the Right View

the Right View is Moving!

2008-05-09T06:30:00.000-07:00

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Ante

Slick Willy, Slippery Hillary and Spitzer

2008-03-10T23:54:00.000-07:00

hAnother one bites the dust! Can anyone tell me what is going on with our elected officials?
The latest is Governor Spitzer and the alleged prostitution ring. But does it really surprise you? This man is a strong ally and Super Delegate for Hillary Clinton.
Isn't it amazing the uncanny similarities between the Clinton's and Spitzer? Besides the obvious connection of Hillary's husband Slick and all the trouble he caused with his more than one sex scandal and Spitzer's current sexcapade, both are pro abortion, both are for same sex benefits and both have tried to smear and slander their opponents. Hillary Clinton also sided with Governor Spitzers on his plan for licenses for illegals. But in typical Clinton fashion when it caused such a flap she had to back pedal and say I am not really for it - I was just supporting the Governor. Oh that's good!
What a trio, Slick Willy, Slippery Hillary and Spitzer. Only comic books could come up with stuff this good. I'm just waiting for the good guys to appear on the scene. The trouble is they won't, not until the voters educate themselves and elect honorable people.

CKM

Clinton the Defender of American Jobs

2008-03-05T23:51:00.000-08:00

No matter how hard I try to educate people I still get in reply Bush is the cause of all evil.
Doesn't anybody remember the trade deals of the 90's? Of course I realize some of these trade deals had the stamp of approval from both parties, that is not my point, though I am upset. My point is, if Bill Clinton was such a defender of the middle class and so good for America why didn't he at least defend and protect jobs from leaving? Keep in mind he was the one who put NAFTA on fast track and pushed for the Chinese trade agreement.
I am also so tired of hearing this is a globalist economy and globalism is good. WHAT? Let me explain globalism in very simple terms. We export our auto jobs to countries like Mexico to save on labor costs. Then in turn we try to woo back those jobs by going to Japan and pleading please open a Honda plant here we need jobs. I was taught, again in very simple terms, world trade was good for things we need. For instance, we need bananas so we trade with that country and in turn they may need shoes. So we allow those markets to trade. BUT what are we doing by importing made in China crap from everything from lamps to corn? Can't we make our own lamps or grow our own corn? Understand?
Oh well when this country goes belly up you'll understand. And friends its only going to get worse. Chrysler by the year 2009 will be importing Chinese made cars.
Lets all thank both parties but specifically Bill Clinton the defender of American jobs, oh and lets not forget his lovely wife Hillary who has side steped her position on NAFTA every chance she gets.
CKM

Clinton for President

2008-02-08T15:16:00.000-08:00

For those who forgot what scoundrels the Clinton regime was read this. Its no wonder why we have no jobs left and our dollar has fallen. And even though this is mostly about Bill, Hillary's hands are just as dirty and involved in every one of Bill's scandals and underhanded deals.
Carey K. Masci

As I drink my night tea or morning coffee I will work my memory bank to remember all the other scandals and research them as they come to me, its a long list that almost has no end!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A Chinese Naval Base -- at Long Beach by Patrick J. Buchanan March 13, 1997
And last year, Johnny Chung, who gave $366,000 to the Democratic National Committee, showed up for a Clinton radio broadcast at the White House, with six Chinese in tow, including an adviser of Cosco. The president begged off being photographed with his guests, which raises a question: If Bill Clinton is leery of being seen with these characters, why is he giving them a Long Beach naval base?...

From Wikpedia
Clinton made it one of his goals as president to pass trade legislation that lowered the barriers to trade with other nations. He broke with many of his supporters, including labor unions, and those in his own party to support free-trade legislation.[36] Opponents argued that lowering tariffs and relaxing rules on imports would cost American jobs because people would buy cheaper products from other countries. Clinton countered that free trade would help America because it would allow the U.S. to boost its exports and grow the economy. Clinton also believed that free trade could help move foreign nations to economic and political reform.

Dece 30, 2001 Rome Treaty
Overturning Clinton's Midnight Action on the International Criminal Court

Impeachment
Investigating The President - CNN

Selling of the Lincoln Bedroom
AllPolitics - Bedroom Bucks - Feb. 26, 1997

Templegate
AllPolitics - Buddhist Nuns Admit Destroying Documents - Sep. 4, 1997

Travelgate
AllPolitics - Travelgate Report OK'd - Sept. 18, 1996

Also do your own research on the death of Vince Foster, the Clinton's stealing items while leaving the White House, Jennifer Flowers, Whitewater, there is more! Boy don't you just get a warm and fuzzy feeling all over again thinking of the Clinton's returning to the Whitehouse?

Road to Victory

2007-11-12T01:31:00.000-08:00

This is my view and perspective on the road to the White House and what Republicans need to do to win.
We need to galvanize and stand united as the left side seems to be unified in many areas and have their chosen candidate. The Republicans as of now are divided on many issues and none of the candidates seems ready to pull away or energize the party. I've said this many times "The road to victory for the Republican Party is through the Conservative Right", the true base of the party. If we alienate them it will be a slim chance for victory and if we do then we need to look at an alternative plan to keep the White House. We should also ask ourselves, do we stand for true Republican values and possibly lose the '08 election but win on principle by supporting a lesser known candidate and in the next election regain our base and direction or do we back more of a moderate to liberal candidate, try to sway democrats, win the White House and hope that our fellow Republicans in the House and Senate can keep him somewhat in line. That is what we need to answer.
As it stands now is there any candidate running that can excite the Conservative Right? We can quickly rule out the "Big Four", Romney, McCain and Giuliani and also to a lesser degree Thompson. They all have their weaknesses. What Christian or moral conscience American would want their leader supporting pro choice, homosexual rights and appearing in drag? And will Conservative Christians come out to vote for a Mormon that has flip flopped on abortion and homosexual rights and who has written letters to the Log Cabin Republicans supporting their cause?
Furthermore the main Democrat candidates have kept their liberal base in tact by attending a debate hosted by Gays - Lesbians - Bi and Trans gender but "The Big Four" arrogantly snubbed their core by not accepting an invitation to a Values Voters Debate in Florida which will further distance the Conservative Right and make it an even a tougher sell to invigorate this much needed base.
So then what are some of the variables and possibilities of the Republicans keeping the White House?
Will start with Rudy Giuliani. As mentioned above he won't woo the Conservative Right but what he does have going for him is electability with Democrats. He was elected Mayor in a very democratic city. His pro choice and acceptance of the homosexual lifestyle will sit well with the liberal left. He can also play on 911 and his presence during it and garner support from veterans because of his stance concerning the Iraq war. Fiscally he has lowered taxes, that sits well with everyone.
McCain is also someone that can grab votes from Democrats who feel alienated with their party which has drifted way to far to the left. Next to Hillary, Kucinich and the rest of the liberals, his very stable, calm demeanor will do well. And compared to some in the Republican party he is middle of the road. McCain comes across as Presidential and very much a moderate. What he loses with Vietnam Vets and Conservative votes he can make up else where.
People know little of Fred Thompson other than he was on Law and Order. Most didn't even know he was a senator from Tennessee. He resonates well with his Pro American talk, supporting the effort of the troops and war in Iraq. His electability hinges on swaying the Conservative Right as I feel few Democrats will jump ship to vote for him.
As for Mitt Romney though he may be leading in some polls I truly don't know where his votes will come from. The Left will feel slighted that he back tracked on his support of liberal causes and on the Right they will be questioning which Mitt should they believe? Is he right or left? I believe he is the least electable of all candidates.
Concerning the lesser known candidates running on the Republican side, few have any chance of winning. Its unfortunate that the GOP has abandoned them. This is where the true Republican Party lies. By far the best candidate of everyone is Allen Keyes. America is searching for that no nonsense, bulldog patriot who won't compromise his beliefs, well they have that type of person in Allen Keyes and yet the Party won't back him. He stands in the way of the party elite and goes against the status quo. The line I will always remember, I believe it was in the '96 Republican debate, was when the candidates were trying to make the arguments they were outsiders. Allen Keyes spoke up and said "I am a black Conservative Catholic, how much more of an outsider can you get"? Its true and yet people won't support him.
About the only other two that can possibly achieve a stunning upset would be Mike Huckabee and Ron Paul. Huckabee would have ALL the Conservative Right votes hands down. He would do very well debating any of the democrats, he would make them look even more left of center if that is at all possible.
That leaves us with Ron Paul. He would pick up both Conservative, Liberal and Libertarian votes. Liberal votes? YES! His antiwar stance would take away for Hillary's flip flopping on the war and his very pro life and pro family beliefs would definitely get the Conservative votes. He would also get the Libertarian vote as he wants out of the UN, limited government and very pro Constitution. Again why isn't the party supporting someone like him?
The other variable is the disdain for anything Clinton. If she gets the nomination it may be enough to get out everyone on the Right side to vote for whom ever gets the Republican nomination just to defeat her. This is the worse case scenario for the Republican Party hoping the base will come out just to defeat someone and disregarding an electable choice.
In my opinion the road to victory for the Republican Party and returning America to greatness is with either Mike Huckabee or Ron Paul but I believe the Republican party is to globalist and entrenched with the status quo to allow change and a new direction for America.

Carey K. Masci

President Bush Speeks in Cleveland

2007-07-17T13:25:00.000-07:00

What an exciting day it was on Tuesday July 10Th, 2007! This was the fourth time I had the opportunity to see President Bush speak and by far the most intimate setting with about 400 in attendance. It was held at the Intercontinental Hotel adjacent to the Cleveland Clinic. For all the problems Cleveland faces and being labeled the poorest large city in America its good to see the attention the city garnered during the Presidents visit. Cleveland is very important politically.
The hotel and surrounding area was buzzing with activity, from the secret service, FBI, police, the media and all the volunteers who help organize the event. It is amazing the amount of work that goes into preparation for a presidential visit. The media rooms were a spectacle to see. All the monitors, the maze of wires, computers, lights, cameras, its very impressive and hard to adequately describe, its really something that needs to be seen in person.
As for the Presidents speech he was warmly received and the tone was of a preelection rally. He was touting his objectives and goals on a wide array of topics, ranging from health care, immigration, oil and alternative fuels, faith based programs, space exploration, Iraq and a few other topics that he jumped around on from one to another.
There was three areas he spent some time on. Concerning Iraq President Bush reiterated his stance on why we should be there and that reason is establishing democracy is the key to peace in the middle east. He talked on reducing our dependence on oil, alternative fuels, our immediate goals and future solutions. He mentioned how ethanol production has increased and the benefits and problems associated with it. In the not to distant future hydrogen fuel cells, coal and finally wind technology could play a big role in reducing our dependence on oil. His immigration plan was explained. In short summary he is not for amensty, illegals should be sent back and made to go through the proper chanels to apply for citizenship.
Someone had mentioned that President Bush is not the best speaker and stuttered quite a bit. I differ completely on that opinion. There is more than eloquence in delivering a speech.
President Bush comes across as a very likable person, down to earth, someone you could go have coffee with. He admits his shortcomings like when he was talking about the importance of faith based programs which helped him, in reference to his past. Though he may stumble and ponder for the word he is looking for, the facts and answers come easy. He is very believable in his deliverance. He also makes you feel at ease with his sense of humor which is important in this hectic world we live.
As I mentioned this is the fourth opportunity I have had to see President Bush speak and each time I walked away uplifted. This time was no different as I left feeling that there is a future for America and not a bleak one. That's what a good speaker should do, uplift and motivate a person. And that's what a good leader should do, instill confidence and hope in tomorrow.

