This avenue of trees leads to the site of an old hotel.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Augusta Wetlands
At the Base of Elliott's Knob
This avenue of trees leads to the site of an old hotel.
This avenue of trees leads to the site of an old hotel.
A Blessing for the Czar...
"May the Lord Bless... and Keep the Czar...
Far Away from Us!" -- Fiddler on the Roof
Newsmax features the unelected Czars on their latest cover.
Far Away from Us!" -- Fiddler on the Roof
Newsmax features the unelected Czars on their latest cover.
A Blessing for the Czar...
Instapundit Picks Up Mike's Post for 'Best of 2009'
The Czar of Transparency, the Boob Czar and the Green Czar.
Here She Is, South Florida Tea Party's 'Boob Czar' [click to read] along with the 'Czar of Transparency' and the 'Green Czar.' They were at the September 12th march on Washington.
The Czar of Transparency, the Boob Czar and the Green Czar.
Here She Is, South Florida Tea Party's 'Boob Czar' [click to read] along with the 'Czar of Transparency' and the 'Green Czar.' They were at the September 12th march on Washington.
Richmond Scenes
Seen in the Capital of Virginia
Levy & Company.
Main Street Station.
State Office Building.
Shockhoe Bottom.
Levy & Company.
Main Street Station.
State Office Building.
Shockhoe Bottom.
Rush Limbaugh in Hospital Today
Talk Show Innovator Experienced Chest Pains
Rush Limbaugh.
This morning I was at Virginia Blood Services giving platelets and missed the initial reports that Rush had been taken to the hospital after experiencing chest pains. By the time I got the news he was said to be resting comfortably and facing a whole lot of tests. Of course my prayers are with him. Rush's show has been a regular part of my radio listening since the 1980's when a liberal lawyer friend first told me about him... that's right! He thought everyone would dismiss this new radio personality as he had... but I have to credit a lefto Mother Jones reading small town attorney for introducing me to Rush Limbaugh. It didn't take me long to figure out that Limbaugh, if he was crazy, was crazy like a fox... he put ideas worthy of William F. Buckley into terms anyone could relate to. After hearing a few shows, it was clear that Mr. Limbaugh was a voice for solid American ideas and ideals.
Get well soon Rush!
Michelle Malkin Has More [click to read].
Rush Limbaugh.
This morning I was at Virginia Blood Services giving platelets and missed the initial reports that Rush had been taken to the hospital after experiencing chest pains. By the time I got the news he was said to be resting comfortably and facing a whole lot of tests. Of course my prayers are with him. Rush's show has been a regular part of my radio listening since the 1980's when a liberal lawyer friend first told me about him... that's right! He thought everyone would dismiss this new radio personality as he had... but I have to credit a lefto Mother Jones reading small town attorney for introducing me to Rush Limbaugh. It didn't take me long to figure out that Limbaugh, if he was crazy, was crazy like a fox... he put ideas worthy of William F. Buckley into terms anyone could relate to. After hearing a few shows, it was clear that Mr. Limbaugh was a voice for solid American ideas and ideals.
Get well soon Rush!
Michelle Malkin Has More [click to read].
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
'Art Therapy' for Terrorists and Their Enablers
The High Stakes 'Performance Art' of Terror
"If it looks like a duck, walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it probably is a duck." -- unknown
When I do a workshop for, say, middle school students; I always pose this theorem: "Great art begins with the art of observation." In my work I have long known this to be true. This is really the essence of such a workshop that I would conduct as 'art therapy' for Eric Holder and President Obama.
Abdul Farouk Abdulmutallab, TERRORIST.
Abdul Farouk Abdulmutallab, Jihadist of 'Blazing Saddles' notoriety and known friend of al-Qaida had been sent to Saudi Arabia for "art therapy rehabilitation" along with some other residents of 'Club GITMO.' The 'rehabilitated' jihadist then went to Yemen for graduate studies in jock-strap jihad. His intent was to perpetrate an act of war, murdering Americans in large numbers on one of our holiest feasts... but to hear the left's perspective it's all our fault! [1.]
Compassionate 21st Century Amerika's response to Troglodyte terror!
Poor lonely Nigerian lad from priviledged home just needed some buddies. Bash Bush, blame America, deny the real problem. At least Michelle Malkin [click to read] sees the problem for what it is. [2.]
" Attorney General Eric Holder's law firm, Covington and Burling, has provided dozens of them pro bono legal representation and sob-story media relations campaigns. True to form, former Covington and Burling lawyer Marc Falkoff dedicated a book of Gitmo detainee poetry to hisYemeni suspected terrorist "friends inside the wire." And the White House is rolling out the red carpet to bring them to U.S. soil for civilian trials.
At a time when we should be disabling the jihadi revolving door, its rotating shaft is spinning out of control." -- Michelle Malkin
Abdulmutallab, meanwhile, is telling us that there are as many as three hundred more just like him waiting to perform their own dastardly acts of terror. Janet Napolitano, the system failed here [3.], it's time to get really serious about fighting real terrorists.
Abdul Farouk Abdulmutallab says there are hundreds more just like him.
"If it looks like a duck, walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it probably is a duck." -- unknown
When I do a workshop for, say, middle school students; I always pose this theorem: "Great art begins with the art of observation." In my work I have long known this to be true. This is really the essence of such a workshop that I would conduct as 'art therapy' for Eric Holder and President Obama.
Abdul Farouk Abdulmutallab, TERRORIST.
Abdul Farouk Abdulmutallab, Jihadist of 'Blazing Saddles' notoriety and known friend of al-Qaida had been sent to Saudi Arabia for "art therapy rehabilitation" along with some other residents of 'Club GITMO.' The 'rehabilitated' jihadist then went to Yemen for graduate studies in jock-strap jihad. His intent was to perpetrate an act of war, murdering Americans in large numbers on one of our holiest feasts... but to hear the left's perspective it's all our fault! [1.]
Compassionate 21st Century Amerika's response to Troglodyte terror!
Poor lonely Nigerian lad from priviledged home just needed some buddies. Bash Bush, blame America, deny the real problem. At least Michelle Malkin [click to read] sees the problem for what it is. [2.]
" Attorney General Eric Holder's law firm, Covington and Burling, has provided dozens of them pro bono legal representation and sob-story media relations campaigns. True to form, former Covington and Burling lawyer Marc Falkoff dedicated a book of Gitmo detainee poetry to hisYemeni suspected terrorist "friends inside the wire." And the White House is rolling out the red carpet to bring them to U.S. soil for civilian trials.
At a time when we should be disabling the jihadi revolving door, its rotating shaft is spinning out of control." -- Michelle Malkin
Abdulmutallab, meanwhile, is telling us that there are as many as three hundred more just like him waiting to perform their own dastardly acts of terror. Janet Napolitano, the system failed here [3.], it's time to get really serious about fighting real terrorists.
Abdul Farouk Abdulmutallab says there are hundreds more just like him.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
North Slope Jobs for Virginia
Energy Independence's Time has Come
Governor-elect Bob McDonnell [click to read] is calling for the development of Virginia's offshore energy resources. SWAC Girl has the details.
