tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29340118829091693032024-03-13T05:09:30.255-06:00Gem State Tea PartyUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger90125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-54463788530740508362014-02-18T11:00:00.000-07:002014-02-18T14:00:01.499-07:00IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM NATURALIZED CITIZEN AND MEMBER OF GEM STATE TEA PARTY<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Tony —</b>
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My name is Tony. I was born in El Salvador.
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Now I live in Idaho and I am US citizen. I am very concerned about what direction this great country is moving. I see that politicians in Washington D.C. worry about their carriers more then they worry about American people. That is why I support and joined Tea Party Movement last year.
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Tea Party is regular people like you and me who are tired of big Brother who wants to tell us how we have to live our lives and what is good for us. We are tired of high taxes and corrupt government.
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There is a war. This war is between regular people and the political class. They hate us because they don't want to loose their power. That is why they demonize us and misinform country about us. They say that Tea Party people are racists and anarchists.
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But this is not true. I am Latino and I am very welcomed. People of all colors and races are welcome to join millions of American people who are tired of abuse of power of this government.
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Tea Party Movement is people who are conservatives and support US Constitution. We are not anarchist.
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We believe in self-reliance. We believe it is better to have an opportunity to grow and prosper instead of depending on the government. We are not against helping the poor and needy. We are compassionate people who love our neighbors.
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Big government is not the answer to all our financial problems. More jobs and more opportunities, free market is the answer to our financial problems.
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If someone wants to have more information and talk to me about Tea party please feel free to do this.
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To those who live in my great state of Idaho I want to tell that I endorse Russ Fulcher for Governor. He is great man, he will fight for us.
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-11323748667629759552013-12-11T09:00:00.000-07:002014-02-06T14:26:16.327-07:00The Billionaire Boys Club<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Darr Moon (Custer County, Idaho) —</b>
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Dear Patriots,
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The talk of a National Monument for Central Idaho's Boulder-White Clouds area is gaining newsprint space in our local rag, The Challis Messenger. Every Idahoan should take notice as the consequence of a National Monument will affect us all. The one sided debate needs to be met with serious challenge as the Monument agenda is more than preservationist ideology. The premise of my argument is that the power of the Presidency can over-ride the protections given the States by simply signing away State sovereignty with the stroke of a pen. The environmental/preservationists are providing cover for this diabolical plot to slice away more of Idaho in a permanent zone of economic isolation. The gambit is being sold as some economic boon via recreation, but the underlying thesis is for the rich and powerful to accumulate more while average Joe sinks to the bottom in an economic abyss. The truths we are to believe in according to the green revolution are merely examples of class warfare and economic bigotry that will send Idahoan to the poor house. Please read below and respond. I'm sending this to the Challis Messenger in hopes that it will be printed. I suggest you pick up paper and pen and do the same.
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In Liberty,<br />
Darr
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<center><b>The Billionaire Boys Club</b></center>
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The modest economic boost proponents of the Boulder-White Clouds National Monument predict is paltry comfort to those of us in Custer County who have seen what devastation has been wrought by the billionaire preservationist elite. The hypocrisy of this preservation movement has been wrapped around the fact that the Boulder-White Clouds hold vast wealth in metal resources that could bring prosperity to our county, state and nation. This fact has not gone unnoticed by preservationist who continue to stack their high tech alloy made Lear Jets in Sun Valley like you or I might stack cord wood. The whole notion that we should lock up Central Idaho is not new. It began with a large high grade discovery molybdenum in the White Clouds back in the 1970's. At the time I was interested in the discovery having a background in mining which subsequently lead me to seek a degree in Geological Engineering. The ASARCO geologists whom I knew intersected molybdenum 10 times greater in grade than which is currently being mined and milled at Thompson Creek. This discovery lead to a whirlwind effort to lock out the mining company by ushering in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. The economic benefit to this new national recreation area was touted while the lay to waste practice of strip mining vilified. Today Stanley is good example of what economic isolation under cover of environmental stewardship has brought. Only rich landowners with their cadre of imported handmaids enjoy the scenic vistas from their select high dollar perches. The rest pass through the valley for their two week annual wilderness experience, mostly within 50 yards of Highway 75, and then leave back to their mundane urban lifestyles. The once bustling town of recreational, mining and ranching interests is solely kept afloat by crafts fairs and hacky sack tournaments today. Even the once nationally touted 'Stanley Stomp' is but a memory of better days gone by.
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More devastating than the SNRA will be a National Monument, a Monument dedicated to the selfish interest of those born with silver spoons. The National Monument debate comes as its pending resource lockout will put Custer County on a continued course toward steadily harder economic times. The county's largest employer and tax payer, Thompson Creek Mining, is threatening to close its pit having been the most significant economic engine in our small community for over the last 30 plus years. A mining company detested by environmental groups but one that has continued to be our best hope for stable, high paying jobs and who has added quality of life to many. With the prospect of our historic mining boom days over, a boom supported by a natural abundance of rare and strategic metals, Custer County's economic future looks gloomy.
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It is more than economic prosperity at stake though. As hypocrisy reigns supreme in the halls of the politically connected every ounce of precious metal, every pound of rare and strategic metal locked away by this Monument will be mined in some foreign land where little regard for the environment is considered. The withdrawal of these metallic resources ranging from Antimony to Zinc in one of our nation's richest mineral reserves means further exploitation of the third world and Custer County's further isolation from economic sustainability. A bright future though for the Bourgeoisie who will enjoy their own private Idaho in their grandiose homes and shiny BMW's. Let there be no doubt, executive jets will still fly and land in our midst leaving many Idahoans owing their economic existence to polishing boots of the well to do, preparing their meals and putting down their beds.
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Little is likely to come from cries for Multiple Use, a now foreign term in federal land management policy or the calls for the feds to leave Idaho completely. The federally occupied territories of Idaho will continue to evolve away from anything Idaho and more to the special interests of those with power and money beyond our borders. Such is the trend in a world where the grit and determination of the individual, those who actually won the West, is lost to political activist where ends justify their means. A simple stroke of the Presidents pen will puts us all away, forgotten and soon erased from the historical landscape. No longer will the rights of the minority be protected from the misdirected ambitions of the majority in a land where our fathers once lived free.
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-61870315411749471322013-11-27T09:00:00.000-07:002013-11-27T12:17:17.799-07:00The Unaffordable Identity Theft Act<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Michael Bowman (Boise, Idaho) —</b>
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THE UNAFFORDABLE IDENTITY THEFT ACT. THE MANDATED PORTAL GIVING GOVERNMENT BUREAUCRATS AND THIEVES ACCESS TO ALL OF YOUR CONSTITUTIONALLY PROTECTED PRIVATE INFORMATION. HAPPILY BROUGHT TO YOU BY BARACK OBAMA AND THE NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC PARTY AND DUTIFULLY FUNDED WITH THE HELP OF THE RINO PARTY LED BY JOHN BOEHNER.
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George Orwell's book 1984 is about to be reality thirty years later than predicted. The saddest part is that many people who have been so conditioned to following laws even if they know them to be bad and wrong. As a man who has personally taken the time to read the whole act and who has followed all of the internal changes brought forth in it, I have decided that I cannot participate in something that so violates my constitutional rights.
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Our Fourth |Amendment states our rights as follows: The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized. Every person who enters this portal and complies with the demands of THEIR PERSONAL private information are having their fourth amendment rights violated.
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It has become crystal clear to me that I MUST decline to participate in this egregious violation of my rights. I might add these are also the rights of every lawful citizen in the USA who have not had their rights suspended by felony convictions. Anyone who has knowingly entered into this "portal of exposure" has also been tricked into violating their own rights of privacy.
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It has become crystal clear to me that our once three separate powers of the federal government, The Executive Branch, The Legislative Branch and The Judicial Branch who by design and constitutional adherence were meant to prevent a central federal authority from the violation of the the most precious and valuable right of the American citizen, the right of privacy when living in a lawful nature.
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Today we are seeing the merging of these once sacred and respected bodies into one that now demands full citizen control and access. It is clear by all of the actions thus far that we have little hope of relief in the present from this act of aggression upon the citizenry. What we are seeing today in our Federal Government is the result of too many years of apathy and appeasement on the part of the American voting citizen.
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The first solution is to be proactive in the 2014 primary season. You must raise up candidates from your peers, ones you know and trust. They must be knowledgeable in the Constitution, clearly support the Bill of Rights and they must be willing to serve you, not the party they run under. They must also not accept monies from corporate PACs who are buying their influence for future votes. PACs which are funded by individuals who reside within the legislative boundaries of the issue or candidate being addressed need to be the only ones allowed. We are a government of the people and not a government for the corporations. They must act themselves as your servant and legal representative in conducting your best interests in the function of government. "By The People, For The People and Of The People."
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The second solution is one that is little known and rarely practiced. It is called Juror Nullification. This is a simple solution that empowers any sitting jury to set aside and free a defendant of guilt by merely declaring the law unreasonable and thereby unenforceable. This type of verdict only renders the defendant in each case not guilty.
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If a significant number of cases are dealt with in this manner, it will a signal for a repeal of said legislation. Truth be told there are many laws on the books today that would not stand up to a true constitutional challenge. Jurors have autonomy in their rendering of verdicts and the trend of our legal system the collaborative decision making between a judge and attorneys for both sides of a case work out acceptable verdicts that in their views fit the case. Well it is not their views you are supposed to deliberate under. It is you sense of what is right, just and reasonable in the case and you then balance it with the law.
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We MUST become educated in this little known right and moreover DUTY of citizenship. This may well be best way to protect our constitutional rights of privacy. I am also posting a link to a video which will further explain Juror Nullification. A true citizen who holds strong to their freedoms must be educated and informed in order to be able to act within a position of empowerment.
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If this makes sense to you, then you belong with the Gem State Tea Party in Idaho or if you live outside of Idaho find a Tea Party operating under the same principles. Working together we CAN make change we can believe and create hope for our future..
