13 Dec 2011

Grassley statement on Cordray vote

By Grassley Press
Thursday, December 8, 2011

Senator Chuck Grassley made the following comment regarding his vote against the nomination of Richard Cordray to be the director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, or CFPB.

"This position was created to operate inside the Federal Reserve, without any opportunity to hold the bureau accountable.  That's the wrong direction.  Lack of accountability contributed in big ways to many of the problems that came to a head in the 2008 financial meltdown.  It doesn't make sense to try to fix things with more of the same and unchecked power.  Our system of government depends on checks and balances.  Americans deserve to have their voices heard in any regulatory process through the representative branch of government.  This position, as currently set up, flies in the face of those values and principles."

13 Dec 2011

Milan Happy Joe's Hosts Annual Special Needs Children's Party

By Rick Martin

Milan, IL - Milan Happy Joe's team members will host a special needs party for children from 10am to noon on December 13th at Horace Mann Early Learning Center.  Santa will be on hand to spread holiday cheer and delight to special needs children throughout the Milan area.  Approximately 100 children from Horace Mann Early Learning Center are expected to attend the event.  The first special needs party began in 1972 when Happy Joe Whitty opened his first store in the Village of East Davenport.  Since that first event 39 years ago, nearly 155,000 special needs children have attended parties throughout the 59 store chain.

"We look forward to December and hosting the special needs party each and every year," says Dave Vanderginst, Milan Happy Joe's Franchise Owner.  "The party is an opportunity for us to reflect and be thankful for the past year while continuing a long standing tradition our founder, Happy Joe Whitty, started one holiday night in 1972."
Before opening his first Happy Joe's Pizza & Ice Cream Parlor in the Village of East Davenport, founder Joe Whitty was nearly fired from another pizza chain for sponsoring a party for a group of special needs children without first checking with his boss.  In 1972, on the eve his first restaurant's opening night , he invited a local priest to bless his business and promised that if he could make enough money to feed his family, he would give something back to the community.  After just a few weeks in business, people were waiting out the door.  True to his word, Joe shut down the restaurant one day a year to have a party for those less fortunate, and required his franchisees to do the same.  Now, 39 years later, nearly 155,000 special needs children have benefited from the parties held throughout the chain over the holiday season.
All media are welcome to join our team members at Horace Mann Early Learning Center located at 3530 38th Ave, Rock Island, IL 61201.
For more information, contact Johanna Smith at 760-458-1218 or at Johanna_M_Smith@hotmail.com.
###
13 Dec 2011

Lt. Governor Simon to record holiday message for troops

By Kathryn Phillips

Lt. Governor Sheila Simon will spread holiday cheer to service members this season, thanks to a new "digital care package" project launched by the Illinois Center for Broadcasting.

Simon will work with student broadcasters to record a holiday video during the school's first "man on the street" recording session at 4:15 p.m. Thursday across from the iconic Chicago Theater sign at State and Lake Streets in downtown Chicago.

The ICB is also taking appointments from military families and supporters who want to record a free message at their holiday studio between Thursday and December 16. The video messages will be distributed to military members stationed throughout the country and in Iraq and Afghanistan by the U.S. Army and Illinois National Guard.

"The selfless dedication of our service members should be recognized year-round, but the holidays are often more difficult for our troops overseas and away from their families," Simon said. "I encourage all that are able to send a warm greeting from home to our service members stationed across the world."

As chair of the state's Interagency Military Base Support and Economic Development Committee (IMBSEDC), Simon works to preserve military installations throughout the state and provide support for military members and their families.

Lt. Governor Simon holiday message recording

TIME: 4:15 p.m.
DATE: Thursday, December 8
PLACE: Southwest corner of State and Lake Streets, Chicago

###
13 Dec 2011

Flight information update: Additional Allegiant flights from MLI to Mesa, added especially for bowl-bound travelers to AZ

By Cathie Rochau

Airport officials found out late this afternoon, that Allegiant has agreed to add two more departures to Mesa, AZ, in anticipation of those travelers who may be following the Iowa Hawkeyes to the Insight Bowl in Tempe, AZ, on December 30th.  Allegiant added two round trip flights at the request of airport officials, knowing that the nonstop flights and extra choices in dates will be very alluring to regional area fans.

