Thurston Opinions | Politics

Spokane’s Proposition 1 lacks common sense

2011-10-21T14:10:00.000-07:00

Application of any thought, and not necessarily intense critical thinking, exposes Envision Spokane’s Proposition 1 as a thinly-veiled attempt at democratic tyranny, radical environmentalism, union expansion, and anti-business laws.

There are a multitude of problems with the ballot measure. Thankfully, it only contains four distinct and separate issues. I’ll discuss them each and put aside our State’s Constitution which has a one subject rule (Article II, Section 19). If passed, this ballot measure will most likely be challenged and be found unconstitutional because of the one subject rule violation.

Part 1: Democratic Tyranny – Creates too much uncertainty

The Community Bill of Rights declares that the neighborhood majority must approve all zoning changes and gives them the ability to reject significant¹ development.

Washington State’s environmental laws are already some of the nations most stringent. Developers already have an arduous and expensive regulatory labyrinth to navigate. The development process currently involves a series of public notifications and hearings—and opportunity for public input. Under the existing state law, public concerns are already carefully considered during the permitting process.

This proposed change in Spokane, however, goes further. This proposal allows for a democratic tyranny—a mob-rules mentality. A neighborhood majority will have the ability to veto a developer’s plans. With this level of uncertainty, investment capital will find opportunities outside of the Spokane city limits.

Part 2: Radical Environmentalism – Assigning inalienable rights to rivers and aquifers

The radical environmentalists have had their say in part 2 of Proposition 1. The Community Bill of Rights asserts inalienable rights to the Spokane River and the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer. The inalienable rights—as the proposal says—are for the river and aquifer to “exist and flourish”.

If this proposal passes, any resident of the City will have standing and be able to sue on behalf of these natural features.

What does this mean? If your neighbor thinks when you wash your car, brush your teeth, or flush your toilet, that you are using too much water, then they can sue you on behalf of the river or aquifer.

This is a clever device to allow a few litigious radical environmentalists to force their conservation ideology on the rest of the citizenry. If conservation education isn’t enough, pass a law that allows you to sue people into submission.

This is a perfect example of creating rules under the banner of “protecting the environment” that don’t solve problems, rather use cleverly camouflaged tools to advance a social ideology.

Part 3: Union Expansion – Protectionism for Spokane

Faced with the need for massive state budget reform, Washington will have to look closely at our labor laws and begin to negotiate equitable salary and benefit packages for state union workers. And as the private sector continues to feel the impact of the economic recession, they will have to continue cutting costs as well.

The Community Bill of Rights proposes to give collective bargaining rights to all unionized workers in Spokane.

In these tough economic times, when unions should be negotiating in good faith, tilting the tables of labor negotiations towards the unions is a bad idea—for both the public and private sector.

There is also language in the proposal that offers to give constitutional protections to employees. People already possess constitutional protections for things like free speech, and search and seizure. It is unclear if the proposal intends to expand these rights, or assign things like state’s rights to the people of Spokane.

Part 4: Anti-business laws – Driving business out of town

The last part of the proposal desires to strip any business entity of all legal rights, privileges, powers or protection. In other words, businesses would be stripped bare, and exposed to all legal actions. There would be a new class of citizenry born in Spokane. We could call them the “litigious looters”. It would be the wild west version of wealth distribution. Anyone that desired to own the assets of a business could simply sue them and take everything.

Smart businessmen would immediately close their doors and move out of town.

This proposal is a paired down version of Envision Spokane’s 2009 measure that had 9 “rights” they were trying to assert. That ballot measure was defeated handily with over 75% opposing.

The authors of this ballot measure were able to gather enough signatures to get this proposal on the ballot. I’m presuming that many people that provided their signatures didn’t read or thoroughly understand the impacts of this proposal.

A final tips for voters in Spokane: 1. Read petitions and understand them before you sign them.

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Scaled-back Bill of Rights still packs in issues, The Spokesman-Review [click here]

¹ Significant Development is defined in the ballot measure as commercial development if it is 10,000 square feet or greater, and residential development if it is 20 units or more.

Thurston County regulations snare business owner

2011-10-21T14:04:00.000-07:00

Linda Reichel realized her life-long dream of owning a restaurant when she opened The Ranch Cafe 2 months ago. She needs to sell food—as well as coffee—so she can make enough money to keep her doors open.

Thurston County has been on the lookout for what they call “menu creep”—that’s when business owners like Linda increase their menu without Thurston County’s permission.

Now, Thurston County will not work with Linda and let her add menu items. She has already been forced to layoff her only employee and faces the real possibility of losing her business.

Linda Reichel Ranch Café owner

Commissioners top 10 worst policy choices

2011-10-17T13:59:00.000-07:00

The top 10 worst policy choices by Sandra Romero, Cathy Wolfe and Karen Valenzuela in their roles as Thurston County Commissioners. Thurston county is asking for public input on the top 7 wonders of Thurston County—we thought it would be good to announce out top 10 bad policy choices list.

Sandra Romero, Cathy Wolfe, Karen Valenzuela–bad policy choices

Thurston County Commissioners out of touch

2011-10-17T13:54:00.000-07:00

Thurston County, WA—There is a long and growing list of bad policy decisions the Thurston County Commissioners are making these days. I made a video blog with Glen Morgan where we highlighted the top ten worst policy choices, and you can view it here.

In these tough economic times, government should be working to prioritize government and getting their financial house in order—just as everyone employed outside of government is having to do.

I ran across a job posting that Thurston County advertised. It is for a Sustainability Specialist. I’ve read through the job description, and I’m still confused as to what this person will do—other than write a bunch of regulations.

Here is the job description for the Sustainability Specialist as advertised:

Performs a wide variety of complex and multi-faceted tasks associated with all phases of sustainability planning. Works with the Board of County Commissioners, the Energy Conservation Committee, and other stakeholders identified by the Board to meet conservation and sustainability objectives of the County. Drafts sustainability policies and programs for consideration by elected officials, advisory committees, and affected departments. Develops measures of effectiveness and monitoring regimens that enable the refinement of affected policies, programs, and projects to achieve the maximum desired sustainability benefit. Researches, analyzes, and communicates on resource conservation, principles of sustainability and related public policies. Evaluates and develops County regulations and policies, working with the public and elected officials on sustainability issues, and conducting research and providing detailed staff reports, planning studies,and recommendations. Designs and develops program’s short- and long-range goals, work plans and objectives with measurable performance standards and financial impacts and tracks program effectiveness. Develops and manages assigned program budget and approves expenditures. Researches and identifies grant opportunities in the areas of energy efficiency, clean technology and sustainability; interprets eligibility through grant resources or alternative funding. Acts as the grant administrator and liaison with the granting agency. Partners with organizations dedicated to green initiatives and energy/resource conservation. Works with County offices and departments on the development of County waste prevention measures and conservation contracts. Organizes training and educational seminars for County employees on energy reduction and sustainability activities. Reviews needs assessments and develops resolution to issues. Analyzes County energy efficiencies and identifies problems/issues, analyzes and evaluates deficiencies, and provides management with alternatives and recommended courses of action.

And what will this person earn? A salary of $4,305.00 - $5,740.00 / month. Not bad for a job that has no measurable performance other than how much you can harm the public with abusive regulation.

Here is a link to the job posting [archive].

Sequim dumps ICLEI

2011-10-05T13:51:00.000-07:00

The new generation of socialists are camouflaged as your friendly environmentalists and they have a new mantra that is taking over government called “sustainability”.
I’m not as much of a conspiracy theorist as I am a believer in bandwagons, and the new, shiny, left-leaning bandwagon is called the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives or ICLEI. ICLEI contains the tools that local governments use to hypnotize citizens into willingly giving up their every last right to use and enjoy their own property.
ICLEI provides tools, model legislation and best practices for implementing “sustainable development”. Scratch the surface of ICLEI and you find centralized planning concepts—designed to move people off rural lands and into densely populated urban cores where people are “encouraged” to walk (read: taxed if you drive) and live in small box-like condominiums.
But one sensible administrator has had enough. Sequim City Manager Steve Burkett has decided to let their ICLEI membership lapse. It expired in August. Steve has been the City Manager for two years and has been reigning in his City’s expenses in response to the economic recession. Steve said, “There wasn’t a good reason to continue the membership, so we let it lapse. In these tough economic times, we’re looking closely every expense and working to save money.
Whatever his reasons, my hat’s off to Steve for dumping ICLEI. This action means more citizen control of their local government. That’s a move in the right direction.
As of this blog post, Sequim is still listed on the ICLEI membership page. [ click here ]
Story from the Peninsula Daily News [ click here ]

Tumwater Man Asks Court to Halt Enforcement of Tumwater’s Ban on Political Signs

2011-10-05T13:49:00.000-07:00

BY: JESSICA BOWMAN, FREEDOM FOUNDATION
On Monday, Barney McClanahan asked a federal judge to order the City of Tumwater to stop removing free speech signs from along streets and sidewalks.
Tumwater business owner Barney McClanahan filed suit against the City of Tumwater earlier this year arguing that Tumwater violated his free speech rights by removing a political sign from his business property. McClanahan posted a sign for the campaign, “Stop Taking Our Property,” a movement against Thurston County property regulations, to show his support of the effort. “They stole my voice,” McClanahan said. City of Tumwater employees told McClanahan his sign was located in the public right-of-way, and therefore was in violation of the Tumwater Municipal Code.
The case against the City of Tumwater’s sign ordinance was originally filed in Thurston County Superior Court on August 11, 2011, and was later transferred to federal court.
The Motion for Preliminary Injunction requests that the judge temporarily order the City of Tumwater and its employees from enforcing the sign ordinance until the case is resolved.
“Our motion points out that there is substantial case law protecting free speech activity such as the sign that Barney McClanahan posted,“ said Michael Reitz, general counsel of the Freedom Foundation, who represents McClanahan. “The First Amendment provides expansive protection of speech about government activities. In our motion we argue that Tumwater cannot justify its restriction on speech.”
McClanahan’s Motion for Preliminary Injunction was supported by several former candidates who filed declarations testifying that Tumwater removed their campaign signs in local elections. Declarations were submitted by former Thurston County Commissioner candidate Pat Beehler, former Mayor of Tumwater and State House of Representatives candidate Justin Kover, and former Port of Olympia Commissioner candidate Will Stakelin.
The case is Barney McClanahan v. City of Tumwater, No. 3:11-cv-05623-RBL, United States District Court, Western District of Washington. The Motion for Preliminary Injunction is scheduled to be heard on October 28, 2011. The case is assigned to the Honorable Judge Ronald B. Leighton.

Diversity, Tolerance, Choice and Debate? -Chris Reykal (D) WA 22nd and Stew Henderson

2011-09-28T13:44:00.000-07:00

Fundamental beliefs in property rights cut across the political spectrum. People that may have different views on other issues can come together on property rights.

Glen Morgan, project manager of Stop Taking Our Property Thurston County, has been reaching out to every possible public meeting in Thurston County to engage and educate people on the issues of property rights here in Thurston County.

This past Sunday, He was at Sam Garst’s house who hosted a fundraiser for Denny Heck. He was at the Thurston County Democrat’s Central Committee meeting on Monday.

You would be surprised at what Sam Garst, Stew Henderson, and Representative Chris Reykdal (D) of the 22nd Legislative District said to Glen.

Stew Henderson, Chris Reykal (D) WA 22nd LD

Thurston County Commissioners backpedal

2011-09-22T13:37:00.000-07:00

Not too long ago, the Thurston County Commissioners were on a mission to save the Mazama Pocket Gopher—a species that the Federal Government had been trying to exterminate for over 50 years, and now the State says is threatened.

