THE PRESSURE ON OUR REPRESENTATIVES AND SENATORS, READING THIS SHOULD MAKE YOUR EYES BLEED AND THE LIGHT BULBS COME ON!  Time to take action, now.

Bamabelle

Tim James’ New Ideas for Alabama

Posted on Feb 19, 2010

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Tim James is running for Governor of Alabama in the 2010 elections. Born in Opelika, James attended Auburn University where he earned his degree in Finance. Even though he is the son of a former Alabama Governor, James says, “I’m a total outsider to the system,” James said. “I’m the only businessman in this race with a career in building jobs.”

Dr. Don-Terry Veal, director of the Auburn University Center for Government Services, said James’ position as a business owner sets him apart from other candidates. It also puts him in an authoritative position on the economy, which, Veal said, is the number one issue plaguing Alabama voters.
“Tim James sees his business background and entrepreneur experience as a reason why he can lead the state to better economic days,” Veal said. Veal said James’ plan to spend tax dollars more efficiently, instead of raising taxes, will also appeal to voters. James is also pushing bio-fuels and wants Alabama to take the lead in developing green industry.“Clearly, I don’t think any agenda can go wrong with that,” Veal said. “Alabama has been tracking in that direction.”Veal likes James’ plan to promote existing small businesses.

Why does he want to be the Governor of Alabama? He explained very earnestly, “The United States is in the shape its in because a generation or so [my generation] did not involve themselves with government and were involved with their lives. Things were good. While this was happening, the federal government went off track. We have a massive debt load that our grandchildren and great-grandchildren can never hope to pay back. We have seen a moral slide in this country, as well. I want to work to help get it back on track.”

“A year ago, I was concerned and didn’t know if we would make it or not. But, I see in the United States of America signs of a great awakening occurring. We’re teetering on the edge right now. 2010 could be one of the most important election cycles since the 1860’s. We are either going to be a totally socialistic nation or we’re going to turn this thing around. “

“The problems we face here will not be solved overnight. What we must do is rebuild. Rarely does one change anything from the top to the bottom. Change must begin with us. It must begin with Alabama, at the state level. The Governor’s role has expanded because of what is happening between the federal government and the states. I want to work with other governors and light the fire of resistance to what we see occurring today. I would like to help build an effective Governor’s Coalition so that we can help push back Federal government.”

Mr. James was asked about the issue of the 10th Amendment and standing firm on State Rights. He said, “We already have a law on the books. Its not only a law, it defines the separation of powers between the state and federal government and outlines how power is delegated to each of the three branches of the federal government. It is called the Constitution.”

“The fact that so many Alabamians [as well as citizens of other states] are concerned about our state rights shows that people are paying attention. It creates an awareness that people are learning what the Constitution says and means to us.”

“Nothing we do can be accomplished over night. This decline we are seeing so profoundly began in the early 1960’s with the massive federalizing of the public education system. Prayer was taken out of the schools, we lost control at the local and the state level. It’s been all downhill from there. The federal government has no business in education. It is not their responsibility, it is the responsibility of parents, local and state leaders. I will personally say that the No Child Left Behind Act never accomplished what it was meant to do and should be dropped.”

One of the things Mr. James has made a priority is the education system in our state. He has several common-sense solutions to help improve our education system here. Among them, reading mentors for every child in Alabama who needs one. Tim will call it the “Alabama Reading Corps.” The goal is to fortify existing reading programs while empowering Alabama universities to develop and manage the college student mentors to help primary school children to read.

Tim James does have plans to help existing small businesses here in Alabama. During our interview James explained, “There isn’t an ‘easy fix’ to helping the struggling small businesses in Alabama. In this economy, we must support those businesses that drive our economy. I want to provide our existing small businesses a program so that they may receive incentives similar to what we offer in order to attract new businesses to Alabama. We must take care of our own first.” He outlined the following in regard to assistance with business:

“The message our State Government gives to small businesses should be a comfort. We are going to get our economic house in order. Right now, no one has confidence in our economy or in many cases, the future. Alabama is going to meet it’s budgetary obligations just as individuals do and just as the federal government should do. We are going to do just exactly as our businesses and citizens must do; live within our means. The last thing we should do is raise taxes, particularly on businesses. We can cut spending. This must be done in order to meet our budget. I want to provide tax incentives for small businesses that will enable them to stay in business and grow. Together, our state government, our businesses and citizens can ‘push back’ on regulations from the federal government that are costing our state a tremendous amount of money. We must not allow these expensive and harmful regulations and legislation to continue because they hurt our state in many ways.”