Non-stop flights on Allegiant will depart for Mesa, AZ on 12/28, and 12/31.  "The extra departure on the 28th is very important at this point because our regularly scheduled (nonstop) flights on Tuesday the 27th and Thursday the 29th on Allegiant are completely booked." says Bruce Carter, Director of Aviation.

Cathie Rochau, Marketing Representative adds "The additional nonstop flights to/from Mesa will likely serve those fans interested in returning the day after the game, and making it home in time to celebrate New Year's Day. Plus, if people choose to go back to work on Monday, they can do so with a little time to relax."

If fans would like to stay and enjoy the warmer climate, nonstop return flights are also on January 3 and 5, 2012. January 1 was a regularly scheduled return flight and has also sold out.  Fans can call their travel agent for assistance or Allegiant, or visit Allegiant's website at www.allegiant.com.
13 Dec 2011

HOTEL BLACKHAWK IS PRESERVATION SUCCESS STORY AWARD WINNER

By Robert Jackson Jr.

Historic Hotels of America recognizes "creative rehabilitation efforts"

Davenport, IA - Hotel Blackhawk has just been named a Preservation Success Story Award Honorable Mention winner by the Historic Hotels of America - a part of the National Trust For Historic Preservation. The award was officially announced Dec. 1st.

According to organization Executive Director Thierry Roch, the award exemplifies "creative rehabilitation efforts undertaken to recapture, promote and glorify the property's original use in a preservation sensitive manner."

This caps a year of recognition for Hotel Blackhawk. It earned a "Smart Meetings" Platinum Choice Award for 2011 marking excellence in service and amenities among meeting facilities in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. Then, management was informed it would be featured as a must-see destination in a book from The New York Times entitled "36 Hours, 150 weekends in the USA and Canada."

"It's thrilling to see the vision of Amrit and Amy Gill of Restoration Saint Louis and the City of Davenport rewarded by Historic Hotels of America, Smart Meetings and The New York Times," said General Manager Tim Heim. "It was the vision of restoring a jewel which has been realized by me and my staff. It provides great satisfaction that preservationists, industry observers, guests and clients have recognized this gift as well."

Hotel Blackhawk re-opened December 15th, 2010. The hotel retains its 95-year-old historic character while featuring modern conveniences throughout the 130 guestrooms and extended-stay suites, eight meeting rooms and up to 300-person banquet capacity in the signature Gold Room.

Other features include wireless internet, a fitness center, business center, swimming pool, hot tub, Spa Luce (lu-CHAY), Milan Flower Shop, the Bix Bistro restaurant, the Beignet (been-YAY) Done That coffee shop and Blackhawk Bowl & Martini Lounge. The hotel is part of the Summit Hotels & Resorts group (www.summithotels.com) and the Historic Hotels of America network (www.historichotels.org).

For more, visit www.hotelblackhawk.com or find us on www.facebook.com (Search: Hotel Blackhawk).

-30-

13 Dec 2011

Newt Gingrich Finds Refuge at Des Moines' Blank Park Zoo

By Sally Bahner

(DES MOINES, IA) – When Newt Gingrich gets tired of fielding "gotcha questions" from the journalistic wolf packs prowling Iowa, he might want to return to Des Moines' Blank Park Zoo where he can caucus with its hissing cockroaches.

He has already been there twice this year, according to a zoo spokesperson, once for the opening of the Australian Adventure exhibit and again in August after the Republican debate that preceded Iowa's straw poll.

Gingrich, a Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, native, has a soft spot for zoos, which played a crucial role in his awakening to politics as a profession, a story he relates in his foreword to America's Best Zoos, by Allen W. Nyhus and Jon Wassner (Intrepid Traveler, $15.95).

"When I was ten, I asked how Harrisburg could get a zoo," Gingrich wrote in America's Best Zoos. "The kind older, park official ... told me they had closed the zoo during World War II because of rationing and that my job was to come to the next city council and explain why Harrisburg needed a zoo. The next Tuesday, I was right there. I have been hooked on animals, zoos, and citizenship from that point on."

Authors Nyhuis and Wassner describe Blank Park Zoo as "a standout mid-sized zoo" and praise the zoo's African Boardwalk, where visitors can hand feed giraffes, and the Australian Trail, showcasing wallabies and emus.