“... it is time to develop our offshore energy resources to create new jobs and provide necessary new revenue for schools, roads, public safety and alternative energy research and development in Virginia.” -- Virginia Gov.-elect Bob McDonnell
Governor-elect Bob McDonnell [click to read] is calling for the development of Virginia's offshore energy resources. SWAC Girl has the details.
“... it is time to develop our offshore energy resources to create new jobs and provide necessary new revenue for schools, roads, public safety and alternative energy research and development in Virginia.” -- Virginia Gov.-elect Bob McDonnell
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Thoughts for 2010, As the Fight Continues
Never Never Never Give Up!
Snow on Miller School Road.
"Perhaps the greatest success as a general in warfare was General George Patton in WW II in his 3rd Army sweep across France to beat Hitler.
One secret of his success was his policy to attack every day … in dry weather, rain, ice or snow. His leadership principal was the following: ATTACK! Vigorously execute “adequate decisions” today not tomorrow." -- Mark Beliles
Every day is a new opportunity. One can become more knowledgeable about the issues and interject that knowledge into conversation with his or her fellow travellers. We need to work hard to become the person those around us, friends and family, look to for clarity in times of uncertainty. The task is enormous -- I would not advise it be undertaken without seeking the help and counsel of the Creator of all things... but with His guidance there is no question what our course should be.
The road less travelled lies before us. The journey is perilous. There are no guarantees save those Divine promises that have sustained humanity for centuries. They are enough.
The sun is rising. Our mission becomes clearer. It is time to set forth!
In the beginning of a change the patriot is a scarce man, brave, hated and scorned. When his cause succeeds, the timid join him, for then it costs nothing to be a patriot. --- Mark Twain
Snow on Miller School Road.
"Perhaps the greatest success as a general in warfare was General George Patton in WW II in his 3rd Army sweep across France to beat Hitler.
One secret of his success was his policy to attack every day … in dry weather, rain, ice or snow. His leadership principal was the following: ATTACK! Vigorously execute “adequate decisions” today not tomorrow." -- Mark Beliles
Every day is a new opportunity. One can become more knowledgeable about the issues and interject that knowledge into conversation with his or her fellow travellers. We need to work hard to become the person those around us, friends and family, look to for clarity in times of uncertainty. The task is enormous -- I would not advise it be undertaken without seeking the help and counsel of the Creator of all things... but with His guidance there is no question what our course should be.
The road less travelled lies before us. The journey is perilous. There are no guarantees save those Divine promises that have sustained humanity for centuries. They are enough.
The sun is rising. Our mission becomes clearer. It is time to set forth!
In the beginning of a change the patriot is a scarce man, brave, hated and scorned. When his cause succeeds, the timid join him, for then it costs nothing to be a patriot. --- Mark Twain
Nominations for the Demmy Awards
Time to Remember Those Spineless Senators...
My next project is modelled after Joe Klein's Teddy award for courage... only it's for LACK of spine that this award is given.
Yes, it is time to remember those spineless public servants in the US Senate. The 2009 Demmys are open for nominations. There are some so obvious that I've already created the... er... award.
Others may come to mind so please nominate as many as you wish [limit60]. I want to publish before New Year's Eve. Write a brief reason whythe Senator is deserving... example: "Joe Lieberman, predictably unpredictable... look at his voting record and forget what he says."
My next project is modelled after Joe Klein's Teddy award for courage... only it's for LACK of spine that this award is given.
Yes, it is time to remember those spineless public servants in the US Senate. The 2009 Demmys are open for nominations. There are some so obvious that I've already created the... er... award.
Others may come to mind so please nominate as many as you wish [limit60]. I want to publish before New Year's Eve. Write a brief reason whythe Senator is deserving... example: "Joe Lieberman, predictably unpredictable... look at his voting record and forget what he says."
I'll have some more from the 'official' Joe Lieberman criticizer, Binyamin Jolkovsky, but please go for the creative gold here.
First Up: Senator Jim Webb, D, VA
Nominated by SWAC Girl
Jim Webb came into office as the "R2D2" of the 2006 U.S. Senate campaign, an indecisive candidate who had been a Republican, then a Democrat, back to a Republican, and finally a Democrat again ... who had not followed through in previously held offices ... who was "elected" by the Washington Post and liberal bloggers over a made-up controversy ... who said he would represent the citizens of Virginia.
When push came to shove over Obama's socialist policies, Webb caved and went along lock-step with his fellow Democrats. When Virginians wanted to meet with him during the summer of 2009 to discuss health care, he scurried away overseas for his summer break and never held a townhall meeting to hear their concerns.
When Virginians overwhelmingly voted Republican in November to oppose ObamaCare, Webb pretended it didn't happen. And when the Senate was called on to continue to jam its fist down the throats of the majority of American citizens opposed to socialized health care, Jim Webb didn't care. He voted for cloture, voted for cloture again, and then voted for nationalized health care on Christmas Eve 2009. For acting like a donkey's hindquarters, he definitely deserves a Demmy Award.
Second Up: Senator Joe Lieberman, D, CT
Nominated by Bob K
It's no secret that Joe Lieberman caved on health care. Michelle Malkin [1.] points out how Binyamin Jolkovsky of Jewish World Review has documented a track record of similar behavior: "When Connecticut senator and former Democratic vice presidential candidate Joe Lieberman mischaracterized orthodox Jewish doctrine on the Don Imus show and later courted anti-Semite Louis Farrakhan, Jolkovsky bluntly exposed Lieberman's sellout of his core religious beliefs in pursuit of higher public office."
He's not exactly the person I want to hear saying: "Got your back," if you know what I mean.
Stay tuned for more nominations...
Ken Duncan's Photographic Journey
Walking with G-d in America
A friend gave us this beautiful book for Christmas. Everyone should read it.
It begins with a quote from Abraham Lincoln: "At what point shall we expect the approach of danger? By what means shall we fortify against it? Shall we expect some transatlantic military giant to step the ocean, and crush us in a blow? Never! All the armies of Europe, Asia and Africa combined, with all the treasures of the earth (our own excepted) in their military chest; with a Bonaparte for a commander, could not by force, take a drink from the Ohio, or make a track on the Blue Ridge, in a trail of a thousand years.
At what point then is the approach of danger to be expected? I answer, if it ever reach us, it must spring up amongst us. It cannot come from abroad. If destruction be our lot, we must ourselves be its author and finisher. As a nation of free men, we must live through all time, or die by suicide." He spoke these words in January 1838 in a church in Springfield, Illinois.
The book ends with the famous quote from Alexis de Toqueville: "America is great because she is good. If America ceases to be good, America will cease to be great."
The author shows us the rich beauty of all fifty states in his stunning photographs. His text and photography notes will inspire you for the work and prayer ahead as we work to preserve the treasure that is America.
Mr. Duncan has captured some of my favorite places. There is an amazing shot of the Blue Ridge Mountains and some vivid images of White Oak Canyon in Shenandoah National Park. Denali is captured in two amazing images, one by day and one by moonlight.
A friend gave us this beautiful book for Christmas. Everyone should read it.