We asked Mr. James about the parental rights issue because those in power in Washington, D.C. Seem eager to sign UN Treaties that would, in fact, strip parental rights. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has stated on more than one occasion that the UN Treaty on Children would be signed. We discussed the Parental Rights Amendment now in the House of Representatives which was introduced by Rep.Peter Hoekstra (MN). Mr. James said that those in the federal government with the desire to give away our nation’s sovereignty is troubling.

He said parents having the right to raise their children according to their principles in the State of Alabama will be protected. He added, “and there will be no changes to our home schooling laws here in Alabama. Parents have the right to see that their children are educated and this will never change. Those parents who wish to dedicate themselves to teaching their children will continue to have that right.” He added, “I believe this move toward the UN isn’t good. We are not Europe, we are America and we are Americans. These things we see happening will lead to a one world government and that is everything our Constitution protects us from. A Governor can be alert and together with other Governors we can awaken a nation. Some Governors may not understand the sovereignty of our nation. The states must resist any action that takes our sovereignty and  invalidates our laws. “

Mr. James is very concerned about recent events surrounding elections in our state as well as events that have occurred across the country. “The integrity of elections is the cornerstone of America. Our election and voting system must be clean from top to bottom.”

Since gambling has been in the news so prominently, we asked him what he thought about the issue. “I feel gambling is a tax on the poor people. If we look at gambling, those prominent in that industry are Mississippi, New Jersey and Nevada. Their budget shortfalls are terrible; much worse than here in Alabama. Gambling has not helped those states financially. I believe the gambling issue is on shaky ground, it can only develop a certain level of weight.

“But, if Alabama voters want it, then a Constitutional Amendment has to be passed by a majority of the voters. The Governor never sees that as legislation on his desk. It is not up to me, it’s up to the voters of Alabama.”  We asked if he had received any money from that industry. “We have not received money from the gambling industry, in fact, if we receive any PAC money, we research to see what industries make up that PAC. I haven’t received much PAC money at all.”

One issue that has caused problems for every state in the union is potential further mandates on Alabama by the federal government, an attempt to force them they must add more to their budgets to cover health care costs. “Medicaid expenses in Alabama consumes 30% of the general fund. Every state Medicaid program should be tailored to the people of that particular state.”

“We can’t have a ‘one size fits all’ program. It just doesn’t work. Our Medicaid expenses are exploding and just one reason is fraud within the system. With unlimited prescriptions, it gives some a way to exploit the system. The expense of that is enormous. Some people will sniffle and run to the emergency room. We need to focus on early diagnosis and preventative medicine. A health savings account makes perfect sense to me, it’s there when a person really is sick and needs it. We must cut down on fraud in Medicaid.”

Tim James wants to serve as our next Governor. He says we must no raise taxes; but cut on the spending side instead. “Elect me, we will get our fiscal ‘house’ in order. We will live within our means and we will set the tone for the rest of the country. Alabama can be an example for the other states. Alabama can be a leader in this country. We will speak loudly against the policies coming out of Washington, D.C.”

For detailed information about Tim James’ views on issues that affect every Alabamian, please visit his website at Tim James.

A  Governor’s Candidate Forum will be held March 2, 2010 at The Alabama Space and Rocket Center. Details follow.The pre-event begins at 5:00 and the forum begins at 6:15. General admission to the forum is FREE for everyone.

There will be a pre-event reception/meet and greet with the Republican Governors candidates and other local and state elected officials and candidates will be in attendance as well. The cost to attend the pre-event reception is $50.00 per person and includes reserved seatng for the forum. Tickets are available at www.huntsvillegovernorsforum.com.

Dr. Robert Bentley, Bradley Byrne, Kay Ivey, Tim James, Bill Johnson and James Potts will each provide their insight on why he/she should be the next Governor of our great State of Alabama.

Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Alabama Space and Rocket Center – Davidson Center
One Tranquility Base
Huntsville, Alabama 35805
Reception (tickets only): 5:00PM to 6:00PM
Forum (FREE General Admission): 6:15PM to 8:00PM

For more information and to purchase tickets to the pre-event reception and meet and greet, visit the official website at www.huntsvillegovernorsforum.com

Bamabelle

Alabama Governor’s Primary

Posted on Feb 03, 2010

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It looks like the front runners in fundraising  for the Alabama gubernatorial race are Bradley Byrne and Artur Davis. Former two-year college chancellor Bradley Byrne has raised more contributions than any other Republican candidate for governor and U.S. Representative Artur Davis is the top fundraiser among the Democrats. This is according to new campaign finance reports.

Tim James, a Greenville, AL business man, son of former Governor James, who is running for the Republican spot has generated the most money. Of the $4 million reported, $2 million is a loan from James to his campaign and $700k in the form of loans from contributors.