Gingrich might be disappointed that the zoo has no elephant. On the bright side, it has no donkey either.

America's Best Zoos is published by The Intrepid Traveler. It is available at bookstores, many zoo gift shops, and online at www.intrepidtraveler.com/store.

13 Dec 2011

Will Senator Chuck Grassley Stand Up to Big Banks and Stand With Consumers?

By Lauren Weiner

Gut Check Time: Senator Grassley: Don't Block Richard Cordray as Head of the Consumer Financial Protect Bureau, Key to Protecting Consumers

Washington, DC - Tomorrow the U.S. Senate will vote on confirming former Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray as the new head of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and Senator Chuck Grassley will have the opportunity to show his true stripes - stand with consumers just trying to keep our heads above water or stand with those big banks which are doing everything to avoid being held accountable for crashing the economy and costing millions of jobs.

Republican have done everything in their power to delay, defund, repeal, or weaken the new Wall Street reforms that created the new watchdog, and Wall Street companies and their well-paid lobbyists have spent as many millions to undermine the new law as they did to block it.

Tom McMahon, Executive Director, Americans United for Change: "Let's be clear - this isn't about the overwhelming qualified Richard Cordray.  This about the Republicans doing the banks bidding by standing with them and against the 99%.  It's about the students and members of our Armed Forces who are preyed upon. It's about the more than $3 million that Senator Grassley has received from the financial sector to do their bidding. We can't afford any more delays in putting in place a strong consumer watchdog looking out for all of us.  It's unconscionable for Senator Grassley to block Cordray from heading this agency - an agency that is finally standing up for our interests."

###
13 Dec 2011

Amica offers tips for finding and caring for Christmas trees

By Laura Meade Kirk

LINCOLN, RI, Dec. 7, 2011 - Christmas trees come in all sizes, shapes and colors. But if you're looking for a real Christmas tree, it's important to know how to choose and care for it.

"Nothing beats the look, smell and feel of a real Christmas tree," said Lisa Melton, an assistant vice president with Amica Insurance. "But they require extra care and attention if you want them to last safely through the holidays."

The U.S. Fire Administration reports that Christmas trees account for about 250 fires a year, resulting in 14 deaths, 26 injuries and nearly $14 million in property damage.

"That's why it's important to take extra care with real trees, whether you select your own at a local tree farm or buy pre-cut Christmas trees from a holiday lot or retail store," Melton said.

Some of the most popular Christmas trees include fir, spruce, cypress and pine, with different varieties of each grown around the world, according to the National Christmas Tree Association. 

Diane Duquette, whose family owns Duquette Tree Farm in Chepachet, RI, said the single most important factor when it comes to selecting a Christmas tree is to make sure the tree is fresh. Run your hand along the branch, she suggested. If it's a fresh tree, the green needles should not come off when they're touched.

When you take a tree home, whether it's fresh cut or has been standing outside in a lot, store it outside in a bucket of water, sheltered from the sun and wind, until you're ready to bring it into the house, Duquette said. Before bringing it inside, cut about an inch off the end of the trunk. This fresh cut will allow the tree to absorb water more easily. Make sure you check the water supply frequently - at least once a day. If the stand runs out of water, the trunk can seal and will need to be cut again.

When you're ready to decorate your tree, here are a few reminders:
• Never place a tree near a heat source, such as a woodstove, fireplace, radiator or heat vent.
• Check the lights before you put them on the tree, to make sure they're working and to make sure there are no loose bulbs or frayed wires.
• Connect no more than three strings of mini lights together, and do not overload extension cords or electrical outlets.
• Never use lit candles on a Christmas tree.
• Always turn off the lights before leaving the house or going to bed. Never leave a lit tree unattended.
• Dispose of the tree when it begins dropping its needles, since a dried-out tree is a fire hazard.

With proper care, Duquette said, a real Christmas tree should last at least a month indoors - giving families plenty of time to enjoy it through the holidays.

"The right tree can be the perfect centerpiece for your holiday decorations," Melton said.  "But make sure you take care of it, to keep you and your family safe this Christmas."