Citizens from around Thurston County—now educated by S.T.O.P Thurston County town halls—have been pouring out to Commissioner meetings asking them to remove the regulations. The Commissioners have dug in their heels and have propped themselves up by a small contingent of environmental radicals called GO (Government Only), and puffed-up science.

The Business Examiner reported on the Pocket Gopher situation a few days ago and it seems that the Commissioners are starting to backpedal. It looks like they are trying to shift the conversation from saving the pocket gopher to saving the prairies. Alas, the citizens wouldn’t give up their property rights for a gopher, maybe they will give up their rights for the prairies—which by the way, were made and maintained by humans.

Here is a quote from the Business Examiner article printed September 19th [link to article]:

“This is about the prairie itself,” Valenzuela said. “The word ‘gopher’ has been explosive — but it’s just a candidate for protected species. That’s the only connection between the gophers and the prairies.”

She isn’t worried about a building shutdown. She’s more excited about a recent $450,000 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service grant the county will use to create a regional habitat conservation plan for fragile ecosystems, including the prairie.

The final product, Valenzuela said, will circumvent development issues.

“Our goal is to ultimately create a plan that will take a big-picture approach toward managing impacts to sensitive species,” she said, “rather than putting the burden on each and every permit applicant to come up with a plan.”

With the grant, one of three awarded in the state, the county will work with the Washington Fish and Wildlife Service to establish permit regulations that will allow development — while protecting ecosystems and species.

“This will eventually result in a large, countywide habitat conservation plan so that individual landowners could be relieved of the burden of having to make changes,” Valenzuela said. “It will be more efficient. We think this is the better approach.”

Commissioner Cathy Wolfe agreed.

“We’re thrilled to get this grant,” she said. “It’s going to help the county respond to some of the requests we hear most often — (including) take a landscape approach to conservation, and make the process easier.”

Let me translate the Commissioner’s comments for you. It means that they have taxpayer’s money, they will waste it on hiring staff, and figure out new and creative ways to limit the use of your property.

Ken Berg, Manager at US Fish and Wildlife, was at a recent Thurston County Planning Commission meeting and he said that the new approach isn’t about saving species, it’s about taking property (managing habitiat). Most likely, the Commissioners are now going to be taking directions from Ken Berg since that’s where they have found their new funding source.

We’ll be keeping a close eye on this issue. Check back here to see our updates.

Sandra Romero, Cathy Wolfe, Karen Valenzuela: want to impose a FEE for public participation

2011-09-15T13:25:00.000-07:00

Cathy Wolfe, Sandra Romero, and Karen Valenzuela are proposing a FEE for public participation at hearings. Our research exposes that if this proposal passes, then the Commissioners—at their own discretion may impose a fee for ideas that the public may bring forward.

This is a bad idea because it discourages public participation and enables the Commissioners to decide who gets charged a fee. Presumably, if you agree with the Commissioners, then your participation will be free.

Cathy Wolfe voted for Innovative Techniques that was really a rural downzone

2011-09-15T13:14:00.000-07:00

In August of ‘07, Cathy Wolfe called in from England to phone in a vote that destroyed her public trust and evaporated any hope of ‘open and honest government’. After barely one day of unveiling an ordinance the Thurston County Commission voted to approve it.

It wasn’t just a housekeeping ordinance. No! This was one of the most sweeping land grabs in the history of Thurston County. It was slid through under the guise of ‘innovative techniques’ a title and method of downzoning cooked up between Craig Ottavelli and Cathy Wolfe.

What this ordinance does is it changes the way that density is calculated from a gross density calculation to a net density calculation. Basically you must subtract all of the critical areas from your parcel prior to making the density calculation. The Commissioners have no idea how many housing units they lost from the County with this ordinance, or if they did the weren’t telling the public about it.

I made serveral requests in the hours prior to the Commissioner’s vote asking them to have just one public hearing to voice testimony about the ordinance. They denied it and Cathy thought that the Commission had, “Met the technical definition of public process.”

Cathy was absent from this particular board meeting, and called in her vote from England, the very country our forefathers escaped so they could own land.

Cathy Wolfe voted for “innovative techniques”–which was really a downzone.

Sam Anderson, Executive Director of the Master Builders of King Snohomish Counties $700k Salary.

2010-08-19T17:11:00.000-07:00

Sam Anderson, the Executive Director of the Master Builders of King Snohomish Counties makes over $700k per year as reported below. Now to be fair, his base salary is only $279,826 so the other part comes in bonuses, incentives, benefits, deferred and other compensation. I'm not really sure what the difference is, although it kinda makes up a pretty monstrous salary pie. I wonder what benefit the members of the MBA of King Snohomish are getting for that? I could probably hire a team of people if someone would underwrite nearly $1million a year.

Yowza. Well, download the official Form 990.

Crazy prediction?

2010-01-17T07:46:00.000-08:00

Once in a while, I get a feeling. Sadly, most of the time I don't write them down and end up saying, "I told you so!" Well here it it:

I predict that Gregoire gets a Federal Judgeship and leaves her post as Governor, Rossi comes back and runs (3 times a charm), and Rob McKenna takes on Murray for the US Senate.

Call me crazy ... what are your thoughts?

Health Care Debate Speech

2009-11-24T15:35:00.001-08:00

Congressman Mike Rogers from Michigan’s 8th congressional district gives testimony against government run health care:

Bad News for Obama

2009-11-24T14:53:00.001-08:00

Obama has enjoyed the mainstream media unabashed fawning of his popularity, until today. I clicked on a story that MSN.com had on their home page written by Howard Fineman titled “Is Obama’s Star Dimming as US Stocks Drop”. It’s the first time that I’ve seen any real criticism towards Obama. Here is an exerpt:

I’m not sure the rest of the world sees the White House as “the place to be” any more. And that will have unsettling consequences for all of us. Obama’s role as the elegant, path-breaking, intercultural celebrity is not enough to reverse a steady erosion of our global dominance — especially not if he’s seen merely as a new hood ornament on an economic clunker.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34128987/ns/politics-white_house
Howard Fineman

You can also see how far his star has falled by checking out the Rasmussen Reports Daily Presidential Tracking Poll here:
http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/obama_administration/daily_presidential_tracking_poll

Complaint Filed against Karen Valenzuela (D)

2009-09-24T11:31:00.001-07:00

Thurston County Republican Party

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Thurston County Republican Party Chairman, Scott Roberts filed a Public Disclosure complaint against Karen Valenzuela (D) today and calls for her withdrawal from the Thurston County Commissioner’s race.

September 23, 2009, OLYMPIA, WA – Scott Roberts, Chairman of the Thurston County Republican Party filed a complaint today with the Washington State Public Disclosure Commission. Roberts alleges that Karen Valenzuela (D) has falsely represented herself as the incumbent seeking re-election.

Scott Roberts said, “Karen Valenzuela (D) has falsely represented herself as an elected incumbent by advertising a fundraiser for her re-election. The announcement appeared in The Olympian this past Sunday.

“The Sunday edition of The Olympian has a mammoth circulation of 39,000. And The Olympian claims 89,000 Sunday readers. Additionally, The Olympian’s website claims 345,000 unique monthly visitors. With this huge exposure of Valenzuela’s (D) false claim, there is no way to tell how many voters now believe that Karen Valenzuela (D) was previously elected as a commissioner.

“Certain words are protected under the Washington State law and regulated by the Public Disclosure Commission. One of those words is “re-elect”. When voters believe that candidates have previously been elected to the position, it gives that candidate a distinct advantage.

“I’m calling for Karen Valenzuela’s (D) withdrawal from the election because there is no way to ensure a level playing field and a fair election. There is no way to tell how many voters have been influenced by her false claim and now believe that she was previously elected as a commissioner, and there is no reasonable way to undo the damage.

Download the PDC complaint [click here]

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Technorati Tags: karen valenzuela,complaint,pdc,commissioner,thurston county

JT Wilcox Election Kickoff Event Exceeds Expectations

2009-09-11T18:59:00.003-07:00

For Immediate Release

JT Wilcox Election Kickoff Event Exceeds Expectations; Attendance over 100 and contributions near $13,000.

Roy, WA, September 11, 2009: The Committee to elect JT Wilcox State Representative held its first event Wednesday evening. The event was targeted towards Thurston County voters and drew a crowd of over 100 to the Museum at historic Wilcox Farms. The campaign raised approximately $13,000 during the two week Thurston County launch period.

Well-known area businessman Larry Schorno emceed the event, highlighting Wilcox’s history of accomplishment and service including his posts as CFO of Wilcox Farms, Chairman of the $100 million Got Milk campaign, lifelong membership in the Yelm Methodist Church and volunteer fireman. Former Thurston County Sheriff, Gary Edwards also appeared in support of the candidate.

Wilcox spoke to the enthusiastic hometown crowd expressing appreciation to the other members of the community who have been examples of service and voicing alarm about the local economy and over-regulation of small business and privately owned lands. Wilcox shared his concern that these factors plus the critical traffic bottlenecks make it very difficult for the economy of the district to recover properly.
Thurston County voters make up about 20% of the second district. The Wilcox campaign has scheduled a Pierce County Kickoff event for October 3rd.

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Technorati Tags: JT Wilcox,State Representative,2nd Legislative District,WA

Valenzuela, Beehler will face off

2009-08-19T11:46:00.001-07:00

Published August 19, 2009

Valenzuela, Beehler will face off
JOHN DODGE; The Olympian

Democratic incumbent Karen Valenzuela and Republican challenger Patrick Beehler are headed to the November general election in the Thurston County Commissioner District No. 3 race.

Valenzuela polled 44.5 percent of the 10,219 votes counted election night, followed by Beehler at 36.5 percent

The odd man out is Dan Venable, 57, a conservative Democratic hopeful, Thurston County native and environmental contractor with no previous political experience. He polled 18.6 percent of the vote.

The top two vote-getters earn a spot on the November general election ballot for a countywide race. Tuesday’s primary votes were limited to District 3, which encompasses western Thurston County, including west Olympia, Cooper Point and Tumwater.

“I’m looking forward to the general election race,” Valenzuela, 59, said. “We’re supported by completely different interest groups.”

Valenzuela predicted her environmental and growth management priorities will play well in the countywide race.

The former Tumwater city council member was appointed to the commission post in January 2009 by Gov. Chris Gregoire, filling the unexpired term of fellow Democrat Bob Macleod, who resigned for medical reasons.

She has spent the first eight months helping manage a major county budget crisis, clashing with Sheriff Dan Kimball over the Sheriff’s Office budget, and promoting county policies to preserve prairie lands, return Capitol Lake to a Deschutes River estuary and combat climate change.

Beehler, a 40-year resident of Thurston County, is a professional surveyor with a history of civic and business-minded activities, including work as a former chairman of the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce and as a 10-year member of the Thurston County Historic Commission.

In his first run for political office, Beehler, 64, has strong backing from the Olympia Master Builders and has been critical of Valenzuela’s handling of the county budget and rural land preservation tactics.

“I feel real good about it,” Beehler said of his second-place finish. “I look forward to campaigning in the rest of the county.”

Venable threw his support behind Beehler, saying the Republican challenger’s political positions are closely aligned with his.

“I think Valenzuela’s dealings with the sheriff’s department are out to lunch,” Venable said.

In the weeks leading up to the Tuesday primary vote, Beehler raised $24,238 and spent $18,502, according to state Public Disclosure Commission records. Valenzuela raised $22,306 and spent $13,280 while Venable raised $5,960 and spent $5,111.