Theses reports were due Monday, February 1 for candidates for Governor to report how much money they raised in 2009.

Byrne reported $2.6 million in contributions. This consists of donations from political action committees associated with businesses. One political action committee contributed $300k, the Alabama Retail Association. Byrne received $25k each from William E. Smith, Jr. and Michael Thompson, both Birmingham businessmen.

Former Alabama Chief Justice Roy Moore’s report shows $379,880 in contributions. That amount includes $10k from Michael Peroutka, who was the Constitution Party’s candidate for president in 2004, and $10k from Stephen Peroutka, Chairman of the National Pro-Life Action Center.

Alabama State Treasurer Kay Ivey loaned her campaign $1.7 million and had received approximately $87k in contributions.  Bill Johnson, who is a former Riley Cabinet member raised approximately $80k. One-half of that amount is reported to have been contributed by a Birmingham-based PAC whose financial report for campaigns was not available. Johnson made $40k in loans to his campaign. Robert Bentley, a state representative from Birmingham, reported $144,067 in contributions and $787k in personal loans to his campaign.

For the Democratic candidates, U.S. Rep. Artur Davis reported $2.2 million in contributions in 2009. $1 million of that amount was a transfer from his congressional account. Davis’ contributors were listed as: $35k from Jay Grinney, an executive with HealthSouth in Birmingham; $25k from Clyde Anderson, an executive with Books-A-Million; $15k from Patrick Coughlin, a San Diego attorney; $10k from Jere Beasley, who is Davis’ campaign manager; $10k from T. Michael Goodrich, former Chairman of BE&K, Birmingham; $2,500 from Morris Dees, Southern Poverty Law Center Founder, Montgomery; and finally $1k from Vernon Jordan, Jr. who is a former advisor to President Clinton.

Ron Sparks, State of Alabama Agriculture Commissioner reported lending his campaign $500k and receiving approximately $656k in contributions. Of that total, much was actually from 2010, rather than 2009.
Sparks has indicated that he supports taxing, regulating and expanding gambling in the state. He received contributions in the amount of $100 from PACs related to gambling. These include the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, Macon County Greyhound Park, Jefferson County Racing Association and Greenetrack.
Sparks also received $100k from the Alabama State Teacher’s Association. He opposes the idea of charter schools; the Alabama Education Association is fighting Governor Riley’s charter school plan.

Artur Davis’ stand on Issues as indicated by his voting record are listed below.  If you would like more information on Davis’ stand on other issues, please visit his website at Artur Davis

ABORTION:
*  Voted YES on expanding research to more embryonic stem cell lines. (Jan 2007)
* Voted YES on allowing human embryonic stem cell research. (May 2005)
* Voted YES on restricting interstate transport of minors to get abortions. (Apr 2005)
* Voted NO on making it a crime to harm a fetus during another crime. (Feb 2004)
* Voted YES on banning partial-birth abortion except to save mother’s life. (Oct 2003)
* Voted YES on forbidding human cloning for reproduction & medical research. (Feb 2003)
* Rated 30% by NARAL, indicating a pro-life voting record. (Dec 2003)
* Rated 20% by the NRLC, indicating a mixed record on abortion. (Dec 2006)

BUDGET AND ECONOMY:

*  Voted YES on $192B additional anti-recession stimulus spending. (Jul 2009)
* Voted YES on modifying bankruptcy rules to avoid mortgage foreclosures. (Mar 2009)
* Voted YES on additional $825 billion for economic recovery package. (Jan 2009)
* Voted YES on monitoring TARP funds to ensure more mortgage relief. (Jan 2009)
* Voted NO on $15B bailout for GM and Chrysler. (Dec 2008)
* Voted YES on $60B stimulus package for jobs, infrastructure, & energy. (Sep 2008)
* Voted YES on defining “energy emergency” on federal gas prices. (Jun 2008)
* Voted YES on revitalizing severely distressed public housing. (Jan 2008)
* Voted YES on regulating the subprime mortgage industry. (Nov 2007)
* Voted YES on restricting bankruptcy rules. (Jan 2004)
* Get minorities into home ownership & global marketplace. (Jan 2001)

CRIME:

Voted NO on enforcing against anti-gay hate crimes. (Apr 2009)

EDUCATION:

*  Voted YES on $40B for green public schools. (May 2009)
* Voted YES on additional $10.2B for federal education & HHS projects. (Nov 2007)
* Voted YES on allowing Courts to decide on “God” in Pledge of Allegiance. (Jul 2006)
* Voted YES on $84 million in grants for Black and Hispanic colleges. (Mar 2006)
* Offer every parent Charter Schools and public school choice. (Aug 2000)
* Rated 100% by the NEA, indicating pro-public education votes. (Dec 2003)