It begins with a quote from Abraham Lincoln: "At what point shall we expect the approach of danger? By what means shall we fortify against it? Shall we expect some transatlantic military giant to step the ocean, and crush us in a blow? Never! All the armies of Europe, Asia and Africa combined, with all the treasures of the earth (our own excepted) in their military chest; with a Bonaparte for a commander, could not by force, take a drink from the Ohio, or make a track on the Blue Ridge, in a trail of a thousand years.
At what point then is the approach of danger to be expected? I answer, if it ever reach us, it must spring up amongst us. It cannot come from abroad. If destruction be our lot, we must ourselves be its author and finisher. As a nation of free men, we must live through all time, or die by suicide." He spoke these words in January 1838 in a church in Springfield, Illinois.
The book ends with the famous quote from Alexis de Toqueville: "America is great because she is good. If America ceases to be good, America will cease to be great."
The author shows us the rich beauty of all fifty states in his stunning photographs. His text and photography notes will inspire you for the work and prayer ahead as we work to preserve the treasure that is America.
Mr. Duncan has captured some of my favorite places. There is an amazing shot of the Blue Ridge Mountains and some vivid images of White Oak Canyon in Shenandoah National Park. Denali is captured in two amazing images, one by day and one by moonlight.
Christmas in North Korea
There is Little Celebration in the Land of Kim Jong Il
Time Magazine Has This [click to read] on how Christmas is celeberated [or more accurately NOT celebrated] in North Korea.
"Among all religions, Christianity is seen as the most threatening to the regime." -- Philo Kim
Time Magazine Has This [click to read] on how Christmas is celeberated [or more accurately NOT celebrated] in North Korea.
"Among all religions, Christianity is seen as the most threatening to the regime." -- Philo Kim
Health Care's New Innovators
Those Doing Good are Underreported -- By Design
Paul Howard in City Journal [click to read] tells us of some exciting developments in healthcare you probably won't see reported in the MSM.
While we're being fed the myth that the private sector is failing us in healthcare delivery there are portions of the private sector that prove otherwise.
Just the Facts, M'am
Mark Warner's 'unbiased' sources are biased:
Part I, Part II
Paul Howard in City Journal [click to read] tells us of some exciting developments in healthcare you probably won't see reported in the MSM.
While we're being fed the myth that the private sector is failing us in healthcare delivery there are portions of the private sector that prove otherwise.
Just the Facts, M'am
Mark Warner's 'unbiased' sources are biased:
Part I, Part II
Ranger Bill Takes on 'Special Interests'
Kids and 'Dangerous'[1.] Homeschoolers Take Note
This week my favorite retro radio show is chock full of great content for all of us in the fight.
Ranger Bill [click to listen online] takes on the dirty politics of big interests and uses topographical models [which we build, by the way] as a means to demonstrate the folly of the power company executives' reasoning on dam placement.
This program was written and produced in the 1950's but contains much that is timely in our 21st Century struggle.
This week my favorite retro radio show is chock full of great content for all of us in the fight.
Ranger Bill [click to listen online] takes on the dirty politics of big interests and uses topographical models [which we build, by the way] as a means to demonstrate the folly of the power company executives' reasoning on dam placement.
This program was written and produced in the 1950's but contains much that is timely in our 21st Century struggle.
Friday, December 25, 2009
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Defender of the Faiths
Why I Love Binyamin Jolkovsky
Jewish World Review ought to be on every Christian's morning reading list. This web publication of opinion, faith and generally usefull content is the brainchild of New York journalist Binyamin Jolkovsky. He's a professional, I'm an amateur. He's Jewish, I'm a follower of Jesus. He lives in the big city, I live in rural Virginia. He observes Saturday, I Sunday. If you say we have nothing in common you'd be dead wrong.
Both of us are citizens of Dennis Prager's first America... the one our founders crafted. Both of us are not friends of the 'other' Amerika... the one the left wants to remake us into. [1.] Both of us try to live our faith seven days a week... not just Saturday [or, in my case, Sunday].
I first learned of Jewish World review from the man that President Obama does not want us to listen to: Rush Limbaugh. Our local newspaper was devoid of much in the way of good opinion and Binyamin's work filled that void very nicely. I got on Binyamin's email distribution list and have used his publication as a source more times than I can number.
But Jewish World Review cannot rest on the back of one man forever. Please give his publication a try and if you think it is as great as I do please think of it as worthy of your personal investment. To me it is worth way more than a subscription to TIME or a lot of other publications. Why not bless Mr. Jolkovsky with a gift to help the publication grow this year.
Jewish World Review [click to read].
Michelle Malkin Talks about Binyamin [click to read].
Jewish World Review ought to be on every Christian's morning reading list. This web publication of opinion, faith and generally usefull content is the brainchild of New York journalist Binyamin Jolkovsky. He's a professional, I'm an amateur. He's Jewish, I'm a follower of Jesus. He lives in the big city, I live in rural Virginia. He observes Saturday, I Sunday. If you say we have nothing in common you'd be dead wrong.
Both of us are citizens of Dennis Prager's first America... the one our founders crafted. Both of us are not friends of the 'other' Amerika... the one the left wants to remake us into. [1.] Both of us try to live our faith seven days a week... not just Saturday [or, in my case, Sunday].
I first learned of Jewish World review from the man that President Obama does not want us to listen to: Rush Limbaugh. Our local newspaper was devoid of much in the way of good opinion and Binyamin's work filled that void very nicely. I got on Binyamin's email distribution list and have used his publication as a source more times than I can number.
But Jewish World Review cannot rest on the back of one man forever. Please give his publication a try and if you think it is as great as I do please think of it as worthy of your personal investment. To me it is worth way more than a subscription to TIME or a lot of other publications. Why not bless Mr. Jolkovsky with a gift to help the publication grow this year.
Jewish World Review [click to read].
Michelle Malkin Talks about Binyamin [click to read].
Monday, December 21, 2009
Under Cover of Darkness
Senators Stealthily Support Socialism
"Just Say No, Senator Nelson." AFP Photo.
By Tim Phillips
At 1:00 a.m. today, literally in the dead of night, the United States Senate on a straight party line voted to move closer to the health care takeover.
60 Democrats voted YES and 40 Republicans voted NO.
In my 25 years in the political arena I thought I had seen it all for political pay-offs, crass deal cutting, and bare-knuckle threats. But, Majority Leader Reid, and sadly, even President Obama reached a new low. To avoid the blizzard of calls from their constituents, folks like you and me, most Democrat Senators actually turned off their phones as they prepared for the dead of night vote on Monday morning.
A couple of examples:
Senator Ben Nelson got an unprecedented deal to force federal taxpayers to pick up 100% of the cost of Nebraska's Medicaid expansion--forever.
Connecticut's Senator, Christopher Dodd, got a $100 million earmark for a hospital at the University of Connecticut.
Vermont Senators Pat Leahy and Bernie Sanders, who had been threatening to oppose the bill from the Left, got an extra $250 million in Medicaid funding.
In Florida, Senator Bill Nelson got three counties carved out of Medicare Advantage cuts that will happen everywhere else in the country.
Of course we know about the "Louisiana Purchase" where Reid and Obama paid $300 million of our taxpayer dollars to the pet projects of Senator Landrieu to secure her vote.