The commission seat pays $105,276 a year and will be up for election again in 2010 for a four-year term.

John Dodge: 360-754-5444

jdodge@theolympian.com

Technorati Tags: pat beehler,thurston county,commissioner

Obama’s failed experiment

2009-08-07T03:09:00.001-07:00

The RNC releases an ad of Obama’s first 200 days calling it a failed experiment.

Technorati Tags: obama,president,failed experimnet,rnc,gop,republicans

Realtors snub Karen Valenzuela

2009-08-07T03:08:00.001-07:00

You may be wondering: “Who is missing from the Realtor’s endorsement?” Karen Valenzuela?

With a strong message of change, the Realtors endorsed both challengers to the County commission. An unusual move to be sure, but the message is clear: Not many are happy with the current board of commissioners and pretty much everyone wants a change.

The press release from Beehler’s and Venable’s campaign follows:

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pat Beehler can be reached at (360) 339-7923

Dan Venable can be reached at (360) 239-3828

Beehler and Venable receive co-endorsement from Thurston County Realtors

Olympia, WA, August 6, 2009 The Thurston County REALTORS® Association surprised two local candidates with the PRE-Primary joint endorsement in the special election for Thurston County Commissioner this week.

All three candidates were sent questionnaires, and invited for interviews by local REALTORS®. "Their questions were not only fair and reasonable, but also exactly the kinds of questions on voters minds all over the county", candidate Pat Beehler (R) said. "With over 700 members, the Thurston County REALTORS® is uniquely situated to talk to and hear from people all over Thurston County. It was great hearing from them, and I'm honored by their endorsement, and look forward to working with them."

Dan Venable (D) said "REALTORS® are tuned into the local economy, and a key part of Thurston County's small business engine, and must be commended for their commitment to political involvement. Candidates need to hear from the constituents, their organizations and associations - and the REALTORS® do a great job of interviewing candidates, and once elected keeping their elected officials informed. I'm very pleased with their endorsement."

"The pre-primary 'dual endorsement' speaks to the similarities between Beehler and Venable. Both have a business background, respect for property owners, and legitimate concerns about the management of the business of the County, "Mark Steves, President Thurston County REALTORS® observed.

"And, both Venable and Beehler have a more realistic approach to problem solving, and do not affiliate themselves with extreme agendas, nor offer wide and sweeping platforms unaffordable in today's economy," Steves concluded.

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Technorati Tags: karen valenzuela

Technorati Tags: pat beehler,dan venable,realtors,endorsement,thurston county,commissioner

Colleen Morse calls for Brian Baird’s Apology

2009-08-07T01:39:00.001-07:00

For Immediate Release

August 7, 2009

Media Contact: Colleen Morse

(360) 807-1983

Baird Should Apologize for Comments

Centralia, WA – In an article published in the Chronicle on August 6^th, Congressman Brian Baird is stated as saying that he is scrubbing his normal face-to-face town hall meetings with his constituents because of a “lynch-mob mentality” and in the Columbian he accused his political opponents of planning "an ambush" to disrupt his meetings, using methods Baird compared to Nazism. "What we're seeing right now is close to Brown Shirt tactics," Baird, D-Vancouver, said in a phone interview. "I mean that very seriously.".”

In response to this reckless smear, Lewis County Republican Party Chairwoman and Washington State Republican Party Treasurer, Colleen Morse issued the following request for a public apology to his constituents, as well as appeal to hold public meetings.

“Representative Baird, as a psychologist and former college professor, knows the importance of the words he uses. The reference to Nazism and the equating of his constituents to Brown Shirts is very offensive, not only to the brave veterans in our state who have fought in wars from Europe to Iraq and Afghanistan, but to all freedom-loving citizens who value their right to express their personal opinions about the actions being taken by their elected representatives – whether or not they agree with them.”

“Representative Baird’s has never been reluctant to stand before his constituents in the past. He prides himself on his record of town hall meetings all over the 3^rd Congressional District. Extremely vocal opposition to any position he has taken in the past has never prevented him from standing up at meetings, listening to what the voters in his district felt about his positions and giving his reasons for his vote.

“Hiding from his constituents now during this very crucial break, not being willing to listen to them – no matter the difference of opinion they may hold - and stating that he will take up town hall meetings in September, only leads me to one conclusion – Brian Baird is not in Washington, DC to represent us, but to do the bidding of the President and Nancy Pelosi. If he is not willing to meet with us, then he should seriously consider not running for the office again. Representative Baird should reconsider his decision and quickly set up and advertise meetings throughout his Congressional district before he returns to Washington, DC,” Mrs. Morse added.

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Technorati Tags: colleen morse,brian baird,health care,town hall meetings

Brian Baird cancels live town hall meetings

2009-08-06T18:06:00.001-07:00

For Immediate Release

Contact: Patrick Bell, www.wsrp.org

August 6, 2009

Paranoia Will Destroy Ya…
Brian Baird Sees Brown Shirts In His Sleep, And We’re Not Talking About UPS Delivery Men

“What we’re seeing right now is close to Brown Shirt tactics. I mean that very seriously.”
--Brian Baird, The Columbian, Aug. 6, 2009

“It’s hard to tell which is more ridiculous: 1) Brian Baird comparing opponents of government-run health care to Adolf Hitler’s Nazi stormtroopers, or 2) taking any of Brian Baird’s disingenuous double-talk on health care seriously, let alone very seriously.
--WSRP Chairman Luke Esser

Bellevue, WA -- Congressman Brian Baird announced in a story in The Columbian this morning that he will no longer hold live town hall meetings with his constituents because he feared “Brown Shirt tactics.” Interestingly, Baird is scheduled to be the keynote speaker tonight at the annual conference of the American Psychologists Association in Toronto, Canada. WSRP Chairman Luke Esser offered the following statement:
“Brian Baird may be terrified of speaking with his constituents during the August congressional recess, but he’s apparently not afraid of speaking at a conference of psychologists in Toronto, Canada. Baird is proving that he definitely has the courage to leave the country and speak to a group that won’t ask him why he’s racking up unprecedented levels of federal spending and deficits and voting for so many bills he hasn’t read. Tough questions and forthright comments are such a hassle, so thank goodness Brian Baird will be welcomed by such a friendly audience in a country with the type of government-run health care he and Nancy Pelosi are trying to recreate in America. Maybe while he’s there one of the psychologists in attendance can diagnose Baird and explain why he sees so many Nazi stormtroopers dancing in brown shirts in his dreams. We wish him a full and speedy recovery from his delusions.”

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Technorati Tags: brian baird,brown shirts,congress,town hall meetings

Jon Russell to hold town hall meetings on health care

2009-08-06T16:58:00.001-07:00

PRESS RELEASE
AUGUST 5th, 2009
http://www.jonrussell.us/
Campaign Phone: 360-624-4934

WASHOUGAL- 3rdDistrict Republican Candidate Jon Russell will be hosting four town hall meetings focusing primarily on the federal deficit and health care reform. Current Congressman Brian Baird has not scheduled any in-person town hall meetings to hear from constituents during the Congressional break.
“There appears to be a leadership void on national issues which will impact residents of Southwest Washington. I want to hear from the constituents of Washington’s 3rdCongressional District about issues and concerns they have with Congress and the direction of our country. Even if we do not agree on everything, it is important that I hear from them,” Russell Said.

Town halls have been scheduled for the following dates:

Clark County: August 22nd, 2009 2pm- Three Creeks Community Library 800 C-NE Tenney Rd. Vancouver, WA.
Cowlitz County: August 24th, 2009 7pm Cowlitz County Historical Museum (Community Room-Rear Entrance) 405 Allen Street, Kelso, WA.
Thurston County: August 25th 6pm-Tumwater Timberland Library 7023 New Market St SW, Tumwater, WA.
Lewis County: August 26thth, 2009 7pm- Kit Carson Restaurant (Meeting Room) 107 Interstate Ave. Chehalis, WA.

The public is encouraged to attend and participate. Federal issues not pertaining to the federal deficit and health care reform are also welcome. Future town hall meetings in Pacific, Wahkiakum & Skamania Counties are being scheduled for September.

Jon Russell is a Washougal City Councilman and owner of an urgent and family care clinic.

Technorati Tags: jon russell,congress,brian baird

David Castillo disgusted by Brian Baird’s recent comments

2009-08-06T16:51:00.001-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 6, 2009

BAIRD RUNNING SCARED

King of Town Halls refers to constituents as Nazis, ‘lynch-mob’

OLYMPIA, WA – Anyone who has met Brian Baird knows that the congressman prides himself on the number of Town Hall meetings he has held in Washington’s 3rd Congressional District. In fact, he has a page dedicated to these meetings on his Web site with no less than four links to it from the home page.

On the page Baird writes, “Each year, I hold as many public town meetings throughout the Third Congressional District as possible because I believe the concept of meeting face-to-face with elected officials is at the heart of our democracy. …There won't be any big speeches – just a lot of listening and a free exchange of ideas.” (Bold emphasis added.)

David Castillo, candidate for Congress, agrees with these sentiments but is perplexed as to why Baird refuses to face the public regarding his position on health care reform. Moreover, Castillo is astonished that a sitting congressman would have the gall to compare hard-working American citizens to Nazis, or a “lynch-mob,” as Baird did recently in local media.

“As an American with ancestors who faced real lynch-mobs, I am more than offended by his flippant use of that term. I am disgusted,” states Castillo.

As someone with extensive experience as a public servant, Castillo is amazed that an elected official with more than a decade in office would not have the foresight to see this coming, or furthermore, have such thin skin when it comes to strong public opposition.

“From bailouts for billionaires, to trillions of dollars in deficit spending placed on the backs of our children and grandchildren, to a disastrous Cap and Trade policy that will skyrocket our energy costs – Brian Baird has been a part of fundamentally changing our nation,” continues Castillo. “And now he doesn’t understand why most voters are upset that he also wants the federal government to take over their healthcare? Leadership involves making tough decisions and real leaders are never afraid to meet with those that may disagree with them.”

Castillo is a U.S. Navy veteran and former Deputy Assistant Secretary at the Department of Veterans Affairs – where he had a birds-eye view of government run health care.

“The government runs Medicare, Medicaid and the VA. If members of Congress who support a ‘public option’ were forced to utilize any of these systems, rather than their private insurance, they may quickly change their mind on what constitutes sound reform,” asserts Castillo.

Castillo currently works as a financial advisor with Edward Jones. He grew up in Centralia and currently resides in Olympia with his wife Callie and their three-year-old son.

# # #

Technorati Tags: david castillo,brian baird,congress

GOP leaders call for Baird’s apology

2009-08-06T16:44:00.001-07:00

For Immediate Release
August 6, 2009
Media Contact: Nansen Malin (360) 244-3294

Baird Should Apologize for Comment

Seaview, WA -- Congressman Brian Baird told The Columbian newspaper in an interview today that he feared doing face-to-face town hall meetings with his constituents because of a “lynch-mob mentality” and the potential for “Brown Shirt tactics.” In response to this reckless smear, Pacific County Republican Party Chairwoman and Republican 3rd Congressional District Co-Chair, Nansen Malin issued the following call for a prompt public apology:

“Brian Baird should be ashamed of himself. As an elected official and former college professor, he should know better than to paint constituents who disagree with him as violent mobs or Nazi thugs. His comments are irresponsible and he should apologize immediately.”