ENVIRONMENT:

*  Voted YES on $2 billion more for Cash for Clunkers program. (Jul 2009)
* Voted YES on protecting free-roaming horses and burros. (Jul 2009)
* Voted YES on environmental education grants for outdoor experiences. (Sep 2008)
* Voted YES on $9.7B for Amtrak improvements and operation thru 2013. (Jun 2008)
* Voted YES on increasing AMTRAK funding by adding $214M to $900M. (Jun 2006)
* Voted YES on barring website promoting Yucca Mountain nuclear waste dump. (May 2006)
* Voted YES on deauthorizing “critical habitat” for endangered species. (Sep 2005)
* Voted YES on speeding up approval of forest thinning projects. (Nov 2003)
* Rated 60% by the LCV, indicating a mixed record on environment. (Dec 2003)
* Strengthen prohibitions against animal fighting. (Jan 2007)

FAMILIES AND CHILDREN:

*  Voted YES on four weeks of paid parental leave for federal employees. (Jun 2009)
* Voted YES on establishing nationwide AMBER alert system for missing kids. (Apr 2003)
* Give parents tools to balance work and family. (Aug 2000)
* Rated 33% by the Christian Coalition: an anti-family voting record. (Dec 2003)
* Permanent crime database for volunteers with kids. (Jul 2008)

GOVERNMENT REFORM:

*  Voted YES on requiring lobbyist disclosure of bundled donations. (May 2007)
* Voted YES on granting Washington DC an Electoral vote & vote in Congress. (Apr 2007)
* Voted YES on protecting whistleblowers from employer recrimination. (Mar 2007)
* Voted NO on requiring photo ID for voting in federal elections. (Sep 2006)
* Voted NO on restricting independent grassroots political committees. (Apr 2006)
* Voted YES on prohibiting lawsuits about obesity against food providers. (Oct 2005)
* Voted YES on limiting attorney’s fees in class action lawsuits. (Feb 2005)
* Voted NO on restricting frivolous lawsuits. (Sep 2004)
* Voluntary public financing for all general elections. (Aug 2000)
* Election reform is #1 priority to prevent disenfranchisement. (Jan 2001)
* Criminalize false or deceptive info about elections. (Nov 2005)
* Prohibit voter intimidation in federal elections. (Mar 2007)

GUN CONTROL:

*  Voted YES on prohibiting product misuse lawsuits on gun manufacturers. (Oct 2005)
* Voted YES on prohibiting suing gunmakers & sellers for gun misuse. (Apr 2003)
* Prevent unauthorized firearm use with “smart gun” technology. (Aug 2000)
* Ban gun registration & trigger lock law in Washington DC. (Mar 2007)

HEALTH CARE:

*  Voted YES on regulating tobacco as a drug. (Apr 2009)
* Voted YES on expanding the Children’s Health Insurance Program. (Jan 2009)
* Voted YES on overriding veto on expansion of Medicare. (Jul 2008)
* Voted YES on giving mental health full equity with physical health. (Mar 2008)
* Voted YES on Veto override: Extend SCHIP to cover 6M more kids. (Jan 2008)
* Voted YES on adding 2 to 4 million children to SCHIP eligibility. (Oct 2007)
* Voted YES on requiring negotiated Rx prices for Medicare part D. (Jan 2007)
* Voted NO on denying non-emergency treatment for lack of Medicare co-pay. (Feb 2006)
* Voted NO on limiting medical malpractice lawsuits to $250,000 damages. (May 2004)
* Voted NO on limited prescription drug benefit for Medicare recipients. (Nov 2003)
* Voted YES on allowing reimportation of prescription drugs. (Jul 2003)
* Voted YES on small business associations for buying health insurance. (Jun 2003)
* Voted NO on capping damages & setting time limits in medical lawsuits. (Mar 2003)
* Establish “report cards” on HMO quality of care. (Aug 2000)
* Increase funding for AIDS treatment & prevention. (Jan 2001)
* More funding for Rx benefits, community health, CHIPs. (Jan 2001)
* Rated 78% by APHA, indicating a pro-public health record. (Dec 2003)
* Expand the National Health Service Corps. (Mar 2009)

HOMELAND SECURITY:

*  Voted YES on requiring FISA warrants for wiretaps in US, but not abroad. (Mar 2008)
* Voted YES on Veto override: Congressional oversight of CIA interrogations. (Mar 2008)
* Voted YES on removing need for FISA warrant for wiretapping abroad. (Aug 2007)
* Voted YES on restricting no-bid defense contracts. (Mar 2007)
* Voted NO on allowing electronic surveillance without a warrant. (Sep 2006)
* Voted YES on continuing intelligence gathering without civil oversight. (Apr 2006)
* Voted YES on federalizing rules for driver licenses to hinder terrorists. (Feb 2005)
* Voted YES on continuing military recruitment on college campuses. (Feb 2005)
* Voted YES on adopting the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission. (Oct 2004)
* Voted YES on emergency $78B for war in Iraq & Afghanistan. (Apr 2003)
* Rated 78% by SANE, indicating a pro-peace voting record. (Dec 2003)
* Military spouses don’t lose voting residency while abroad. (Feb 2009)

IMMIGRATION:

*  Voted YES on building a fence along the Mexican border. (Sep 2006)
* Voted NO on reporting illegal aliens who receive hospital treatment. (May 2004)
* Rated 0% by FAIR, indicating a voting record loosening immigration. (Dec 2003)
* Comprehensive immigration reform without amnesty. (May 2005)
* Cover child resident aliens under Medicaid and SCHIP. (May 2005)
* Rated 33% by USBC, indicating a mixed record on open borders. (Dec 2006)

JOBS:

*  Voted YES on extending unemployment benefits from 39 weeks to 59 weeks. (Oct 2008)
* Voted YES on overriding presidential veto of Farm Bill. (Jun 2008)
* Voted YES on restricting employer interference in union organizing. (Mar 2007)
* Voted YES on increasing minimum wage to $7.25. (Jan 2007)
* Voted YES on end offshore tax havens and promote small business. (Oct 2004)
* Rated 87% by the AFL-CIO, indicating a pro-union voting record. (Dec 2003)
* Allow an Air Traffic Controller’s Union. (Jan 2006)
* Ban discriminatory compensation; allow 2 years to sue. (Jan 2009)
* Stronger enforcement against gender-based pay discrimination. (Jan 2009)

TAX REFORM:

*  Voted YES on extending AMT exemptions to avoid hitting middle-income. (Jun 2008)
* Voted YES on paying for AMT relief by closing offshore business loopholes. (Dec 2007)
* Voted NO on retaining reduced taxes on capital gains & dividends. (Dec 2005)
* Voted YES on providing tax relief and simplification. (Sep 2004)
* Voted YES on making permanent an increase in the child tax credit. (May 2004)
* Voted YES on permanently eliminating the marriage penalty. (Apr 2004)
* Rated 23% by NTU, indicating a “Big Spender” on tax votes. (Dec 2003)
* Rated 75% by CTJ, indicating a mixed record on progressive taxation. (Dec 2006)

TECHNOLOGY:

*  Voted YES on delaying digital TV conversion by four months. (Mar 2009)
* Voted YES on retroactive immunity for telecoms’ warrantless surveillance. (Jun 2008)
* Voted YES on $23B instead of $4.9B for waterway infrastructure. (Nov 2007)
* Voted NO on establishing “network neutrality” (non-tiered Internet). (Jun 2006)
* Voted YES on increasing fines for indecent broadcasting. (Feb 2005)
* Voted YES on promoting commercial human space flight industry. (Nov 2004)
* Voted YES on banning Internet gambling by credit card. (Jun 2003)
* Chief information officer to digitize federal government. (Aug 2000)
* Close digital divide with high-tech training. (Jan 2001)
* Permanent ban on state & local taxation of Internet access. (Oct 2007)
* No performance royalties for radio music. (Mar 2009)

Bradley Byrne’s stand on the issues, as released by his campaign, are listed below.  If you would like more information or questions about Byrne on specific issues not addressed here please visit Bradley Byrne

CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM:

The matter of Constitutional Reform has become an issue of significant concern to many Alabamians, and is one that calls for leadership and careful deliberation. I do not support the position of those who contend that the state should convene a constitutional convention for the purpose of rewriting the 1901 Alabama Constitution. I have long supported a constitutional recompilation carried out in an Article-by-Article approach.

ECONOMY:

The people of Alabama have never been ones to duck challenges. In fact, some of the state’s very best moments have come in the face of adversity. Consider our proactive and concerted response to the rapid economic and technological changes that spurred the loss of our long prominent textile industry. A powerful combination of determination, vision, flexibility and innovation gave us the drive to become a worldwide leader in automotive manufacturing, launched us further in prominence as an aerospace innovator and gave us the confidence to pursue and win coveted economic development projects outsiders told us were unthinkable.