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<center><iframe width="480" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/mxYUr6CNopQ?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></center>
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</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-45673954306055326072013-11-25T09:00:00.000-07:002013-11-27T12:24:28.356-07:00Response to the Boise Bond Failure<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by George Solverson (Boise, Idaho) —</b>
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<i>Boise tax payers survive another Bond initiative promoted by out of touch, tax and spend Mayor, Fire Chief, media, and the north end cabal.</i>
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Mayor Bieter was quoted saying he was disappointed by the failure of two recent Bond measures, but felt he was on the "right track" because his so called "Yes! Yes!" campaign convinced 16,000 like-minded residents to raise taxes on every property owner in Boise. Fortunately 9,000 engaged voters sent a message "Please! Please!" give us a break. Many residents generously supported a recent tax increase to keep teachers working and are still paying for the last foothills purchase scheme, but are now feeling tapped out. Taxpayers are working harder than ever make ends meet. They are experiencing high unemployment, suppressed wages/hours, increased insurance costs, and worries about the record demand for food stamps. Homeowners are under growing pressure to maintain a basic standard of living and survive continual rate increases for water, sewers, electricity and natural gas due to more government regulations and spending.
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Proponents of these Bonds displayed remarkable insensitivity and lack of situational social and political awareness regarding the economic security concerns of many residents. An average of $144.00 per year in tax increases might be tolerable for the campaign’s targeted northenders, but for many it adversely affects any of the following common living standard measures: four auto gas tank fill ups, four nights out on the town, two-month utility bill, vehicle license/emission test renewal, or a cherished donation to the local animal shelter. For me, it is a loss of over $3,000 dollars in the next 18 years toward my granddaughter’s college fund.
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What would make our Mayor and others think the most pressing issue facing the City of Boise right now is creating more parks and expanding the foothills fire protection district? The last time I checked, we have more wonderful parks and open space then we can take care of properly. How about showing some restraint in spending and figure out how to effectively protect and maintain the existing infrastructure and environment we enjoy before begging for more?
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Contrary to what Fire Chief Dennis Doan has implied, Boise will be able to maintain a highly capable and trained fire department. As a 36 year veteran firefighter, I am confident that Boise firefighters are the best no matter how fancy the training facility. I was troubled when the Fire Chief was quoted as saying that now that his door-to-door campaign to his neighbors in the northend failed, that he might have to engage in budget negations directly with other city departments like Parks and Arts. As a former Fire Chief, it sounds like it is time he performs the primary duty of a Chief: Fight for department staffing, maintenance and improvement needs within the prescribed city budget process. Also, a strategic thinking Fire Chief would save the default scare tactic warning about impacts on "response time" for the inevitable crunch that threatens most fire departments around the country: A need to raise taxes to pay for pension commitments and maintain current engine staffing levels.
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In addition to a new 6.8 million dollar fire training center, it is clear that other upgrades and replacement should be integrated into the regular budget process and decision making. We were told that Station 9 needs 1.2 million dollars in order to meet the latest suppression/sprinkler and alarm system fire code standard which is required by the city for new construction. I urge City Government officials to use some common sense and simple grant a code variance in the case of fire stations. Come on, surely a building occupied by team of professional firefighters meets and exceeds the intent of this fire code.
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The Mayor needs to demonstrate he represent all corners of the city and has learned from his costly Bond failures. He should abandon the trolley car spending mentally that apparently motivated voter to oust incumbent mayors from around Idaho this last election. The folks still upset with the Bond/rate increase failure are free to perform an act of civil disobedience and park their cars in the wrong direction on side of the streets in the northend. I am sure the City would accept a donation in the form of parking fine.
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Yes! Yes!, the new "No Panhandling Law" should apply to the City of Boise and not just the homeless.
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</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-49509730336949696062013-11-18T08:00:00.000-07:002013-11-18T08:00:03.571-07:00Common Core Recommendations<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Senator Steven Thayn (Gem County, Idaho) — </b>
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The primary concern I have with Common Core Standards and public education is that the state, local educators, and parents control the content of education. America has a long tradition of local control over education that must be protected.
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Common Core State Standards represents a potential threat to this local control. The level of this threat is, to me, unclear. However, I want to error on the side of caution. At the end of this paper, I offer several policy recommendations for your considerations. Before I give them, I feel it important to give background information concerning education.
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<center><b>Four Components of Education</b></center>
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Quality education requires four important components: the desire of students to learn, level of parental support, quality of the teacher, and funding levels.
<ol>
<li>Desire of students</li>
<li>Role of parents</li>
<li>Funding</li>
<li>Teachers</li>
</ol>
Two of these components require funding and two do not require funding. In the past, most of the focus has been on funding and teacher quality while little focus or effort has been allocated to the role of parents and students. One of the reasons that education costs have gone up with little improvement is because the role of students and parents do not react to budgets. They react to choice and control.
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More money, by itself, will not improve education. Policies need to be put in place that recognize the value of parents and the role of the student so as to make the investment of funds and teacher training effective.
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<center><b>Education Reform: Two Approaches</b></center>
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The first approach to education reform, the one that has been and is still being used, is systemic change or make an ideal system, and require the parents and students to adapt, the best they can, to the new system. This is a systems-based approach to reform. This is the reform that has been implemented in the Unites States for over 150 years, it is costly and doomed to fail because a systems-based reform largely ignores the role of parents and students.
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The second approach is to empower the students and parents with choices; then, let the choices of parents and students drive reform. The system has to adapt to the choices of the parents and students and teachers.
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Common Core could have elements of both system dependent upon how Common Core is implemented.
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The advantages of letting the choices of parents and students drive reform is that great improvements can take place without increasing funding.
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<center><b>Common Core: A Description</b></center>
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What are Common Core Standards? They are a set of standards that have been agreed upon by about 45 states that deal with two subjects: Language Arts and Math. Standards are a set of goals or objectives that lay out to teachers and others what a student should learn in grades k-12.
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The idea of standards is a good one. Standards can be seen in computers, automotive industry, etc. Measurement of length and weight are a set of standards. The two issues of concern is if the standards are good standard or not; and, if they are voluntary or not. A voluntary set of standards can be abandoned at any time; whereas, a set of compulsory standards cannot be abandoned without permission.
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<center><b>Primary Concern with Common Core</b></center>
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The primary concern with Common Core is if they will lead to the federalization of public education. State, local, and parental control must be maintained over public education. We do not want a local parent or teacher to get permission from Washington D. C. before they can change the curriculum.
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I am not making the case that this will happen. I am simply making the case that we do not want it to happen, and therefore, caution is in order.
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<center><b>Five Areas of Concern with Common Core</b></center>
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Most of the concerns with Common Core fall into five main areas:
<ol>
<li>Loss of local control</li>
<li>Protection of individual student data from federal access</li>
<li>The quality of the standards</li>
<li>How the standards will be taught or the content of the curriculum</li>
<li>Testing: Smarter Balance Assessment Consortium (SBAC)</li>
</ol>
I like to point out that if Common Core is defeated and abandoned, we will still have concerns in the same five areas. This means that I will not only address concerns in this essay; but, I will also suggest policies needed to be in place to maintain local and parental control, protect student data, discuss the quality of the standards, and empower parents to control curriculum choices.
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<center><b>Focus on Math Standards</b></center>
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Good math standards can be implemented well or poorly. To understand the recommendation that I am going to make on the math standards, I need to take some time to explain mathematics and how it is learned.
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In my research, I have looked at four different sources: Ray's New Arithmetic which was printed in the 1880s, a home school math curriculum, my experience in public schools over the last 40 years in math instruction, and Common Core Standards as they were explained to me by Ryan Kerby and Michelle Carney a BSU math professor who oversees Common Core issues.
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The enemies of math understanding are <b>abstractness</b> and <b>too many variables</b>. Numbers are abstractions. As adults, we tend to forget this fact. Ray's New Arithmetic worked very hard to make numbers concrete. It always used an object with a number until the student understood that numbers stood for an object.
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For example, "James had 1 apple, and his brother gave him 1 more: how many had he then?" 1 is always pared with an object.
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One should also note that it did not read 1 + 1 = 2 because that would be 5 variables instead of three. A mind cannot comprehend more than three variables. Once the numbers become concrete, then symbols like: +, -, or = can be used.
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The next step is to understand the use of zero and place value. 1 means something different in the number 1 than it does in the number 10 or 101. The next step is to gain fluency my memorizing or setting to memory the math tables (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division). I have found that those that struggle in math also struggle with the math tables.
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The use of story problems is key in order for a student to learn mathematics. The purpose of math is to describe the physical world. If story problems are not used, math cannot be understood.
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Public instruction of math, in my lifetime, relied heavily on doing the same type of equation over and over again.
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Home school textbooks tend to review every day, introduce a new concept, and have story problems.
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Ray's New Arithmetic always used story problems.<br />
Common Core uses story problems.
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My conclusion is that Common Core math standards are superior to what we have been doing in public school in my lifetime. This is not to say that Common Core standards are ideal. They suffer from one major fault. The language to describe the standards is difficult to understand. The practical problem with this is that Common Core standards tend to separate the parents from the child. This separation violates my basic assumption that parents are a key player in the learning of any child. It also does not acknowledge the fact that many parents understand math better than the elementary teacher.
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The second problem with Common Core math standards is that the way they are being introduced by different school districts. Common Core math, by the 7th grade, is one year ahead of what has been taught in Idaho schools. This means there must be a transition period between previous Idaho standards and Common Core. Some school districts are not making this transition and are trying to simply jump ahead one year. This is not fair for the teachers or the students.
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<center><b>SBAC Test</b></center>
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I need to spend a short time on the test that accompanies the Common Core. An assessment has been developed by about 25 states to test the Common Core standards in Math and Language Arts called the SBAC test. The standards, by themselves, represent little threat to local control; however, added to the test the concerns grow.
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The questions center around what is on the test and if Idaho has any leeway in creating and using test questions. Part of the SBAC test is hand graded which should increase cost and will require up to 8 hours for a student to take the test.
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<center><b>Recommandations</b></center>
<ol>
<li>Adopt the Common Core math standards
<li>Work in the coming years to change the wording so parents can understand them.</li>
<li>Only require the SBAC test be given to students beginning in the 7th grade. The SBAC requires high level of reading and may not be appropriate for younger students.</li>
<li>Give questions from the SBAC test, after they are released, to the younger grades so that the students have exposure to the questions.</li>
<li>Continue to use the Common Core language arts standards; however, discuss if they are the standards that Idaho wants.</li>
<li>Not participate in the SBAC language arts test.</li>
<li>Do not send the individual student data out of state to SBAC.</li>
<li>Review all data being collected by the Idaho State Department of Education with an eye to limiting this data collection.</li>
<li>Give more power to parents to control curriculum especially for elementary math and government class.</li>
</ol>
This paper represents the latest thinking I have had on the topic. I welcome comments and will adjust my ideas about Common Core as reasonable arguments are made.