Yes, this is frustrating. Yes, we lost a round in the Senate and it was a tough one. But, we cannot give up the fight. And, we're not. After Senator Nelson's cave-in on Saturday, Americans for Prosperity sponsored a rally yesterday with one day's notice in Omaha, which Mike Huckabee flew out to headline. On the last Sunday afternoon before Christmas, the press reported that over 1,800 fired-up grassroots activists showed up to tell Senator Nelson what they thought of his sellout! CLICK HERE FOR PICTURES AND STORIES
In Virginia, where Senator Jim Webb was a key swing vote, we held a state tele-town hall call with Congressman Frank Wolf on Saturday and over 10,000 people joined the call with a full 5,000 of those folks staying on for extended periods of time. We asked people to go to TellWebbNO.com and send an email or make a call to Senator Webb and thousands did just that. He was the last Democrat to publicly announce his support for the bill, around 9:00 p.m. last night, and we will hold him accountable for caving.
Here are the next steps on the Congressional front. The second big vote to end debate on the health care takeover bill will occur around 7 a.m. on Tuesday morning.
If Reid and Obama hold all 60 of their votes, then there will be one more cloture vote (to end debate) Wednesday evening and a final vote on passage of the bill sometime on Thursday.
After that, the House and Senate would have to hold a conference to work through the considerable differences in the House and Senate versions of the legislation.
Then, the health care takeover would have to pass both chambers again. That final battle would most likely take place in early January. It's the Holiday Season. And we've been in a long hard fight. You've done so much. Sacrificed a lot. But, I'm asking you to do two last things before these final Senate votes.
1. CLICK HERE TO Contact your Senators one more time to tell them you are fully aware of all the pork-barrel earmarks, vote buying and political corruption in this health care bill. And, that you want them to reject this kind of politics and vote NO. If your Senators are Republicans, THANK THEM for voting against this bill this morning.
2. Take a moment to email your friends/family list. YOU CAN USE THIS LINK to ask them to take action by contacting their Senators today. If we can show a frenzy of activity now -- just a few days before Christmas -- that will send a powerful message.
We're winning with the American public. Every poll shows that. This political class in Washington knows that and so they are desperately trying to get this thing done now using the Holiday Season and the dark of night as cover. Let's not let them get away with it.
One last thing. I want to hear directly from you -- in your own words -- why you're fighting this health care fight as a grassroots activist. Please email healthcare@afp-mail.com and just tell me in a few words why you're involved. I think it will be encouraging and helpful for folks around the country to hear the reasons why Americans like you are doing what you are doing.
We'll post a sampling of your words -- without using your full name -- in the next few days.
In the meantime, let's keep fighting.
'Cash for Cloture'
Part 1. Part 2. [click to read]. Michelle Malkin has even more examples of how the vote was bought.
How to Lose Friends and Not Get Much [click to read]. Wesley Pruden comments on the soft-focus Western melodrama of Ben Nelson.
The Beginning of the End [click to read] by Dennis Prager.
Hazardous to America's Health [click to read] by David Limbaugh.
Maximum Achievable Damage [click to read] by Mona Charen.
Why Dems Push Healtcare, Even if it Kills Them [click to read] by Byron York.
"Just Say No, Senator Nelson." AFP Photo.
By Tim Phillips
At 1:00 a.m. today, literally in the dead of night, the United States Senate on a straight party line voted to move closer to the health care takeover.
60 Democrats voted YES and 40 Republicans voted NO.
In my 25 years in the political arena I thought I had seen it all for political pay-offs, crass deal cutting, and bare-knuckle threats. But, Majority Leader Reid, and sadly, even President Obama reached a new low. To avoid the blizzard of calls from their constituents, folks like you and me, most Democrat Senators actually turned off their phones as they prepared for the dead of night vote on Monday morning.
A couple of examples:
Senator Ben Nelson got an unprecedented deal to force federal taxpayers to pick up 100% of the cost of Nebraska's Medicaid expansion--forever.
Connecticut's Senator, Christopher Dodd, got a $100 million earmark for a hospital at the University of Connecticut.
Vermont Senators Pat Leahy and Bernie Sanders, who had been threatening to oppose the bill from the Left, got an extra $250 million in Medicaid funding.
In Florida, Senator Bill Nelson got three counties carved out of Medicare Advantage cuts that will happen everywhere else in the country.
Of course we know about the "Louisiana Purchase" where Reid and Obama paid $300 million of our taxpayer dollars to the pet projects of Senator Landrieu to secure her vote.
Yes, this is frustrating. Yes, we lost a round in the Senate and it was a tough one. But, we cannot give up the fight. And, we're not. After Senator Nelson's cave-in on Saturday, Americans for Prosperity sponsored a rally yesterday with one day's notice in Omaha, which Mike Huckabee flew out to headline. On the last Sunday afternoon before Christmas, the press reported that over 1,800 fired-up grassroots activists showed up to tell Senator Nelson what they thought of his sellout! CLICK HERE FOR PICTURES AND STORIES
In Virginia, where Senator Jim Webb was a key swing vote, we held a state tele-town hall call with Congressman Frank Wolf on Saturday and over 10,000 people joined the call with a full 5,000 of those folks staying on for extended periods of time. We asked people to go to TellWebbNO.com and send an email or make a call to Senator Webb and thousands did just that. He was the last Democrat to publicly announce his support for the bill, around 9:00 p.m. last night, and we will hold him accountable for caving.
Here are the next steps on the Congressional front. The second big vote to end debate on the health care takeover bill will occur around 7 a.m. on Tuesday morning.
If Reid and Obama hold all 60 of their votes, then there will be one more cloture vote (to end debate) Wednesday evening and a final vote on passage of the bill sometime on Thursday.
After that, the House and Senate would have to hold a conference to work through the considerable differences in the House and Senate versions of the legislation.
Then, the health care takeover would have to pass both chambers again. That final battle would most likely take place in early January. It's the Holiday Season. And we've been in a long hard fight. You've done so much. Sacrificed a lot. But, I'm asking you to do two last things before these final Senate votes.
1. CLICK HERE TO Contact your Senators one more time to tell them you are fully aware of all the pork-barrel earmarks, vote buying and political corruption in this health care bill. And, that you want them to reject this kind of politics and vote NO. If your Senators are Republicans, THANK THEM for voting against this bill this morning.
2. Take a moment to email your friends/family list. YOU CAN USE THIS LINK to ask them to take action by contacting their Senators today. If we can show a frenzy of activity now -- just a few days before Christmas -- that will send a powerful message.
We're winning with the American public. Every poll shows that. This political class in Washington knows that and so they are desperately trying to get this thing done now using the Holiday Season and the dark of night as cover. Let's not let them get away with it.
One last thing. I want to hear directly from you -- in your own words -- why you're fighting this health care fight as a grassroots activist. Please email healthcare@afp-mail.com and just tell me in a few words why you're involved. I think it will be encouraging and helpful for folks around the country to hear the reasons why Americans like you are doing what you are doing.
We'll post a sampling of your words -- without using your full name -- in the next few days.
In the meantime, let's keep fighting.
'Cash for Cloture'
Part 1. Part 2. [click to read]. Michelle Malkin has even more examples of how the vote was bought.