Carey K. Masci

Is Our Religious Freedoms at Stake?

2007-06-21T23:24:00.000-07:00

The first part of Amendment 1 in the Bill of Rights states:

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise there of;

Its ludicrous how Judges and other law makers have found a way to pervert the meaning of those words and fooled the people into thinking it means separation of church and state, no where does it even hint at that. And though those words couldn't possibly be any easier to understand I will simplify it even further to remove any remaining doubt what so ever of the intent of what was written.

Congress shall make no law, zero, none, NO LAW means NO LAW.

Respecting, bias, giving favor over another.

An establishment of religion, that means Catholic, Protestant, Baptist, and so on, NOT God or Jesus Christ. God and Jesus are not a religion. A religion is a set of beliefs. This country was founded on Judeo Christian principles so I did not include Muslim, Buddhism, or other anti Christian religions.

(or) Prohibiting the free exercise there of. To stop, hinder, interfere with religious practices, whether to pray, read the Bible, display religious signs or any other means of religious expression.

Now lets take it as a whole one more time:
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise there of;
It states Congress (government) can not favor any particular religion or interfere with religion BUT it does not mention in the least bit that religion can't get involved in government.

Two things led me to write this, a recent incident in the Ohio House and the Hate Crimes Bill.

On May 8Th in the Ohio House ministers were asked to tone down their prayers and remarks concerning political matters. What law did they violate? Amendment 1 states nothing against this but state guidelines insist on ministers submitting their speech at least three days prior so it could be reviewed.
My questions are many. How was such a rule passed, who passed it, why would you enforce such a rule that breaches freedom of speech and interferes with religion?
Two Democrat State Reps, Robert Hagan of Youngstown and Chris Redfern of Catawba Island walked out in protest of the prayer led by the minister. Equally as alarming is Republican Representative Matt Huffman of Lima who didn't have enough spine to defend the right of prayer and freedom of speech and cowarded as the prayer was given.
House Clerk Laura Clemens warned the practice of minister led prayer could be eliminated.

As for the Hate Crimes Bill I am concerned for many reasons. There are laws already against discrimination based on race, color, national origin, age, and sex. It was expanded to include people with disabilities and sexual orientation. But now they want to expand it even further beyond federally protected activities. How far will they go? How will this new addition to the Hate Crimes Bill be misinterpreted? Are we close to not being able to preach that homosexuality is wrong?
Its really redundant to have any kind of Hate Crimes Law. There is already laws against murder, assault etc..., are we suppose to punish the lawbreaker twice and are we now elevating a group of people over another?
Furthermore if this law is passed it could infringe on our religious beliefs and have the government policing our pulpits. No where does it say in the Bible you should not allow a person the right to live and live freely but it does say homosexuality is wrong and as believers we should warn and tell others about how this lifestyle is immoral. Could that last statement be construed as a Hate Crime because I said homosexuality is wrong?
This bill if passed goes directly against the First Amendment and will erode our religious freedoms even further.
Carey Masci

A Sad Christmas Story

2006-12-13T01:39:00.000-08:00

And yet another sad story of how America is marching down the path of doom and communism.
This was taken from a Yahoo news story, it is abbreviated:

_______________________________

ST. ALBANS, W.Va. - Christ is missing from Christmas in this small town. The community's holiday display has a manger with shepherds, a guiding star, camels and a palm tree, but no baby Jesus, Mary or Joseph
_______________________________

Besides the obvious reason why the story is unsettling what I find completely ironic is that the towns name is SAINT Albans. Are we now close to having the ACLU, the Communist-Democrats, Liberal-Homosexual movement start renaming our towns and cities by removing words such as Saint? Why do you laugh? If they can remove Christ and the freedom of religious expression which this country's foundations were based on, Judeo-Christian principles, anything is possible.

Upon further research I found out who St. Alban was. The below paragraph was taken from: www.stalbanswestwood.com

______________________________________

Alban is the earliest Christian in Britain who is known by name and, according to tradition, the first British martyr. He was a soldier in the Roman army stationed at Verulamium, a city about twenty miles northeast of London, now called St. Albans. He gave shelter to a Christian priest who was fleeing from persecution, and was converted by him. When officers came to Alban's house, he dressed himself in the garments of the priest and gave himself up. Alban was tortured and martyred in place of the priest, on the hilltop where the Cathedral and Abbey Church of St. Alban now stands. The traditional date of his martyrdom is 303 or 304, but recent studies suggest that the year was actually 209, during the persecution under the Emperor Septimius Severus.
______________________________________

Are we close to this kind of martyrdom here? Don't think it can't happen here history always repeats itself. If they removed Christ from the manger they could remove you as they did many years ago to a man named Alban.

Merry Christmas,
Carey

Hypocrites both parties

2006-11-02T13:10:00.000-08:00

What a bunch of hypocrites both parties are concerning the Representative Mark Foley scandal. You mean to tell me that none of the Republicans knew of this mans devious behavior? I find that hard to believe. As for the Democrats the party of liberalism, Hollywood and homosexuality they suddenly come out as holier than though! If this story was as important as they make it out to be why did they wait? And haven't we seen enough of this game when a few weeks before an election some breaking news story is released. Or what about all the negative ads that seemingly contradict one another. Shame on both parties for making a mockery of our government and country.
I realize that politicians are just like us and that it is a microcosm of society where you will find all kinds of behavior good and bad BUT as you climb the ladder of responsibility your actions should be held to a higher standard. When you are elected, as the name implies, you are representing us the people. What might be acceptable behavior for the local bar isn't acceptable for people in leadership positions. In my opinion even a persons past, obviously within reason, is not as much of a concern as how they act now and in the future.
There have always been scandals in our government and stories of infidelity but the moral lapse and unnatural acts occurring in the Republican party is alarming, especially since its suppose to be the party of family values. Looking back we can see where all this started. The liberal homosexual agenda that called anyone not willing to accept their behavior as normal were labeled as homophobes, closed minded and or other venomous tags. Coupled with President Clinton's policy of don't ask don't tell and pushing for the Hate Crimes Bill we have become so overly politically correct we no longer voice our moral convictions in fear of offending, being labeled or have fallen for their lies. Some how the party of the moral conservative right now is home to a far left group like the Log Cabin Republicans. And there is quite a few who call themselves conservatives but are far from the ideology of the party.
So is this just a sign of the times in which we live or are these liberal to moderate Republicans plants to undermine the core principles of the GOP. But there is one other reason why the break down of values in the Republican party and one that seems to have been forgotten and yes you could blame Clinton on this one also. Besides President Reagan being the catalyst for the resurgence of Conservatism it was the scandal ridden era of the Clinton Presidency that led people to vote Republican or run as Republican. Suddenly it was cool to be a Republican American. The doors were swung wide open and the GOP didn't police the party as long as they were gaining the House and Senate.
Ultimately though it is the voting public that should be blamed for not getting involved and finding out who they are voting for. How many times have I heard I wish I had a better choice, but yet these people don't vote in the primaries to elect the best choice. Or how can people complain about a politicians behavior but vote the same person in year after year as is the case with Teddy Kennedy?
But there is one big difference in the parties and that is when a wrong is done, the Republican usually bows out as with Nixon resigning, Newt Gingrich stepping down or Mark Foley quitting, but the Democrats as Clinton has shown won't fess up and will do anything to hold on to their position regardless of what damage it does to the integrity of the office.
Locally here in Lake County there is such a case with Representative Tim Cassel running for reelection against Carol Ann Schindel. Cassell's conviction for a DUI this past spring is not only inappropriate behavior but it violated the trust of the people. He doesn't deserve to be reelected on the other hand we have Carol Ann Schindel who has more than enough credentials to be elected. I just hope that the people do the right thing and tell these scofflaws ENOUGH!
I myself will vote Republican this November because I believe in the core message of Conservatism and believe there is still enough good Republicans that outweigh the bad.

C. K. M.

Wrong war - wring time?

2006-10-28T13:29:00.000-07:00

Wrong war - wrong time?
Sometimes you need to look at the past to see where your going or how you got to where you're at. Especially when it pertains to America or world events it helps to look back. For that reason I'm always combing history books and old books in general to help understand the present.
As I was reading "Lake County History", the chapter titled Lake County in the Civil War I came across something that really pertained to today. A soldier wrote home thanking the people for the kindness while on leave.... but there was much to give us pain.... he went on to mention Copperheads.
So I researched the term Copperheads to better understand that paragraph.
Copperheads were a faction of Democrats in the North, who nominally favored the Union but strongly opposed the war, demanded immediate peace and resisted the draft laws.
They wanted Lincoln and the Republicans removed and saw the president as a tyrant who was destroying American republican values. It went on and on of acts and demonstrations that demoralized some in the North and encouraged the South.
War is never pretty and something we ALL wish didn't have to take place, sometimes though its the only option. Can you imagine if we appeased these people and listened? America today would be divided!
I didn't need to go that far back though to tie in the current Democrat party as being on the fringe all I had to do was make the connection with the Vietnam war protesters. But I wanted to emphasize how consistently wrong the Liberal Left Democrat party has been for YEARS!
Whether you agree with this war in Iraq or not doesn't matter at this point, what matters is succeeding and getting our troops home. One of the biggest reasons why we didn't win the war in Vietnam was the resistance at home. The enemy knew they would be victorious if they could hold out long enough.
If you think back a few years ago when this conflict started in Iraq things were looking as if it would be an early exit when President Bush declared "mission accomplished". When did all the uprising and insurgency start? It seemed to coincide with Howard Dean saying this war is wrong and then John Kerry picked up the antiwar message with wrong war - wrong time. They knew then as they do now that they can't beat the Republicans on moral or economic issues so they had to find a difference. The antiwar message was it.
Sadly as in Vietnam the violence in Iraq will escalate as long as America is divided. Especially during an election year when one party is campaigning about how wrong the war is and promises to end it now. The insurgents know that with an increase in violence they can possibly change the outcome of an election in their favor. The difference though between Vietnam and Iraq is that in Vietnam only one country fell, but if we fail in Iraq the consequences will be felt globally! The terrorists will have a safe haven and a country to launch new attacks.
Hopefully Americans will realize that protesting and making antiwar a platform to win an election is wrong and costs lives and in this election the American voters will support our troops and effort in Iraq and tell the Democrats - wrong party -wrong time.
C. K. M.