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</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-39603992905294134272013-11-11T09:00:00.000-07:002013-11-11T16:02:20.035-07:00Official Press Release: Rep. Patterson Responds to Popkey Attack<div style="text-align: justify;">
<center><b>
<i>"I can't accept that this is the price of public service"</i>
</b></center><br />
(Boise). Following a vicious personal attack launched by columnist Dan Popkey and Ada County Sheriff Gary Raney in Sunday's Idaho Statesman, State Representative Mark Patterson issued a public statement this morning to challenge their innuendo and allegations regarding his personal history and character.
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"I stand before the people of Idaho, and the families of my legislative district to refute the character attack launched by Mr. Popkey and Sheriff Raney," Patterson began. "I am mortified and embarrassed that I must answer these sleazy allegations. My heart breaks for my wife and family. Yet I am also outraged that such nasty politics and abuse of power would be carried out in Idaho. We are better than this."
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<a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="http://gstp.org/documents/patterson_official_press_release.pdf" title="Official Press Release: Rep. Patterson Responds to Popkey Attack">Read the Full Press Release Here</a>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-35404500761333692532013-11-08T16:00:00.000-07:002013-11-08T16:21:41.316-07:00AN APOLOGY OR JUST ANOTHER ATTEMPT AT DEFLECTION? <div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Michael Bowman (Boise, Idaho) —</b>
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AN APOLOGY OR JUST ANOTHER ATTEMPT AT DEFLECTION? ONCE AGAIN, THE ATTEMPT TO SEPARATE THE TRUTH FROM "WE THE PEOPLE" AND FROM HIS ACTIONS AND MISDEEDS.
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Last night I watched as the President made a feeble attempt at being contrite and apologetic more about the launch debacle than his "misstatements" (I call them bold faced lies) about "If you like your health care insurance, you can keep it, PERIOD." He feebly tries to say his intent was not to harm American citizens. I say his presidency has done nothing but harm We The People, as well as diminishing the honor and respect of our nation across the globe.
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Mr President based on your previous statements of being appalled at the circumstances of a litany of issues, well more appropriately called scandals, you have stood before US and promised a full and detailed investigation of these matters and holding those involved accountable.
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Fast and Furious, this keeps rearing its ugly head yet today as more crimes are being directly tied to the weapons YOUR Justice Department put in the hands of blatant criminals, resulting in the murder of Randall Terry. Let's see you appointed your Attorney General Eric holder to investigate himself. Where is the ethics, integrity and honesty in that?
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Benghazi, four needless deaths that you and your then Secretary of State Hillary Clinton jointly and on multiple occasions boldly and confidently lied to Americans and to the whole world. You and your members of the executive branch have stonewalled, thwarted and at every turn done your utmost to delay and deny the facts of this matter. That is not what an average American would consider finding the facts about. You to this very day have not been forthcoming with the TRUTH.
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The IRS scandal, again you have not been truthful. The facts are coming out and you violated your oath of office, you violated the rights and trust of the American people in the use of an arm of OUR government to control, damage and thwart the ability of groups of American citizens who merely opposed you and your ideology. I would wager your ideology as it is with me is by far the greater factor. You are stonewalling and hindering the Congressional Investigation at every turn. Please explain to me how your actions are in compliance with your Oath of Office? Nixon may have suggested using the IRS, he never crossed that line, your sir cannot make the same claim.
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The NSA scandal, again you promised a complete and total investigation in this manner. Just like every other scandal you have created you have parsed words and gone on like nothing ever happened.
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All of these events and the lack of action are clear indicators that you are more than willing to say anything at the moment in order to dodge a bullet headed at you. This time your failure to be truthful is finally going to hit nearly every American in the spot that the hurt is immediate and the effect will be long lasting. You have chiseled away at our Unalienable rights and freedoms from day one. Your degree of success has been in these assaults have been aided by a press. A profession that once took great pride in keeping all of our elected officials both truthful and accountable to the citizens of this great nation. Based on your personal track record of following through and producing both honest and verifiable material facts to each and every one of these scandals, I find myself unable to believe any word that is uttered from your mouth. We The People will somehow survive the damage you have wrought upon this nation, the damage you have done to public trust may never recover.
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I believe your legacy is now etched in stone. "THE FUNDAMENTAL CHANGE THAT HARMED THE NATION." Join US at your local Tea Party and together let's restore this nation. ~Benghazi ~MLB
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-1694149873512261122013-11-06T09:00:00.000-07:002013-11-06T16:41:56.011-07:00Progressives are Socialists, Only Worse<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Ralph D. Perez (Idaho) —</b>
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Progressives are Socialists, only worse. Worse, because Progressives are Socialists with plausible deniability and therefore little or no accountability. Under a typical Socialist* system, the state nationalizes companies and or large segments of the private sector by taking a direct ownership position. They own it, they're responsible for it. Progressives accomplish this very same goal without taking ownership. They do this through legislation and regulation, but most importantly by using deception and deceit to clothe this wolf with the appearance of the sheep. They accomplish two things with this tactic.
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First, they avoid association with the colossal failures and mass murders of past socialist states and experiments, by calling themselves Progressives. A simple name change, progressivism instead of socialism, and their doctrine is somehow cleansed of all the death and destruction caused by their "collectivist" ideology. We need only look at the last century to see the fruits of their labor. Whether it be China's Mao Tse-tung, the Soviet Union's Joseph Stalin or even the National Socialist German Workers' Party, commonly known as the Nazi Party, under Adolf Hitler in Germany. These three Socialist/Collectivist espousing governments and leaders alone are responsible for the deaths of hundreds of millions of people, and the torture, incarceration and misery of hundreds of millions more. "The needs of the many out way the needs of the few" is how they justify their crimes. The very reason the president's spokesman Jay Carney, this week, showed indifference to the 15 million people currently losing their healthcare plans as "only 5%" of the population, while pointing out that 95% will benefit (even though that itself is also a lie). Ironic though, remember when they crammed this healthcare law down our throats and took over one sixth of the private sector economy? That was supposedly to help "only 10%" of the population or 30 million un-insured. Funny how "only" only matters when promoting progressivism.
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Second, and most devious, is they create the perfect scape goat. By having full control, but not "ownership" they can distract the public away from their own incompetence and deviance, by pointing to and laying blame on those who "own" the business or "run" the industry. Even though these captains of industry are nothing more than the equivalent of department heads working under the thumb of their master governmental appointees and regulators. We only have to look at the most glaring case in point; the Affordable Care Act/ Obamacare. Who is to blame for this disaster of a role out? President Obama says "I take full responsibility for fixing these problems as fast as possible". Notice, he doesn't take full responsibility for causing them in the first place. However, the best illustration of my point is his blatant lies to the American people in order to pass his legislation and to subsequently get fraudulently re-elected. "If you like your healthcare plan, you can keep your healthcare plan, PERIOD", "If you like your doctor, you can keep your doctor, PERIOD". Now that he is safely re-elected and the truth comes out that as many as 93 million Americans will, in fact, not be able to keep either, where does the blame lay? Not with the president. Not with the progressives. NO, the progressive talking heads and the president's own spokesman rush out and lay blame squarely at the feet of the insurance companies. Saying it is not the president or his policies that are cancelling your insurance, it is simply the insurance companies making, get this, "A BUSINESS DECISION". AND THE PROGRESSIVES HAVE NO CONTROL OVER THOSE BUSINESS DECISIONS, right? They make the healthcare plans illegal and the evil insurance companies make a business decision to NOT BREAK THE LAW. You see how this works? You put a gun to the head of someone's loved one and tell them to jump off a building or you will pull the trigger and then claim it was his/her decision to jump, you had nothing to do with it. Of course most of the ignorant witnesses didn't see you holding the gun, so maybe you can get away with it. Plus the guy/gal who jumped really wasn't that popular anyway, so who cares? This is just one example of this evil, progressive, liberal, socialist, DEMOCRAT ideology that has metastasized and currently runs deep throughout every vein in our government.
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There is NO "fixing" these people or their policies. The progressive leaders are the very enemy within that our founding fathers warned us against, they will never give up until they are victorious or destroyed. The masses who follow and support them are simply ignorant, "useful idiots". As many have referred to them over the decades, all around the world. This includes most of the Liberal media, the supposed "watchdogs" of our Republic. No, this ideology must be removed, destroyed, cut out like the cancer it is, and banned from the halls of governance once and for all. Americans should take the very same approach to Progressivism/Socialism/Communism as the left has taken with religion. We need a new doctrine, I call it "THE SEPARATION OF SOCIALISMS AND STATE". This doctrine has no more place in a free society then does Shari Law, for the outcome for individual liberty is exactly the same.
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What's to be done? The president is right about one thing. If you want to undo what he and his ilk have done, we must win elections. In my opinion, that means stop pussy footing around with these socialists. Call them to account for their ideology and call them what they are, socialists. DO IT OUT LOUD, INTENTIONALLY AND IN EVERY PUBLIC FORUM POSSIBLE. Stop giving them the benefit of the doubt regarding their true intentions. We all know damn well what they are doing and where it ends. They can call anybody who disagrees with them RACISTS, but we can't use the S word? That my fellow Americans is unilateral disarmament and exactly what they are and have counted on. Progressives are Socialists only worse and progressives control the Democrat Party. It is time to have the courage to call it like it is and call them what they are, to remind Americans of their unique individual rights and liberties and to show them the positive message imbedded in their constitution. It is time to re-instill pride in what it means to be an American. The greatest country this world has ever known.
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Here is one more small thing that is a personal pet peeve. Every time you hear a politician use the term "democracy" or "our democracy", when describing our form of government, you have an obligation as an American patriot to correct them, immediately. The United States is a Republic, not a democracy. A republic is a state that does not practice direct democracy, but rather has a government indirectly controlled by the people. When you boil all this down, this is what it comes to. Pure democracy is evil. It forces the tyranny of the majority onto the minority, under the guise of "majority rules". This is the Progressive utopia. A Republic protects the rights and liberties of the individual and therefore the minority, under the "rule of law, not of man". Our constitution is that rule of law. The use of the term democracy, by progressives, is purposeful and meant to undermine the very principles of individualism and individual rights and liberties that stands in the way of their collectivist principles. Unless and until we embrace and restore these founding principles, codified in that most honored document, we will continue to die a withering death, as this cancer eats us from within until finally this great nation will no longer exists as the beckon of freedom it once was. I only hope there is still time to save her, to save all of us. May god bless the United States of America.