How to Lose Friends and Not Get Much [click to read]. Wesley Pruden comments on the soft-focus Western melodrama of Ben Nelson.
The Beginning of the End [click to read] by Dennis Prager.
Hazardous to America's Health [click to read] by David Limbaugh.
Maximum Achievable Damage [click to read] by Mona Charen.
Why Dems Push Healtcare, Even if it Kills Them [click to read] by Byron York.
Along Interstate 64
Shenandoah Valley Farmland
This beautiful farm always captures my attention as I head East.
This beautiful farm always captures my attention as I head East.
Miller School Road
Snow Across the Mountain
This is the scene where the Miller School Road crosses Interstate 64.
This is the scene where the Miller School Road crosses Interstate 64.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
US 11 South Through the Snow
A Good Day, Really, to Stay at Home
It was slow going on route 11 today.
Keeping an Eye on the Motorways [click to watch], VDOT Cameras.
It was slow going on route 11 today.
Keeping an Eye on the Motorways [click to watch], VDOT Cameras.
Ben Nelson Plays 'The Price is Right'
The President is Buying Their Votes with Our Money
Ben Nelson (D-NE), publicly caved in to a "pro-life compromise" authored by Bob Casey (D-PA) and Harry Reid (D-NV). Phil Reports that 'The Price was Right' [click to read]. We're paying for Mary Landrieu to get the "Louisiana Purchase" too!
This so-called "pro-life compromise" dresses up taxpayer funding of abortions with more fancy language, more conscience protections, and more federal funding for assistance to teenagers who are pregnant. The "compromise" also forces all states to carry a health care plan that does not offer abortion coverage and allows the states to "opt out" of having to carry a plan that covers abortion funding.
Unfortunately, the citizens of any state that "opts out" will not be exempt from paying federal taxes, which will be used to fund plans that cover abortions in other states. This compromise forces you and me, no matter what state we live in, to fund abortions.
Endangered, or extinct?
Ben Nelson (D-NE), publicly caved in to a "pro-life compromise" authored by Bob Casey (D-PA) and Harry Reid (D-NV). Phil Reports that 'The Price was Right' [click to read]. We're paying for Mary Landrieu to get the "Louisiana Purchase" too!
This so-called "pro-life compromise" dresses up taxpayer funding of abortions with more fancy language, more conscience protections, and more federal funding for assistance to teenagers who are pregnant. The "compromise" also forces all states to carry a health care plan that does not offer abortion coverage and allows the states to "opt out" of having to carry a plan that covers abortion funding.
Unfortunately, the citizens of any state that "opts out" will not be exempt from paying federal taxes, which will be used to fund plans that cover abortions in other states. This compromise forces you and me, no matter what state we live in, to fund abortions.
Endangered, or extinct?
Snow Up to Our Knees!
"Where are the Snows of Yesteryear?"
When you open the gate there's more to shovel!
The path to the studio feels like a trail in the Cascades.
The studio covered with snow.
"The woods are lovely, dark and deep..." -- Robert Frost
Here is Proof that Great Minds Think Alike [click to read]. David and I both have been wearing homemade 'gaitors.' I took a picture of 'Mount Windstar' too but it just looks like a big mound of white snow!
Here's the Snow West of Town [click to read]. SWAC Girl has pictures too. Today the SWAC blogs are even better than the Nome AK Webcam [click to read].
Mike Got Some Snow Too [click to read] in Fishersville.
Yankee Phil Already Has the Car Dug Out [click to read].
When you open the gate there's more to shovel!
The path to the studio feels like a trail in the Cascades.
The studio covered with snow.
"The woods are lovely, dark and deep..." -- Robert Frost
Here is Proof that Great Minds Think Alike [click to read]. David and I both have been wearing homemade 'gaitors.' I took a picture of 'Mount Windstar' too but it just looks like a big mound of white snow!
Here's the Snow West of Town [click to read]. SWAC Girl has pictures too. Today the SWAC blogs are even better than the Nome AK Webcam [click to read].
Mike Got Some Snow Too [click to read] in Fishersville.
Yankee Phil Already Has the Car Dug Out [click to read].
Michele Bachmann on Healthcare
Everyone Needs to Hear Her Clear Presentation
Michele Bachmann Interview [click for MP3] from Family Research Council.
I was priviledged to hear Michele Bachmann address the rally in Washington Tuesday. She is one of the clearest voices we have in this fight.
THYME Magazine
Citizen Journalism with a Better Flavor
Special Issue: Michele Bachmann! Volume I, Issue XVIIIA
Please listen to Michele Bachman in the interview, then Call Your Senators Again!!!
Michele Bachmann Interview [click for MP3] from Family Research Council.
I was priviledged to hear Michele Bachmann address the rally in Washington Tuesday. She is one of the clearest voices we have in this fight.
THYME Magazine
Citizen Journalism with a Better Flavor
Special Issue: Michele Bachmann! Volume I, Issue XVIIIA
Please listen to Michele Bachman in the interview, then Call Your Senators Again!!!
Welcome Home, Mr. President!
I Hope You and the Family are Enjoying the Snow!
Merry Christmas! Scene from last night...
...and this morning we awoke to even more snow.
It's still falling too!
Merry Christmas! Scene from last night...
...and this morning we awoke to even more snow.
It's still falling too!
Friday, December 18, 2009
We Could Get 12 to 24 Inches...
"Where are the Snows of Yesteryear?"
It's piling up outside. It's still pretty early in the evening.
It's piling up outside. It's still pretty early in the evening.
Global Warming's 'True Believers'
Footage from Americans for Prosperity
Today, President Obama is at the U.N. Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen. This morning he spoke from the same podium that Venezuelan socialist strongman Hugo Chavez used to decry the "silent and terrible ghost" of capitalism - to declare that "capitalism is the road to hell."
The enraptured global warming radicals at the Copenhagen conference rewarded Chavez with a standing ovation for his anti-freedom diatribe, telling us everything we need to know about the modern radical environmental movement headed by Al Gore.
President Obama had an opportunity to stand up and defend the economic freedoms of our great nation, which have made America the greatest and most prosperous on earth.
Instead, he chose to pander to his adoring supporters abroad, saying: "America will fulfill the commitments that we have made: cutting our emissions in the range of 17 percent by 2020, and by more than 80 percent by 2050 in line with final legislation."
Today, President Obama is at the U.N. Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen. This morning he spoke from the same podium that Venezuelan socialist strongman Hugo Chavez used to decry the "silent and terrible ghost" of capitalism - to declare that "capitalism is the road to hell."
The enraptured global warming radicals at the Copenhagen conference rewarded Chavez with a standing ovation for his anti-freedom diatribe, telling us everything we need to know about the modern radical environmental movement headed by Al Gore.
President Obama had an opportunity to stand up and defend the economic freedoms of our great nation, which have made America the greatest and most prosperous on earth.
Instead, he chose to pander to his adoring supporters abroad, saying: "America will fulfill the commitments that we have made: cutting our emissions in the range of 17 percent by 2020, and by more than 80 percent by 2050 in line with final legislation."
