Thursday, March 29, 2012

Metro Health wants $256,000 more and reports on the Radon inspection program.

Watch the video
Dr. Bill Paul presents the budget.
Summary of Public Health Department Budget hearing:
Metro Public Heath wants a net increase of $256,000. About half of the budget of Public Health is paid for with local tax dollars. The local appropriation to support the department has been shirking for each of the past three years. "CCPW" funding is ending as expected. We need more funding to fund positions that were temporarily funded by the stimulus.


The radon inspection program, an issue dear to my heart, is discussed at 8:47 in the video. "We are requesting a position to continue our efforts on Radon. The Metro Council passed an ordinance in 1989 that required us to test all Metro building for Radon. I can't really explain why this wasn't done for so many years." The Mayor asked where they were on this. Dr. Paul says all metro buildings and metro schools have been inspected and they are working with the schools on an action plan for lowering the radon levels where they are elevated.

Stumble Upon Toolbar
My Zimbio
Top Stories

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Stop the Metro tax hike

Ralph Bristol
March 26, 2012


You haven’t yet seen the headline in the Tennessean that announces “Dean asks for property tax hike,” but by the time you do, it will likely be too late.  You need to act now if you want to help stop Mayor Karl Dean’s stealth tax increase.


What Mayor Dean appears to have done [I think they teach this in public administration 101] is borrow and spend a billion dollars on a new convention center and other legacy projects, while simultaneously squeezing infrastructure budgets to the point where residents are starting to complain about the neglect – particularly in streets. He then makes the case that the only way to pay other essential bills AND fix the streets is to increase taxes. He creates a visible, aggravating, need for more spending on county infrastructure.

Step two – Dean goes to council members one by one, metaphorically sits them on his lap and asks them what projects he can buy for their districts – if they vote for his tax increase. read more

Stumble Upon Toolbar
My Zimbio
Top Stories

1st Tuesday Group: Party Chairman Chris Devaney

A message from Tim Skow, host of 1st Tuesday

1ST TUESDAY members & friends,

The filing deadline for the 2012 election cycle is coming the 1st week of April. Coming to visit 1ST TUESDAY the 1st week of April to discuss our Party's opportunities and prospects will be ......
Chris Devaney
TN State Republican Party Chairman Chris Devaney.
This will be the proverbial closed-door meeting. You will not only want to hear what Chris has to say about the coming elections in Tennessee, but the Q&A discussion will be very informative.
Several candidates and a number of Legislators will also be there! So hit me back with your RSVP and makes plans to join us on TUESDAY, [yes, for those of you checking your calendars... it is the 1ST TUESDAY] ....  April 3rd
As usual, we will meet at The Law Offices of Waller/Lansden - 511 Union Street - 27th floor. Alexander's Catering will bring lunch at 11:30AM - lunch is $15 for members and $25 for guests who RSVP.
[ remember. starting in 2012 - Member walk-ups without a reservation will be $20 !!]
And remember.. those who have paid 2012 dues will get the first opportunity to join us on April 16th when Dr. Arthur Laffer returns for a VERY rare visit !
Our meeting will start promptly at NOON and the Q&A session will conclude at 1:00PM sharp.
For those paying with a credit card, please complete the attached form and return it -
This will be a lively, informative and entertaining day.. And the room will include many that you will want to catch up with, hear from and get to know.. So plan to join us for
1ST TUESDAY on 1ST TUESDAY.. April 3rd !
See you then & there!
Tim Skow
Host of 1ST TUESDAY


1st Tuesday is a always a great event. Hear interesting speakers in a room with a view, have a nice meal for a reasonable price and network with other Republicans. Park for free or cheap in the public garage beneath the library, which is less than a block away. Anyone is welcome to attend. The meeting is exactly one hour long, so you can attend and not be gone from work that long. If you are a Republican or a conservative and in the Nashville area, you really owe it to yourself to start attending 1st Tuesday. Previous guest speakers have included, Governor Bill Haslam, Lieutenant Governor Ron Ramsey, Mayor Karl Dean, former Attorney General Alberto Gonzalez, economist Authur Laffer, and former Speaker of the House and presidential candidate Newt Gringich.