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Please like and share this post of you agree with this message. Thank you.
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* Socialism; an economic system characterized by social ownership of the means of production and co-operative management of the economy. "Social ownership" may refer to cooperative enterprises, common ownership, state ownership, citizen ownership of equity, or any combination of these. There are many varieties of socialism and there is no single definition encapsulating all of them. They differ in the type of social ownership they advocate, the degree to which they rely on markets or planning, how management is to be organized within productive institutions, and the role of the state in constructing socialism.
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-19166721901876825342013-11-04T17:00:00.000-07:002013-11-04T20:41:25.504-07:00OPPOSE THE BOISE BOND!<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Grandma Kate (Boise, Idaho) —</b>
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On Tuesday, Nov. 5, in Boise, a few major decisions will be made by the voters. Well, we would like to think that we are making the decisions. Folks who have been around the block a few times, however, and I am one of them, watch voters being hoodwinked, persuaded, sweet-talked, teased, cajoled, bribed and by whatever other means that can be thought of, to reach a decision that actually goes against common sense, patriotism, historical wisdom, consequences, and just plain eye-opening study.
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For example, group laws. America's laws have always been for the individual. Groups are not suitable for special laws because for one thing the groups change. They are many times unseen, artificial and voluntary. But the main reason is so simple: if laws protect the individual what other laws could be needed?
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The first group law in our country was the civil rights legislation in the 1960s. Until then the individual found protection within the necessary risks of human failure. I like picture language, so let's pretend that a special group has had a boundary set around it. Is it not immediately set apart? Has it not lost the possibility of merger and common goals with the others outside the boundary? I'm sure each of us falls into many groups, but the idea of fences, boundaries, and other barriers would play havoc with the American process. There are four nationalities mixed up in my genes and they get along together just fine in my American-ness.
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All of these musings are to make us think about the land that is encompassed in Boise's city limits. Our city government wants to buy ten million dollars' worth of outlying property. They want to buy it so strongly that we voters are being pushed into debt. If they succeed, the land will no longer be available for private purchase and perhaps not even for development and use for the folks who live in Boise and pay the bills. Oh, and the land will not bring in taxes as long as the city owns it.
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I like open societies, freedoms, history and the future. I like living in America (I've tried other places), and I don't like debt. So I must oppose the bonds issue, and I hope you'll join me in all those happinesses.
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</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-53174031653685573222013-10-31T09:00:00.000-06:002013-10-31T09:00:01.141-06:00My Daughter's Letter<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Jim Chmelik (Idaho County Commissioner) —</b>
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This was an essay my daughter wrote for The Daughters of the American Revolution essay contest. The rules did not allow any research and the essay had to written in two hours in the confines of the classroom. The participants were given the question and then started to write. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Sorry if there are any grammar or spelling mistakes; I converted it from a PDF file.
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Thank You,<br />
Jim Chmelik
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<hr>
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<center><b>
Our American Heritage and Our Responsibility for Preserving It<br />
Focus Question: How does one's personal heritage affect one's duties to our nation?
</b></center>
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As American citizens, living in a nation of peace and luxury, we often forget where we came from. We often forget the blood and sweat poured into this nation. We often forget that it was our ancestors who risked their necks for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. But this is where we come from and this is why we must preserve our American Heritage.
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America was founded on a belief, a belief of freedom and justice. Thousands of soldiers died for this freedom that millions now take for granted. It took tremendous amounts of courage to stand up to Europe, the superpower of the world at the time, so that we, today, would not be suppressed. Even after the Declaration of Independence it took years and years of struggling and hard work to make the United State the best! This is our heritage. This is what we believe in.
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As American citizens now, it is our duty to fight and believe in those same beliefs of our ancestors, for freedom, justice and pride. We hold these truths to be good. We believe that all men were created equal. We believe in the freedoms of speech, religion and the right to own private property. It is only by our Independence that we can live these freedoms. It was for these reasons why our ancestors died fighting. It is our personal responsibility to honor our heritage by fulfilling the legacy of our ancestors.
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Preserving our heritage involves a duty to our Nation. This duty includes building upon our successes and working towards excelsior. As a citizen it is important to participate first in our families, then communities and government. It is by creating a strong base that we can create a strong and prosperous nation. We must instill these qualities of virtue and patriotism so that we can defend these truths. Take up the responsibility to fulfill your duty for the sake of your ancestors.
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It is by knowing what we believe in, living our beliefs and educating our own family to live as patriots in America that we will preserve our freedom. Let us not forget where we came from. Let us not forget the lives lost for our freedom. Let us make our ancestors proud. So we hold our head high in this great nation, the land of the free and home of the brave. We stand in the light of those who came before us and build the future for our children to live as we have lived, only better. Remember our American heritage and fulfill the duty of preserving it.
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Sarah Chmelik
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-35478810406747472652013-10-30T17:00:00.000-06:002013-10-30T17:14:42.381-06:00WHO IS "GLITCH GIRL"?<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by <a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="http://parrishmiller.com" title="ParrishMiller.com">Parrish Miller</a> (Boise, Idaho) —</b>
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Have you heard of "Glitch Girl"? That is the name being given to the mysterious woman whose face graced the national obamacare website until just this week. Her identity remains unknown and the reason for her sudden departure remains a mystery. Learn more and see some of the latest memes at <a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="http://whoisglitchgirl.com" title="The obamacare "Glitch Girl" has become "the enigmatic Mona Lisa of health care." Who is she and why was she deleted?">WhoIsGlitchGirl.com</a>.
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<center><a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="http://whoisglitchgirl.com" title="The obamacare "Glitch Girl" has become "the enigmatic Mona Lisa of health care." Who is she and why was she deleted?"><img src="http://whoisglitchgirl.com/slider/img/glitch_girl_meme_10.jpg" border="0" alt="OBAMACARE ISN'T FREE? I BLAME "GLITCH GIRL"!" /></a></center>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-19732802143451999712013-10-30T09:00:00.000-06:002013-10-30T14:34:54.121-06:00MP² Goes to College<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Sen. Steven Thayn (Gem County, Idaho) —</b>
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Dear College Republicans and others;
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<center>
<b>This is a YouTube video introducing MP²</b>
<br />
<iframe width="480" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/JqM4ELvp2nc?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></center>
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We will be in the following locations in November to discuss the MP² project:
<ul>
<li>CDA on the 18th of November at the NIC SUB</li>
<li>Lewiston on the 19th site yet to be determined</li>
<li>Nampa on the 20th at the Nampa Civic center</li>
<li>Boise at BSU on the 21st in the SUB</li>
<li>Idaho Falls at University Place on the 22nd</li>
<li>Pocatello on the 23rd at the ISU SUB</li>
</ul>
All meetings will be at 7:00 pm except at ISU which will be at 4:00 pm.
<br /><br />
Senator Steven Thayn
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P.S. Here is an essay with the flavor of MP²
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<center><b>
Cause of Poverty<br />
By<br />
Senator Steven Thayn
</b></center>
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America spends hundreds of billions of dollars each year to address poverty. However, this spending is mostly ineffective, even counterproductive, because of the lack of understanding of the cause of poverty. The root cause of poverty is lack of production.
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Laborers that produce goods and services, which can be exchanged with their fellow laborer for goods and services, are not poor. The poor either do not produce or under-produce.
The key to addressing poverty is to increase productive capacity of the poor. Current government social programs focus on equal distribution of wealth rather than on a more equitable distribution of work.
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Poverty reduction requires access to natural resources, ability to work, and ability to accumulate or have access to capital. Natural resources + labor + capital = Prosperity This formula applies to nations and to individuals.
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America is doing the exact opposite. It has embraced:
<ul>
<li>entitlements that remove labor from the labor force</li>
<li>radical environmentalism which restrict access to natural resources</li>
<li>high taxes and deficit spending which destroy capital needed for economic growth</li>
</ul>
The current system of anti-poverty programs actually increases poverty while wasting billions of dollars of taxpayer funds and indebting the unborn to pay for imprudent poverty programs. It is time to transform entitlement programs.
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It is more accurate to say poverty programs cause poverty than it is to say poverty programs cure poverty. The focus must change to helping people become productive. The MP² Project explains how to make the transition from our current system to a productive system.
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-78667295939028518622013-10-29T09:00:00.000-06:002013-10-30T14:21:19.235-06:00A Letter to Boise's Mayor Bieter<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Tammie Casteel (Boise, Idaho) —</b>
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October 4, 2013
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Dear Mayor Bieter:
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I attended the Bond Proposal Open House on August 22nd and performed some online research pertaining to the portion of the Bond that will result in additional funding for a fire training facility. I also attended the council meeting on September 11th in which you and the City Council voted unanimously to place the Bond on the ballet in November. The portion of the bond that relates to the fire training facility was $16,900,000 Million dollars.
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My online research found that there was a major decision made by yourself and the City Council on November 27, 2012. This meeting was open to the public and was conducted at 12:00 noon on that particular date. You and the City Council agreed to implement Resolution R-401-12.
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I researched this Resolution online and found that it pertained to a Memorandum of Understanding between the City and the Boise Fire Fighters in which their Union contract was amended for changes made to implement the biweekly payroll system and changes to participation in the social security system.
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Apparently, from reading this memorandum from Kevin Borger dated November 27, 2012, it mentions that the firefighters for the City took place in some kind of vote that resulted in the "opting out" of social security.
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Article 3 of this contract also states that fire fighters will receive a 2.5% pay increase for the upcoming year.
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Article 4 discusses that a referendum was held by the fire fighters in which the fire fighters opting out of social security. The contract specifies that this was a "loss" of social security coverage. In essence, the fire fighters voted to accept this "loss" of social security benefits. I will like to point out that the loss of this benefit actually resulted in a pay raise to the fire fighters of 6.2% (the amount that is no longer required to be paid by fire fighters into social security).
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This is also a savings to the City as well. Because fire fighters no longer pay into social security, the City will not be required to pay a matching amount into social security.