It always amazed me that the liberal left screams antiwar messages and rants on and on about bringing our troops home as if they are so concerned about their welfare, but when the troops arrive home they are either frowned upon or called names, or worse yet, their funerals are interrupted with protests.

Random Thoughts

2006-10-05T21:40:00.000-07:00

Always so much to write about, gee wish I could do this for a living so I could spend more time writing.

I was going to write about the homosexual agenda and how its has infiltrated the Republican party but instead will get out these random thoughts and observations I've accumulated over the past several months.

My man Blackwell
I was telling someone about a year ago a few of my plans on ways to cut costs for the schools. One of them was to privatize the lunchroom which I won't write about in detail here. But guess what? Listening to Kenneth Blackwell speak recently one of his plans if elected Governor is to do exactly that, privatize the lunchrooms. Boy do I feel good. Now to get him elected and implement the plan.

Another Blackwell Plan
Kenneth Blackwell wants to lease the Ohio turnpike. This plan I'm not to keen on but reading about it it does make some good points. Our government is good at spending our money not making a profit, the private sector knows how to run a business and make a profit. Thinking of it in those terms maybe it does make sense.

Who do I vote for?
Quite a few have asked me who should I vote for? This might seem over simplistic but it works. When things get a little blurred with issues or where a candidate stands take this tip and you won't go wrong in your choice. Listen to the people who support or oppose the issue or candidate. For me anytime a George Soros or the Hollywood Leftist Crowd speaks it turns me off, those people do not represent my beliefs and if they support or down an issue or someone, I know to take the opposing side. Locally it works also, just ask the person or the person representing an issue who they support and if it doesn't agree with your moral conscience go against it.

More on that same thought
I hope this election we remember some of the absurd comments that were made about the Bush administration and tell the Democrats enough. Some of their talk was so beyond reason it insulted my intelligence. Remember Katrina and how they blamed President Bush for everything including weather manipulation that made the hurricane loop back over New Orleans? There were other equally ridiculous comments made. Any party that bands together over an issue like that doesn't deserve votes.

Or How About this Beauty
Shame on me for not making complete notes on this. I was watching C Span about a month or so ago. An elected Democrat and a guess speaker, Buffen Burger President of the International Association of Machinist and Aerospace Workers, were fielding questions from a reporter. The question asked was how could the Democrats compete against the Republicans on Family Values or something close to that. Buffen Burger came up with this beauty after stumbling around he said hey even maintaining roads is a family value. I just laughed my head off on that one. Yes, maintaining roads is right up there in Christian beliefs. How could you vote for these people?

DON'T LET the few bad apples in the Republican party scare you, keep the Conservative movement going forward this November!

Carey

Future of the Republican Party

2006-09-07T03:34:00.000-07:00

Future of the Republican Party

Democrats and liberals still like to call the Republican Party the rich white-mans party but it is far from that. More and more people are realizing it and joining the ranks of the GOP due to its core Conservative beliefs of lower taxes, less government and moral issues. And who is the latest group to join this Conservative fight and growing in numbers? It is African Americans.
Welcome back to the party of Lincoln!!
Quietly they have made inroads in the Republican Party, grabbed the torch of true Conservative principles, begun to speak out and run for public office. Gone are the days when the Democrats held African-American in check with bad policies of the government owing them, shackling them with welfare and no hope of succeeding. It has taken many years but they are coming home and making a positive difference not only in the Republican party but in all of America.
Many don't know this but the South after the Civil war was heavily Republican and run by blacks who were involved in government at most levels. But the concerted effort of Southern white Democrats to unravel all the gains accomplished by the Reconstruction Policies pushed the blacks back into bondage.
Its exciting to see this change take place because some of the most conservative thinkers and politicians are African- Americans. Just to name a few there is former Representative J. C. Watts, Alan Keyes, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, all are brilliant and true Conservatives. But the two that really have my interest is Ohio's Secretary of State Kenneth Blackwell running for governor in Ohio and Lynn Swann running for governor of Pennsylvania. Both have a chance to be the first black governors elected in those states and a chance to carry the Conservative agenda even further.
Jumping ahead but have to add this, is the time right for an African-American as president? YES, it just won't be coming from the left side. But until that time comes lets see to it that Ohio's Secretary of State Kenneth Blackwell and Lynn Swann get elected as governors, both are true conservatives and both deserve to be elected.
C.K.M.

Rock'n the RNC!

2006-08-23T20:25:00.000-07:00

Rock'n the RNC

Things were really hoping in Cleveland Tuesday night as the GOP hosted a party at the Rock Hall to woo the 2008 Republican Convention to the city. Cleveland along with St. Paul, New York and Tampa are all vying for the spot.
It was one swinging bash. Among the heavy hitters in the Republican Party to attend was Governor Taft, Senator Dewine, RNC Chairman Ken Mehlman, chairman of the Ohio Republican Party Robert Bennett and I'm sure there was others who I didn't recognize or see. Plus in attendance was the legendary Don King and Cavs star Danny Ferry. I'm telling you it was some kinda party!!
DJ Norm Nite hosted the event and entertainment was provided by Fat Tuesday and 50's & 60's Doo Wop groups The Edsel's and Reflections. Both were sensational still hitting all the high and low notes.
The most interesting sight of the night was Democrat Mayor Jackson and other Democrats speaking on behalf of the Republican party. I thought Mayor Jackson was very personable and low key seems to be a nice guy.
In all it was an exciting fun filled night, you should of been there!

Don't be LEFT out - join the RIGHT party
Vote Republican this November and keep the Conservative movement going!

Carey K. Masci

Minimum Wage

2006-08-12T11:56:00.000-07:00

The House voted to raise the minimum wage to $7.25 per hour in the next 3 years but the Senate rejected it.
We can all breathe a sigh of relief. Before you get upset let me explain it this way.... What are You willing to pay for a burger at your favorite fast food establishment? $3, $4, $5, $6 or more? IF the minimum wage gets raised so will EVERYTHING else!!
Its dumb for me to even have to explain this but minimum wage will never over take the higher paying jobs!
Minimum wage will never be enough to raise a Family on which was one of the arguments used to raise it.
Should someone in high school or anyone else for that matter make that much working at an entry level position? Of course not.
The only winner here is the government, higher prices more tax revenue.
If you really want this economy to take off and control inflation lower the wage or keep it as is and let the market dictate whats paid.
By raising the minimum wage all it does is decrease the value of the dollar even more.

As much as I didn't want the minimum wage raised there was other issues attached that also didn't pass which is unfortunate.
The others were, a permanent cut in the estate tax and extend tax breaks for business research, college tuition and state sales tax.
The Democrats complained that the Republicans played politics by attaching other bills to the minimum wage raise and should of had a straight up and down vote instead. Though that may be true, the Republicans were still willing to compromise but the Democrats not willing to allow tax breaks defeated the wage hike.

Just remember this when you go to the polls in November.

Carey K. Masci

The Conservative Right

2006-06-07T23:44:00.000-07:00

This was taken from the editorial section of the Lake County News Herald on 04/24/2006 before the primaries, it is abbreviated:

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The Republican primary for state treasurer offers stark contrasts between incumbent Treasurer Jennette Bradley and her opponent, Ashtabula County Auditor Sandra O'Brien. O'Brien has traveled across the Buckeye State touting her proven conservative credentials as an opponent to abortion. The treasurer's office, however, doesn't have a say on this contentious moral issue.

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It doesn't matter people who vote Republican do so more on moral lines, they are tired of all the social engineering with homosexual rights, abortion rights, the removal of God from public places, gun rights and a host of other issues. Issues that the Democrats take a completely opposing stance. Even in a position of state treasurer where it has little if any say on these issues people voted their moral conscience. People are tired of the government interfering and eroding our beliefs and values.
As I was looking at the sample ballot this past May primary with my father making sure we had everything correct, a guy walked up. I asked who he was voting for governor. He replied Blackwell, I don't want same sex marriage. That reason amongst others is what elected Secretary of State Kenneth Blackwell to run for governor in November. His moral beliefs and stance on the many social issues facing America. He is a very believable candidate.
Though it may not of been a landslide victory for any of the Conservative Right candidates it still sends enough of a message, especially here in Ohio which is a key battle ground state, that the path to victory goes through them.
The biggest distinction between Republicans and Democrats is with the Conservative Right not with the moderates or liberal Republicans where the lines get blurred. Republicans have to recognize this or they will alienate their true base. If they do it will be hard to win and even harder to hold onto the majority they now have.

Carey K. Masci

Price of gas

2006-05-19T04:35:00.000-07:00

Recently I have been receiving the same old email that has been circulating the last few years about how to lower the price of gas. Though the intent of these emails may be noble in trying to help, it truly is in vain. Boycotting gas on certain days, avoiding the major gas stations all have little if any impact on lowering the price and may actually aggravate the situation rather than help it. I sent out out a list similar to this last year and thought it was time to resend it in hopes of everyone understanding what is going on with the price of gas.
In no particular order here it is.

1. EPA mandate of cleaner burning gas. Their blunder of making oil refineries use higher amounts of an additive called MTBE. Now they find it pollutes ground water so it is being phased out. All this tinkering with removing and finding a new additive causes an increase in price and disruption of gas getting to the market.

2. Due to EPA regulations and small profits the number of refineries in the US has dropped since the early 80's from over 300 to a little over 130 today. Less refineries less gas available. No new refineries have been built in about 30 years.