13 Dec 2011

More news from the Ron Paul Campaign

By Gary Howard
Ron Paul to Visit Eastern Iowa for Eight Town Hall Meetings; Will hold eight town hall meetings over two days in large population centers and rural areas
ANKENY, Iowa - 2012 Republican Presidential candidate Ron Paul will visit eastern Iowa for a series of town hall meetings as the campaign draws nearer to the pivotal 2012 Iowa Caucus.

The visit will take place on Wednesday and Thursday, December 21st and 22nd.  All eight of Dr. Paul's events this time around are town hall meetings featuring a speech, followed by a question and answer session.

"The Iowa team is pleased to welcome Ron Paul for another set of town hall meetings where he will give voters straightforward answers to questions concerning America's pressing challenges.  If past is prologue, voters will leave these gatherings knowing that Dr. Paul makes every effort to be engaging, informative, and uncommonly candid," said Iowa Campaign Chairman Drew Ivers.

Details of the events are as follows.  All times Central.

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

10:00 a.m.
Lee County Town Hall Meeting
Comfort Inn & Suites
6169 Reve Court (Hwy. 61 & Hwy. 2) 
Fort Madison, IA 52627

12:00 p.m.
Henry County Town Hall Meeting
Civic Center Meeting Room (old High School)
307 E. Monroe Street
Mount Pleasant, IA  52641

3:00 p.m.
Washington County Town Hall Meeting
Washington Public Library
115 W. Washington Street 
Washington, IA  52353

7:00 p.m.
Quad Cities Town Hall Meeting
Quad Cities Waterfront Convention Center - Iowa Room
2021 State Street 
Bettendorf, IA 52722

Thursday, December 22, 2011

10:00 a.m.
Jackson County Town Hall Meeting
Historic Clinton Engines Building
605 E. Maple Street  
Maquoketa, IA 52060

12:00 p.m.
Dubuque Town Hall Meeting
Grand River Center - Meeting Room #4
Port of Dubuque 
500 Bell Street 
Dubuque, IA 52001

3:00 p.m.
Delaware County Town Hall Meeting
Delaware County Fairgrounds
200 E. Acers Street 
Manchester, IA 52057

7:00 p.m.
Cedar Rapids Town Hall Meeting
The Hotel at Kirkwood Center - Suites D & E
7725 Kirkwood Center   
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404

###
In Case You Missed It:  Ron Paul Discusses Authentic Support for Israel, U.S. should be a friend and ally to Israel - not a "master" as current foreign policy promotes
LAKE JACKSON, Texas - 2012 Republican Presidential candidate Ron Paul recently discussed his position vis a vis the State of Israel and foreign policy in general.

In an interview published online, the 12-term Congressman from Texas describes how the United States as a true ally and friend would not limit Israel's right to defend herself.  Nor would the U.S., under a fairer aid and diplomatic framework, fund Israel's enemies and create greater Middle East instability.

Ron Paul Tells Newsmax: I Support Israel
By Doug Wead*

In an exclusive Newsmax interview, Congressman and Republican presidential candidate Ron Paul confirmed his support for Israel, but cautioned that while the United States should be a "friend" of the Jewish state, America should not be the "master" of Israel.

Paul also says the United States should not dictate Israel's borders or try to "buy her allegiance" with massive amounts of foreign aid. He argued that foreign aid has actually hurt - not helped - the Jewish state.

The interview was conducted by Newsmax contributor Doug Wead, a presidential historian and New York Times best-selling author.

Paul has recently come under fire from some Jewish groups in America. The Republican Jewish Coalition banned Paul from a debate on Jewish issues in Washington this week because of his "misguided and extreme views," according to the group's executive director, Matt Brooks.

Newsmax chatted with Paul to get his side of the issue as the Texas Republican is surging in some presidential polls.

A new Washington Post-ABC News survey in Iowa shows him threatening Mitt Romney as the second-leading candidate behind Newt Gingrich. Paul is now tied with Romney in the early caucus state with 18 percent of the vote, behind Gingrich's 33 percent.

Rep. Paul's interview with Newsmax follows:

Newsmax: What should our relationship be with Israel?

Ron Paul: We should be their friend and their trading partner. They are a democracy and we share many values with them. But we should not be their master. We should not dictate where their borders will be nor should we have veto power over their foreign policy.

This is not just about Israel, by the way, this is about how we should conduct ourselves with other countries around the world...