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This is a huge saving to the City and my tax dollars. Back in December of 2011, the Idaho Reporter reported on statistics relating to fire fighters salaries for the City of Boise. It stated and I quote "Records show 31 firemen earned more then $100,000 in 2011, totaling $3.3 million in salary. Another 42 earned more then $90,000 in a collective 3.97 million. Again, a larger number of firefighters – 66 – earned more than $80,000 annually. In all, the fire department is slated to pay out $22 million in wages this year, with the average worker earning slightly less than $80,000."
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If we take the figures provided by the Idaho Reporter we have a cost savings to the city of $1,364,000 per year in Social Security Tax. ($22 million times 6.2%). That is a considerable amount of savings. The Idaho Reporter also stated that the average fire fighter in the State is paid $34,000 a year. Therefore, the City of Boise is substantially higher in salaries.
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However, the City apparently decided to give this savings back to the firefighters. The City, per article 4, states that in lieu of paying social security tax the City will pay up to 6.2% of the fire fighters wages into PERSI choice 401(k). I will like to point out that this resulted in a wage increase of an additional 6.2% as well.
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Additionally, the contract discusses the fact that the referendum also resulted in a few fire fighters being exempt from Medicare tax as well. The savings to the City would be 1.45% of those particular employees salary. Again, the City decided to give this savings back to those particular fire fighters. For those fire fighters that are no longer subject to Medicare tax the City has agreed to pay 1.45% of their salary into the Cities health insurance plan.
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Finally, the contract states that the City agreed to seek for refunds of social security and Medicare taxes for both the City and the employees. The City agreed to pay over all refunds to the employees. I would hope that this would only apply to the employee's share of Social Security and Medicare and not to the Cities share.
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I have discussed this matter with a tax professional and was told that there is nothing under the Internal Revenue Code that would require the employer to ever have to pay over their share of Social Security taxes to the employees if they filed for a refund. If the City paid their share of Social Security refunds to the employee it would have been done so voluntarily. Since nothing is mentioned in the contract that the employer was required to pay these refunds to the employees, I will assume that you and the city council voluntarily agreed to pay the Cities share to the employees.
<br /><br />
As a business owner and residence of the City of Boise I respectfully submit to you the following questions:
<ol>
<li>When was the decision made to give the employer share of the refund, plus interest, to the eligible firefighter voter?</li>
<li>Who was involved in making this decision?</li>
<li>What years did the City receive refunds of Social Security taxes on eligible firefighters?</li>
<li>How much was the actual refund amount that the City received for their share of Social Security and Medicare taxes from these refunds?</li>
<li>Were the Boise City taxpayers given information about the vote and the City's decision to voluntarily give its share of the refund, plus interest, to the eligible fire fighter voter?</li>
<li>How long is the City required to voluntarily contribute 6.2% into the PERSI choice 401(k) plan for eligible fire fighter voter?</li>
<li>Did the 2.5% pay increase as stated in the Union contract actually go through?</li>
</ol>
The eligible firefighter voters legally and voluntarily decided to "opt" out of Social Security. It was not a benefit that was taken from the fire fighters. In effect, if Boise City gave the eligible firefighter voters its share of the refund, plus interest, — whether in cash or as a contribution to a retirement plan — the firefighter received a sizable benefit that the City of Boise taxpayers may not be aware of. I ask the City of Boise to provide the details to this financial transaction by answering the above questions. You can either send your written response to my address in Boise or to my E-mail. Both are shown below.
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Respectfully,
<br />
Tammie Casteel
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-4119960093548358982013-10-28T09:00:00.000-06:002013-10-30T14:09:35.055-06:00Four Years and Counting<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Darr Moon (Custer County, Idaho) —</b>
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It has been a difficult four years for those of us who still believe in well-defined and constitutionally limited government. You'd think by now with all the stones thrown at the tea party that we'd just crawl under a rock and go away. That's what the media and the big government type hopes for, but I'm assured they haven't done the math. There are more of us than there are of them. Four years into the battle of ideals and we are now hardened warriors, not the naïve news junkies of past or the sit around coffee houses and complain types. We've been called "tea baggers", bigots, racists and homophobes by all sorts of political apparatchik but the smear campaign doesn't stick because the truth is apparent for all to see. And so the truth must be told and the white light of reason shone on the fear mongering incendiaries who cling to their big government ideology and their green bibles.
<br /><br />
It may seem that we are losing every battle, that the confines of government continue to press further, but the truth once again is that government is losing badly. The recent roll out of the ObamaCare website is only a minor example of government failure. Look under the hood and you will see that America is broke with nowhere to hide the burdensome debt now at $17 trillion, young people are unemployed and most people now are under employed. The number of actual unemployed is over 21 million. We live in a society where almost 48 million people are on food stamps and 1 in 5 go hungry and where electronic gadgetry has replace mom or dad in millions of broken homes. Do you think it is free enterprise tapping the life from all these souls?
<br /><br />
Now that everyone is talking about insurance coverage within our state health exchange, why haven't we had the conversation about rising medical costs? Could it be that we've been herded once again into a pen by fear mongers? Instead of breaking free our chains of government security and letting the entrepreneurial expertise of the free market lower medical bills as it naturally would, the drum beats for more government involvement sound. Put your trust in government and see the result. Failure after failure.
<br /><br />
The great Ponzi scheme is about up though. The youth of America will soon realize that without their diligent effort working a life time at menial jobs will this old and infirm establishment survive. In fact when they realize they've got to pay for the excess the progressive regimes have created, heads will roll. Occupy Wall Street will look like a Sunday picnic in MacArthur park. When those $100,000 student loans can't be paid back because the promise of good jobs is discovered to be just another con job by those firmly ensconced in lucrative ivory towers many will hang from lamp posts.
<br /><br />
The world of progressivism is dying and the world of free men is dawning. No amount of media hype or political rhetoric can hide that fact. It sad that the lean forward progressive movement steered by our many leaders over such a long time will cause such havoc, but then again, can you think of any collectivist society that hasn't eaten their own. The simple truth is for all to see and understand, but ignorance has trumped reality in these days of all about me. Just as gravity affects all mass, this bubble of inflated egos and over paid nitwits will burst. This is why we at the Custer County Tea Party have been at it for four years. Only by those who understand the principle of free men will our nation be free again. The task is immense so onward, onward, steadily onward soldiers, we've got a long way to go and many ignorant souls to turn.
<br /><br />
In Liberty,
<br /><br />
Darr Moon<br />
Custer County Tea Party, Born October 27, 2009
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-22696336135254537182013-10-24T09:00:00.000-06:002013-10-30T14:53:39.743-06:00Update on Idaho's State Exchange<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Rep. Janet Trujillo (Idaho Legislative District 33) —</b>
<br /><br />
On October 16, 2013 Frank Chan resigned from the Your Health Idaho board to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest. The same day the exchange awarded his company a no-bid contract worth up to $375,000. The story broke when associated press reporter John Miller posted his story Idaho insurance exchange official quits, gets deal. Chan's company, Boise-based Applied Computing, will serve as the exchange's information technology consultant.
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In the Associated Press story Amy Dowd, Your Health Idaho executive director, said she gave Chan the contract without advertising it under an "interim procurement policy." While the policy hasn't gotten final board approval, it now allows her to quickly sign contracts without seeking potential interest from other vendors."
<br /><br />
Members of the board commented the award of the contract was a surprise. Why is this such a surprise? Earlier this year Idaho's Legislature exempted the exchange from state procurement rules, allowing its leaders to largely set its own policies on deals with private vendors.
<br /><br />
The governor's office didn't sign off on the contract. "Our role was to accept Mr. Chan's resignation before a contract was offered," a governor spokesman said. Earlier this year, Chan was appointed by Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter to help oversee the Internet marketplace. Should the governor's office have objected to such a proposal?
<br /><br />
Amy Dowd has said. "Unfortunately, we don't have the luxury of time." I disagree with this statement. The Idaho State Exchange has allowed the Federal Exchange to take over exchange functions in order to have the time to get up and running. There is no need to award contracts without following the competitive bidding process.
<br /><br />
Monday evening prior to the Tuesday morning board meeting Frank Chan canceled his contract since it has faced a lot of criticism from many legislators (including myself) and the public. The debate over the contracts is sure to be a major discussion this coming session. Not only will the contracts be discussed but so will the fact that the exchange is allowed to raise fees without oversight. The exchange's management has already considered raising the fee it assesses on insurance purchases from the current 1.5 percent up to 2.6 percent within the next two years.
<br /><br />
My recommendations, the board should recuse Frank Chan's company from bidding during the competitive bidding process. The state exchange is operating under a "draft" procurement policy. The board must finalize this policy immediately. Due to poor decision making, many are calling for Amy Dowd to resign her position.
<br /><br />
Complete lack of accountability is one of the many reasons I chose to vote "NO" on implementation of the state exchange, the citizens deserve nothing less than transparency and confidence in government agencies including the exchange.
<br /><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-85075090131625601392013-10-22T09:00:00.000-06:002013-10-24T15:32:48.459-06:00$34 million Boise City Bond Vote<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Pat Felts (Idaho) —</b>
<br /><br />
Three open houses to inform Boise voters about the November bond election had a total of 63 attending.
<br /><br />
Recently the city council, with two members absent, unanimously voted to put the following on the ballot: $18.4 million for one of the main votes including 1) upgrade or replace four aging fire stations 2) build a new central fire training facility for Boise and surrounding communities on Joplin Road.
<br /><br />
Questions: 1) Can't the existing Intermountain Fire Agency be used? 2) Why not build a new center in a more accessible location, used and supported by all communities?
<br /><br />
The other main vote will include $15.5 million a) for more foothills open space, b) develop three new parks and add amenities to two existing ones.
<br /><br />
Questions: 1) Why aren't present foothills open spaces adequate? 2) What per cent of proposed open space will be acquired from private ownership? 3) Will the public be allowed to use the new acquisitions, at the cost of $10 million? 4) Why $5.5 million for parks when the 80 existing parks, in the yellow pages, plotted on a Boise map are fairly evenly distributed?
<br /><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-41676402153462844962013-10-18T09:00:00.000-06:002013-10-18T13:25:18.376-06:00Letter to the Boise School Board<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Katherine Frazier (Idaho) —</b>
<br /><br />
Dear Boise School Board Trustees,
<br /><br />
Common Core is intellectually unacceptable. This Common Core is the new name for an old idea, namely, centralized control of America's schools.