Thursday, December 17, 2009
THYME Magazine
Citizen Journalism with a Better Flavor
Volume I, Issue XVII
Woman of the Year: Governor Sarah Palin
The 'other' weekly has crowned Ben 'the recession is over' Bernanke 'Person of the Year.' Lynn knows THYME chose Governor Palin a while ago.
The events of the past year have engaged citizens in their government in the form of tea parties and town hall meetings. Governor Palin was there before many of us. As a concerned parent she got involved in local affairs... she ended up running for mayor of Wasilla. She won.
She took on oil companies and Murkowski... she ended up Governor of Alaska!
She ran for Vice President. She brought the people back into the game.
A lot of people are threatened by her. They try to dismiss her as 'dumb.' Her editorials [1.] prove otherwise. Practically every Democrat mailing lists her along with Limbaugh and Beck as a 'threat.' They're right. You don't waste that much ammunition if the enemy is not dangerous.
They try to call her a 'quitter.' She's still very much in the game. She simply cared enough to spare her state the expenses associated with what was essentially a personal attack on her.
'Tomato Man' Jeremy Olson personifies the hysteria directed toward Governor Palin in the form of personal attacks.
She's threatening to the 'status quo.' That is why we admire her. She's one of us. Sure, she's made some mistakes, but she learns from them and comes back even stronger.
Hint: If you want to know which Conservatives are truely effective, look to see who the left is most anxious to destroy.
Visit Alaska [click to read]. Official Alaska Tourism Site. "The place you want to be when the Tenth Amendment is invoked!"
"Real men fish with bears."
Alaska joins our other sponsor:
South Carolina [click to read]. "If the libs boycott, you won't see any Obama stickers as you enjoy your South Carolina vacation."
Volume I, Issue XVII
Woman of the Year: Governor Sarah Palin
The 'other' weekly has crowned Ben 'the recession is over' Bernanke 'Person of the Year.' Lynn knows THYME chose Governor Palin a while ago.
The events of the past year have engaged citizens in their government in the form of tea parties and town hall meetings. Governor Palin was there before many of us. As a concerned parent she got involved in local affairs... she ended up running for mayor of Wasilla. She won.
She took on oil companies and Murkowski... she ended up Governor of Alaska!
She ran for Vice President. She brought the people back into the game.
A lot of people are threatened by her. They try to dismiss her as 'dumb.' Her editorials [1.] prove otherwise. Practically every Democrat mailing lists her along with Limbaugh and Beck as a 'threat.' They're right. You don't waste that much ammunition if the enemy is not dangerous.
They try to call her a 'quitter.' She's still very much in the game. She simply cared enough to spare her state the expenses associated with what was essentially a personal attack on her.
'Tomato Man' Jeremy Olson personifies the hysteria directed toward Governor Palin in the form of personal attacks.
She's threatening to the 'status quo.' That is why we admire her. She's one of us. Sure, she's made some mistakes, but she learns from them and comes back even stronger.
Hint: If you want to know which Conservatives are truely effective, look to see who the left is most anxious to destroy.
Visit Alaska [click to read]. Official Alaska Tourism Site. "The place you want to be when the Tenth Amendment is invoked!"
"Real men fish with bears."
Alaska joins our other sponsor:
South Carolina [click to read]. "If the libs boycott, you won't see any Obama stickers as you enjoy your South Carolina vacation."
Snow in Copenhagen
The Lord Has a Sense of Humor!
This is 'The Journey'after all... international news is welcome.
This is 'The Journey'after all... international news is welcome.
Christmas at Union Station
Washington's Train Terminal Has Yuletime Cheer
Wreaths decorate the station's great Roman arches.
There are visual treats for those who look up...
...and a great spruce in the great terminal hall.
The great tree...
...and many smaller trees.
In this overly politically correct city, Union Station still says "Merry Christmas," visually anyway.
Wreaths decorate the station's great Roman arches.
There are visual treats for those who look up...
...and a great spruce in the great terminal hall.
The great tree...
...and many smaller trees.
In this overly politically correct city, Union Station still says "Merry Christmas," visually anyway.
Climategate, The Saga Continues
But the Only Hot Air is Algore's Rhetoric
It's a good thing Yankee Phil is keeping up on Climategate [click to read] while I'm off in Washington being talked down to by people who've been there over twenty years. Yes, it's tough being an ameteur in a world full of experts. It is especially annoying when the experts don't seem to want the facts to get in the way of their agenda.
Church window sunrise, 12/05/09.
It's a good thing Yankee Phil is keeping up on Climategate [click to read] while I'm off in Washington being talked down to by people who've been there over twenty years. Yes, it's tough being an ameteur in a world full of experts. It is especially annoying when the experts don't seem to want the facts to get in the way of their agenda.
Church window sunrise, 12/05/09.
Obama, Pelosi and Reid in Gehennah
History Shows Us that Graphic Images Have Always
Been Used in the Fight Against Great Evils...
On the steps of the Russell Building, the elected officials are depicted in eternal torment for their sins...
When an observant Jew in the time of the kingdom thought about hell a very distinct image came to mind. The word Gehennah, which we often translate to mean hell in fact refers to a specific geographic location -- "the valley of the sons of Hennah". Child sacrifices were once made to the Semite pagan's god Molech. Gehennah is mentioned in 2 Chronicles 28:3 and 33:6, and Jeremiah 7:31, 19:2-6,and appears in many traditional extra-Biblical Jewish writings as well. The idol Molech had iron arms which were heated and infants placed into the arms of Molech were cruelly burned to death. [1.]
When the area came into Jewish control Gehennah became a garbage dump. Fires burned contuinually and there was an unending stench. Garbage, the bodies of criminals and dead animals and anything vile and offensive would be found there. Vultures would be seen circling overhead. Dante, in his wildest imagination, could hardly do better.
Unfortunately the people periodically 'rediscovered' the worship of Molech and the Prophets speak of this. In doing so their worship became as a stench to G-d. Scripture tells us that they offered their children to this vile deity as well.
"The fires of Gehennah" became a metaphor for Hell. Hell was forever tied to a place that had seen the destruction of innocents.
As we were entering the Russell Senate Office Building we were greeted by the specters of Obama, Reid and Pelosi in the chains of eternal torment. A tormenter in a black hood announced that they were being led to their punishment. Indeed their disregard for human life, unborn and elderly, was being called to task.
The tormenter removed his dark hood to reveal himself as Randall Terry, founder of Operation Rescue, an organization that has been fighting for the pro-life cause for years. Terry pointed out the fact that throughout history great movements have used graphic depiction as an effective tool in their fight to right wrongs.
...as Randall Terry explains how graphic imagery has been used as a tool to fight evil throughout history.
Been Used in the Fight Against Great Evils...
On the steps of the Russell Building, the elected officials are depicted in eternal torment for their sins...
When an observant Jew in the time of the kingdom thought about hell a very distinct image came to mind. The word Gehennah, which we often translate to mean hell in fact refers to a specific geographic location -- "the valley of the sons of Hennah". Child sacrifices were once made to the Semite pagan's god Molech. Gehennah is mentioned in 2 Chronicles 28:3 and 33:6, and Jeremiah 7:31, 19:2-6,and appears in many traditional extra-Biblical Jewish writings as well. The idol Molech had iron arms which were heated and infants placed into the arms of Molech were cruelly burned to death. [1.]