3. Outdated refineries and limited storage capacity. Again EPA interference.

4. Mergers and buyouts of oil companies. Less competition.

5. Shrinking value of the dollar. Not only gas has gone up but so has everything else! It wasn't to long ago when you could get a burger and fries at a restaurant for $3.50. Now even at places like Denny's its over six bucks.

6. World demand. Oil consumption is way up not only in the US but all over.

7. Depending on where you live, our government taxes a gallon of gas anywhere from 45 to 65 cents. That's outrageous. The stores on average makes only 14 to 18 cents profit per gallon.

8. The repeated disruption by natural disasters the last few years.

9. Civil strife, war and rumors of war in oil producing countries like Iraq and Nigeria (there is others) either disrupt production or drive prices higher.

10. EPA, Democrats and even some Republicans have stopped or hindered us from exploring and or drilling for new oil in key area's.

11. Bad planning by EVERYONE in America. We knew this was coming. Remember the scare in the '70's of the oil embargo that saw the first big jump in price for oil? We had all those years to perfect gasohol or come up with an alternative fuel and change our ways. Instead we were lulled into a false sense of security by OPEC releasing more oil which kept gas cheap and also shut down some of our refineries because they couldn't compete.

12. America is to spread out. Before the advent of suburbs things were centrally located in the cities. People keep building houses further out and driving miles to get to work and the stores.

Now this is ONLY MY OPINION but I keep hearing people tell me its 7 dollars in England and elsewhere, so what is the point? Is this also part of the global agenda to raise prices here to get America more in line with the rest of the world?

Something else you have to keep in mind, this is a natural resource, do we really know how much is left in the ground? I have heard estimates ranging from unlimited to 100 years and some people think we have only a 40 year supply left. If that's true oil will run out in most of our lifetimes.
So what can we do?
Petition our government to allow exploration, tell EPA to back off and encourage more research and development into alternative forms of fuel.
BUT what will give the best result is to ELIMINATE one day a week of driving. Whether you car pool to work or combine errands into one day this will save a huge amount of gas.
Other drastic measures that should be given serious consideration is to raise the driving age to 18 or only allowing 16 to 17 year olds driving privileges to and from work.
I know this other thought may not sit well with my race enthusiast friends, but remember I also belong to a Van Club and attend races. Put more restrictions on all forms of racing, limit the amount of races held in a year and also restrict any new tracks from being built. You have to put things into perspective, what is more important, gas to drive to work and run our emergency vehicles, buses, plains, military etc... or a sport?

What won't work is the windfall-profit tax on oil companies which was first schemed up by Democrat Dennis Kucinich and now heralded by Barney Franks and other Democrats. The lunacy to think an added tax on an item will decrease the price! Our whole economy is based on profits. How do you expect a company to reinvest or expand their business if the Government takes away their profit?
This Robin Hood mentality of taking from the rich and giving to the poor only works in Hollywood, in real life its called Socialism.

Lastly if you noticed I didn't include the Oil Companies of gouging. In my research I did find the billions of dollars in profits they are making. BUT I am not exactly sure how the oil is removed from the ground, sold per barrel and how it finally reaches us and the expenditures for each step. If someone is knowledgeable on this please inform me. Maybe they are more to blame than I realize but I did read one article in the Washington Post that Texas based Exxon Mobil made about 9.8 cents on every dollar of sales. Is that an unreasonable profit? Let me explain it this way, Wal-Mart hit a record profit for 2005 of $11.2 billion. Can you accuse them of overpricing? Of course not. They achieved their goal by low prices and volume. Same with the oil companies. There is fewer companies today selling far more oil. Wouldn't it stand to reason their profits would be huge?

Your Friend Always,
Carey Masci

The Invasion

2006-04-06T02:07:00.000-07:00

The Invasion
Can you believe what has been going on in the streets of America concerning illegal immigrants? Can you believe the gall of these people to demonstrate when they don't even belong here? How could any rational American support this behavior? Does anyone realize the seriousness of this matter?
It just sickens me the politics being played by both sides. Literally America is being invaded and no one is doing anything about it. Just because they don't wear army uniforms doesn't mean anything, this is an invasion.
Our money is being wasted on congressional hearings on a matter that doesn't need one. What part of illegal aliens or immigrants don't they understand? Illegal is illegal.
I'm also so tired of hearing about politicians who are afraid to do what is right in fear of not being reelected. Well if they did what was right there wouldn't be any reason not to be elected again? Besides even if they weren't reelected wouldn't it be better to be a one term politician who did what was right and make a difference?
So what rights do these aliens have? Human rights YES, American rights absolutely not, there is a bigdifference. To have Constitutional rights you need to be a citizen of the US, if you aren't they don't apply to you - plain and simple - case closed!
The nonsense of trying to figure out what to do. Simple, arrest them, send them back, bill Mexico and patrol the boarder, whats so hard about that?
It amazes me that the US can flex its strength overseas but here in our homeland we have to be careful,we have to be tolerant. Have we become that soft concerning illegal aliens and minorities that we can no longer do what is right?
The other nonsense of what will the farmers do without this cheap labor. Remember the chain gangs? Revive them. Any nonviolent offender send them out to those fields, let them work off their infractions instead of doing nothing and being fed free meals. Trouble youths of the inner city, same thing. It would do them good to be away from their surroundings, get them out in nature and most of all teach them a work ethic that is sorely lacking in America. Is it better to keep locking them up? Or what about welfare recipients? Is it better to pay someone for doing nothing instead of that person at least trying to be independent of the government or whatever small wage they do make it could compensate welfare?
Rich Adler said something that at first didn't make sense to me. After I thought about it he is so right. He said America tried cheap labor in the form of slavery and that didn't work. Let me expound on that for you. Though these aliens aren't slaves they are, I'm sure, being paid substandard wages and probably live in substandard conditions. Is this really helping them? Is this really good for America keeping these people on the bottom rung and creating another lower class which eventually will be dependent on the government just because we can't do this labor ourselves?
Look at what is happening here in America. This alien invasion is changing our national identity. We are now almost bilingual. Up in Quebec Canada a similar situation arose with the French who wanted to make it all French and almost led them to secede. Don't read into this that I am anti Hispanic BUT if these people became citizens the proper way and learn our language there would be no problem. When my family came from Italy did they stage demonstrations and demand rights? Did they demand people speak to them in their native language? The answer is NO. They came to America to be a part of America and ultimately to be called Americans!
Some have even called them law abiding people. WRONG!! If they were law abiding then they wouldn't of broke the laws to get here. If these people refuse to abide by our rules, refuse to learn our language and want to bring their religion and culture here then send them back home. This not only applies to Hispanics but all immigrants. This is America!
Is anyone listening?
Carey K. Masci

the Right View

2006-03-23T15:30:00.000-08:00

AMERICAN AUTO'S IS THIS THE END?
I was asked by Tim G. who lives in Michigan andworks at Ford to pass this along.
He is not only concerned about his job but also the state of the American Auto Industry which may fade into oblivion if America doesn't wake up NOW!
I also wanted to write about this same topic for some TIME but there is SO MUCH going on right now it has my head spinning, I can't keep up with all the events facing the US and the world.
Please take the time to read about Tim's concern and PLEASE feel free to pass this on to everyone you know! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
American Auto's
Some of the problems that gets me going on a bender:
Too many people are buying imports. Read the media. EVERY DAY the American auto companies (particularlyFord) are constantly being beat up. Then listen to NPR. Read Consumer Reports or (Foreign) Car and Driver.
The HONDA RIDGELINE is the truck of the year.
CMONNNNNNNN!!!!!!!
That's a UNI-BODY truck, AND can only tow 4500 lbs. I can tow more than twice that with my 10 year old truck.
Look at quality. Did you know that Toyota recalled two MILLION vehicles last year? NOBODY talks about that. HOWEVER, you'll see that the Ford Crown Victoria is UNSAFE when hit from behind WHILE SITTING STILL, and the car hitting the Crown Vic is doing 60-70 MPH. Show me any car that will stand up to that.
The real facts for the Crown Victoria are amazing! In reality it is one of the SAFEST vehicles in the country, it EXCEEDS the maximum government crash standard for rear end collision.
This Ford makes an excellent family car! It has body-on-frame construction, a V8 that gives great performance AND will still give the driver 20-25 mpg!! Do you ever hear THAT?
As for the frivolous lawsuits by certain police municipalities that sued citing their vehicles were unsafe, Ford REFUSED more fleet sales to them when they requested. Ford said basically "if you are going to sue us for something that we didn't do, than we will not sell you any more vehicles". Good for Ford.
Everybody talks about the Japanese cars being MADE in AMERICA. No, they are ASSEMBLED in AMERICA of JAPANESE parts, designed in JAPAN and all of the profits of the Japanese cars go to JAPAN. NOT AMERICA.
HONDA is buying soybean farmland around their autoplants in Ohio. Then they LEASE it back to the farmers. The soybeans harvested are finally shipped back to Japan in crates that held all of the Japanese parts that go into making those AMERICAN MADE HONDA'S.
As for the soybeans, here's where that information came from:
http://www.overthehillcarpeople.com/japanconquers042105.htm
Please look at it, there is other information on there that will make you shudder!
Another clever trick of the Japanese is that they handle major issues with their vehicles rather silently. That is, when a customer comes in for an oil change, the dealer fixes their call/safety/whatever problem as a FAVOR to the customer. Therefore, the customer thinks that Toyota is doing them a favor, when in fact they're covering up a screw up. Did you understand that? Read it again what I just wrote.
Don't people see what's happening here?
PLEASE post ALL of what I tell you on your HEY GANG messages. Those seem to get around, and we need to get the word out that the Americans still make great vehicles.
Your Pal,
Tim G.
I do need to add that the domestic car manufacturers problems are not all due to foreign competition but also to an all to powerful union. The Unions have such a tight grip on the automakers its difficult for them to stay competitive. They are squeezing the auto companies SO HARD ( can you say"don't do my work during the work week so I can get the overtime") that profits and the costs of benefits are skyrocketing. Therefore the auto companies make all of the cuts to the salaried workers. Union workers are screaming that their co-pays went from 5 to 10 dollars. However, salaried benefit costs have gone up about 80 percent in the last six years.
Wake up America!!
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YES Tim I have seen what has happened. I have been screaming about this for years. Not only is this bad for employment but our national security as well which people don't think about. There is many reasons for the decline of theAmerican Auto Industry. A stubborn and all to powerful Union that would not make concessions and protected workers who should of been canned, labor laws and quotas, EPA and government regulations, mismanagement but the biggest reason in my book is advertisement - people bought the lie that foreign cars are so great. And I will never understand how Daimler Benz was allowed to buy Chrysler after the US government bailed them out from ruin in the late 70's.
Before we completely lose ALL domestic auto's and another piece of our national identity America better wake up and support Ford and GM. IF we lose them, the slide from being a world leader is going to happen and I am afraid quite quickly. Trust me!!
It so sad what has happened to the once mighty Eagle!
Your Friend,
Carey K. Masci