<br /><br />
It is intellectually unacceptable because it is an old idea dressed up to look new. Are American parents fooled by this deceit? I think not. Are educators fooled by this deceit? I think not, but they are willing to be courted by money.
<br /><br />
It is intellectually unacceptable because it was, in its present guise, designed by a motley crew that did not include educators—not even one mathematician—but did include another phony, Planned Parenthood.
<br /><br />
It is intellectually unacceptable because it was presented and even accepted in an unfinished form. In the South of America we had a name for that; buying a pig in a poke.
<br /><br />
It is intellectually unacceptable because the program, written by bureaucrats, is copyrighted. Exceptional students and exceptional teachers cannot escape its dreariness. My children were raised by educated parents who frequently brought out the Oxford Dictionary at the dinner table. How stifled they might have felt under the rule of Common Core. Inquiring children would probably risk becoming "common," floating on the current of mediocrity.
<br /><br />
It is intellectually unacceptable because it cannot—will not—employ the term "excellent."
<br /><br />
There are many other reasons that Common Core should have been rejected at its first reading, but the Boise School District trustees can halt this dreadful idea before it takes root and ruins the very institution they are committed to serve.
<br /><br />
Our schools can be noble, not common.
<br /><br />
Sincerely,<br />
Katherine Frazier
<br /><br />
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-69362752237161618512013-10-17T14:00:00.000-06:002013-10-18T13:18:11.798-06:00Who Should We Blame?<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Bill van Heukelom (Idaho) —</b>
<br /><br />
Enough of placing the blame and being angry at and on our Politicians. Let's put the blame where it belongs. We all know that the politicians do what they want until they are voted out of office. Wasting time on these individuals is really a waste of time and just gets your blood pressure up. Believe me it has no other cause.
<br /><br />
My request to you is to make an attempt to open the eyes of those who have been infatuated by our President and his brilliant speeches. My request is for you to address all democrats directly on the air and on all your other great shows. You and I know that the Conservatives and Republicans agree with you. The Democrats should be your target to be addressed. Help them to become aware how much they hurt their loved ones and neighbors by approving the Healthcare program.
<br /><br />
Let them know that it is for strictly selfish reasons without really knowing what they are doing. I am sure that you will be able to reason out what I am trying to ask you to do. At one time they called it being "Brainwashed." Why else are we being bombarded with speeches?
<br /><br />
Everyday a blurb here and there and maybe some programs dedicated to all those Democrats who care for their loved ones. Let's stop the rhetoric, name calling, blame and anger.
<br /><br />
Just a reminder that it is easier to attract and catch flies with honey then with vinegar. Focus on NBC and CNBC that they are to be held responsible for a lot of what is going on. Concentrate on these guys instead of those who you would like to agree with you. Please concentrate on all the businesses closing the doors. Please spend one show on all these companies and how many Democrats, Republicans and Conservatives will lose their jobs and will be forced to live on unemployment and food stamps. Please focus on our Independence and what made this country great. Independence and Freedom to choose what we believe to be good for us and not be forced to live under the pressure of becoming a criminal if we don't follow what we are being told to do. Just wondering why those in higher places can break the laws without being penalized.
<br /><br />
Thanks for considering and applying my suggestions.
<br /><br />
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-55150834093873566732013-10-17T09:00:00.000-06:002013-10-18T13:18:22.747-06:00Did you watch the debt debate?<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Glen Seamons (Idaho) —</b>
<br /><br />
Did you watch the debt debate? I watched most of it. It was awesome. Like a 2 week super bowl. My wife thinks I am crazy. But the reason I am getting in touch with you is I have a concept that I would like to share. There are Dems and Repubs alike saying that the repubs lost. I just don't see that. Mike Lee and Ted Cruz did a good job of fighting. But the end result looks a lot like surrender on both sides. More of a truce than a deal. We are basically right now where we started. So they fought the good fight. But without votes in the Senate they cannot get rid of Obamacare. So they called a truce……and talks will continue in committee. But nothing is going to change. So……take the fight to the people. Let's get them to launch campaign based on their efforts and how they tried so hard but the missing link is the conservative vote in the 2014 Senate race. We need to launch an all-out total media campaign to get conservatives to join the battle everywhere. We need to get with them and help organize this. I called Ted Cruz. His mail box is full. We have the house. We need the Senate and then Obamacare is gone. The thing is…..Obamacare is kicking in. Obama can no longer hide. The truth is coming out now. Obamacare sucks. So when we get the house and the senate then just remove the mandate. Make Obamacare stand on its own. Poof….It is gone!!!!! I don't have enough clout by myself to get anything done. Maybe you and your group have some pathway to access the people that can work on this. Please let me know what you think of my idea. Maybe they can get a delay in the next 3 months. I doubt it. We have to have people who will fight for freedom. We have to have the Senate. This is perfect time to attack the Senate. All they said was No,No,No!!!!! Let's get them!!!!!!!!
<br /><br />
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-2954862855106110702013-10-07T09:00:00.000-06:002013-10-07T14:49:22.434-06:00Idaho Land Board vs. Idaho Republican Platform<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Robert Forrey (Former Idaho State Legislator) —</b>
<br /><br />
<b>Land Board¹:</b> Challenge for the trustee (Land Board) is managing revenue-generating activities within a government agency. (Asset Plan² p. 3)<br />
<b>Platform³:</b> "A competitive market, free of undue governmental competition, restriction, coercion, or interference, is critical to Idaho's economic well-being." (p. 9)
<br /><br />
<b>Land Board:</b> Currently owns and manages eight parking lots and seven office-retail properties in downtown Boise. They plan to buy more commercial properties to include, but not be limited to, office, retail, and light industrial business, public facilities, hospitality, energy resources (wind, hydro, geothermal), communication sites, ski resorts, etc. (p. 23)<br />
<b>Platform:</b> "The proper role of government is to provide only those critical functions that cannot be performed by individuals or private organizations." (p. 1)
<br /><br />
<b>Land Board:</b> Change social and political attitudes and values, markets, and products. (p. 26)<br />
<b>Platform:</b> "We believe Idahoans must protect the principles and values that have made us strong." (p. 1)
<br /><br />
<b>Land Board:</b> Operating a profit oriented business within a government agency. (p. 26)<br />
<b>Land Board:</b> Add properties to the commercial portfolio. (p. 24)<br />
<b>Platform:</b> "We endorse the review of all government programs and encourage their assumption by private enterprise..." (p. 2)
<br /><br /><br />
1. <i>Members of the Idaho Land Board are: Governor Butch Otter, Attorney General Lawrence Wasden, Superintendent of Schools Tom Luna, Controller Brandon Woolf, and Secretary of State Ben Ysursa.</i>
<br /><br />
2. <i>Land Board quotes are taken from the Idaho State Board of Land Commissioners' <a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="http://www.idl.idaho.gov/am/amfiles/122011-AMP-final.pdf">State Trust Land Asset Management Plan</a>, Dec. 20, 2011.</i>
<br /><br />
3. <i>Platform quotes are taken from the <a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="http://gstp.org/documents/2012_idaho_gop_platform.pdf">2012 Idaho Republican Party Platform</a>.</i>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-50461069485031280532013-10-06T09:00:00.000-06:002013-10-07T13:47:12.795-06:00US Forest Service moves to seize more land!<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Sara Hall (Chairwoman, Boundary County Citizen Lands Alliance) —</b>
<br /><br />
Dear Friends,
<br /><br />
I highly suggest that everyone get themselves a copy of the Bonners Ferry Herald this week, as it contains a decision by the Forest Service to manage the Forest with less public access and more areas like wilderness. We have 60 days to comment as of September 27 when the announcement was evidently posted in the CDA Press and the Missoulian. The legal notice can be found on the Forest Planning web site. According to the forest planning website the objection period started September 28, the day after being posted. <a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5437877.pdf">Here</a> is a link to the pdf document containing the legal notice.
<br /><br />
Guidelines for objection process are found in the pdf document and also <a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/ipnf/landmanagement/planning/?cid=stelprdb5436783">here</a>. Also on the forest planning site, one may obtain the Revised Forest Plan documents. You have to scroll down <a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/main/ipnf/landmanagement/planning">this page</a> to find the links.
<br /><br />
Below you will find a very interesting notice that was forwarded to me by the Sanders Natural Resource Council. This email notice contains some valuable information and links. It is well worth the time to read. Evidently a couple of groups, the Blue Ribbon Council and the Americans for Responsible Access, are pooling resources to fight back with a lawsuit and by introducing bills into Congress to end what they call "de facto" wilderness areas being established by the US Forest Service. As the writers of the attached notice point out, only Congress has the authority to designate a wilderness area. It's obvious that the USFS has been ruling our lands by policy not law for decades, and we want it stopped. <a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="https://secure3.convio.net/arra/site/Advocacy?pagename=homepage&page=UserAction&id=525">Here</a> is a link to sign a petition to Raul Labrador in Idaho, or to whomever your representatives may be if you don't live in Idaho.
<br /><br />
There is also a <a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="https://secure3.convio.net/arra/site/Advocacy?pagename=homepage&page=UserAction&id=507">petition</a> to support legislation limiting these sue and settle lawsuits initiated by Big Green groups that are getting wealthy at our expense and imposing their radical ideas about conservation on the rest of us.
<br /><br />
Please feel free to forward this information to whomsoever you will. I will be putting together comments during the next few weeks. Please contact me if you'd like to meet or have ideas about the matter. I am sure open to discussion.
<br /><br />
<hr>
<br />
<b>Message from the BlueRibbon Coalition:</b>
<br /><br />
U.S. FOREST SERVICE CONTINUES UNLAWFUL "DE FACTO WILDERNESS" POLICY IN TWO MORE NATIONAL FORESTS!
<br /><br />
MILLIONS OF ACRES OF PREMIER RECREATION AT RISK IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUESTED!
<br /><br />
GREETINGS BRC ACTION ALERT SUBSCRIBERS,
<br /><br />
The Forest Service has just released the final drafts and draft Record of Decisions (RODs) for the Kootenai National Forest and the Idaho Panhandle National Forests.
<br /><br />
Normally, these Forest Plans are akin to a master zoning plan, outlining general management guidance for large geographic areas, leaving site specific decisions for a later time or for a local Ranger District. This makes sense, because in today's world the agency simply does not have the resources to render defensible site specific decisions at the Forest Plan stage.