EDUCATION:

I’ve been an education reformer for many years, and I have learned what can and cannot work in what should be the core mission of the education system in Alabama – to prepare and educate our children.Too many of our young people are dropping out of high school, and we cannot afford to continue losing one-third of our students every single year. Eighth graders need to read at grade level so they have a chance to succeed, and we must make high school math and science relevant so they connect the dots:  A good education means a good job and a better life.

ETHICS REFORM:

No one could have had the experiences I have had in reforming and cleaning up the two-year college system without coming out of that time with a complete appreciation and understanding of how vital strong ethical leadership is to every part of state government. We will commit this state to having a government that fosters a culture of integrity.

FISCAL POLICY AND TAXES:

Just six weeks after the next Governor of Alabama takes the oath of office, he or she will be tasked with presenting the Legislature a balanced budget that will not only reflect lower revenues associated with our lagging economy, but also continuing and unsustainable increases in public healthcare and retirement costs, as well as the loss of $700 million in federal stimulus money that was available to prop up our current state budgets. And although the job ahead is not for the faint of heart, it can be accomplished with strong leadership, disciplined management and innovation. Some will likely argue that new taxes are on the only answer. They are wrong. Taxes are not the answer. In fact, they are part of the problem. As your governor, I will fight tooth and nail against any attempt to raise taxes on the people or businesses of Alabama.

GOVERNMENT-CONTROLLED HEALTHCARE:

The Democratic leadership in Washington wants to force states to participate in a government run, government funded health care program that would unleash a wave of burdens, high costs and confusion on the people of Alabama. As I have said in the past, if this dangerous, intrusive legislation passes Congress, I would opt our state out of the program, if faced with that choice as governor, because it will force more burdensome tax increases on the families and business of Alabama.

ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION:

I believe politicians who address the problem of illegal immigration only by deferring responsibility to the federal government, are failing their citizens.  As governor, I will work to equip our state and local officials with all available tools to combat illegal immigration.The federal government has failed in its duty to enforce the nation’s immigration laws; and, as a result, Alabama, and other states across the country, face the burden of dealing with illegal immigrants and a variety of other costly issues.  I strongly believe that when the federal government fails to act on problems that put our state and citizens at risk, or when it over-reaches and intrudes inappropriately into our lives, it becomes the governors’ responsibility to serve as the first line of defense for their states.

STATE’S RIGHTS:

I’ve had the opportunity in recent months to visit with thousands of Alabamians across the state; and repeatedly, one of the biggest concerns shared with me is the increasingly troubling trend by the federal government to invade their lives in unprecedented ways.I share those concerns. Federal mandates, whether we’re talking about intrusive proposals that would require every person to buy health insurance coverage, force states to permanently expand their unemployment compensation benefit laws in exchange for short-term stimulus money, take away a worker’s right to private ballot voting in union elections, or force compliance with unfair, unproven and expensive environmental regulations, are cropping up everywhere.

VETERANS AND MILITARY:

As Alabama’s governor, I will work hard to make sure our state is second to none when it comes to standing up for our veterans. I will commit the efforts of my administration to making Alabama the most welcoming state in the nation for veterans and their families.

The gubernatorial primaries are fast-approaching. Please research these candidates and know where they stand on issues that are important to you. Davis’ and Byrne’s positions on issues are listed because they were the reported top fundraisers for their respective campaigns. If you have any questions about where a candidate stands on issues, please visit their website:

Tim James, Ron Sparks,  Roy Moore
Kay Ivey,   Bill Johnson,  Robert Bentley

Bamabelle

One Year Later…

Posted on Jan 19, 2010

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January 19, 2010 was a busy day for Patriots. A trip to Montgomery, Alabama found hundreds of members of the Tea Party on the steps of the state house. The “Welcome Back” party also drew a few other attendees. These were Republicans who aspire to be the next Governor of the State of Alabama. The “Welcome Back” rally was organized by Tea Party Chapters. People from all over the state came to attend the event. This was intended to emphasize to state legislators the need for a state sovereignty amendment, as well as to address the issue of gun rights.

Candidates Kay Ivey, Tim James, Bill Johnson and state Representative Robert Bentley (who had to be in session) were in attendance at Tuesday’s rally. Several Republican legislators showed up including Greg Wren, Mac Gipson and David Grimes. They braved the comments of speakers during this rally. The message was well-put and notice was taken of the will of Alabamians in regard to our values.

The Republicans were taken to task for not standing up for conservative values. The GOP has shown the inclination recently with the NY23 race and a few others, in backing liberal candidates. The National GOP has given the “hands off” excuse and laid the blame solely at the feet of local GOP officials. This trend is not appreciated nor wanted by the majority of Americans, as could be seen at this rally as well as others in the past.