Ports

2006-03-16T12:47:00.000-08:00

Even though it seems that Dubai will sell off ownership of the ports to a US firm from all the pressure raised by congress, I still decided to post what I wrote a week ago. I felt it was important enough to be read.
The Ports March 6
First of all do I like the sale, NO, but read on.
A couple of years ago while at a garage sale I bought a box of Time magazines for a dollar. I was hoping they were from the 90's so I could refresh some of my friends memories of the MANY scandals during the Clinton years. Instead they were from the mid to late 80's. A few really got my attention, and if I can find this one in particular I will give the date and quote from it. It was about Kuwait. A quick summary of the article was how friendly that country was towards the US and how good they treated their citizens. It made sense why we defended them in Desert Storm.
What does this have to do with the ports? Hang on.
Anyways when I first heard about this port deal I went ballistic and good thing I didn't write my thoughts then but after I did some reasoning with myself I calmed down. And it might sound like I am copying others sentiment but I'm not, I thought of this before the news shows started airing their opinions. The truth is that the US is in between Iraq and a hard place. From what I have heard the United Arab Emirates, as is Kuwait, is friendly towards the US. So what should Pres. Bush do? Does he alienate a friendly Arab nation, block the deal and chance them not supporting our effort in Iraq and the region?
You also have to remember something vitally important here, this war IS NOT against Arabs. Likewise WWII was not against Germans. Both wars were against evil ideology, false religion and corrupt leadership. After the war ended in WWII the veil was lifted off the German people and a lot of them were very remorseful for what happened. Same with this war, if we can educate Iraq and set up democracy they will be like Germany or Japan is and one less country harboring terrorists.
I remember when Clinton first took office Rush Limbaugh said "you better get your scrapbooks ready because this will be fun all the garbage that will come out of this presidency you will want to clip from the newspapers and save it". (I hope I worded it correctly and wish I took his advice) Well as you know amongst other blunders it is rumored that Clinton could of had Osama Bin Lauden. If his leadership was more together and they crushed Osama and al-Qaeda would 911 of happened? Would this war against terrorism exist? Its hard to say but if it didn't happen this port deal wouldn't be as big of an issue. Further more, during the previous administration China was given Most Favored Nation Trade Status and control of Long Beach Naval Base a major port on the west coast in California. Do we really know if the Chinese are spying on us or planning other malicious acts? Why wasn't there as much outcry back then or now about who is keeping an eye on that port? China is a far greater threat than the U.A.E. which has a population a little over 4 million.
I was very surprised though to find out that the US didn't own or control these 6 ports on the east coast. What I would love to know is why and how was a company from England allowed to buy them in the first place? Also, England being our ally why didn't they tip us off of the possible sale so we could purchase the ports back ourselves and why didn't the courts of England block this deal from going through? This is where President Bush and the Republicans failed. Realizing how Clinton sold that west coast naval base why didn't President Bush or Congress pass a law forbidding the sale of any more bases or ports and any that are currently held in foreign control if they did decide to sell them, they would have to be sold back to the US?
Maybe I am overly simplifying things and there is way more to this but those are questions I need answered. Especially after 911 our ports, bases and boarders should of beeen under lock down. Right now there is so much confusion with this deal. Republicans, Democrats, and even left wing groups are against it. Even more confusing is there is now reports that Bill Clinton has been going over there and being paid to coach them on how to successfully get the deal completed while Hillary is over here condemning Pres. Bush for permitting it! As much as I don't like the port deal (I don't like any deal where a foreign country buys a part ofAmerica) it is still our security forces watching and patrolling it and it is currently foreign owned . And don't you think with our boarders so open and Detroit home to an Arab population of an estimated 300,000 that they don't need this port to attack us if they wanted to?
As far as the Left and Democrats are concerned they are so hypocritical. They have been adamant about shutting down Guantánamo Bay, against this war in Iraq, protesting against anything relating to the war on terror and President Bush but then suddenly an Arab country wants to buy a port and now they are the great protectors! There is FAR GREATER issues facing this nation. Do you realize that America is close to entirely losing all production of American made cars and that there is foreign owned factories here in America? Did you know that the Indiana Turnpike is about to or was sold to a foreign country - YES the Indiana Turnpike!... a HIGHWAY!! Or what about the systematic removal of ALL signs of religion or God from public places, isn't that a sign of communism? What about the camera's appearing all over on our streets? These are just a few of the MAJOR issues facing America, don't worry about the ports, worry about whats going on inland!
Carey K. Masci

Radical Islam

2006-03-09T12:11:00.000-08:00

2-11-06
Here's my take on a few major issues facing theUS and the world. Radical Islam
Did anyone see the news clip of the Palestinians dragging and burning the flag of Denmark? Where did they get a flag of that country?
In the US where there are many nationalities living you can find flags from different countries. I know where I can easily get my hands on an Italian flag, Cleveland has many Italian neighborhoods, same with the Irish flag, there are bars and gift shops that cater to the Irish, just as easily obtainable is theMexican and Canadian flag to name a few more and there is others. BUT where would I start my search to find one of Denmark? Even in the good ole US and living near a major city I would be stumped. So how did the poverty stricken people of Palestine get them?
Obviously this fervor and riots are being fueled bythe leadership or outside sources. But whom? Whoever it is though one fact remains, these riots should dispel any argument against stopping radical Islam because anyone who opposes or doesn't believe like them is a infidel and needs to be eliminated.
One more thought
Where is the Liberal & Hollywood crowds support and defense of Denmark's right to freedom of the press and speech for printing that cartoon? And where is their outcry against radical Islam? Seems like those groups only speak out when a Conservative says something they don't believe in.
Weapons of mass destruction
Do we really know if Iraq had WMD's? All we haveto go to on is what the media says and writes. But being an arm chair politician it seems clear to me that they did and the weapons and/or technology is safely out of the country long ago.
There is an old saying an enemy of my enemy is my friend? Well it wouldn't surprise me with all the delays President Bush was hampered with that it gave Iraq the time to send those weapons to Syria or even Iran. Furthermore, it seems most of the insurgence in Iraq has to come from outside the country. Iran knows the more they cause havoc and unrest in Iraq, the more time it gives them to develop nukes and also less chance of President Bush being in office to go after them.
Just my theory but it makes sense.

The Holocaust didn't happen?
There is always some nut case trying to say the Holocaust didn't happen, usually from a Neo-Nazigroup. Now Iran's leader is saying it and that allvJews should be sent back to Europe.
If that kind of talk doesn't infuriate you and makeyou want to back what President Bush is trying to accomplish then you really are clueless as to what is at stake and the consequences if we withdraw from that region.
Even more alarming than those words is Iran pursuing nuclear power. All of America better wakeup, show unity and support the war effort before things escalate even further.

Carey K. Masci

Industrial states turn to Democrats while GOP reigns in Ohio

2006-02-13T06:49:00.000-08:00

By JOHN McCARTHY
Associated Press
COLUMBUS, Ohio - Twelve years after the GOP reigned in five industrial, mainly Midwestern states, only Ohio is still governed by a Republican.

Democrats lead Illinois, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin but have been shut out in Ohio since Richard Celeste left office in 1991. Geography, finances and political farm systems have played a role.

This year's race for Ohio governor is open for the first time since 1998. It is vying for voters' attention with state and national ethics scandals two years after the Republican stronghold returned President Bush to the White House.

Ohio stayed under a GOP administration mostly for two reasons, said Paul Beck, a political scientist at Ohio State University. While far from prosperous, the state's economy was in better shape four years ago than many industrial states, especially Michigan, and the Democratic parties in the other states are better organized than Ohio's, he said.

All five states had Republican governors in 1994. All have heavy manufacturing interests but also are highly dependent on agriculture.

The states' geography plays a factor in elections. While its Midwestern and Eastern neighbors have one or two big cities, Ohio has six of more than 100,000 people. Surrounding them are hundreds of suburbs rich in Republican votes. So are the state's 29 Appalachian counties, where voters give weight to issues such as gun rights and abortion.
In the last open race for governor, Republican Bob Taft beat Democrat Lee Fisher in all but nine of the counties. Taft won the election statewide by 5 percentage points.

Democrats have hung onto the big cities - the five largest have Democratic mayors - but that base is dwindling as suburban migration continues.

Money also had something to do with the 2002 results in governors' races. Ohio Democrat Tim Hagan raised $1.2 million, about one-tenth of the amount raised by Taft, who was easily re-elected. Taft cannot run again this year because of term limits.

Compare that with the $7.5 million that Democrat Jennifer Granholm raised on her way to being elected Michigan governor or the $42.6 million of Pennsylvania Democrat Ed Rendell.
Granholm was snubbed by Michigan's organized labor establishment in the 2002 primary, but that support was key to her victory over Republican Dick Posthumous, said William Rustem, president of the nonpartisan Public Sector Consultants, based in Lansing, Mich.
"Their numbers are diminishing, but when it comes to electing Democrats, they still have a significant role to play," Rustem said of labor.

Ohio's union establishment, meanwhile, has not had much success outside of helping deliver the state to President Clinton twice. In between was the campaign of former state Sen. Rob Burch, a union-backed Democrat who lost to Republican Gov. George Voinovich by 1.5 million votes in 1994.

Ohio also lacks the Democratic farm system that helped get the other four governors known and elected. Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle and Granholm were state attorneys general while Rendell and Illinois Gov. Rod Blajogevic, a former Chicago congressman, came from big-city bases.

No Democrat has been elected statewide in Ohio since 1990.

All four of the Democratic governors hold strong leads in polls this year matching them against Republican challengers, but the GOP tickets in those states are still evolving.
Ohio Democrats acknowledge the past blunders but believe this year they have much of what they lacked in 2002, said Brian Rothenberg, spokesman for the Ohio Democratic Party. They have registered more voters and have more field leaders and better technology, and the help from outside organizations that made the 2004 presidential race close in Ohio want another shot in 2008, he said.