At this time, there is not a website or Facebook page or Meetup site for 1st Tuesday.  Often the events are at capacity and attendance is limited to the first people who prepay, so I guess there is no need for further promotion of the events.  If you would like to attend an event or be added to the 1st Tuesday mailing list, email me at Rodwilliams47@yahoo.com and I will forward your contact information on to Tim Skow.

Stumble Upon Toolbar
My Zimbio
Top Stories

George Will on Nashville's Limo Price Fixing

Cabbie fights for economic liberty 
by George Will, The Tennessean, March 28, 2012

Ali Bokhari, 39, emigrated from Pakistan in 2000, eventually settled in Nashville as a taxi driver, and soon experienced a quintessentially American itch, a nagging sense that “I cannot grow.” But he had an idea: “I can build a better business model for something Nashville has been missing.” He built it, and now knows no good deed goes unpunished by today’s political model: collusion between entrenched businesses and compliant government. read more
This is a great article!  George will explains "collusion between entrenched businesses and compliant government." He exposes "a Metro government that is, as interventionist governments generally are, devoted to regulations that protect the strong by preserving the status quo." He explains what is at stake and the importance of this issue.

I have reported on this issue extensively and closely followed the developments in this case. I have been extremely disappointed in our former and current Metro Council. With the exception of Council Member Davette Blalock, who has championed the cause of the victims of price fixing, there have few admirable participants in this drama. In June 2010 when the Council approved the price fixing mechanism, not a single Council Member objected or voted against the legislation.  That included the conservative members of the Council who claim support of the Constitution and free enterprise. The Council has had the opportunity to undo Metro's price fixing bill but did not do so. Hopefully the Courts will restore the economic liberty that our Metro administrations and Metro Council disdains.

It is gratifying to see this issue picked up by someone of the stature of George Will. George Will writes a twice-weekly column on politics and domestic affairs which is syndicated in hundreds of newspapers across the Country. He began his column with The Washington Post in 1974, and he received the Pulitzer Prize for Commentary in 1977. He is also an ABC News commentator and regular panelist on “This Week.” He is the author of several best selling books and one of my favorite columnist.

Stumble Upon Toolbar
My Zimbio
Top Stories

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Scooter scoots. Not running in District 20.

Scooter Clippard, one of the Republican Party’s top money-raisers, has decided against a run in Senate 20.  This should be welcome news for Steve Dickerson who is seeking that nomination.  Scooter scoots | nashvillepost.com

Stumble Upon Toolbar
My Zimbio
Top Stories

Watch Metro departments build the case for a tax hike.

The case for a property tax hike is being made right now. If you missed the story in the Tennesseean, Metro Police and Fire each asked for a budget increase.  Police asked for a $8.2 million increase and Fire asked for $2.3 million.

Metro departmental budget hearings are available on video here.

Stumble Upon Toolbar
My Zimbio
Top Stories

President Obama assumes dictatorial powers.


President Obama has in essence given himself dictatorial powers and it is largely going unnoticed. He has signed an executive order giving himself the power to declare martial law.  The fact that he has not yet exercised the power he has given himself should not reassure anyone. The power grab has occurred; he is just not yet using that power. This order is an assault on individual liberty, private property, and the constitution. Congress should demand that this Executive Order be withdrawn at once!