<br /><br />
SPECIFICALLY, THE USFS IS CREATING "DE FACTO WILDERNESS."
<br /><br />
While the revised Plan decisions are generally programmatic, this Record of Decision also incorporates the following decisions:
<ul>
<li>RESTRICT MOTORIZED (85,800 ACRES) AND MECHANIZED (176,827 ACRES) USE IN MANAGEMENT AREAS ALLOCATED TO RECOMMENDED WILDERNESS AND RESEARCH NATURAL AREAS. This decision authorizes an accompanying closure order as per 36 CFR 261 Subpart B and aligns the allowed uses within the management area direction established in the revised Plan.</li>
<li>Restrict the use of hand-held motorized equipment in management areas allocated to recommended wilderness or primitive areas, except for administrative use. This decision authorizes an accompanying order as per 36 CFR 261 Subpart B and aligns the allowed uses within the management area direction established in the revised Plan.</li>
</ul>
You're probably saying, "THAT'S NOT LEGAL! ONLY CONGRESS CAN CREATE WILDERNESS!!"
<br /><br />
Well, just like <a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="http://youtu.be/nz20lu2AM2k">Emperor Palpatine in George Lucas "Star Wars" films</a>, the USFS wants to make it legal!
<br /><br />
BUT LIKE THE PLUCKY HERO REBELS IN STAR WARS, BRC AND THE IDAHO STATE SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION ARE FIGHTING BACK!
<br /><br />
Last year, BRC and ISSA joined forces in the courtroom to challenge the 2011 Clearwater National Forest Travel Plan and its rollout of the Northern Region Recommended Wilderness Area ("RWA") Policy. Under the Policy, RWAs will effectively be managed as formally designated Wilderness.
<br /><br />
Like a slow moving virus, this unlawful policy has now spread to the Idaho Panhandle and the Kootenai National Forests. The documents are now available on the <a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/main/ipnf/landmanagement/planning">IDAHO PANHANDLE NATIONAL FORESTS PLANNING WEB PAGE</a> and the <a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/kipz">KOOTENAI-IDAHO PANHANDLE ZONE FOREST PLAN REVISION WEBSITE</a>.
<br /><br />
Additional information, including maps, supporting documents, and how to participate in the objection process, can also be found on their website. The FS responses to your comments on the draft EIS and draft Forest Plan are in Appendix G of the FEIS.
<br /><br />
These draft decisions are subject to a pre-decisional administrative review process (objection process), pursuant to the 2012 Planning Rule (Subpart B of36 CFR 219). That "objection process" provides us an opportunity to challenge this flagrant disregard of the law.
<br /><br />
Now, we don't want to be "Pollyannaish" here. The "objection process" is like appealing to the King for something the Prince did wrong. The USFS has "gone rogue" as they say. The fact is, they really are intent on "making this legal."
<br /><br />
IN OTHER WORDS, WE'LL FILE A FORMAL OBJECTION, BUT WE AREN'T OPTIMISTIC THE USFS WILL CHANGE THEIR MIND.
<br /><br />
That means we're going to need your help fighting this in the courts and also on the political playing field. Toward that end, we have a important 3-STEP ACTION ITEM below.
<br /><br />
PLEASE FORWARD THIS TO YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY, AND PLEASE TAKE ACTION NOW!
<br /><br />
THANKS IN ADVANCE AND, AS ALWAYS, IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS, PLEASE CONTACT BRC.
<br /><br />
IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUESTED — HELP US STOP THIS UNLAWFUL POLICY
<br /><br />
BELOW IS ONE OF BRC'S FAMOUS, INSANELY EASY 3-STEP ACTION ITEMS.
<br /><br />
PLEASE TAKE ACTION TODAY!
<br /><br />
<b>ACTION ITEM 1:</b> - FORWARD THIS ALERT, LIKE OR SHARE THIS ON FACEBOOK.
<br /><br />
<b>ACTION ITEM 2:</b> - PLEASE SUPPORT OUR LAWSUIT AGAINST THIS OUTRAGEOUS "DE-FACTO WILDERNESS" POLICY.
<br /><br />
<b>ACTION ITEM 3:</b> - CONTACT CONGRESS IMMEDIATELY.
<br /><br />
Our National partners, <a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="http://arra-access.com">Americans for Responsible Recreational Access (ARRA)</a> have created one of their excellent <a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="https://secure3.convio.net/arra/site/Advocacy?pagename=homepage&page=UserAction&id=525">"click and send" action items</a>. This is the quickest and easiest way to send a message to Congress about what the USFS is doing.
<br /><br />
<i>The BlueRibbon Coalition is a national recreation group that champions responsible recreation, and encourages individual environmental stewardship. With members in all 50 states, BRC is focused on building enthusiast involvement with organizational efforts through membership, outreach, education, and collaboration among recreationists. Call 1-800-BlueRib or visit us online at <a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="http://sharetrails.org">www.sharetrails.org</a></i>
<br /><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-3525034190904292112013-10-04T09:00:00.000-06:002013-10-07T13:09:47.710-06:00Thoughts on Common Core<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Senator Steven Thayn (Gem County, Idaho) — </b>
<br /><br />
Dear Fellow Legislators and other interested parties:
<br /><br />
I am convinced that Idaho has some of the best educators in the nation. For the most part, they work hard and are very concerned about their students. I believe working together; Idaho can continue to improve the educational experience for our youth.
<br /><br />
Common Core is the most important education issue to come before the legislature for many years. Since, I have been active in education issues; I believe that I should share my thoughts with you on this issue.
<br /><br />
To begin, there are three different perspectives of what Common Core is. Tom Luna's view and the view of many educators is that Common Core is a voluntary set of benign standards that are superior to the standards currently in place.
<br /><br />
The second view of Common Core is that they are a step toward nationalization of the curriculum with the accompanying loss of local control. This view believes that Common Core standards are inferior standards, the testing process will lead to manipulation and control of the population and students will not be ready for college.
<br /><br />
The third view of Common Core is what Common Core actually becomes which will be determined by the actions that we take as legislators in the next session. What Common Core becomes will probably fall somewhere between these two extremes.
<br /><br />
In my discussion with interested parties, I have learned that there are six major areas of concern which both camps seem to agree on which are:
<ol>
<li>Parental, local, and state control over the education system is superior to federal control of education and the curriculum.</li>
<li>Protecting the individual student data from third party access such as the federal government, private corporations, and researchers is necessary. The reason is simple. Data can be used to manipulate, intimidate, or give or deny access to education and other services.</li>
<li>The nature of the standards is critical. Are the standards quality standards? Are they sequential?</li>
<li>The nature of the test. Does the test give more weight to process or to the correct answer? If the test gives more weight to the process, then this discriminates against students that were not trained in a specific system and would discriminate against home schooled students and public school students that don't think in the prescribed manner. Subjective answers give power to the graders of the test to favor one thought pattern over another. Finally, subjectively grading tests is more expensive.</li>
<li>Cost. What is the cost of the Common Core system? Where is the money coming from? To my knowledge, a cost analysis has not been done.</li>
<li>The content of the curriculum. This refers to what is taught to students that parents may disagree with, for example: American history, when sex education is taught, the role of global warming, exposure to homosexuality, and other controversial issues. Whose view of the world should be taught? Those of the parents or those of social elites? Common Core currently does not deal with many of these issues; however, they are still an ongoing concern.</li>
</ol>
<b>Perspective</b>
<br /><br />
One camp opposed to Common Core believes that Common Core should be repealed. I like to point out to them that if Common Core is repealed that all six problems still exist. There is still a threat of the nationalization of public education, data mining by the federal government will still be a problem, discussions on standards will still take place, testing is still an issue, cost is still and issue, and what is taught in school is still an issue.
<br /><br />
I believe there are issues that need to be addressed in all six areas. I have suggested several possible solutions. Some require legislation while others do not. Let's take each area one at a time and go over potential fixes.
<ol>
<li><b>Nationalization of the curriculum.</b> Few want the federal government to control curriculum. While this is not a threat this year or next, there is a real concern in the next 5, 10, or 20 years unless active steps are taken to protect Idaho from this threat – real or imagined.
<ol type="a">
<li>A solution would be to strengthen the power of parents in choosing the curriculum. It is contrary to federal law for the federal government to control the curriculum. Placing parents in a stronger position would be a good first step in this process. I have written a bill that allows parents to choose any curriculum for math in elementary school or any curriculum for government class. This means that the curriculum does not have to be approved by the feds, by the state, or by the local school board. The bill states that if 10 or fewer students desire the same alternative curriculum, the school district does not have to provide the instructor but must facilitate parents teaching the curriculum within the school. If 11 or more students desire an alternative curriculum, the school must provide the instruction. It could be a class within a class. The cost of the curriculum would be paid for by the parents and the students would need to take the same final test as the students that take the approved curriculum. Finally, strengthening the role of parents in choosing the curriculum creates a culture of parental control and involvement that would protect Idaho from many future federal actions.</li>
</ol>
<li><b>Data mining.</b> A bill needs to be written to address some of these concerns. I have not written such a bill; however, Senator Goedde indicated he was working on such a bill.</li>
<li><b>The nature of the standards.</b> This will be an ongoing discussion. I have some concerns with the Common Core math standards. In the first grade math standards, it says the first graders should be able to reason abstractly. This concerns me at several levels. First of all, most first graders do not reason abstractly. They reason concretely. In Ray's New Arithmetics, which was used over 130 years ago, great care is given to explain to the teacher when a child can reason abstractly and when a child cannot. One of the biggest clues concerns numbers. Rays Arithmetic always uses numbers with objects -- one apple, two birds etc. It never uses numbers by themselves because numbers are abstractions, until the child starts using numbers abstractly. For example, when talking about an object, instead of saying 2 birds, the child simply says 2. I am greatly concerned that educators have not raised this concern. My concern about the education establishment is that educators tend to follow the crowd rather than raise concerns that are not accepted by administrators or education experts. They tend to yield to peer-pressure rather than raise concerns. I do not know if this is because they are afraid of losing their job or they lack confidence in their own ideas or if they have been conditioned to go along.</li>
<ol type="a">
<li>I believe that Common Core Standards need to be compared with standards from high performing nations and states such as Massachusetts Language Art standards of several years ago or previous year's California math standards. Common Core standards will be in place for a couple of years even if we decide to change them; never-the-less, an ongoing discussion is needed to decide if Common Core standards are the standards we actually want to keep. The legislature has not debated this issue and it needs to be debated.</li>
<li>Math path – One of the concerns of those opposed to Common Core is that Common Core math standards do not support STEM careers; namely, Common Core only supports Algebra through high school. In order to correct this concern, I would suggest publishing a Math Path or the math classes that need to be taken by students beginning in the 7th grade in order to take calculus their senior year of high school. This is a simple solution.</li>
<li>Allowing the parents to choose the curriculum for math in elementary school would also address this problem.</li>
</ol>
<li><b>The nature of the Test.</b> I am so concerned about this issue that I would recommend delaying the beginning of the Smarter Balance test for a year to ascertain if this is the test that we want. Another option would be for legislators and concerned parents to take the test to see, for themselves, if they approve of the test or not. Maybe we should keep in place the ISAT for another year. At the very least, correct answers on a test must count more than the process. I would suggest that any test that gives a wrong score for the correct answer (because the process is lacking) while giving credit for the wrong answer if the process is correct should be prohibited within the state of Idaho.</li>
<li><b>Cost.</b> Superintendent Luna and other Common Core supporters need to tell the legislature what are the costs. This is simply a prudent question and area of discussion.</li>
<li><b>The nature of the curriculum.</b> Allowing the parents to begin to choose the curriculum in math in elementary school and government class is a good first step. In the future, if this concerns continues, parents may need to be able to choose the curriculum in other areas as well such as literature, science etc.</li>
</ol>
These thoughts are a summary of some of the major issues that I see with both Common Core and education in general. My hope is that they may be helpful in framing the discussion and addressing some very important issues.