"We lost the presidential election in Ohio, but it put us on the political map. It's become a year-round political culture around Ohio," Rothenberg said "They know if you're going to win in 2008, you have to win in 2006."

Democrats see opportunity in the GOP's ethics troubles. Gov. Bob Taft's administration has been caught up for the past year in an investment scandal at the state's injured-worker insurance program. Losses so far have been pegged at $300 million.

In an ethics case, Taft also became the first Ohio governor to be convicted of a crime while in office. Longtime U.S. Rep. Bob Ney is being investigated in the Jack Abramoff lobbying scandal.

"There's an awful lot of good movement here toward the Democratic Party," former U.S. Sen. John Edwards, the 2004 vice presidential nominee, said at a recent fundraiser for the state party. "The record of this governor and the problems of this administration are going to be a great launching pad."

After four stinging defeats for governor, most Ohio Democrats are embracing U.S. Rep. Ted Strickland in the May 2 primary. He has raised $3 million, 10 times more than his nearest competitor, state Sen. Eric Fingerhut, who entered the race in January.

The winner will face one of two veteran Republican statewide officeholders: Auditor Jim Petro or Secretary of State Kenneth Blackwell. Should Strickland - who picked the more liberal Fisher as his running mate - emerge as the Democratic nominee, he would give the Democrats their best chance in 20 years to win the November election, Beck said.
"He has positioned himself as more of a centrist. There are a lot of issues where he does not take a traditional Democratic position and he's balanced the ticket. He's doing a lot of the things a Democrat needs to do to run a strong race," Beck said.

What may be standing in Ohio Democrats' way is the GOP's superb organization, headed by state party Chairman Robert Bennett, who has held the job since 1988, said Melanie Blumberg, a political science professor at California (Pa.) University.

Republicans acknowledge borrowing Democrats' tactics to get out the vote. However, while Democrats rely on outside forces such as unions for help, the Republicans do it within their own ranks.

"The Republicans keep beating the Democrats at their own game," Blumberg said.

Thoughts on the State of the Union Address...

2006-02-07T11:39:00.000-08:00

For a person who is suppose to stumble on words and not be able to deliver a speech properly I thought President Bush did an admirable job of relaying his message. Unlike Clinton, whom when ever he spoke you never knew if he was lying or trying to cover up another scandal, this president is very believable and isn't afraid to say what he is thinking. Just as in a previous State of the Union Address when he came right out and named Korea, Iraq, and Iran as the Axis of Evil, President Bush once again defined our battle against terrorism and gave certain rogue nations and terrorists a stern warning. He also said "...we will never surrender to evil" which is really what this war is all about, radical Islam and terrorism. Whether you agree with this war or not President Bush is doing the right thing. For YEARS there has been trouble in the middle east and recently is has spread to our shores. Establishing democracy in Iraq and hoping that they make the right choices is the best chance for peace in the region and ultimately the world.

He also talked about other issues but the other one that caught my attention is when he spoke about the Advanced Energy Initiative which debunks the theory from the far left that Republicans are anti-environment. So much for that theory.

In summary excellent speech one that made me feel proud to be an American!

As for the rebuttal by Tim Kaine Democrat Governor of Virginia it was ridiculous. I came away watching it shaking my head. How many times did he say "there is a better way"? What way? It is so reminiscent of John Kerry's "I have a plan". Really? What? It seems when the opposition has little substance they throw out a phrase or word that they keep repeating in hopes of it eventually getting in you psyche. I am sure that there is people who listened intently to this rebuttal and if asked what they think of the job President Bush is doing, they will reply "there is a better way". You have to guard yourself against empty rhetoric.

Lastly, old news but....

Hats off to Canada for electing a conservative government. Our Northern Neighbors have also woken up to the nonsense of the liberals.

Congratulations on the victory!

God Bless America and May the Conservative Movement Continue Onward

Submitted by: Carey Masci

Connect the Dots - Letter from Ken Mehlman

2006-02-03T05:28:00.000-08:00

The President's most solemn duty under our Constitution is to protect the American people. In the four years since we were attacked, this President has made a commitment to take this war directly to the enemy, and to use all the tools at his disposal to keep America safe. A critical element in this strategy is the terrorist surveillance program that the President authorized shortly after September 11th.

This week, President Bush discussed this vital program in remarks at Kansas State University and the National Security Agency. The President's remarks addressed the critics and debunked the falsehoods and distortions. The terrorist surveillance program monitors al Qaeda terrorists and affiliates making phone calls into or from the United States - precisely the type of communication that preceded the 9/11 attacks. This is not "domestic spying" on ordinary Americans arranging Little League practices or pot luck dinners. It's a tool that even FDR used in fighting World War II.

With Democrats deliberately distorting the truth about these efforts to stop attacks before they occur, will you help separate fact from fiction by writing a letter to the editor, calling talk radio, or calling your elected officals about this vital program?

After September 11th, we heard so often that our government failed to connect the dots. So, the President signed the Patriot Act, which had been passed overwhelmingly by Congress. He took appropriate action to connect the dots. He reformed the government bureaucracy, enabling it to fight a different kind of war.

Now, the Patriot Act is up for renewal. How do Democrats respond? They play politics, brag about "killing" the Patriot Act (video here), and accuse the President of breaking the law and violating civil rights. These are not the actions of a party that can be trusted to safeguard our national security.

The President is committed to fighting this war and will not let our nation let its guard down. Take action now and let your fellow Americans know that you won't either.

Sincerely, Ken Mehlman
Chairman, Republican National Committee

The President's State of the Union Address

2006-02-01T13:56:00.000-08:00

January 31, 2006

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. Mr. Speaker, Vice President Cheney, members of Congress, distinguished guests, fellow citizens: As we gather tonight, our nation is at war, our economy is in recession, and the civilized world faces unprecedented dangers. Yet the state of our Union has never been stronger. (Applause.)

We last met in an hour of shock and suffering. In four short months, our nation has comforted the victims, begun to rebuild New York and the Pentagon, rallied a great coalition, captured, arrested, and rid the world of thousands of terrorists, destroyed Afghanistan's terrorist training camps, saved a people from starvation, and freed a country from brutal oppression. (Applause.)

Entire Speech

What Reform Ohio Now Really Thinks About All of You...

2005-11-03T11:41:00.000-08:00

At least Ohio First has a television commercial that tells the truth and makes sense. It just goes to show that Reform Ohio Now thinks that Ohioans are a bunch of hayseeds. A goat as their spokesperson - what an insult.

These left-wingers have insulted me and the rest of the citizens of this great state. To think that we are too stupid to know what is best for us is the last straw. They want us to give up our rights so they can draw their own legislative districts, get rid of the secretary of state position, and appoint their friends to taxpayer-funded boards. Have we not seen what is going on at the Bureau of Workers' Compensation? Two more unaccountable boards in government are not what Ohio needs.

I encourage all voters to go to www.protectyourvote.org and see for yourself what is really at stake here. The truth is there in writing, and I am confident that most Ohioans will join me and vote "no" on Issues 2, 3, 4 and 5 on Election Day.

Why you should vote for Mark Tyler for Kirtland City Council

2005-10-29T18:13:00.000-07:00

***** Please note that this post is in no way related to Lake County GOP or any of its affiliates. The views expressed in the following are strictly that of the writer. *****

In my opinion there are many reasons that Mark Tyler is the best candidate for the job of City Council in Kirtland. Most may think I’d start somewhere around “he’s one of two incumbent candidates”; truth is that barely hits the radar in my opinion. It’s his dedication to community, and his willingness to do what it takes to get the job done that has this columnist’s attention. Mark has paved his own way to get everything in life that he has. Born at the Cleveland Clinic on August 15, 1957, he lived in Garfield Heights after birth. His family moved to Lyndhurst, where he was raised and met his wife, Sandy, of 25 years through a mutual friend at his alma-matter, Brush High School.
A resident of Kirtland since 1994, he has been an active member of the Kirtland Kiwanis for over 10 years and is currently serving on the Board of Directors and the Scholarship Committee. He is also a member of the Willoughby Rotary and is a Graduate of Leadership Lake County, Class of 2005. Also a supporter of the Kirtland Music Boosters and Kirtland Athletic Boosters, Mark and Sandy can be seen at most events in Kirtland supporting their city, with his hand on the pulse of his constituents. He has worked in Lake County for over two decades, first as an engineer in the Nuclear Engineering Department at The Perry Nuclear Power Plant and is currently Principal Engineer at the Lubrizol Corporation. His political career started after he became President of Kiwanis, which led to appointments to the City Charter Review Committee and Planning Advisory Committee for the Comprehensive Plan, and eventually being asked to run for city council.
In his last four years in his role of City Council At Large, Mark is the Council Parliamentarian and recently became a member of National Association of Parliamentarians after passing his entrance exam. In this role Mark is responsible for recommending proper procedural motions to comply with Roberts Rules of Order. He also took courses at CSU College of Urban affairs to better himself as a Councilman. The training included classes in Roles and Responsibilities, Council-Mayor relations, municipal finance, municipal law, media relations and ethics. He put his training to good use by working closely with Council and the Mayor to help secure necessary equipment for Kirtland Fire/Rescue to keep their citizens safe. These items included two new pumpers and a new ambulance. He also supported the purchase of three new snow plows for The Kirtland Service Department to keep the roadways clear, such as the newly expanded Route 306, in which he also played a pivotal role.
Councilman Tyler’s goals for the future of Kirtland are to continue work on the 306 sanitary sewer project. Kirtland has entered into an agreement with Lake County Sanitary Sewer District to install a sewer line down the Route 306 corridor to just past city hall (in the Temple View area). He would also like to start work on the Route 306/Route 6 intersection improvement project. This would include extended turning lanes and a new traffic signal. He is also an advocate of independent senior housing in Kirtland. Western Reserve Nursing home currently provides skilled nursing care, however other options such as an independent housing facility needs to be pursued. It is vital to the future of Kirtland that we explore the ideas set forth in Issue Eight. Rezoning of the Downtown area as a Historic Town Center would allow for a plethora of business opportunities. This would generate additional revenue which could provide upgrades in city services without increases in taxes. When elected for a second term, I have no doubt that Mark will continue to actively serve and remain committed to our community to ensure a bright future for the citizens of Kirtland, which is why he will undoubtedly have my vote come November 8.

America News & Views Podcast

2005-10-12T04:22:00.000-07:00

Be sure to subscribe to the America News & Views podcast hosted by Bob Murphy and Dale Fellows.