Brent Boger, Malin’s 3rd Congressional District Co-Chair and Clark County Republican State Committeeman comments, “Is there no limit to what Democrats will say about those who disagree with them? Brian Baird calls government health care opponents Brown Shirts and his leader, Nancy Pelosi, says they carry swastikas.”

Representative Baird’s reluctance to speak with the people he is supposed to represent is, frankly, a little puzzling. When he declared his support for the Iraq surge, he held several town halls, defending his stand to the angry crowds irate with the position he took. As polls show a growing and majority opposition to the Health Care Bill currently before Congress, Rep. Baird would be well advised to take time to listen to the voters of the 3rd Congressional District before returning to Washington DC to vote on such an important and far reaching bill.

“We should expect more from a sitting U.S. Congressman than to call names and disparage citizens in order to provide himself political cover for being unresponsive and out of touch.” Malin adds.

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Technorati Tags: brian baird,congress,brown shirts,nansen malin

Brian Baird in hot water over ‘Brown Shirts’ comment

2009-08-06T16:34:00.001-07:00

Brian Baird has rescheduled his public town meetings, and now wants to meet in secrecy on the phone. He is worried that opposition to Obama’s health care reform could turn out hundreds of angry constituents.

Town hall meetings are supposed to be a forum for debates, and at times you may even have to deal with someone that has a differing opinion.

Baird’s problems started when he called out his fears that there would be a ‘mob’ mentality and likened his opposition to the Nazi ‘brown shirts’. Has Brian Baird become disconnected with his constituents?

The Columbian- Baird calls constituents Brown Shirts http://www.columbian.com/article/20090806/NEWS02/708069952
The Olympian- Lynch Mob Mentality - http://www.theolympian.com/topstories/story/932112.html
NW Digest- Baird refusing to do face to face meetings… http://www.theolympian.com/topstories/story/932112.html
RedState- more on the Brown Shirts http://www.redstate.com/jrichardson/2009/08/06/dem-congressman-fears-ambush-by-brown-shirt/

Technorati Tags: brian baird,congress,brown shirts,mob,columbian,the olympian,redstate.com

Rob McKenna weighs in

2009-08-06T14:34:00.001-07:00

THURSTON COUNTY: McKenna weighs in on commissioner contest

THE OLYMPIAN BLOG

State Attorney General Rob McKenna endorsed fellow Republican Pat Beehler in the Thurston County commissioner race, echoing a similar endorsement by the Thurston County Republican Party.

Beehler, a Tumwater surveyor, is running against Democratic appointee Karen Valenzuela and Democrat Dan Venable for the District 3 seat, which represents the western third of the county.

Technorati Tags: pat beehler,thurston county,commissioner

Pat Beehler has a positive outlook

2009-08-05T09:44:00.000-07:00

This letter to the editor appeared in The Olympian August 5, 2009

I am writing to encourage voters of the 3rd District to support Pat Beehler’s candidacy as Thurston County Commissioner in the upcoming August primary.

It is obvious that the economic storm has reached the people of Thurston County at several levels: employment, services, public safety and recreation. But our county is uniquely positioned to weather this downturn and restore its viability with the right leader.

After speaking with Pat and the other candidates, Pat is the only candidate to have expressed a positive outlook for our county which aims to improve government efficiency and preserve the local citizens’ priorities. And given his professional background and public service, it is promising that Pat’s approach will be thorough, proactive and responsive. Now is a critical time for our county that calls for a leader to make sound judgements which reflect the voters’ needs. I want responsible solutions to the current issues challenging our public safety and economic development. I am voting for Pat Beehler.

CHAD SUTTER
Olympia

Learn more about Pat Beeler by visiting his website: http://www.patbeeler.com/

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Karen Valenzuela launches her smear campaign

2009-08-01T23:33:00.000-07:00

Postcards landed today that were authorized by Jim Lazar, and Walt Jorgensen. Their political action committee is called 'Citizens for Integrity in Government' and is set up solely to smear candidates that they don't like.

The postcard is a ho-hum message saying that local candidates are bought and held accountable to certain special interest groups such as the Realtors.

I have some news for these attack mongers: This is local politics, it's not Washington DC. We're talking about a few hundred dollars that these groups donate. Hardly enough to buy votes.

On the other hand, if Jim Lazar and Walt Jorgensen were wanting to disclose special interest donations, they would tell everyone the people that are 'buying' Karen Valenzuela's votes. Since they didn't, here you go:

Diane Parish, Black Rock Investment Manager $500 -- Interesting note: Diane Parish is from Sausalito CA, has donated to Howard Dean, John Kerry and Hillary Clinton's campaigns. What is a big donor from California doing contributing to a local candidate in Thurston County? Now that is odd.
Gail Sheikhizadeh, State Farm Insurance $500
Thurston Conservation Voters, a special interest group $500. This is yet another out-of-town group supporting Karen. They are from Seattle. What is Seattle's interest in our commissioner's race?
Mariella Cummings, Results Incorporated

Hey, and look at that. Jim Lazar shows up contributing money to Karen's campaign as well, er or is that buying votes Jim?

Here is Karen Valenzuela's complete donor list if you would like to see who has been "buying" her votes according to Jim Lazar's logic.

Jim Lazar is the significant other of City of Olympia's Karen Messmer. It's hard to believe that a city councilmember's household would be involved in such obscene smear campaigns. How's that for Integrity of Government? I would have thought a council member was just a little more upstanding. Not that I think you have to be married to have a solid relationship, but perhaps even Karen thinks Jim is too toxic to take on his last name, hmm??

If I was a donor to Karen's campaign, I would have second thoughts about getting too close. Perhaps I would be considered buying votes by Lazar. I wonder if her campaign is falling apart if at least one of her contributors is already having to resort to a smear campaign.

Sorry Karen, my vote is going to candidates that don't campaign from the gutter.

More about 'Integrity in Government'

Here is the contact information as reported:
CIT FOR INTEGRITY IN GOVT
Address:
PO BOX 1423
OLYMPIA WA 98507

Phone: 360-786-1822

We've Figured Him Out

2009-07-30T00:44:00.000-07:00

The American SpectatorJuly 24, 2009

By Ben Stein

Why is President Barack Obama in such a hurry to get his socialized medicine bill passed?

Because he and his cunning circle realize some basic truths:The American people in their unimaginable kindness and trust voted for a pig in a poke in 2008. They wanted so much to believe Barack Obama was somehow better and different from other ultra-leftists that they simply took him on faith.

They ignored his anti-white writings in his books. They ignored his quiet acceptance of hysterical anti-American diatribes by his minister, Jeremiah Wright.They ignored his refusal to explain years at a time of his life as a student. They ignored his ultra-left record as a "community organizer," Illinois state legislator, and Senator.

The American people ignored his total zero of an academic record as a student and teacher, his complete lack of scholarship when he was being touted as a scholar.Now, the American people are starting to wake up to the truth. Barack Obama is a super likeable super leftist, not a fan of this country, way, way too cozy with the terrorist leaders in the Middle East, way beyond naïveté, all the way into active destruction of our interests and our allies and our future.

The American people have already awakened to the truth that the stimulus bill -- a great idea in theory -- was really an immense bribe to Democrat interest groups, and in no way an effort to help all Americans.

Now, Americans are waking up to the truth that ObamaCare basically means that every time you are sick or injured, you will have a clerk from the Department of Motor Vehicles telling your doctor what he can and cannot do.

The American people already know that Mr. Obama's plan to lower health costs while expanding coverage and bureaucracy is a myth, a promise of something that never was and never will be -- a bureaucracy lowering costs in a free society. Either the costs go up or the free society goes away.

These are perilous times. Mrs. Hillary Clinton, our Secretary of State, has given Iran the go-ahead to have nuclear weapons, an unqualified betrayal of the nation. Now, we face a devastating loss of freedom at home in health care. It will be joined by controls on our lives to "protect us" from global warming, itself largely a fraud if believed to be caused by man.

Mr. Obama knows Americans are getting wise and will stop him if he delays at all in taking away our freedoms.

There is his urgency and our opportunity. Once freedom is lost, America is lost. Wake up, beloved America.

Ben Stein is a writer, actor, economist, and lawyer living in Beverly Hills and Malibu. He writes "Ben Stein's Diary" for every issue of The American Spectator.

Supporters gather this morning underneath Pat Beehler's new billboard to wave signs

2009-07-28T21:12:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Email: pat@patbeehler.com

Website: http://www.patbeehler.com/

PHOTOS: Local Supporters stand below new billboard located at intersection of Harrison and Division.

Freedom of Speech: Pat Beehler and supporters sign wave under new billboard Olympia, WA, July 28 2009

Honks and cheers sounded at the busy Westside intersection early Tuesday morning, as supporters of Thurston County Commissioner GOP candidate Pat Beehler gathered to wave signs and celebrate the campaign's biggest sign yet - a billboard that reads "Elect Pat Beehler". Pat Beehler, a long time, local land surveyor, stood proudly with his family among the crowd of local supporters, beneath the billboard made possible by contributions from local homebuilders. "It is humbling to be supported by people who live and work in this community. My family and I appreciate the support of the Olympia Masterbuilders, and respect the contributions they make to this county…Afterall, they [builders] have built this county. " Beehler said.

The Olympia Master Builders officially announced their endorsement shortly following a candidate forum held a few weeks ago. Both Pat Beehler and Dan Venable received favorable support from the Affordable Housing Council.

"We are proud to support candidates who respect the importance of a balanced budget and reasonable county policies,” Laura Kimbrough said. Kimbrough is the Executive Officer of the Olympia Master Builders, who have 1,000 members, and provide jobs for 50,000 people.

"This campaign is gathering support from small business owners and the people they employ," Beehler noted. "This billboard represents a major step in our campaign, and we're proud to accept the help." "Those of us who know Pat, know that he will bring common sense to the County Commission, and a refreshed sense of balance and leadership to the table . We're glad this Billboard is up to help spread the word", said Chad Sutter, a local supporter and business owner.

"Signs have always been an integral part of campaigns in this county, an example of freedom of speech, cherished by most of us. This bill board is but our way of saying we think Pat Beehler should be elected to the County Commission, and we're confident voters will join us in supporting Pat," said Jim Hagland of WH Pacific.

The only GOP candidate, Beehler will face Democrats Dan Venable and incumbent Karen Valenzuela in the August 18th primary for Thurston County Commissioner of District 3. The top-two candidates will advance to the General Election in November.

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R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Karen Valenzuela thinks she can operate the jail better than the Sherrif.

2009-07-26T16:54:00.000-07:00

There are some things that just go together, biscuits and gravy, salt and pepper, bees and honey ... and Sheriffs and jails.

I don't know about you, but I feel much better when I have a trained officer of Law and Justice running a correction facility than a California transplant who is more interested in restoring Puget Sound than the county budget.

Having Karen Valenzuela run our jails is a formula for disaster. Karen Valenzuela said, "bringing our law and justice expenditures (uh) down as much as possible" ... "removing our county jail from the (uh) sheriff's department and bringing it under the control of the commissioners".

Does government employ breed this type of narcissistic behavior? Wow, she can do it better than the trained professionals!

Click here if you would like to see the complete interview.

Who is Christine Gregoire listening to? Is she in touch with WA or DC?

2009-07-26T16:50:00.000-07:00

If you remember back to this past Legislative session, SB 5138 was defeated. SB 5138 was titled "Creating an integrated climate change response strategy."

Christine Gregoire couldn't get this bill passed through the legislature, so she decided to create a climate change policy with an executive order. It is now known as Executive Order 09-05.