For the full article, click here.
[*Newsmax contributor Doug Wead is a presidential historian and bestselling author.  He also serves as a senior advisor for the Ron Paul 2012 Presidential campaign.]

###
Ron Paul Iowa Team Touts New 'Small Businesses for Ron Paul' Coalition Members, Latest additions to key group operate in Bremer, Davis, Linn, and Polk counties
ANKENY, Iowa - Following recent news of growth in the candidate's homeschoolers coalition in the Hawkeye State, the Ron Paul Iowa team announced today additions to the "Small Businesses for Ron Paul" coalition.

Small businesses are critical to the economy as the top employers in the nation, so any credible candidate for the nation's highest office must have visible support among this segment.

It's reasonable to conclude that those with a finger on the pulse of the real economy and who have the potential to create real jobs will coalesce behind the presidential candidate with real solutions.  An oft-cited example of authentic solutions is Ron Paul's Plan to Restore America: an economic policy blueprint that cuts $1 trillion in year one of a Paul presidency, eliminates five federal departments, and proposes a balanced budget in year three.

The Ron Paul 2012 Presidential Campaign in Iowa is grateful for the support of the following Iowa small business owners who stand with Dr. Paul and offer the following statements.

Matthew Schneider employs 35 people at his video game and movie retailer, Digital Dog Pound, serving Waverly city residents for over 11 years.  He has thrown his support behind Dr. Paul because he believes, "We need an honest, principled leader in the White House.  We need the Republican Party to return to its conservative constitutional roots.  Dr. Paul is one of the few politicians who understand economics, and how to address our economic crisis.  Ron Paul is a true statesman and is America's last hope to restore America."

Business partners Cassandra Hansen and David Birchmier operate MPA Computers, a firm that employs seven people and serves hundreds of clients in the Bloomfield-Ottumwa area.  The couple has been in business three years, and together they explain, "Ron Paul is my president because he stands for liberty, follows the Constitution, and seeks to limit the government's power over my money and business decisions.  As a small business owner, I see the importance of fixing our debt crisis and reducing government spending.  I support him also because he is for limited government and for fixing the source of the problem, not doing more of the same thing that created the issues in the first place.  He predicted every major economic crisis and bubble before they happened.  Ron Paul is a man of principle, and unquestioned integrity."

Businesswoman Jennifer Elliott owns "A New You" in Coralville and "Inches-A-Weigh" in Cedar Rapids.  She's been operating for over six years now and has employed between six and 20 employees over the course of her business.  Ms. Elliott is confident a President Paul will eliminate the national debt and reign in the Federal Reserve, and shares her optimism.

"Our country needs to pay less in taxes and create more jobs so small business owners like me can succeed.  Ron Paul's voting record is consistent and constitutional.  These principles made our country great and they will make it great once again.  I support Dr. Paul most of all as a mother of two young children because I believe in his values and that he is the only candidate who will institute real change in our nation," said Ms. Elliott.

These statements conclude with comments from 18-year small business owner and employer of five, Jeremy Goemaat, President of LogicBox Inc. in West Des Moines. 

"Ron Paul is the only presidential candidate who precisely predicted our world's financial predicament.  Examine his wise solutions that are backed by historical context and a solid moral foundation, and you will see why more and more people are waking up to the message of this true founding father of our time," said Mr. Goemaat.

The above business owners are universally enthusiastic in their desire to spread the word about the Ron Paul campaign, who they call the only candidate who will restore America now.  As a function of this announcement, they now serve on the "Small Businesses for Ron Paul" national advisory board.

As a first basic step, those wanting to join the "Small Businesses for Ron Paul" nationwide coalition should visit www.RonPaul2012.com/SmallBusiness.  In addition, those ready to join are asked to email Meghann Walker, Director of Iowa Voter Outreach, at meghannw@ronpaul2012.com.
###
Ron Paul Campaign Announces Grand Opening Events at Five New State Headquarters: Colorado, Maine, Minnesota, North Dakota
and Washington open doors for debate watch parties
LAKE JACKSON, Texas - The Ron Paul 2012 Presidential campaign announced today the public grand openings of five new state operations headquarters, each of which will be open to supporters the evening of Thursday, December 15th for variety of activities including a debate watching party.