Visit the Lake GOP Podcast Page at www.lakegop.com/podcast.html to subscribe!

ODEO USERS: My Odeo Channel (odeo/faab2e36994e1ce2)

Distribution of Wealth

2005-10-05T07:30:00.000-07:00

A young woman was about to finish her first year of college.
Like so many other young people her age, she considered herself to be a liberal Democrat, and was very much in favor of the redistribution of wealth.

She was deeply ashamed that her father was a rather staunch Republican, a feeling she openly expressed to him. Based on the lectures that she had participated in at college, and the occasional chat with a very liberal professor, she felt that her father had for years harbored an evil, selfish desire to keep what he thought should be his.

One day she was challenging her father on his opposition to higher taxes on the rich and the addition of more government welfare programs. The self- professed objectivity proclaimed by her very liberal college professors had to be the truth and she indicated so to her father.

He responded by asking how she was doing in school.

Taken aback, she answered rather haughtily that she had a 4.0 GPA, and let him know that it was tough to maintain that high average, insisting that she was taking a very difficult course load and was constantly studying, which left her no time to go out and party like other young people she knew. She didn't even have time for a boyfriend, and didn't really have many college friends because she spent all her time studying.

Her father listened and then asked, "How is your friend Audrey doing?"

She replied, "Audrey is barely getting by. All she takes are easy classes, she never studies, and she barely has a 2.0 GPA. She is very popular on campus, college for her is a blast. She's always invited to all the parties, and lots of times she doesn't even show up for classes because she's too hung over."

Her wise father asked his daughter, "Why don't you go to the Dean's office and ask him to deduct a 1.0 off your GPA and give it to your friend who only has a 2.0. That way you will both have a 3.0 GPA and certainly that would be a fair and equal distribution of GPA."

The daughter, visibly shocked by her father's suggestion, angrily fired back, "That wouldn't be fair! I have worked really hard for my grades! I've invested a lot of time, and a lot of hard work! Audrey has done next to nothing toward her degree. She has played while I have worked my tail off!"

The father slowly smiled, winked and said gently, "Welcome to the Republican Party."

have you seen www.protectyourvote.org? Stop RON now!

2005-09-26T21:30:00.000-07:00

This is posted from the website

http://protectyourvote.org

It is in regards to Reform Ohio Now and the reasons to vote NO on issues 2, 3, 4, &5. Please visit their website and check out the issues!

Also if you are interested in volunteering please contact Don at trivisonno@young-republican.com. We desperately need people to help make phone calls to Lake County Republicans!
Thanks in advance for your support!

<<<<< Begin transcript from protectyourvote.org >>>>>

Why Vote NO?

Argument Against Issue 2
First, the adoption of this amendment is likely to lead to a significant increase in cases of fraudulent voting in Ohio, as experienced in other states that have adopted similar proposals. The proposed amendment does not contain a reliable method to protect the integrity of votes cast early, nor does it provide adequate safeguards to ensure that only eligible and qualified voters would be able to use these procedures.

Second, this amendment is not necessary because Ohio law already contains generous absentee voting provisions. Currently, any Ohio voter with a legitimate reason for being absent on Election Day can obtain an absentee ballot. In fact, there are 16 reasons that allow absentee voting under current Ohio law, including: military service; health and physical disability issues; work related issues; being age 62 or older; or, simply that the voter expects to be absent from the county on Election Day for personal reasons.

Third, the proposed amendment does not ensure that every Ohioan will have the same opportunity to vote early. The amendment does not establish a statewide standard that must be followed for designation of times and locations for early voting. The rules governing early voting could vary widely from county to county, because the amendment gives each county Board of Elections the discretion to designate the times and locations for early voting.

Argument Against Issue 3

The proposed amendment would change how Ohio political campaigns are funded to benefit the wealthy and labor unions, to the disadvantage of all other Ohioans.

The proposed amendment allows labor unions to funnel unlimited amounts of money into the political process through a new type of political organization that is deceptively labeled a “small donor” action committee. In addition, there would be no obligation placed on labor unions to provide full disclosure regarding the source of this money, that could even be given by non-Ohio sources.

The proposed amendment would give an unfair advantage to wealthy candidates because they would be permitted to use unlimited amounts of personal money in their campaigns. However, unlike Ohio’s current law, the proposed amendment would not permit an individual running against a wealthy opponent to raise additional campaign dollars to make the election competitive.

The proposed amendment would also place drastic restrictions on the ability of all other Ohioans to raise money to combat the undue influence of the wealthy and labor unions in Ohio elections. These restrictions are designed to silence the voices of ordinary Ohioans in the elections process.

Argument Against Issue 4

First, the amendment would remove from the control of Ohio voters the power to establish districts for the Ohio General Assembly and the U.S. Congress, by abolishing the role of elected public officials in these important tasks. The proposed amendment would place this power in the hands of a new commission that is made up of 5 political appointees. Two of the commission members would be selected by judges and the others may be chosen by lot. The members of the commission would not be required to meet any minimum level of qualifications. Once appointed, the commissioners would serve for an indefinite period of time, and would never be accountable to Ohio voters.

Second, the proposed amendment would grant the commission virtually unlimited power to spend Ohio tax dollars, with essentially no control by Ohio voters or other state leaders. No other state commission has this extraordinary spending power.

Third, the proposed amendment would remove the current protection in the Ohio constitution that prevents the dilution of your vote. The proposed amendment would also delete from the Ohio Constitution the provisions designed to prevent “gerrymandering,” and would permit the creation of legislative districts that break up communities and neighborhoods.

Finally, the proposed amendment would remove from the Ohio Constitution the authority of Ohio’s courts to review the commission’s activities. Therefore, unlike all other Ohio public officials, political subdivisions, boards, commissions, and agencies, Ohio citizens would have virtually no ability to challenge the actions of this elected commission in Ohio’s courts. The commission should not be uniquely unaccountable and placed above the law.

Argument Against Issue 5

First, the proposed amendment would effectively end the local control over Ohio elections that is currently exercised by our bipartisan county elections boards.

Second, the proposed amendment would create a new statewide elections board that would consist of members who are politically appointed for 9-year terms, and would never be accountable to Ohio voters.

Third, the proposed amendment would eliminate the role of Ohio’s Secretary of State in Ohio’s election system. The new statewide board of political appointees would replace our elected Secretary of State. The proponents of this amendment clearly distrust the ability of Ohio voters to choose a public official to be in charge of Ohio’s election system.

Fourth, the proposed amendment would essentially give the appointed elections board a “blank check” to spend any and all tax dollars that it desires. The proposed amendment does not explain why it is necessary to give this group of political appointees the power to spend unlimited amounts of tax dollars, without being accountable to Ohio voters or elected Ohio public officials.

Paid for by Ohio First Voter Education Fund. J. Matthew Yuskewich, Treasurer. 88 East Broad, Suite 1320 . Columbus , OH 43215 .

"Reform" Issues - Don't Be Fooled!

2005-09-26T05:19:00.000-07:00

Don`t be fooled by the liberal special interest groups!

On Nov. 8, Ohioans will be asked to vote on four constitutional amendments being promoted as "reform." These are not reforms at all. State Issues 2, 3, 4 and 5 represent a deceptive effort by left-wing activists to rewrite Ohio`s constitution for their own partisan advantage.
It`s time to stand up and fight this stealth campaign to make Ohio`s elections less accountable. Issues 2, 3, 4 and 5 would:

Empower special interest groups by allowing them to contribute 10 times more money to the political process than individual voters (and keep those contributors secret!)

Create complicated, new legislative districts drawn by appointed bureaucrats who do not answer directly to the voters

Allow those appointed bureaucrats to spend unlimited tax dollars with no direct accountability

Give out-of-state millionaires the ability to spend their own personal fortunes to influence Ohio’s elections

And deliver the management of Ohio’s elections to a faceless board of political cronies who are appointed by politicians and judges.

Who`s behind this special interest power grab? Planned Parenthood, the Sierra Club, Stonewall Democrats, the Ohio Environmental Council, Common Cause and Citizens for a Progressive Ohio, to name a few - all groups that supported John Kerry in the last election.

So what can you do to STOP this partisan effort to hijack Ohio`s elections?

1. VOTE NO on Issues 2, 3, 4 and 5. Encourage fellow Republicans, like-minded Independents and discerning Democrats to VOTE NO as well. Our NO votes are the only thing standing between these liberal groups and their effort to dismantle the integrity of our elections.

2. VOLUNTEER. Sign up here, or contact your county Republican Party to ask how you can help. We need volunteers to distribute literature, make phone calls, go door to door, etc.

3. CONTRIBUTE. We need financial support to help in the campaign against these reckless amendments. Any amount is welcome. Make a secure contribution, or contact our headquarters at (614) 228-2481.

One of the liberal groups driving these amendments wrote on its website recently, “This is our chance to drive a stake into the heart of the Ohio GOP.” That statement alone reveals the true partisan agenda of this effort.

The time to act is now. Join the effort to defeat Issues 2, 3, 4 and 5.

Learn more at www.ohiogop.org

Freeway Walls

2005-09-23T19:03:00.000-07:00

As Rome burns the great walls of China go up!
Please someone tell me who is responsible for this
boondoggle of erecting those ugly walls adorning our
freeways? What a wonderfully creative way of wasting
money.
It costs 1.8 million dollars per mile to erect these
walls! Can you believe that! While our roads need
repaving, bridges need rebuilding they spend our tax
dollars on this project.
Someone told me that these walls are sound barriers.
What foolishness!! With today's laws governing the
noise coming out of vehicles they are far quieter than
years ago. Gone are the days with the big V8 and
glass-pack mufflers that would rattle the teeth out of
your head. Even motorcycles are muffled, some so
quiet you don't even know they are passing.
If you ever saw the original plans of what our
freeways and highways were suppose to look like you
would be amazed. They were suppose to be beautifully
landscaped with trees, bushes and flowers.
Besides the aesthetic beauty landscaping provides,
it is a sound barrier and also helps in curbing
pollution. Exhaust pollution is only one, the other
is the pollution generated by the wearing of tires and
the payment. Trees and plants provide a natural air
filter.
On top of all this is driver safety. One concern is
driver fatigue from looking at the same thing over and
over that can put you in a trance and make you drowsy.
Another danger is getting on and off the freeway.
The way these walls are erected it blocks your vision.
I had more then one close call exiting the freeway by
E 222 in Euclid.
Northeast Ohio isn't the only area that has these
ugly walls. I have encountered them elsewhere. One
of the joys of traveling is looking at a city or
suburb as you pass through. Especially during
Christmas when houses are decorated like the one in
Wickliffe by the Lloyd Rd that you could easily see
from the freeway. And if you want to exit while
traveling you will now have to make a guess if the
neighborhood is safe.
Furthermore getting back to the noise issue, IF that
is the reason they were erected, as we move into more
alternative forms of fuel and electric run vehicles
they will be even quieter.
This is just a complete waste of money that doesn't
even include the price tag to maintain these ugly
walls.
I just wish I knew who to yell at because I would
love to scream as President Reagan did to Gorbachev
"TEAR DOWN THOSE WALLS". Well Ohio please - tear
down those walls!! or at least STOP building new ones!