<br /><br />
I spoke with Tom Luna about the issues raised in the paper. He agrees with most of the concerns and is supportive of many of the proposals. He pointed out that:
<ol>
<li>Common Core is, in his opinion, the floor and not the ceiling.</li>
<li>The ISAT test only tested through algebra; yet, students still took calculus.</li>
<li>The Smarter Balance assessment has a three year role out. Last year it was tested in 120 schools, this year students in all schools will take it, and next year will be the first year of full implementation. He indicated that the questions will be available to review.</li>
<li>Superintendent Luna would see if parents and legislators could take the test after the students took the test.</li>
<li>One last concern was the sexually explicit nature of some of the recommended literature. I requested that he contact the Smarter Balance test creators to see if passages from these books could be barred from tests in Idaho. If they can, then we have some control over the nature of the test. If they cannot be barred, then the test is of real concern.</li>
</ol>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-72983828291490844022013-10-03T09:00:00.000-06:002013-10-07T13:59:25.889-06:00A Necessary Rebuttal<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Jim Chmelik (Idaho County Commissioner) —</b>
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<i>NOTE: Rebuttal written in response to <a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="http://magicvalley.com/news/opinion/editorial/our-view-otter-s-land-plan-worth-a-look/article_041f72ae-d5c8-58f7-a1fe-86c9b84f7eb2.html">this editorial opinion</a>.</i>
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I agree with Governor Otter and his proposal to manage a swath of federal lands within the state of Idaho, however, this is where the agreement ends. The Governor has missed an historic opportunity to integrate a strategy of supporting state management of public lands and also the constitutional duty of the federal government to dispose of public lands within in each state; to join Utah in its struggle to lead this charge and bring us to an equal footing with the rest of our 39 sister states; and the opportunity to provide adequate funding for our children's education and leave a legacy for future generations.
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A recent article in Forbes Magazine clearly points out how a state like North Dakota stands in stark contrast to Utah and our other 10 western states.
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"In North Dakota, the federal government gave up almost all of its land holdings. North Dakota can innovate and utilize the state's natural resources while Utah is prevented from doing so."
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"Freeing once-federal land sparked North Dakota's economic growth. North Dakota was the fastest-growing state in 2012 with a GDP growth rate of 13.4 percent. No other state in 2012 saw double-digit GDP growth. North Dakota enjoyed an oil and energy boom from the lands given back to the state. During a time where jobs are a key issue in any political debate, access to the land previously owned by the feds provided the state with 18,000 new jobs."
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"Economic growth allowed North Dakota to collect more revenue from its oil and energy industry and use it for the betterment of its residents and communities. North Dakota saw an improvement of $1.4 billion to its infrastructure and school buildings and spending on education in the classroom exceeds the national average by $3,700 per pupil."
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Those who would argue we couldn't manage these lands are foregoing the opportunity cost as realized by North Dakota. Rather than having a meaningful discussion they use language like "meaningless showboating" and say "Millions of acres of now freely accessible public hunting, fishing and hiking grounds would be sold off or lent to the highest bidder."
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We all understand the need to preserve nature and the recreation that goes with it, and also our need to balance this with our need to have places to work and live. No one involved with the discussion concerning the Transfer of Public Lands has said they wish to stop the access we have come to enjoy concerning the opportunities our public lands provide.
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Under federal ownership we will always be subject to the fancies of Washington D.C., and the whims of the other 39 states. Under state management we might run the program however the feds will call the shots, (i.e. Idaho DEQ Vs. EPA). We in Idaho cannot intervene into Maryland's affairs, why are they allowed to interfere in Idaho's?
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Governor this is a question of Federalism Vs. Socialism, the idea of returning the government to a more local and accountable representation not a central bureaucracy 2700 mile away. Have you lost the passion for the fight; you caved into Obama Care and we are seeing the results. Governor your new campaign is to thin the threat I agree thin the threat of the federal government from the state of Idaho
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We get the government we tolerate.
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-33558756435212430302013-10-02T09:00:00.000-06:002013-10-07T14:10:25.465-06:00Boise land grab demonstrates need for significant reform<div style="text-align: justify;">
Have you noticed in the recent past that the borders of Boise City are reaching out, in all directions? At a recent City Council meeting, with two members absent, the remaining four voted to annex 97 parcels of land of varying sizes into the city.
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Most of the parcels were entirely surrounded by Boise City, which meant that the owners purchased it before the present borders were in place.
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Two couples came to protest the annexation. Both were annexed as planned. One protester, a lady, and her son who was dressed in his army camos had owned and improved their acreage for 25 years, with no request for city services.
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The 2013 Boise Bond issue will bring $10 million to the city's planners for the purchase of additional land toward the foothills. The land will then not be available for private purchase and normal taxes.
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Another development settling Boise borders and shrinking tax base, is the purchase of land and businesses by the Idaho Land Board. Add to that the recent Council-approved expansion of city property by Boise State University.
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Councilman Elaine Clegg voted against the BSU acquisition, commenting that it was not good stewardship of Boise's money.
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We citizens are going to be feeling the tax pinch. It all adds up to a bond issue that shows our need of more restraint.
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Regards,<br />
Chad Inman, President, <a target="_blank" onFocus="if(this.blur)this.blur()" href="http://teapartyboise.com">Tea Party Boise</a>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2934011882909169303.post-40427088093260441572013-10-01T09:00:00.000-06:002013-10-01T09:00:05.463-06:00The growing US Debt shows a lack of integrity <div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>GUEST POST by Michael Bowman (Boise, Idaho) —</b>
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WE THE PEOPLE ARE ULTIMATELY RESPONSIBLE AND CONGRESS HAS NO QUALMS ABOUT SADDLING US WITH MORE IRRESPONSIBLE DEBT, AFTER ALL WE KEEP ELECTING AND RE-ELECTING THEM TO LINE THEIR OWN POCKETS, SERVE THE NEEDS OF THE RICHEST IN OUR NATION ALL ON OUR DIME.
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It is time for ALL concerned, patriotic and freedom loving Americans to seriously look at what we have allowed to happen. The solution to our economic woes MUST begin with an acknowledgment of our part in this mess. We are reaping the results of well over 60 years of ignoring the underlying problems that that an unchecked governmental presence in our lives has created.
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We have allowed both Congress and the Executive Branch of Government to completely quit serving the needs of our nation. This was done while too many of us were too absorbed in living what we believed was Camelot, and somehow we also managed to deceive ourselves that is was perpetual and nothing we could do or not do could ever end it. These were merely thoughts of delusion.
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Our unchecked government has long since divorced itself from the needs of our nation, the fact that they were to have been elected as servants and their charge of duty was to be the best stewards of the monies of a free market society were providing them to spend. They have long since become intoxicated with the power they have taken from the hard labor of every honest American.
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The problem I see with where we are is less about the national debt and it is more about the total lack of integrity in those we have elected. Our apathy has allowed them to quit being our servants and they have nearly completed the transition from servant to master. We The People have also been making a transition too; we have gone from a free and self-reliant people, people of great pride and integrity to a people that can barely survive without the handout from the same people who are at an alarming rate confiscating our hard earned monies. Indeed many are now willing to grovel at their feet for a few morsels.
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If we as a nation are to survive we must take control of ourselves, we must exercise our God given duty of citizenship. We must stand up together and we MUST reclaim our freedom and independence. We must take the reins of government back into our hands. The only way this can be accomplished is by removing the whole cancer of this current government. Just like a battle with cancer in your body if we allow one living cancer cell to survive we will end back in the same predicament. There are a few good people now serving, however in order for US to make a complete and fresh start we must begin anew. We do not need any chance for corrupted ideas to survive. We The People can IF we are willing to come together and work both hard and intelligently can in a short time overcome the debts and challenges of survival of this great nation.
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Where do you stand? What are you willing to do? Is this great nation worth the fight for you? Is leaving a legacy of freedom bought with hard work and integrity or enslavement caused by apathy and no ambition and dependence the legacy you want for your children and grandchildren. The brave men and women of the WWII era rose up against insurmountable odds and defeated enemies that were after our freedom and wealth simultaneously on two separate continents. How can we do less?
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Join US as we work together to ensure both the freedom and survival of our nation. ~Benghazi ~MLB
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<a target="_blank" href="http://facebook.com/NationalVoteOutIncumbents">facebook.com/NationalVoteOutIncumbents</a>
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HERE IS WHAT 15 TRILLION DOLLARS IN ONE DOLLAR BILLS LOOKS LIKE IN COMPARISON. OUR CURRENT DEBT IS NEARLY 17 TRILLION.
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0