When the area came into Jewish control Gehennah became a garbage dump. Fires burned contuinually and there was an unending stench. Garbage, the bodies of criminals and dead animals and anything vile and offensive would be found there. Vultures would be seen circling overhead. Dante, in his wildest imagination, could hardly do better.
Unfortunately the people periodically 'rediscovered' the worship of Molech and the Prophets speak of this. In doing so their worship became as a stench to G-d. Scripture tells us that they offered their children to this vile deity as well.
"The fires of Gehennah" became a metaphor for Hell. Hell was forever tied to a place that had seen the destruction of innocents.
As we were entering the Russell Senate Office Building we were greeted by the specters of Obama, Reid and Pelosi in the chains of eternal torment. A tormenter in a black hood announced that they were being led to their punishment. Indeed their disregard for human life, unborn and elderly, was being called to task.
The tormenter removed his dark hood to reveal himself as Randall Terry, founder of Operation Rescue, an organization that has been fighting for the pro-life cause for years. Terry pointed out the fact that throughout history great movements have used graphic depiction as an effective tool in their fight to right wrongs.
...as Randall Terry explains how graphic imagery has been used as a tool to fight evil throughout history.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
A Grandmother's 'Joe Wilson' Moment
My Experience at Senator Webb's Office was Better...
Still, it is sad that public servants forget the public they are elected to serve.
Heaven help constituents of Chucky 'Cheezy' [click to read]. Michelle Malkin reports that Chuck Schumer really knows how to win friends and influence people.
Still, it is sad that public servants forget the public they are elected to serve.
Heaven help constituents of Chucky 'Cheezy' [click to read]. Michelle Malkin reports that Chuck Schumer really knows how to win friends and influence people.
My 'Joe Wilson' Moment at the Senate Building
Sometimes It Just Comes Out when Someone's Lying...
Read some history. Debates weren't always pretty in our Country's early days either.
You probably shouldn't read from the Prophet Jeremiah before going to Washington but I did. Jeremiah, you may recall, is the one who was locked up because he was the honest one who kept telling the king that the Babylonians would conquer them if they didn't change their ways.
We were ushered into a large room by Senator Warner's staff and a staffer was taking questions and listening to concerns. A younger staffer was assisting him and although I didn't agree with her conclusions I could see her general knowledge of the subject was good. Substantive argument was possible with her and some good discussion followed. She discussed topics such as how to capture younger workers into the insurance system and portability.
The older staffer, when asked why some simple concerns such as tort reform and competition couldn't be dealt with in single pieces of legislation began to wax eloquent on why we have to do this whole thing NOW!!! The staffer was talking Democrat talking points... the citizen had a good point. Fix things one at a time, simple things first. That's how my Dad taught me.
But the older staffer said "I've been in Washington over twenty years!" he was the one with the experience so we'd better just listen to him. "We've got to do all of this, all at once!" he reiterated. "It [reform] can't be done if we do it piecemeal..."
I didn't really mean to but I found myself saying out loud: "If the car needs a tune up, you don't pull the engine!" I was asked to be quiet but I found myself understanding Joe Wilson a little better. I hereby submit myself to my fellow bloggers for censure [that's what happened to Wilson, right?]
I made a point to thank the staffers for their time as I left. One should at least try to fight with honor... and Public Servants Need to Remember Who They Serve [click to read].
Read some history. Debates weren't always pretty in our Country's early days either.
You probably shouldn't read from the Prophet Jeremiah before going to Washington but I did. Jeremiah, you may recall, is the one who was locked up because he was the honest one who kept telling the king that the Babylonians would conquer them if they didn't change their ways.
We were ushered into a large room by Senator Warner's staff and a staffer was taking questions and listening to concerns. A younger staffer was assisting him and although I didn't agree with her conclusions I could see her general knowledge of the subject was good. Substantive argument was possible with her and some good discussion followed. She discussed topics such as how to capture younger workers into the insurance system and portability.
The older staffer, when asked why some simple concerns such as tort reform and competition couldn't be dealt with in single pieces of legislation began to wax eloquent on why we have to do this whole thing NOW!!! The staffer was talking Democrat talking points... the citizen had a good point. Fix things one at a time, simple things first. That's how my Dad taught me.
But the older staffer said "I've been in Washington over twenty years!" he was the one with the experience so we'd better just listen to him. "We've got to do all of this, all at once!" he reiterated. "It [reform] can't be done if we do it piecemeal..."
I didn't really mean to but I found myself saying out loud: "If the car needs a tune up, you don't pull the engine!" I was asked to be quiet but I found myself understanding Joe Wilson a little better. I hereby submit myself to my fellow bloggers for censure [that's what happened to Wilson, right?]
I made a point to thank the staffers for their time as I left. One should at least try to fight with honor... and Public Servants Need to Remember Who They Serve [click to read].
A Call to Action
Mark Levin's Call to Concentrate on Senator Nelson...
Mark Levin made a strategic decision to rally his listeners to call and email Senator Ben Nelson of Nebraska. It's not too late. If we vote the bums out in 2010 he'll keep his Air Force base!
This is urgent.
Call and email Sen. Ben Nelson & tell him to vote no on Reid bill.
D.C. Number202-224-6551
Omaha, NE Number402-391-3411
Email Senator Nelson [click to contact].
Dear Senator Nelson,
I'm not from Nebraska but this healthcare monstrosity is of national proportions so your constituency has, by necessity, become national as well.
Please vote NO to this job killing, government expanding overreach of power. We in Virginia are apalled that the threat of taking away a major Air Force base is being used to pressure your vote. Be assured, if we are successful in changing the balance of power in 2010, you will keep the base.
If you cave in to this pressure we will nationalize your next campaign and do everything in our power to oppose your reelection.
Sign the Petition
Here is a Petition to Sign [click to read]. Now is the time to stand up and be counted!
Mark Levin made a strategic decision to rally his listeners to call and email Senator Ben Nelson of Nebraska. It's not too late. If we vote the bums out in 2010 he'll keep his Air Force base!
This is urgent.
Call and email Sen. Ben Nelson & tell him to vote no on Reid bill.
D.C. Number202-224-6551
Omaha, NE Number402-391-3411
Email Senator Nelson [click to contact].
Dear Senator Nelson,
I'm not from Nebraska but this healthcare monstrosity is of national proportions so your constituency has, by necessity, become national as well.
Please vote NO to this job killing, government expanding overreach of power. We in Virginia are apalled that the threat of taking away a major Air Force base is being used to pressure your vote. Be assured, if we are successful in changing the balance of power in 2010, you will keep the base.
If you cave in to this pressure we will nationalize your next campaign and do everything in our power to oppose your reelection.
Sign the Petition
Here is a Petition to Sign [click to read]. Now is the time to stand up and be counted!
Faces of Freedom 12/15/09
A Tale of Two Meetings...
The Crowd. AFP Photo.
By Tim Phillips
Yesterday at 1:30 p.m. two very different meetings occurred.