Carey Masci

SAlvation Army

2005-09-23T16:27:00.000-07:00

Below is the national total for Hurricane Katrina donations to date,
along
with the most current national statistics available.

Today's donation total = $110.5 Million

Statistics -
As of Sept. 18th:
ü 1,395,411 hot meals served through Sept. 18th
ü 2,651,226 food items served (meals, sandwiches, snacks, food
boxes)
ü 6,522 officers and employees have worked full-time on Katrina
assistance
ü 60,000 SATERN inquiries seeking assistance to locate survivors;
8,400
found.

Many Blessings!

Major Thomas L. Hinzman
Commanding Officer & Lake County Area Coordinator

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

THE SALVATION ARMY
Northeast Ohio Division
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

440-354-3774 (Office)
440- 221-5988 (Cell)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

69 Pearl Street
Painesville, Ohio 44077

Grassroots conservative, my eye!

2005-09-13T09:03:00.000-07:00

Press Release - For immediate Release

Grassroots conservative, my eye!

Ohio Ken Blackwell has been purporting himself as the fiscally conservative, grassroots, outsider candidate throughout the current campaign for the Ohio Governors seat. He does a pretty good job of making that pitch. So good, that even some of the more seasoned people in the media are duped by his efforts.

In a recent edition of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, it appears that one particular columnist had swallowed Blackwells propaganda hook, line and sinker when he all but declared Blackwell the winner of an election that is 8 months away.

Although a simple check of readily available facts exposes some unsettling truths about Blackwell.

Blackwell claims that he is fiscally conservative yet his campaign expense reports reveal that in the first half of this year he had spent $425.00 and $1,320.76 on two separate occasions for stays at the Cleveland Ritz-Carlton Hotel. Two nights at the Holiday Inn cost him $941.60. He spent $620.58 for a stay in Virginia and $1,099.12 for a stay at a Florida Resort.

Speaking of out-of-state hotel expenses leads us to another revelation. It appears that Blackwell has been spending quite a bit on airfare for a statewide campaign. His campaign report for just the first half of 2005 shows 22 separate expenses listed for airfare totaling $11,386.77 which includes one single expense of $3,990.56 to Ladd Air. In comparison, Montgomery shows 5 such expenses totaling $1,405.81 while Petro and Draganic show none.

Of the four republican gubernatorial candidates, Blackwell has raised the third most money, exceeding only Draganic, who is the true grassroots candidate in this race. In light of his financial shortcomings, Blackwell does seem to enjoy living large at the expense of others, which is not a trait that demonstrates grassroots and especially not one that we need in our next Governor.

What these facts state most prominently is that just because a candidate says he is a grassroots conservative, it doesnt make him so. Candidates like Blackwell prey on the apathy of voters, hoping that most will not dig for the truth. They go after what they think will appeal to the voters best, without regard for honesty and the greater good.

Most of all this is a matter of character and Blackwell, quite frankly, isnt showing much in that department.

Contact:

Pete Draganic for Governor

P.O. Box 31415

Independence, Ohio 44131

216-328-1351 ph

216-642-0700 fax

WHERE TO BUY YOUR USA-GAS

2005-09-13T08:53:00.000-07:00

WHERE TO BUY YOUR USA-GAS

WHERE TO BUY YOUR USA-GAS, THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW. READ
ON

Gas rationing in the 80's
worked even though we grumbled about it.

It might even be good for us!

The Saudis are boycotting American goods.

We should return the favor.

An interesting thought is to boycott their GAS.
Every time you fill up the car, you can avoid putting more money
into the coffers of Saudi Arabia.
Just buy from gas companies that don't import their oil from the
Saudis.

Nothing is more frustrating than the feeling that every
time I fill-up the tank, I am sending my money to people who are trying to kill
me, my family, and my friends.

I thought it might be interesting for you to know which oil
companies are the best to buy gas from and which major companies import Middle
Eastern oil.

These companies import Middle Eastern oil:
Shell............................ 205,742, 000 barrels
Chevron/Texaco......... 144,332,000 barrels
Exxon /Mobil............... 130,082,000 barrels
Marathon/Speedway... 117,740,000 barrels
Amoco............................62,231,000 barrels
If you do the math at $30/barrel, these imports amount to
over $18 BILLION! (oil is now $55-$60 a barrel)

Here are some large companies that
do not import Middle Eastern oil:

Citgo......................0 barrels
Sunoco...................0 barrels
Conoco..................0 barrels
Sinclair...............0 barrels
BP/Phillips............0 barrels
Hess.......................0 barrels
ARC0...................0 barrels

All of this information is available from the Department of
Energy
and each is required to state where they get their oil and how
much they are importing.

"Pop" culture and the libs on the left...

2005-09-09T17:53:00.000-07:00

Well, here goes. Certain unnamed people have trusted me to writing a story, and best I can tell they're either NUTS or I don't do that bad of a job. I’ve decided to jump on my proverbial soapbox. For those of you who know me, you know that one thing I love to do is complain, and vent… A LOT! Recently a friend and I had a fairly long dialog resulting from the following lyrics from System Of A Down, and their latest song “B.Y.O.B.” The refrain of the song repeats the following:

"Why don’t Presidents fight the war?
Why do they always send the poor?"

Next to the obvious statement “Last I checked people are signing up to fight for our rights”, I pointed out that those same “ poor who are going off to fight the war” are the reason these buffoons can spew their idiotic rhetoric in the first place. A few days had passed, and another situation was brought to my attention. This time Indra Nooyi, the CFO of Pepsico (yes, the makers of Pepsi, Frito-Lay, Tropicana, Quaker, and GatorAide) decided to take the following un-grateful stab at the country and it’s citizens, which last I checked included Indra. The following is a quote from one of her recent speeches.

"To begin, I’d like you to consider your hand. That’s right ... your hand. Other than the fact that mine desperately needs a manicure, it’s a pretty typical hand. But, what I want you to notice, in particular, is that the five fingers are not the same. One is short and thick, one tiny, and the other three are different as well. And yet, as in perhaps no other part of our bodies, the fingers work in harmony without us even thinking about them individually. Whether we attempt to grasp a dime on a slick, marble surface, a child’s arm as we cross the street, or a financial report, we don’t consciously say, “OK, move these fingers here, raise this one, turn this one under, now clamp together. Got it!” We just think about what we want to do and it happens. Our fingers – as different as they are – coexist to create a critically important whole. This unique way of looking at my hand was just one result of hot, summer evenings in my childhood home in Madras, India. My mother, sister, and I would sit at our kitchen table and – for lack of a better phrase – think big thoughts. One of those thoughts was this difference in our fingers and how, despite their differences, they worked together to create a wonderful tool.
As I grew up and started to study geography, I remember being told that the five fingers can be thought of as the five major continents: Europe, Asia, Africa, and North and South America. Now, let me issue a profound apology to both Australia and Antarctica. I bear neither of these continents any ill will. It’s just that we humans have only five fingers on each hand, so my analogy doesn’t work with seven continents. Clearly, the point of my story is more important that geographical accuracy!
First, let’s consider our little finger. Think of this finger as Africa. Africa is the little finger not because of Africa’s size, but because of its place on the world’s stage. From an economic standpoint, Africa has yet to catch up with her sister continents. And yet, when our little finger hurts, it affects the whole hand.
Our thumb is Asia: strong, powerful, and ready to assert herself as a major player on the world’s economic stage.
Our index, or pointer finger, is Europe. Europe is the cradle of democracy and pointed the way for western civilization and the laws we use in conducting global business.
The ring finger is South America, including Latin America. Is this appropriate, or what? The ring finger symbolizes love and commitment to another person. Both Latin and South America are hot, passionate, and filled with the sensuous beats of the mambo, samba, and tango: three dances that – if done right – can almost guarantee you and your partner will be buying furniture together.
This analogy of the five fingers as the five major continents leaves the long, middle finger for North America, and, in particular, The United States. As the longest of the fingers, it really stands out. The middle finger anchors every function that the hand performs and is the key to all of the fingers working together efficiently and effectively. This is a really good thing, and has given the U.S. a leg-up in global business since the end of World War I.
However, if used inappropriately –just like the U.S. itself -- the middle finger can convey a negative message and get us in trouble. You know what I’m talking about. In fact, I suspect you’re hoping that I’ll demonstrate what I mean. And trust me, I’m not looking for volunteers to model.
Discretion being the better part of valor ... I think I’ll pass.
What is most crucial to my analogy of the five fingers as the five major continents is that each of us in the U.S. – the long middle finger – must be careful that when we extend our arm in either a business or political sense, we take pains to assure we are giving a hand ... not the finger. Sometimes this is very difficult. Because the U.S. – the middle finger – sticks out so much, we can send the wrong message unintentionally.
Unfortunately, I think this is how the rest of the world looks at the U.S. right now. Not as part of the hand – giving strength and purpose to the rest of the fingers – but, instead, scratching our nose and sending a far different signal."

With these things being said, here is my question. Where, in the freest land in the world, do you get off making such statements, and then not leaving the country? Is it just me or does it seem like these people are coming to the Land Of The Free And The Home Of The Brave JUST to make a quick buck? What would happen to these people if they were to try similar in their home countries. Finally why are we, as Americans, supporting people like this, by supporting what they do, and the companies that they work for? My hope is that in reading this article you understand that we need to look at ourselves, and what we support. We need to be accountable for whose pockets we are putting money into, and the organizations that those people support. I welcome any and all ideas or comments on this article, and encourage you to look at what you support on a daily basis.

Who is our candidate?

2005-09-08T12:18:00.000-07:00

Who do we want for our candidate for Gov. ? Petro? Montgomery? Blackwell? Or are they all stained by the recent events in Columbus?