The State Sovereignty Resolution claiming sovereignty under the 10th Amendment has passed both the House and the Senate of Alabama. The resolution is now headed to Governor Riley’s desk. Earlier in 2009, this writer asked Governor Riley if he would sign such a resolution, if passed. His comment was, “if it gets to my desk, I will sign it.” So there. Governor? Let’s get the pen out, please.

It is also important to note that one year after Barack Obama won the state of Massachusetts by 70% or so, Republican challenger, Scott Brown, who was basically ignored by all but The Tea Party; the race assumed to be going to Democrat Martha Coakley, won the Senate seat vacated by the late Ted Kennedy. This is a huge victory for the GOP, conservatives, The Tea Party and Patriots all across the nation. Donations were sent in from every state in the union to Brown’s campaign in order to help him win this election. This may be an indication of a proverbial bloodbath for Democrats in the House of Representatives as well as Democratic Senators in the fall, 2010. FLIP THE HOUSE! When Americans stand up together, this proves that “we” can fight for America. And, we are fighting for the soul of America.

Fight on Patriots. Enjoy the victory for a few hours; but we have a lot of work to do, a long road to take during 2010. And, congratulations to Senator-elect Scott Brown of Massachusetts.

Bamabelle

State Sovereignty Resolution

Posted on Jan 14, 2010

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Today (Thursday, January 14, 2010) we learned that the State Sovereignty Resolution (SJR 27) has passed the Senate and is headed to the House. Unfortunately, chances are House Majority Leader Ken Guin will hold it up in committee (as this has happened before.) Please contact your State Representative to tell them how you want them to vote on the State Sovereignty Resolution; you can contact them by going to our home page and under “Alabama in Congress” there’s a link at the bottom where you can find your Representative, your Senator and how to contact them. There is also information on how to contact Ken Guin to let him know how you feel about this being passed

Also, there was an article in The Birmingham News today addressing the state budget and how it depends upon stimulus funds. It has been suggested by more than a few people that perhaps the State of Alabama (like the federal government, like we must do) should “live within its means.”

Please contact your Representative and Senator in Montgomery as well as Governor Riley to let them know to vote against accepting any stimulus money. Again, you can find contact information at our home page as instructed above.

The budget is in trouble; in a previous article, this writer interviewed Representative Paul DeMarco and he specifically mentioned the budget and how the unfunded mandates the federal government was putting on the states (health care and other) could cost Alabama much more than we have. I’m sure they are grappling with many issues. However, WE send our money to Washington, D.C. and THEY are going to LET US have it back with stipulations? Is this wise?

Please don’t forget the “Welcome Back Rally” scheduled for Tuesday at the Statehouse 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. (more…)

A Magnificent Political Document

Posted on Jan 11, 2010

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declarationimageLooking back over modern history, it is clear that the United States Government (a/k/a the federal government) has clearly misused, misinterpreted and abused the U.S. Constitution. How did we let this happen? There are many explanations, probably all of them have truth. The biggest problem in regard to the Constitution we face today is ignorance. Ignorance of the document, what it means, and WHY it was written in the first place.

The Constitution of the United States of America, with its written limitations on government and written guarantees of human freedom, is the greatest political document ever written. It is the foundation of the American government. Everyone who serves in government takes an oath to defend it.

The creation of the American Republic with it’s written guarantees for personal freedom is the greatest development for freedom in the entire Western World. The reason the Constitution was written was the fear the founders had of an all-powerful central government. And the fear was real.

When the British government wanted to raise money, they thought of ingenious ways to do so. Colonists were subjected to legislation such as The Stamp Act. This required every document the colonists had in their home; a book, a bankdraft, a deed, a lease, a pamphlet, had to have a stamp depicting the image of the King of England. How did the British government know if this was done? Parliament enacted the “Writs of Assistance Act”. This law authorized British soldiers to knock on the door of any colonist’s home and write themselves permission to enter under the pretext of looking for the stamps. Of course, while there, they could help themselves to property, consume alcohol, take over the home and expel the owners to use the home as their own living quarters for as long as they wished.

This act was the last straw. We fought a revolution, we won a revolution, we wrote the Constitution. In writing the Constitution in that hot sticky summer of 1787 of Philadelphia, delegates were sent from each of the 13 colonies. They had a great debate. The debate was over the origin of our freedoms. Thomas Jefferson and James Madison argued that our freedoms came from our humanity, after all Jefferson had just written in The Declaration of Independence that all men are created equal and endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights, among which are the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. This understanding of the origin of our freedoms is called the Natural Law. And, it teaches that because we are created by God, in His image and likeness, and because God is perfectly free; He created Man perfectly free, thus freedom is our birthright. We are free to live, to think, to say what we think, to publish what we think, to worship or not to worship, we have a right to defend ourselves from anyone; even against a tyrannical government,  we have a right to own and enjoy property, a right to travel, and our right to be left alone. These rights are as natural to us as the fingers on the ends of our hands.