Official Ron Paul state operations headquarters in Colorado, Maine, Minnesota, North Dakota and Washington will open their doors to Ron Paul supporters for activities ranging from volunteer recruitment and training, campaign materials distribution, special guest appearances, and refreshments.  All will take place amid a family-friendly atmosphere and all will feature a debate watching party.

The Republican debate airs at 9:00 p.m. EST on the Fox News Channel.  The event is sponsored by Fox News and the Republican Party of Iowa, and will occur at the Sioux City Convention Center in Sioux City, Iowa.  As such, Dr. Paul will be unable to attend these grand opening celebrations.

Colorado

The Colorado operation will hold its event at 6:00 p.m. MST at the Ron Paul Colorado headquarters, located at 2955 Ulster Street #101, Denver, CO 80238.  Colorado staff will begin the evening at 6:00 p.m. with a social hour from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., followed by a debate viewing on a large projection screen from 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.  Staff will raffle off official Ron Paul 2012 merchandise during the commercial breaks, with the grand prize a Ron Paul autographed copy of his book Liberty Defined.  All are eligible to enter for prize drawings just by attending.  Food from Denver's own Steve's Snappin' Dogs, which is often voted best hot dogs in Denver, will also be provided.

"Ron Paul's rising poll numbers and solid fundraising have allowed us to extend our operations to Colorado.  Our team has concluded that we're well positioned to make a tremendous impact here because of our uniquely motivated Colorado supporters who have shown that they are willing to climb the highest mountains to deliver the state to Dr. Paul," said Colorado State Director Matt Holdridge.

Maine

The Maine operation will hold its event at 7:00 p.m. EST at the Ron Paul Maine headquarters, located at 190 US Route 1, Falmouth, ME 04105.  Maine staff will speak briefly, direct volunteer sign-up and orientation, and hand out campaign materials such as buttons, signs, literature and the like.  Music, refreshments and finger-foods also will be provided.  Supporters who recruit the most volunteers, and the region that is best represented, will receive a prize.

"We're pleased to work with supporters who succeeded in causing part of Ron Paul's vision for a more prosperous America - namely, his call to audit the Federal Reserve - to be featured in the state Republican platform.  We're already discovering that many Maine voters appreciate Dr. Paul's message of liberty.  We feel that as Maine goes, so will the nation, hopefully in the direction of peace, prosperity and freedom as our candidate alone champions," said Maine Deputy State Director Ryan Flowers.

To RSVP for the Maine grand open, click here or call 207-274-0099.

Minnesota

The Minnesota operation will hold its event at 6:30 p.m. CST at the Ron Paul Minnesota headquarters, located at 11000 Cedar Lake Road, Minnetonka MN 55305.  Campaign staff will get to know their fellow supporters better and discuss local precinct strategy, and they will distribute campaign materials such as literature and lawn signs.  During debate time, staff will serve pizza and soft drinks.

"Minnesota's Ron Paul 2012 campaign welcomes new and old faces to visit our local headquarters, get to know the staff, pick up campaign materials, and enjoy some camaraderie as we share pizza from American Pie and watch the GOP presidential debate televised from Iowa," said Marianne Stebbins, Minnesota Campaign Chair.

Recently, Ron Paul attracted more than 3,000 Minnesota supporters at a campaign rally held in St. Cloud.

North Dakota

The North Dakota operation will hold its event at 6:00 p.m. CST at the Ron Paul North Dakota headquarters, located at 500 N. 3rd Street, Bismarck, ND 58501.  From 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. North Dakota staff will host a grand opening celebration and open house during which guests will be invited to sign up as volunteers.  At 7:00 p.m., campaign staff will make a brief presentation and distribute campaign materials such as signs, literature, buttons and the like.  Guests may then watch the televised Republican presidential debate while enjoying soft drinks, hors d'oeuvres, pizza, and cake. 

"Ron Paul's recent rise in the polls firmly establishes him as a top GOP candidate and his campaign is now bringing a strong presence to the state of North Dakota.  I am tremendously excited to open our office to the public and share with them Dr. Paul's lifelong fight for liberty and his positive vision for restoring America.  Ron Paul is the only candidate who has expertise on the intricacies of our economic crisis and, over a 35-year track record, he has illustrated the moral character and wisdom sorely needed in the White House.  As President, Dr. Paul will cut $1 trillion in his first year, balance the budget by his third year, and courageously exhibit the leadership necessary to bring about commonsense, limited government," said North Dakota State Director Jared Hendrix.