You know the legislature costs the state of WA quite a bit of $$ each year. Why don't we just do away with it? And why not do away with the Judicial branch as well. It sounds to me like all we need is Christine Gregoire to dictate to us what we need. Welcome to a new WA complete with Cap and Tax.

Karen Valenzuela wants to restore Puget Sound

2009-07-23T02:05:00.001-07:00

Karen Valenzuela wants to restore Puget Sound. That's a great goal, Karen.

As a county commissioner, your statutory obligations are Public Safety, Health and Roads. If you want to restore the Puget Sound, why don't you go work for Puget Sound Partnership? That's their mission.

Did you forget that the county has a $4.5 million shortfall? Hmmm, let me see, turning the capitol lake to an estuary is estimated to cost about $230 million over the next 30 years. How much do you think that restoring the Puget Sound is going to cost? Er, that doesn't really matter now does it. It's not your money. Just charge impact fees and bankrupt small business owners, that should just about pay for it.

This is why we need common sense on the board of commissioners. It isn't that hard to focus on three things: Public Safety, Health and Roads. Now it's not sexy, flashy and probably won't get you in the Olympian -- but that's your job.

Didn't McLeod give you a manual when you took over for him? Perhaps he forgot where he put it.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Obama Care has too many questions, don't rush it

2009-07-23T00:45:00.000-07:00

Michael Steele talks about the unanswered questions about Obama Care. I don't think we need to rush into reform. I think we all agree that health care needs some measure of reform, but why do we need to rush into it?

I want the government to stay out of my health care. Under the proposed plan, private health care will be phased out. The GOP estimates the current plan will cause private health care to fail by 2013, and ration government health care.

I don't want government to control the relationship and my choice of doctors.

Obama talks about having a debate, but he is pushing this bill to avoid a debate. A major bill like this needs a ton of due dilligence and debate to ensure that we don't prescribe destruction.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Fox New accuses Michelle Obama in Patient Dumping Scheme

2009-07-23T00:27:00.000-07:00

Fox News accuses the First Lady Michelle Obama in a patient dumping scheme. It brings rise to the question: Is Obama truly convinced that health care reform is good for America, or is it just another way to pad his friends pockets?

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Pat Beehler Endorsed by the Thurston County Republican Party

2009-07-22T15:25:00.001-07:00

The Thurston County Republican Party unanimously nominated Pat Beehler as their preferred candidate for the Commissioner's race in District 3.

Pat Beehler, well-known throughout Thurston County has lived here for forty years. He is a professional surveyor, has been active in community service, and has deep roots in the community. Beehler has served on the Olympia Jaycees, Olympia West Lions Club, Tumwater Rotary, and most recently he has been the President of the National Surveyor's Association.

Scott Roberts, Chairman of the Thurston Republican Party said, "Pat is a true leader. I've served with him on a community board. He spends most of his time listening, and when he has something to say it's meaningful. He's not one of those guys that pontificate just to hear themselves talk. Pat is thoughtful and brings a deep skill set in land use. I can't think of a better person to balance the current board of commissioners.

"Pat is so connected to the community, and knows so many people, I think that he will pull votes from both parties." said Roberts.

Pat Beehler is currently engaged in a primary election in the 3rd commissioner's district with two Democrat opponents. The top two vote-getters will advance in a county-wide general election.

Learn more at Pat's website: http://www.patbeehler.com/

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R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Karen Valenzuela ignores your property rights

2009-07-21T13:52:00.000-07:00

Karen Valenzuela was asked to comment on how she will manage growth in the county, balance the environment, and property rights ... well, she forgot to comment on how she would preserve property rights.

Karen Valenzuela is well-versed on how she wants to charge impact fees, raise costs of homeownership in the county and rake in more $$ for the county ... BUT when it comes to property rights she is silent.

We need balance in the county commission. My vote is for Pat Beehler.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Stimulus FAIL -- Obama's stimulus plan did not save jobs as predicted

2009-07-19T14:33:00.000-07:00

Obama's stimulus plan did save jobs as promised. In fact, we lost more jobs than what the president said we would had we not approved the stimulus plan. Do you still have confidence in the president? I hope not.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Pat Beehler welcomes you to his website

2009-07-11T14:38:00.000-07:00

Pat Beehler welcomes you to his campaign and website. Go to his campaign website.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Patrick Beehler declares his candidacy for Thurston County Commissioner Dist. 3

2009-06-01T13:50:00.000-07:00

Pat Beehler declares his candidacy for officePat talks to his supporters

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pat Beehler drew crowds and eyes at County Auditor’s office

Olympia, WA, June 1, 2009 Republican candidate Pat Beehler’s early morning filing drew office staff’s attention as a crowd of supporters filled the County Auditor’s office.

“This is the biggest attendance [of supporters] in my memory,” said Thurston County Auditor Kim Wyman who could not recall such support in the past.

Nearly 40 people sporting Elect Beehler shirts with signs in hand, squeezed into the Auditor’s office on the first day of filing. Many office staff members stood from their seats to view the crowd which extended to the back corners of the office.

The cross-section of supporters, the youngest in a stroller and the oldest in his 90s, gathered at the Red Lion Hotel parking lot to rally his candidacy.

Coffee and doughnuts would prove as a secondary fuel to the crowd’s excitement for Beehler’s filing.

“Pat [Beehler] knows to cue in and clean up the budget issues of our county,” supporter Mike Edwards exclaimed to the early-risers of Monday morning’s tailgate.

At exactly the 9th hour on Monday morning, Beehler officiated his candidacy for Thurston County Commissioner District 3.

“It’s official! So let’s go back to celebrate and finish the doughnuts!” exclaimed Beehler.

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R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Patrick Beehler supports the local Boys and Girls Club

2009-05-28T13:46:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Pat Beehler
Phone and Fax: 360-554-9545
Email: pat@patbeehler.com
Website: www.patbeehler.com

Pat Beehler supports youth civic engagement and its proposed expansion at 7th Annual Boys and Girls Club Fundraiser

Lacey, WA, May 28, 2009 Thurston County Commissioner candidate Pat Beehler joined a crowd of community leaders to help support the 7th Annual Boys and Girls Club of Thurston County Foundation for the Future fundraiser this morning at the St. Martin’s Pavilion.

“It is a shared privilege and honor to serve the community and focus on its future - the youth,” said Beehler who provided survey work for the Tumwater club’s building construction in 2001 and is hopeful of the proposed Olympia clubhouse.

Superintendent of the North Thurston Public Schools Dr. Jim Koval prided the club’s purpose and success among local youths.

“Most people have third places – outside of home and work – a place that endorses a greater sense of community and civic engagement…The Boys and Girls Club is a third place for youth,” explained Koval.

Understanding the significance of this so-called third place, Beehler and his family have been long-time community servants since they moved back to Thurston County in 1972. Beehler has served as President for the Olympia Jaycees and Tumwater Rotary Club.

The Tumwater High School Jazz Band serenaded the guests and speakers with upbeat tempos at the beginning of the annual event. Beehler who sat near the band was personally appreciative of their presence. The Republican candidate recounted volunteering backstage at a local Rotary Jazz Festival at the Washington Center which featured local high school bands.

Beehler will be filing for candidacy at the Thurston County Courthouse on Monday, June 1st. A celebratory event at the Red Lion Hotel that morning will precede his filing.

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R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Pat's campaign kickoff a huge success!

2009-05-20T13:45:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Pat Beehler
Phone and Fax: 360-554-9545
Email: pat@patbeehler.com
Website: www.patbeehler.com

Pat Beehler's Campaign Kickoff proves successful

Olympia, WA, May 20, 2009

More than 100 local activists arrived early Tuesday morning to kickoff Thurston County Commissioner District 3 candidate Pat Beehler’s campaign.

With only 10 days of planning, the high attendance exceeded the anticipated 50 – 80 people turnout.

Introductory speaker and Secretary of State Sam Reed lauded Beehler’s political background, "As a professional surveyor, Beehler has seen the workings of government from the other side."

Surrounded by his family, Beehler humbly rose from his table to ask local Republicans for their support to reform local government currently secured by Democrats.

Citing the current commissioners’ focus on micro-management, Beehler said, "My profession has forced me to see the big picture and that’s exactly what local government leaders have to do."

Sharing his background and credentials, Beehler summarized to the crowd his philosophy of government and public service: “Government should be of laws rather than of men,” that is, laws based on society rather than partisan agendas. The second drew inspiration from Beehler’s mother Rita saying, “Service to humanity is the best work of life.” This has since been a benchmark for the Republican candidate.

Beehler is committed to improving the efficiencies of county government without cutting services and "without bankrupting taxpayers."

Pat Beehler and his wife Patti have lived in Thurston County since 1972. He has deep roots in the community through his years of service including:

Olympia Jaycees, President
Tumwater Rotary Club, President
Olympia Host, active member
Olympia West Lions Club, active member
Thurston County Chamber of Commerce, Chairman

Key attendees also included Sen. Swecker, Rep. Gary Alexander and Thurston County Auditor Kim Wyman.

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R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

2009-05-14T13:43:00.000-07:00

First Republican enters Thurston commission race
CHRISTIAN HILL; The Olympian | • Published May 14, 2009

Pat Beehler has announced his candidacy for the Thurston County Commission, making him the first Republican to enter the race.

Beehler, a 64-year-old professional surveyor, said his mother instilled in him a desire to serve the community, and he’s at the point in his life at which he wants to extend that service to the political arena.

He’s a former chairman of the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce and former president of the Olympia Jaycees, and he served on the Thurston County Historic Commission for a decade.

He said his top priority would be navigating the county through its budget crisis, which has resulted in two rounds of reductions to programs and services and the loss of 10 percent of its work force since 2008.
He said that, if he’s elected, commissioners can return the county to a responsible budget by prioritizing public safety, health and roads and cutting wasteful spending without raising taxes.

Beehler said he didn’t have any “overriding examples” of wasteful spending but added that, if elected, he would work with department heads to assess and conduct audits of spending to save money.

Beehler said his experience on “both sides of the counter” – in the public and private sectors – gives him the knowledge needed to govern land-use issues with sensitivity and balance. Beehler worked for the city of Tumwater from 1983 to 1989.

“I try to listen to all sides of an issue and work with people to come to a consensus,” Beehler said.

Commissioner Karen Valenzuela was appointed to the District 3 seat in January to complete the remaining term of her predecessor, Bob Macleod, who resigned in December for health reasons.

Dan Venable, the owner of a local company that tests and removes mold from buildings, also has announced his candidacy for the commission seat.

Filing week for candidates to run for offices up for election this year is three weeks away, June 1-5.

The commissioners’ seat will be up for election again in 2010, when the current term expires.

District 3 represents west Olympia, Tumwater and Rochester.

Beehler will hold a kickoff event for his campaign at 7 a.m. May 19 at the Tyee Center, 5757 Littlerock Road S.W. in Tumwater.

Christian Hill covers the city of Lacey and the military for The Olympian. He can be reached at 360-754-5427 or chill@theolympian.com.

Pat Beehler

Occupation: Surveyor at the Olympia office of WHPacific, a consulting firm. He owned Southwest Surveying for 12 years before it was acquired by WHPacific in 2005.

Government experience: Thurston County Historic Commission, 1982 to 1992

Organizational experience: Former president, Olympia Jaycees and Tumwater Rotary Club; former board chairman of Thurston County Chamber; and immediate past president, National Society of Professional Surveyors

Education: San Juan High School, Citrus Heights, Calif., 1962. Adjunct professor, Saint Martin’s University; taught surveying class there from 1983 to 1993

Family: Patti, wife of 39 years; one daughter and two grandchildren. His brother Mike is vice president for extended learning at South Puget Sound Community College.