If you missed this, don't feel to bad.  The mainstream press had not made this headline news and has only barely reported it, but it is real. Conservative news outlets and bloggers have reported it and except for The Huffington Post and a few others, the liberal media has been relatively quite. One wonders how the press would have reported this had President Bush signed the same executive order. Below are several reports on this issue:


Martial Law by Executive Order
by Jim Garrison, The Huffington Post, 03/21/2012

President Obama's National Defense Resources Preparedness Executive Order of March 16 does to the country as a whole what the 2012 National Defense Authorization Act did to the Constitution in particular -- completely eviscerates any due process or judicial oversight for any action by the Government deemed in the interest of "national security." Like the NDAA, the new Executive Order puts the government completely above the law, which, in a democracy, is never supposed to happen. The United States is essentially now under martial law without the exigencies of a national emergency. read more


Obama’s power grab
By Jeffrey T. Kuhner, The Washington Times, Thursday, March 22, 2012

President Obama has given himself the powers to declare martial law - especially in the event of a war with Iran. It is a sweeping power grab that should worry every American. On March 16, the White House released an executive order, “National Defense Resources Preparedness.” The document is stunning in its audacity and a flagrant violation of the Constitution. It states that, in case of a war or national emergency, the federal government has the authority to take over almost every aspect of American society. Food, livestock, farming equipment, manufacturing, industry, energy, transportation, hospitals, health care facilities, water resources, defense and construction - all of it could fall under the full control of Mr. Obama. The order empowers the president to dispense these vast resources as he sees fit during a national crisis. read more

To read the actual executive order, follow this link: Executive Order -- National Defense Resources Preparedness

Stumble Upon Toolbar
My Zimbio
Top Stories

Monday, March 26, 2012

The state of online leaning in Tennessee: Wed. March 28th

Tennessee Center for Policy Research

 

 
The Beacon Center of Tennessee
 
cordially invites you to a special presentation
about the state of online learning in Tennessee
 featuring
 Susan Patrick
President & CEO, International Association for K-12 Online Learning
and Former Director of Educational Technology, U.S. Department of Education
 
 "Online Learning: Is the Computer the New Chalkboard?"
 
Wednesday, March 28th
2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Sheraton Hotel
623 Union Street, Nashville, TN
 
Online learning is becoming increasingly popular across the country. However, some states have implemented regulations that have hindered the movement's progress, barring access to online education for hundreds of thousands of children. Is Tennessee one of those states where online learning can thrive, or do state laws and regulations put up a firewall for students and families?
 
This event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Space is limited, but there are a few seats remaining, so please RSVP as soon as possible to Ryan Turbeville at ryan@beacontn.org or (615) 383-6431.

Stumble Upon Toolbar
My Zimbio
Top Stories

Monumental: Coming March 27. One Day Only!



One day only! Tuesday, March 27, 2012 6:30 PM
 Regal Cinemas Green Hills Stadium 16 3815
Green Hills Village Drive Nashville, TN 37215

OFFICIAL SITE - http://www.monumentalmovie.com
FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/monumentalmovie
BUY TICKETS - http://bit.ly/AjJjcL

Stumble Upon Toolbar
My Zimbio
Top Stories

Healthcare Panel Hosted by YAL@VU, tonight

Young Americans for Liberty at Vanderbilt will be hosting a healthcare panel on the evening of Monday, March 26th,  7:00pm until 8:00pm. Held in Buttrick 206, this panel will feature ophthalmologist Dr. Ming Wang and MediBid CEO Ralph Weber. Free food and drinks will be provided to attendees.

Panel descriptions:

Surviving cultural revolution in China and appreciating freedom and choice in America - Dr. Ming Wang, Harvard & MIT (MD, magna cum laude); PhD (laser physics)
In this lecture, Dr. Wang will talk about his experience of growing up as a teenager during China's Cultural Revolution and his effort to escape the devastating fate of deportation and a lifetime of poverty. He will talk about how he came to America for freedom with just $50 in his pocket. He will also talk about his "Great American question", about why the principles of freedom and choice took root in this country and how important it is to realize how precious that is and the need to protect it.

The effect of ObamaCare on the current student generation - Ralph Weber
Ralph F. Weber is a Canadian philanthropic entrepreneur, writer, Certified Financial Planner, Registered Employee Benefits Consultant, Chartered Life Underwriter, and Chartered Financial Consultant. Weber's goal is to create a free-market health care system to help patients save money. He regularly contributes articles and speaks at public and private functions to promote awareness of domestic medical tourism, patient rights, and the economics of health care.