To RSVP, please call Mr. Hendrix directly at 701-516-7593.

Ron Paul recently visited Fargo, North Dakota to address a free-market policy forum.

Washington State

The Washington operation will hold its event at 4:00 p.m. PST at the Ron Paul Washington headquarters located at 13600 NE 20th Street, Bellevue, WA 98005.  Washington State Rep. Cary Condotta (R-12) is slated to speak at 4:30 p.m. to endorse Ron Paul for the presidency.

Also that evening, Washington campaign staff will sign up supporters for volunteer and caucus training, distribute promotional materials, watch the GOP debate live, and involve volunteers in contacting voters.  Soft drinks and appetizers will be served initially, and pizza will be ordered during the debate time.

"Washington is a state Ron Paul can most assuredly win.  Dr. Paul's message strikes a chord with residents because they have watched not only the federal government, but also their local government, overspend for years as they now teeter on the edge of bankruptcy.  Furthermore, residents value their civil liberties and support peace alongside a strong national defense.  Many enthusiastic supporters have already stepped forward, but we're looking for many more to help us assure a victory 12 short weeks from now at the precinct caucuses on Saturday, March 3rd," said Washington State Executive Director Pedro Serra.   

National, state, and local media wanting to cover these events should send an email to RSVP@ronpaul2012.com.

###
12 Dec 2011

Reaction to the Blagojevich Sentencing

By various
Moline, IL...State Representative Rich Morthland (R-Cordova) responded to today's sentencing of convicted former Governor Rod Blagojevich on 18 federal counts, including that Blagojevich sought to auction off the Senate seat Barack Obama was vacating to become president:

 

"I have full faith in our legal system's ability to deliver justice to the people of Illinois. Rod Blagojevich's corrupt reign as Governor of the State of Illinois has tarnished our State. The former governor betrayed the trust of the hard working citizens of Illinois.

 

"While we are ready to put this chapter of Illinois history behind us, we must let this violation of public trust serve as a constant reminder to elected officials to remain steadfast in their duty to the citizenry as honest and faithful servants."

Former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich was sentenced to 14 years in prison today.

 

For questions or more information, please contact the constituent services office at (309) 762-3008 or via e-mail at repmorthland@gmail.com.

 

####

 

Lt. Governor Simon statement on Blagojevich sentencing

 

CHICAGO - December 7, 2011. Lt. Governor Sheila Simon today said the sentencing of former Governor Rod Blagojevich on corruption charges will not kill the state's pay-to-play culture unless it prompts serious ethics reform.

"We cannot rely on a prison sentence to deter corruption," Simon said. "Illinois needs stronger ethics laws to kill pay-to-play politics. It's time we expose conflicts of interest before they cost taxpayers, and clear the way for true public servants to rebuild trust with the public. Increased transparency, coupled with the threat of serious prison time, can end these shameful courtroom battles. Together we can put this chapter behind us, restore integrity to government and live up to our legacy as the Land of Lincoln."

Simon is a former Jackson County prosecutor and served on the Illinois Reform Commission, which was created in 2009 in the wake of Blagojevich's arrest and helped pass the state's first campaign finance limits law. She will work with the General Assembly to pass legislation in 2012 to strengthen the state's financial disclosure law.

###

 

Pages

more

Subscribe & Listen to Reader Podcasts

On Stands Now

 

Tagged Content

Two Ways to Subscribe

1. Subscribe to free weekly e-mail content updates.

You'll get both the current official narrative challenge and What's Happenin' in the Quad Cities.
(Did you know we publish a new Amy Alkon Advice Goddess, Real Astrology, Red Meat cartoon and RCR Crossword every week?) 

* indicates required

View previous campaigns.

2. Get 12 monthly issues mailed first class for $48

Get 12 issues mailed monthly for $48 per year.

Get the printed Reader edition mailed to you (or anyone you want) first-class for 12 months for $48.
$24 goes to postage and handling, $24 goes to keeping the doors open!

Click this link to Subscribe now.

 
 

Meetings Calendar

Kids Calendar

Eat & Drink Calendar