Contact: 360-554-9545; 855 Trosper Road S.W., Suite 108-399, Tumwater, WA 98512

Web site: www.patbeehler.com

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Obama's Administration -- you decide

2009-05-14T01:41:00.000-07:00

This video speaks for itself. You need to listen to this.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Pat Beehler announces his bid for Thurston County Commissioner

2009-05-11T13:41:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Pat Beehler
Phone and Fax: 360-554-9545
Email: pat@patbeehler.com
Website: www.patbeehler.com

Pat Beehler announces his candidacy for Thurston County Commissioner District 3

Olympia, WA, May 11, 2009 Long-time Thurston County resident and community leader Pat Beehler officially announces his candidacy for Thurston County Commissioner in district 3.

Beehler said, "I have lived and served Thurston County through my community service for over 40 years. I have four generations of my family living here.

"I have never seen the county's financial future in such a crisis and feel that my leadership and skills are what the county needs right now. I'm willing to provide the leadership and make the tough decisions that are needed today.

"The county needs to prioritize its mission of public safety, health and roads. I believe by looking hard at the county's organization we can find and eliminate areas of wasteful spending. I believe we can return the county to a responsible budget, meet all of our statutory requirements without raising taxes.

"The people of Thurston County are suffering in the current recession. We have unemployment approaching double digits. I will immediately work to encourage and promote economic development.

"I believe we can return Thurston County to a responsible budget, meet all of our statutory requirements without raising taxes. I will demand that the county look first within to identify more efficiencies.

"I will work to protect the environment in responsible ways. My career background as a professional surveyor makes me uniquely qualified to govern land use issues with sensitivity and balance.

About Pat

Pat Beehler and his wife Patti have lived in Thurston County since 1972. He has deep roots in the community through his years of service including:

* Olympia Jaycees, President
* Tumwater Rotary Club, President
* Olympia Host, active member
* Olympia West Lions Club, active member
* Thurston County Historic Commission, 10 years of service
* St. Martin’s Food and Wine Festival, Volunteer
* Black Hills High School 4P’s Panel, Volunteer
* Thurston County Chamber of Commerce, Chairman
* National society of Professional Surveyors, President
* Pat began his surveying career in 1967 with DNR, and has been a Professional Land Surveyor since 1978.

###

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Len McComb's Lobby Efforts Attacks Builders

2009-04-22T12:33:00.001-07:00

Read the original story by Brad Shannon Here

The budget debates are heating up in the WA Legislature, and things seem to be distilling to a debate around a proposed 3 cents-per-dollar sales tax increase.

As you might imagine, the Republicans are lining up with stringent opposition and would rather see a balanced budget rather than more tax-and-spend policy.

The major proponent of this bill is the Washington State Hospital Association because it will raise a reported $1 Billion for WA state health care programs.

What you might not know is, Len McComb, a contract lobbyist for the Master Builders Association of King Snohomish, has now switched his ideology (read: the health care association is paying him more $$) and is lobbying for the Washington State Hospital Association.

I wonder how many builders favor a sales tax increase and think that it will help their business? I wonder how many MBA King/Snohmish members know that their organization is keeping their opposition in business?

And I wonder what in the hell the Master Builders of King Snohomish are thinking?

Len McComb, lobbyist for the Washington State Hospital Association, said his group is in the healthcare-labor coalition that supports a tax-package for the ballot, and he is helping to get votes to pass the measure out of the Legislature

If I were in charge of the Master Builders of King Snohomish, I would be issuing a formal appology to all builders in WA State.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Obama Spoof

2009-04-04T20:47:00.001-07:00

This fan likes Obama so much, he wrote a nice little song for him:

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Obama / Auto Bailout -- the new quid pro quo

2009-03-31T13:04:00.000-07:00

[read the Olympian article here]

I hope all of the auto manufacturers reject Obama's bailout money and if needed declare bankruptcy. Once the debt is reduced, private investors will come in and purchase the real market value of your company. Your company won't continue with the vision that you had in mind, but it will continue with a vision of prosperity, not of Obama's vision of socialism.

The instant that you accept the money from the United States Government, you have sealed your fate of predestined failure -- and worse you have sealed America's fate of having to subsidize your industry forever.

Governments shouldn't be involved in the private sector. Perhaps if the bailout came with no strings attached, such as a low- or no-interest loan, then I could go along with the idea. However, there are strings attached and that string is an anchor that will forever plague your companies.

The strings are that the government will tell you what to do, how to run your company. It's not enough that they regulate and tax you to bankruptcy, now they want to extend you credit and own you. Bankruptcy is a preferred alternative.

Obama keeps saying that he doesn't want to run the automobile industry, but he has already fired Rick Wagoner, former CEO of GM and he is touting that your companies haven't embraced the alternative energy and is not moving fast enough. President Obama said, "our auto industry is not moving in the right direction fast enough to succeed". Read: I'm going to start telling you what to do.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

WA State - Dem's Propose Budget

2009-03-31T10:33:00.000-07:00

[read the Olympian article here]

The state budget has been released by the Dems up on the hill, and you guessed it, doom and gloom with the need for a TAX INCREASE.

While families all over the state are cutting back, your state government wants to increase their total spending. The state budget proposed will spend more money in the next two years than the last two. How many of you are able to spend more now? I bet you are really finding ways to cut back. Government needs to do the same.

The budget comes with the same tired scare techniques. The legislators are warning that they will have to cut funding from public schools, higher education, health care, elder care and disabled, corrections, the environment, and they will even have to scrap two planes owned by the WA State Patrol.

And this is what government is doing, so it is only fair that we increase your car tabs by $5.00.

I have a terrible memory, but I remember when the people of WA told the state that we were tired of being taxed on car tabs and reduced the fee to $30.00. And remember all the doomsday talk at the time? Legislators warned us that police, fire, education would all be non-existent. Guess what? We survived.

I would like to see government do their best impression of Lehman Brothers. Put all of your belongings in a box and go look for another job, please. The people of Washington state will get along just fine without you. We don't need a nanny, and if we did we wouldn't hire you.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Thurston Commissioners and Sheriff Duel

2009-03-27T09:52:00.001-07:00

The latest article in the Olympian says:

The union representing Thurston County’s deputy sheriffs said today that it will
sue the county if commissioners follow through with proposed budget cuts in the
department. [and] The letter represents the latest salvo in the deepening rift
between county leaders and the sheriff’s office.

This will come to no surprise to those of you that have read my blog in the past. Sandra Romero has complete disdain for police since her DUI arrest [read my prior blog post here]. But possibly even more interesting is just about everyone in the Thurston County Courthouse endorsed her opponent in the last election [read my prior post here].

I'm not surprised that Romero is working to dismantle the Sheriff's office. But I have to ask: What office is she going to attack next?

Here is some more background on Romero, she is a board member of an environmental activist group called Futurewise. Yep, I've written about that one too [read my prior blog post here]. What is really interesting about this is that the lawsuit that Futurewise put to the County now represents about 25% of the budget shortfall. Let's connect the dots, Sandra Romero is a board member of Futurewise, and the county needs to make cuts; I don't think that the cuts will involve anything to do with protecting the environment. Do you? Goodbye public safety.

[read all of my prior blog posts re: Sandra Romero]

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Democrats

2009-03-26T20:12:00.001-07:00

An archeological team digging in Washington DC has uncovered 10,000 year old remains of what is believed to be the first Democrat.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Start each day with a positive outlook

2009-03-14T22:36:00.000-07:00

1. Open a new file in your computer.

2. Name it 'Barack Obama.'

3. Send it to the Recycle Bin.

4. Empty the Recycle Bin.

5. Your PC will ask you: 'Do you really want to delete 'Barack Obama?'

6. Firmly Click 'Yes.'

7. Feel better?

**GOOD! - Tomorrow we'll do Nancy Pelosi! **

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Amanda from Liberty on the Rocks Rants

2009-03-06T15:18:00.000-08:00

Check www.libertyontherocks.com . People that believe in liberty and good times.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Senator Tom Colburn Objects to Omnibus Spending

2009-03-06T15:11:00.000-08:00

Here is a patriot willing ot speak up on behalf of our liberty.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Obama gives investment advice

2009-03-05T15:43:00.000-08:00

In case you didn't know, Obama's advice is to buy more stock now -- it is at such a good price. Is this perhaps a ploy to try and stimulate the market, and then take credit for stocks rising? Anyway, had you bought on his advice you would be about 3% poorer now. You would be a little bit closer to relying on the government to bail you out. Either way, Obama wins.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Stock Market down 20% since Obama took office

2009-03-05T15:18:00.000-08:00

The stock market has fallen over 20% since Obama has taken office. Clearly wall street has not responded well to President Obama's capitalist-snuffing policies. Every president wants to take credit for a good economy, but President Obama does not want to associate the stock market's indication that his policies will fail.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Chris Matthews does not respect our 'System'

2009-03-02T19:59:00.001-08:00

Chris Matthews says that he thinks Obama will fail because of our system, and that America needs to respect a Democracy, a simple majority. Chris Matthews needs a lesson in our government and should understand why our framers made our form or government a republic. See his comments below and then the video about governments.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Limbaugh is a Patriot

2009-03-01T14:04:00.000-08:00

Rush says what we are all thinking. We should take note, stand up and let our voice be heard.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Gregoire likes the stimulus plan -- of course

2009-02-23T15:49:00.000-08:00

Read the Politico story here.

Gregoire wrote an ideas piece that draws a parallel between FDR's New Deal and Obama's stimulus plan. She touts it as a plan that will help save and create jobs and create future prosperity. She gives credit to FDR's New Deal as providing 75 years of prosperity.

Governor Christine Gregoire has it wrong. FDR's new deal was failing and it was WWII that scholars argue pulled us out of the great depression. Until we lift the burden from small businesses and start creating wealth, will we pull out of this depression (yes it's a depression, the reporting just hasn't caught up yet).

Christine Gregoire ran Washington State into our largest deficit ever. Now reported at over $8 billion, Gregoire is excited about any bailout from President Obama. The saving and creating jobs will be government jobs. I say we already have enough government jobs. It's time to start cuttingPublish Post them. Government jobs for the first time, outpaced industrial and construction jobs combined. The stimulus plan will only increase that gap.

Christine Gregoire needs to take a lesson from Bobby Jendal: run your state on a balanced budget and refuse the stimulus money from Obama.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Arnold Schwarzenegger needs to take a lesson from Bobby Jendal

2009-02-22T10:18:00.001-08:00

The Governator has driven California into deep financial problems and is standing in line with his hand out yelling at the GOP to work with Obama. What Schwarzenegger should have done is manage his state and keep the budget ballanced which is his constitutional duty.

Arnold should take note from a true conservative, Bobby Jendal who has kept his state healthy and is rejecting Obama's stimulus money.

Arnold: Obama needs team players

Gregoire, State Income Tax, COMMUNIST!