On the grounds of the United States Capitol, thousands of grassroots activists from across the nation rallied in a park with the media present. Our message to the Senate was simple: "Keep your hands off our health care!" CLICK HERE FOR PICTURES
Meanwhile, at the White House, President Obama, Majority Leader Harry Reid, other liberal Senators and their special interest allies met behind closed doors to cut political deals, twist arms and plot strategy -- all to get their health care takeover bill across the finish line and out of the Senate.
At our open air rally, Laura Ingraham, Dr. Tom Coburn, Sen. Jim DeMint, Sen. Richard Burr, Sen. Johnny Isakson, Jim Martin of 60 Plus, and our Tea Party Patriot friends Jenny Beth Martin and Mark Meckler detailed our reasons for opposing this disastrous health care takeover while urging Americans to stay in the fight for our freedoms. Across the nation, thousands more Americans went to the local offices of their U.S. Senators with the same message.
Meanwhile, at the White House, the President and his political friends negotiated in secret. Cut their deals in secret. And tried to buy votes in secret.
The contrast could not be more clear. And, that's why the American people are with us.
Ever wonder if your grassroots efforts make a difference?
Well, let me give you two numbers: 61 and 44.
CNN -- hardly a conservative front group -- recently reported that 61% of the American people now OPPOSE the Washington health care "reform" effort. Support for the health care takeover is literally in free fall.
The second number: Gallup Polling Company reports that President Obama's personal approval rating is down to just 44% -- the lowest level in history for a President still in his first year. That's not even a passing grade -- so much for the B+!
President Obama has made this ill-advised health care takeover his top priority, and the American people are telling the President loud and clear to stop now. Sadly, he's not listening.
I could tell you so many stories from today's rally at the Capitol. But, I'll hold at just two.
As the rally ended and the thousands of activists headed for their Senators' offices to deliver their message one-on-one, a young man in a baseball cap walked up to me and said "I'm from Jersey and I closed up my pizza shop for the day to come down here to send a message. Times may be hard but I can always make up the money later and I don't want my children to live under government-run health care." With that, he introduced me to his young son.
Minutes later, a retired gentleman from North Carolina holding an American flag (a big one) came up to me, shook my hand and said, "This is the third time I've come to Washington, D.C. this year and I'll come again if I have to. I fought in Korea for freedom and now I'm fighting for freedom again. I've never quit at anything in my life and I'm too old to quit at something now!" He gave me a big bear hug and then marched off for the long ride home.
I walked back to my car with that combat veteran's words ringing in my ears, "I've never quit at anything in my life..."
He's right. We're not going to quit.
Harry Reid and President Obama and Speaker Pelosi are trying to sell "inevitability." The idea that this health care takeover cannot be stopped.
We've stopped it since the August recess, through Labor Day, then through October, then to Thanksgiving. Now, we're just over a week from Christmas.
They can be stopped. And, you and I and folks across America are the ones who are standing in the gap for our freedoms. Thank you.
The crowd listens intently. AFP Photo.
Here is More from 'The Other McCain' [click to read]. ht/ Mike.
The Crowd. AFP Photo.
By Tim Phillips
Yesterday at 1:30 p.m. two very different meetings occurred.
On the grounds of the United States Capitol, thousands of grassroots activists from across the nation rallied in a park with the media present. Our message to the Senate was simple: "Keep your hands off our health care!" CLICK HERE FOR PICTURES
Meanwhile, at the White House, President Obama, Majority Leader Harry Reid, other liberal Senators and their special interest allies met behind closed doors to cut political deals, twist arms and plot strategy -- all to get their health care takeover bill across the finish line and out of the Senate.
At our open air rally, Laura Ingraham, Dr. Tom Coburn, Sen. Jim DeMint, Sen. Richard Burr, Sen. Johnny Isakson, Jim Martin of 60 Plus, and our Tea Party Patriot friends Jenny Beth Martin and Mark Meckler detailed our reasons for opposing this disastrous health care takeover while urging Americans to stay in the fight for our freedoms. Across the nation, thousands more Americans went to the local offices of their U.S. Senators with the same message.
Meanwhile, at the White House, the President and his political friends negotiated in secret. Cut their deals in secret. And tried to buy votes in secret.
The contrast could not be more clear. And, that's why the American people are with us.
Ever wonder if your grassroots efforts make a difference?
Well, let me give you two numbers: 61 and 44.
CNN -- hardly a conservative front group -- recently reported that 61% of the American people now OPPOSE the Washington health care "reform" effort. Support for the health care takeover is literally in free fall.
The second number: Gallup Polling Company reports that President Obama's personal approval rating is down to just 44% -- the lowest level in history for a President still in his first year. That's not even a passing grade -- so much for the B+!
President Obama has made this ill-advised health care takeover his top priority, and the American people are telling the President loud and clear to stop now. Sadly, he's not listening.
I could tell you so many stories from today's rally at the Capitol. But, I'll hold at just two.
As the rally ended and the thousands of activists headed for their Senators' offices to deliver their message one-on-one, a young man in a baseball cap walked up to me and said "I'm from Jersey and I closed up my pizza shop for the day to come down here to send a message. Times may be hard but I can always make up the money later and I don't want my children to live under government-run health care." With that, he introduced me to his young son.
Minutes later, a retired gentleman from North Carolina holding an American flag (a big one) came up to me, shook my hand and said, "This is the third time I've come to Washington, D.C. this year and I'll come again if I have to. I fought in Korea for freedom and now I'm fighting for freedom again. I've never quit at anything in my life and I'm too old to quit at something now!" He gave me a big bear hug and then marched off for the long ride home.
I walked back to my car with that combat veteran's words ringing in my ears, "I've never quit at anything in my life..."
He's right. We're not going to quit.
Harry Reid and President Obama and Speaker Pelosi are trying to sell "inevitability." The idea that this health care takeover cannot be stopped.
We've stopped it since the August recess, through Labor Day, then through October, then to Thanksgiving. Now, we're just over a week from Christmas.
They can be stopped. And, you and I and folks across America are the ones who are standing in the gap for our freedoms. Thank you.
The crowd listens intently. AFP Photo.
Here is More from 'The Other McCain' [click to read]. ht/ Mike.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Faces of Freedom 12/15/09
Rally Against Healthcare Takeover in Senate Park
With the Capitol as our background...
...thousands gathered to make their voices heard.
We listened to Michele Bachmann, Laura Ingraham, Dr. Tom Coburn, Senator Jim DeMint, Senator Richard Burr and Senator Johnny Isakson.
...and set of to visit Senators in the Russell Senate Building.
Here we are lined up to visit Senator Webb's office.
Senator Webb's staff collected our comments and were very cordial. They even offered us little packages of Virginia peanuts!
Meeting with Senator Warner's staff.
With the Capitol as our background...
...thousands gathered to make their voices heard.
We listened to Michele Bachmann, Laura Ingraham, Dr. Tom Coburn, Senator Jim DeMint, Senator Richard Burr and Senator Johnny Isakson.
...and set of to visit Senators in the Russell Senate Building.
Here we are lined up to visit Senator Webb's office.
Senator Webb's staff collected our comments and were very cordial. They even offered us little packages of Virginia peanuts!
Meeting with Senator Warner's staff.
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