The opposing argument in Philadelphia, which was made by the big government crowd of the day, Alexander Hamilton and John Adams folks, was that our freedoms come from the government. And, they said, without government, there could be no freedom. The government that gives freedom, can also take it away. Because we have majority rule in this country, if the majority voted that we could have no freedom of speech; it could be removed. Under this theory, freedom of speech would be gone.

Fortunately for all of us, Thomas Jefferson’s views prevailed and Freedom of Speech prevailed. The concept of natural rights given us by virtue of our humanity, were instilled in the Constitution through the Bill of Rights. These two documents taken together, state the reasons the federal government came into existence. They established a President, Congress, and Judicial branch. Each with separate and distinct responsibilities and limited powers; retaining rights and powers to the States and individuals.

Remember, in Philadelphia it was the States that came together to create the federal government. They gave a little bit of power to the federal government and they stated just how little those powers were and how much they were given. They added a Bill of Rights because they were worried that the new government might someday do the same thing to them as the King of England and his Parliament did to the colonists and which caused the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, the Declaration of Independence to be written; establishing the most magnificent document called the Constitution.

Has the system worked as intended? Has the government followed the wishes of the framers? Has it stayed within the confines of the Constitution? The Constitution was written for two purposes:

1. Establish and define the government 2. Keep the government off the backs of the people.

That is why everyone in government from the founding of our country takes an oath to this very day to uphold the Constitution and human freedom.

Now we find ourselves in a great struggle; the very struggle the framers feared might happen with a centralized, powerful government. Our rights, reserved by the Several States and Individuals when the Constitution was written, guarantee us freedom from a government out-of-control. The Tenth Amendment states: “Anything not expressly granted to the Federal government is reserved for the States or the People.” Although this amendment is very liberally interpreted, it is one of the tenets of the Constitution. This amendment is also known as the States’ Rights Amendment.

It is easy to see that many of the regulations and “laws” the federal government has passed and is contemplating are not only infringing upon the will of the people, they are unconstitutional. We must go back to the writings of Madison and Jefferson to get a complete view of the history of this document and the reason the powers of Congress were limited and the rest were reserved for the “Several States.”

The Kentucky and Virginia Resolutions (or Resolves) were political statements drafted in 1798 and 1799, respectively, in favor of States’ rights and Strict Constructionism. They were written secretly by Vice President Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. Thomas Jefferson wrote the Kentucky Resolution which was passed on November 16, 1798 and December 3, 1799. James Madison wrote the Virginia Resolution which passed December 24, 1798.

The fact that our Republic is unique, that the framers of the Constitution took so much care to prevent tyranny and gave us ways to deal with it constitutionally are reasons why it is so very important that we PRESS, INSIST, IMPOSE our will on our State Legislatures the importance of taking action to reinforce the rights of “the Several States” and in this case, the State of Alabama and us, it’s citizens. The 10th Amendment was written for just the purpose we see today. It is to prevent abuse of government, of tyranny against the “Several States” and against us, as Americans. However, the federal government is thumbing it’s nose at “the Several States” and “We the People”. It will continue to do so until we take all necessary measures to stop the tyrannical government in Washington, D.C.  As the framers of the Constitution were rightly concerned and had the forethought to include in our Constitution balances against a centrally-controlled, toltarian government; we see that they were right in their concern that this power could or would be abused in the future. Let us not lose our country. Let all Americans who believe in freedom, in self-rule and in the Constitution and the Bill of Rights AS THE FRAMERS INTENDED it to be used, STAND together. Let’s find common ground; that common ground is The United States of America. Let your voices be heard.

Bamabelle

PLEASE PLAN TO ATTEND THE WELCOME BACK WINTER RALLY

When: Tuesday, January 19, 2010 from Noon – 1 p.m. Where: Alabama State House South

Union Street Montgomery, AL

http://welcomebackrally.ning.com

Tea Party: Collinsville, Alabama

Posted on Jan 02, 2010

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Featured speakers are former congressman Jim Martin and Gubernatorial candidate Judge Roy Moore.

ROYMOORE2010
When: January 16th @6PM
Where: Big Valley Church of God Collinsville, Alabama
Contact: Big Valley Church, 1313 N. Valley Avenue, Collinsville, AL
35961 PHONE: 256-524-2958
Website:http://www.myflock.com/church2809