2009-02-19T08:25:00.000-08:00

Here are the 10 planks of the Communist Manifesto by Karl Marx:

10 Planks of the Communist Manifesto
1.Abolition of property in land and application of all rents of land to public purposes.
2. A heavy progressive or graduated income tax.
3. Abolition of all right of inheritance.
4. Confiscation of the property of all emigrants and rebels.
5. Centralisation of credit in the hands of the State, by means of a national bank with State capital and an exclusive monopoly.
6. Centralisation of the means of communication and transport in
the hands of the State.
7.Extension of factories and instruments of
production owned by the State; the bringing into cultivation of waste-lands,
and the improvement of the soil generally in accordance with a common plan.
8. Equal liability of all to labour.
Establishment of industrial armies, especially for agriculture.
9. Combination of agriculture with manufacturing industries;
gradual abolition of the distinction between town and country, by a more equal distribution of the population over the country.
10. Free education for all children in public schools. Abolition of children's factory labour in
its present form. Combination of education with industrial production, &c.,
&c.[6]
According to the Communist Manifesto, all these were prior conditions for a
transition from capitalism to communism (but Marx and Engels later expressed a
desire to modernize this passage[7]).

Let's look at number 2 -- A heavy progressive or graduated income tax. Hmmm, that sounds like Gregoire's plan. The more you make, the more you are taxed.

Gregoire has been quoted saying, "The people of Washington just need to be educated on the merrits of an income tax." Do we? Or do we need to be educated on the merrits of Communism?

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

I'm Scared: Obama's Plan Won't Work

2009-02-18T20:02:00.000-08:00

President Obama is planning to spend $75 billion to prevent up to 9 million Americans from loosing their homes. This is yet another show of arrogance from our leader, and a "plan" that is not very well thought out. He thinks that he is the one that can "save" America.

Hey, I've got news for you buddy, these people can't be saved. You see, when you buy a home, the first thing everyone must do is honestly prove to themselves that they have a plan to repay the loan. These people bought homes without any plan of repayment.

In general, they are not experiencing emergency setbacks, they are experiencing stupidity and GREED. These people gambled that the housing market would keep appreciating and they took out loans that they never intended to repay. What's worse is the government loosened the banking regulations that allowed them to do it.

So now, President Obama wants to help these people out by restructuring their loans. Guess what? These people don't have a shred of financial responsibility and absolutely deserve to loose their homes. They deserve to be tenants, and the more financially conservative investors deserve to buy their homes at a deep discount. And while I'm at it, the banks that lent the money to these morons, deserve to go out of business.

President Obama, quit trying to save those that can't be saved. No they can't!

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Sam Adams (D) Openly Gay, former lover to pose nude

2009-02-18T19:29:00.000-08:00

First of all, if there is any doubt that Sam Adams is a Democrat, read his wikipedia page. Now that that is out of the way, let's get to the story.

As reported in The Olympian, Sam's controversial lover is going out and posing nude for a magazine. Hey, no big deal, do what you want right? Just don't lie. Here is an excerpt from the article:

After Adams took office in January, Portland was in turmoil over the mayor's admission he had lied during the election campaign when he denied having sex with Breedlove.
Both Breedlove and Adams have said they met when Breedlove was 17 but did not have sex until Breedlove was 18.
Despite calls for his resignation and an investigation, Adams has decided to remain in office. Efforts to reach Breedlove were unsuccessful.

So before you cry 'homophobe', I could really care less who he has sex with. The point is he has lied to the public, has been caught and is now being publicly humiliated. He should resign.

Note to Democrats: people with low moral standards are sure to disappoint you. I prefer my elected officials are not liars.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Union Organizes a Rally to stop Government Layoffs

2009-02-17T14:38:00.000-08:00

The Federation of Washington State Employees organized a rally today at the state capitol protesting potential employee layoffs.

When this happens in the private sector, employees work with their employers to figure out ways to cut costs, improve service and attract more customers.

The only reaction that government and unions know is to raise taxes. Not going to happen this time round guys. Start looking for jobs.

See the article in The Olympian.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Gregoire ready to blow through another $6 billion

2009-02-17T14:26:00.001-08:00

Today President Obama signed into law the Economic Stimulus and Recovery Bill. Washington State is slated to receive $6.7 billion of the money.

I'm confident that Christine Gregoire will blow through this money with the same vigor and irresponsibility as the last dough she blew through. Giving her more money to spend is like sending an alcoholic to the liquor store.

Read The Olympian story.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

New Debt for Your Children

2009-02-17T13:37:00.000-08:00

Today President Obama signed into Law the Economic Stimulus and Recovery Bill. The money is aimed to save and grow government jobs, bolster union employment and begin an FDR-style public works program. Some of this money may provide a small uptick in the economy, but any positive move will be short-lived.

Ultimately, this 'plan' will give Americans a hangover much worse than the collapse of the financial system and our housing market. This plan simply does not address the underlying root of the financial problem at hand, and it puts government in control of how to spend our money -- never a good idea.

More evidence is the stock market moved against President Obama today; the market would have moved up if it was optimistic about the plan. Apparently the financial wizards of America don't think this is a good deal for America. It's a foreshadowing of tougher economic times.

Government should be adding more money into the financial system for refinancing of sub-prime mortgages, and suspending the mark-to-market rules for real estate appraisals. We are faced with a 10 trillion dollar problem (or more). A mere 800 billion dollars will not fix the problem. It can only prolong and exasperate the inevitable. In addition to bolstering the financial and housing crisis, government should be providing real and tangible tax rebates to individuals. And government should get out of the way of private business.

This stimulus package has only one ending: more government, more taxes, poorer America. Thanks President Obama, we will remember.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

America Passes a Milestone

2009-02-09T23:31:00.000-08:00

For the fist time in history, government jobs have surpassed both manufacturing and construction jobs combined. Stunning.

Read the complete post.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Fear-Mongering Obama Scares Nation into Socialism

2009-02-09T20:24:00.000-08:00

Obama breaks his campaign promises of changing D.C. and scares good Americans into beliving in Socialism:

But at this particular moment, with the private sector so weakened by this recession, the federal government is the only entity left with the resources to jolt our economy back to life. It is only government that can break the vicious cycle where lost jobs lead to people spending less money which leads to even more layoffs. And breaking that cycle is exactly what the plan that’s moving through Congress is designed to do.

Read the full story.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Ingrahm / Specter Audio

2009-02-09T20:18:00.000-08:00

Laura Ingrahm takes it to the Republican traitor Arlen Specter.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Specter to Ingraham: 'Get off it Laura'

2009-02-09T20:06:00.001-08:00

Thank you Laura, you are a real Patriot. Specter is a turncoat and a traitor!

Sent to you by Scott via Google Reader:

Specter to Ingraham: 'Get off it Laura'

via Politico Top Stories by media@politico.com (Andy Barr) on 2/9/09

Specter gets into an on-air spat with radio host Laura Ingraham over his support for the stimulus.

Obama Governing with Fear -- another promise broken

2009-02-09T20:02:00.001-08:00

Obama wants to pass the pork spending bill so bad, he is willing to break his most fundamental campaign promise: to change Washington and replace fear-mongering. Nice job Barack!

Sent to you by Scott via Google Reader:

Obama warning on stimulus delays

via BBC News | News Front Page | World Edition on 2/9/09

President Barack Obama urges Congress to pass his $800bn stimulus plan, warning delay would worsen a "full-blown crisis".

Obama's Promise of Change

2009-02-09T11:08:00.001-08:00

Has Obama been leading with his promise of change, or is he another Washington D.C. hypocrite? You decide.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Boycott Maine Tourism and Industry

2009-02-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

I am boycotting all tourism and industry of Maine, and I'm asking my fellow Americans to join me. Susan Collins, Olympia Snowe, and the people of Maine are selling out America.

The stimulus bill before the Senate includes pork spending projects for Maine that I simply do not want to subsidise. I'm committed to creating a greater economic loss for Maine than the gain they will receive from the stimulus bill.

Creating an oppressive burden on taxpayers is not the answer to the economic problems before us. The solution is for government to step aside and let the free market work. Perhaps the stimulus bill is good for Maine, but is is bad for the rest of the country.

Maine doesn't understand that sometimes you need to make small sacrifices for the good of the nation. I'm committed to boycotting Maine until the people of Maine have representatives that consider their own needs along with the others in America.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Boycott Pennsylvania Tourism and Industry

2009-02-07T07:36:00.000-08:00

I am boycotting all tourism and industry of Pennsylvania, and I'm asking my fellow Americans to join me. Arlen Specter and the people of Pennsylvania are selling out America.

The stimulus bill before the Senate includes pork spending projects for Pennsylvania that I simply do not want to subsidise. I'm committed to creating a greater economic loss for Pennsylvania than the gain they will receive from the stimulus bill.

Creating an oppressive burden on taxpayers is not the answer to the economic problems before us. The solution is for government to step aside and let the free market work. Perhaps the stimulus bill is good for Pennsylvania, but is is bad for the rest of the country.

Pennsylvania doesn't understand that sometimes you need to make small sacrifices for the good of the nation. I'm committed to boycotting Pennsylvania until the people of Pennsylvania have representatives that consider their own needs along with the others in America.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Rise Up Americans

2009-02-06T22:00:00.000-08:00

I listened in on a conference call this evening. The callers were citizens concerned about the Senate vote; They are concerned because three 'Republican' Senators are prepared to vote for the bill.

Those Senators are: Arlen Specter-PA, Susan Collins-ME, Olympia Snow-ME.

The callers generated ideas on how to persuade these Senators to vote "no" on the bill. Most of these ideas fell into the basic ideas of protests, letter writing, appealing to the conscious of the Senators, blogging, twitter -- basic grassroots strategies.

What I learned from the call is that these Senators have their own pet projects buried in the bill. In other words, there is something in it for themselves and the people of their state. It was also my impression that it was going to be very hard to get these Senators to change their minds. There were thoughts expressed that letters written from constituents outside of the state would lack impact to these Senators because we don't vote for them and they are currently secure with their constituents.

I think focusing on the Senators is a mistake. They all are enjoying a very high approval rating and for various reasons will not be standing for election anytime soon.

I think we need to focus on the states themselves, and turn the rest of the nation against those two states. It is easy for the citizens of those states to feel good about the bill when their Senators promise to bring more spending and prosperity to them. Who will they believe more? One or two narcissistic Senators, or millions of Americans.

I believe we need to show those states the possibility of a greater economic loss than they have to gain by the stimulus bill. How many of the top-producing companies have been contacted by their Senator? When those companies begin getting thousands of emails from Americans, they will realize who has the power. Talk radio should suddenly encourage every American to avoid purchasing products from these states. We should discourage tourism to these states. We should make the people that live in these states feel as un-American as their Senators.

If the state is slated to receive $50 billion in stimulus spending, we should pledge to boycott that state until we have cost them twice what they have to gain. We should try to kick them out of the union saying, "America will not pay for your pork."

An email to a CEO in Maine might look like this: America is not going to pay for your pork projects sponsored by Senator Collins and Snowe. We are pledging to boycott the purchase of your products, until your company is bankrupt.

I think we should strive to make the people of the Senator's states feel un-American because of the actions of their Senators.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Timberland Regional Library New Tax Failing

2009-02-03T22:34:00.001-08:00

The Timberland Regional Library levy-LID-lift new tax measure is failing, and looks like it will fail. I think it is the beginning of a message that government needs to get itself in order. Stop trying to tax us. It is a message to manage your budget. Thanks voters.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Daschle Pick: More Proof Obama is a Hypocrite

2009-01-31T13:57:00.000-08:00

The latest of Obama's decisions is mounting proof that he is a "do as I say, not as I do" President. It is perhaps the single greatest indicator of a poor leader; a crack in his character and one of my predictors that he is going to fail.

The decision is his pick for the health and human services secretary, Tom Daschle. Dashle just forgot to pay about $120,000 in taxes. So for one of Obama's nominees it's called a mistake, for Leona Helmsley it's called tax evasion.

Ironically it comes from the Democrats who feel they should tax Americans to save the poor, as long as someone else pays the taxes, because guys like Daschle don't have to. This is the type of unethical behavior that Obama would reel against had it not been someone he wanted to appoint.

This must be what Obama means of it's a brand new day in Washington, and how he is going to change things. Can you imagine one man single-handily destroying an already crippled America?

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Another TAX Disguised as Helping Children (D)

2009-01-30T19:32:00.000-08:00

Senator Rodney Tom (D) is proposing a $1.00 per pack cigarette tax saying he wants to make cigarettes so expensive that high school kids can't afford them.

Who is going to challenge that idea? He's saving the kids right? Another do-gooder bleeding heart liberal that thinks he is smarter than the kid's parents and government needs to step in and help these poor misguided high school students.

It's just another tax. It's just another way that the Democrats want to get their grubby hands on your money.

If Senator Tom is really serious about doing what he says, then impose a minimum price that cigarettes can be sold for and remove all taxes. So if you think High school students can't afford $7.00 per pack then pass legislation that mandates a pack of cigarettes must be sold for a minimum of $7.00 and remove your tax.

And one last word for you Senator Tom: the public does not need to be saved by you. We will do just fine when you get out of our lives. No saving needed here.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Obama Speaks, Dow Falls

2009-01-30T16:04:00.000-08:00

President Obama has been spewing venom towards Wall Street the past few days, and now he is working to cripple business by supporting labor unions. Today he said, "Organized labor is not the problem, it is the solution."

It is the solution to get us moving towards Socialism, not the solution to rehabilitating the economy.

The market reacted. The Dow Jones closed today at about 8,000 points, a strong psychological support. I predict that we are ready for another big slide especially if Obama keeps up his current policies and rhetoric. His legacy may be single-handily destroying a crippled US economy.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Labor Gets a Boost from Obama

2009-01-30T09:25:00.000-08:00

Today labor unions got a boost from Obama's formation of a "Middle Class Families and Organized Labor" task force. They have cited how FDR's programs created the working class movement through organized labor.

Obama appointed VP Biden to head up the task force. They are launching a website called www.strongmiddleclass.gov

Obama and Biden keep talking about how this is going to be a cornerstone of the economic recovery plan and that this is going to strengthen our economy.

From my standpoint, I don't know one business owner that wants to operate under the constraints of organized labor. If I owned a business that wanted to go union, I would close it. Look at Boeing. Why do you think that they are laying off workers and outsourcing to other countries? Labor unions break companies. Unions foster complacency not productivity.

"People want a white house that creates an environment where the middle-class share in the success of corporations." Joe Biden.

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Obama Too Hot for His Suit Jacket

2009-01-29T16:01:00.000-08:00

Staffers report that Obama has the oval office heat turned up so hot you could "grow orchids". This revelation comes on the heels of his campaign promises to be more green and that America should tun down their thermostats.

Great leaders lead by example, Obama's mantra: "Do as I say, not as I do."

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

Blago Impeached (finally)

2009-01-29T15:51:00.000-08:00

This drama took two months, and it seemed like years. Blago is gone! How much is the Governorship of Illinois worth?

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

WA State Gay Rights

2009-01-29T14:20:00.000-08:00

Washington State legislators Sen. Ed Murray and Rep. Jamie Pedersen are working to re-introduce a Gay Marriage bill this session.

Everyone has their cause, and I suppose the time spent for Murray and Pedersen is better spent on Gay Marriage than working towards balancing the budget.

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R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

GOP defies Obama overtures

2009-01-29T11:26:00.001-08:00

I like the idea of twice the jobs for half the cost, twice as fast. The stimulus bill proposed by Obama is only a benefit if you want to grow Government. It's a government jobs stimulus bill.

Government jobs outnumber both manufacturing jobs and construction jobs combined. Obama's bill will secure and grow even more government jobs.

Like we need more government. I would like to see government do their impression of Lehman Brothers. I'll supply the cardboard boxes.

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GOP defies Obama overtures

via Politico Top Stories by media@politico.com (Mike Allen,Jonathan Martin) on 1/29/09

WH plans to release state-by-state job figures.

Blago Defiant in Closing Argument

2009-01-29T11:07:00.001-08:00

I think America is going to adapt a new phrase for ass#@$le .. it's going to be Blago. We'll say that guy is such a Blago.

He has made the corrupt politicians of the past look like saints. And, of course, he's a Dem.

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Blago defiant in closing argument

via Politico Top Stories by media@politico.com (Andy Barr) on 1/29/09

Blagojevich delivered a speech Thursday that stuck to criticism that the impeachment trial is illegitimate.

Could the Next Textbook Upgrade be a Kindle?

2009-01-29T10:34:00.001-08:00

See, great minds think alike. See my notes on our Library tax proposal below.

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Could the Next Textbook Upgrade be a Kindle?

via TreeHugger on 1/29/09

George Papandreou, the opposition leader in Greece, addresses the Greek parliament and brings up the possibility of giving every student an e-reader to house all of their text books. It could be a very smart investment considering the Greek government pays for most of students' books. Instead of buying new, expensive (and tree-hungry) books every year, Papandreou notes that a child ...

Timberland Regional Library needs Levy Lift

2009-01-29T10:27:00.001-08:00

I used to love going to the library, until the Internet arrived. The distribution of books in the digital age has become quicker and cheaper. At some point you have to ask yourself, why are we warehousing books. Shouldn't a library change with the times and adapt to a different model? Perhaps you checkout a digital copy of a book and we have 'virtual' libraries.

If a service can't support itself, it needs to change. No way do I want to support a tax increase for a service that is stuck in the past. Amazon is getting ready to release the Kindle 2 -- it's my library.

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Timberland Regional Library needs levy lift to provide services

via The Olympian Online -- Opinion on 1/29/09

For the first time in its 40 years, Timberland Regional Library is asking its communities to support a levy lid lift to maintain current levels of library service.

Rep. Jim Moran is a Windbag

2009-01-28T23:26:00.000-08:00

I had to post this video to preserve the windbag talking about the stimulus bill.

Rep. Jim Moran (read: moron) is worried about the 10's of thousands of government jobs that are going to be lost because states are cutting back. He makes the argument that the money that we need to have money promised to be spent to give states confidence that there is more monty coming so they won't cut jobs.

I say cut the government jobs, and deep. I would like to see our State agencies do their best Lehman Brother's impersonation. I'll supply the cardboard boxes.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

House GOP throws stimulus brushback

2009-01-28T22:51:00.001-08:00

Not one Republican vote on the 'stimulus' bill in the House. Republicans are back!

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House GOP throws stimulus brushback

via Politico Top Stories by media@politico.com (Jonathan Martin) on 1/28/09

Obama couldn't pry loose a single Republican vote.

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$800 billion Will Not Solve US Financial Crisis

2009-01-28T21:02:00.000-08:00

$I've been saying that the stimulus plan is not going to solve the problem. The economists that I've been listening to say we have a $10 trillion problem. Do you really think that $800 billion is going to make a dent?

This is like you have a $10,000 bill due and the government comes along with 800 bucks and think that they are going to help you. You might be able to hold of your creditors for a few weeks, but you are going to go under. There is no way that this stimulus bill will help.

Other economists that I've been listening to say that when (not if) the stimulus plan fails, the stock market will go down another 4,000 points. This is going to be a rough ride.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

R. Scott Roberts : Political Activist

msnbc.com: Unemployment rose in every state in December

2009-01-27T21:46:00.001-08:00

Unemployment rose in every state in December

Rising unemployment spared no state last month, and 2009 is shaping up as another miserable year for workers from coast to coast.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28882024/from/ET/

Republicans find their voice

2009-01-27T12:50:00.001-08:00

Keep it up guys! Maybe we will have a similar voice in WA state.

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Republicans find their voice

via Politico Top Stories by media@politico.com (Mike Allen,Patrick O'Connor,Jonathan Martin) on 1/27/09

Boehner, McConnell push back on stimulus.

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Stimulus may cost more than presented

2009-01-27T12:48:00.001-08:00

You knew the 1 trillion mark had to come sooner or later.

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Stimulus may cost more than presented

via Politico Top Stories by media@politico.com (Mike Allen) on 1/27/09

The cost of President Obama's stimulus package could cross the $1 trillion mark .

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Grays Harbor County may fine barking-dog owners

2009-01-27T12:38:00.001-08:00

Why not? The government fines and taxes us for just about everything else. How about that barking neighbor?

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Grays Harbor County may fine barking-dog owners

via The Olympian Online -- Breaking News on 1/27/09

The Grays Harbor County Commission has approved a barking-dog ordinance.

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What if it doesn't work?

2009-01-26T23:52:00.001-08:00

I don't think it is going to work. Should I remove $$ from the stock market and keep it on the sidelines until the market hits 5,000? Or should I keep the money I have in and cash on the sideline until the market hits 5,000? Maybe just steer clear of the stock market all the way around.

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What if it doesn't work?

via Politico Top Stories by media@politico.com (Eamon Javers) on 1/26/09

If Obama's $825 billion economic stimulus plan is not successful, economists warn of a 4,000-point stock market crash.

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Steele denies deal with Duncan

2009-01-26T23:49:00.001-08:00

The RNC Chairman campaigns heat up.

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Steele denies deal with Duncan

via Politico Top Stories by media@politico.com (Ben Smith) on 1/26/09

"I'm running for Chairman, not for deal-maker," Steele writes RNC members.

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Obama reaches out to Muslim world

2009-01-26T23:42:00.001-08:00

This will prove to be one of Obama's legacy mistakes. You can't negotiate with terrorists.

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Obama reaches out to Muslim world

via BBC News | News Front Page | World Edition on 1/26/09

US President Barack Obama talks of friendship with the Muslim world, as his new envoy travels to the Middle East for talks.

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Obama's Chrysler 300C Comes Back to Haunt Him on eBay

2009-01-26T23:37:00.001-08:00

Can't wait to see what the presidential motorcade and air force one is going to look like. "Hey, we need a little more bling on that grill."

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Obama's Chrysler 300C Comes Back to Haunt Him on eBay

via TreeHugger on 1/17/09

This is NOT Obama's Chrysler 300C credit: WilVision Photography First it was a half eaten waffle and now this... what's next, a non-florescent light bulb found in the White House dumpster, or perhaps a previously chewed piece on non-dentist recommended bubble gum showing up on eBay's doorstep. Barack Obama must have thought he'd seen the last of his old Chrysler 300C. But just like a bad penny, it has turned up again on eBay. But we're getting a little ahead of ourselves. Let's start from the beginning, as the story is so much better that way......

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Washington state headed toward tougher emission standards

2009-01-26T23:34:00.001-08:00

Obama is making cars more expensive. That's great. Really, no problem. Car manufacturers are selling cars hand-over-fist. They can take some of that huge profit and add little emissions gadgets here and there.

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Washington state headed toward tougher emission standards

via The Olympian Online -- Breaking News on 1/26/09

President Barack Obama took the first step today toward allowing Washington and 13 other states to implement tough, new auto tailpipe emission standards, fulfilling a campaign pledge and reversing a controversial Bush administration decision made over the advice of federal scientists and lawyers.

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Large fine may deter records withholding

2009-01-26T23:31:00.001-08:00

This is a huge win for transparency in Government. It sends the right message to staffers that have been working for government way too long.

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Large fine may deter records withholding

via The Olympian Online -- Opinion on 1/26/09

Advocates for easy and timely access to government records won a significant court victory in a recent case decided by the state Supreme Court.

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