Stumble Upon Toolbar
My Zimbio
Top Stories

Sunday, March 25, 2012

David Barton to appear in Madison on Tuesday

David Barton will be in Madison on Tuesday, March March 27, 2012 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Salt and Light Institute, which is located at what used to be the the Madison Hospital, 612 Due West Ave.

He will be providing a briefing concerning judicial abuse, judicial activism, and the lack of oversight and accountability in our judicial systems. He will also address the remedies afforded in the US and State Constitutions as well as provide other solutions. 

This event is being sponsored by The Tennessee Judicial Reform initiative, the Faith & Freedom Coalition-Tennessee, the Black Robe Regiment, 9-12 Project Tennessee, and Gideon's Army. The cost is only $6.27 a person, including the ticket fee.

David Barton heads WallBuilders, a national pro-family organization that presents America’s forgotten history and heroes, with an emphasis on our moral, religious, and constitutional heritage. David is the author of numerous best-selling books, addresses over 400 groups a year, and has appeared on The Mike Huckabee Show and Glen Beck, as well as ABC, The Daily Show, Fox News, and NPR. Time Magazine called him "a hero to millions – including some powerful politicians," named him as one of America’s 25 most influential evangelicals.

Barton collects early American documents, and his official biography describes him as "an expert in historical and constitutional issues." Much of his work is devoted to advancing the idea that the United States was founded as a Christian nation. In his book "The Myth of Separation", he states his belief that Christians were the ones who were intended to hold public office in America and that Jews and members of other sects were not.  Barton holds no formal credentials in history or law, and some scholars dispute the accuracy and integrity of his assertions about history.

For more information, click here.

Disclaimer: From time to time A Disgruntled Republican may post announcements of interest to the conservative, libertarian, or greater community. Such announcements are posted as a public service to spread awareness and do not necessarily constitute an endorsement.

Stumble Upon Toolbar
My Zimbio
Top Stories

MAGGART MAKES IT OFFICIAL: SHE’S RUNNING!

Conservative Champion—Backed by Lt. Gov and House Speaker—Will Continue Fighting for Tennessee, Focusing on Job Creation and Limiting Government
 
HENDERSONVILLE, Tenn. – Known for her long-standing commitment to Sumner County and dedication to constitutional principles, Representative Debra Maggart (R—Hendersonville) announced today she has filed paperwork to seek another term to continue being a voice for government reform and advocate for the job creators of Tennessee. Upon learning of the news, Lieutenant Governor Ron Ramsey (R—Blountville) and Speaker of the House Beth Harwell (R—Nashville) immediately signaled their strong support of Maggart’s campaign.
 
“We have made a lot of progress in Tennessee when it comes to job growth, saving taxpayer money, and cutting wasteful spending. But we can do more,” said Maggart. “As the Chairman of the House Republican Caucus, I have helped our Majority enact an aggressive agenda to empower Tennessee’s job creators while limiting the harmful effects of government overreach. It’s a record of accomplishment I am proud of.”
 
Maggart is a familiar face in Hendersonville. As head of the Community Outreach Making Partnerships at Sumner Schools (COMPASS), Maggart helps partner community businesses with local schools to ensure a full educational experience for Sumner County students.
 
“I have used my professional experience to guide my vision as a public servant. I truly believe government needs to be a resource, not a hurdle, for the small businesses and entrepreneurs of Tennessee. That begins with education reform to ensure all of our children are equipped with the skills necessary to lead in the 21st century economy. And it also includes passing pro-family reforms like the elimination of the death tax, which we will start doing this year, that will keep Tennessee moving forward,” stated Maggart.
 
Lt. Gov. Ramsey highlighted Chairwoman Maggart’s commitment to conservative values in his endorsement. "Conservatives have no better friend in the Legislature than Chairman Maggart,” he said. “We have accomplished much together but there is still much left to do. Chairman Maggart has never stopped fighting for the things Tennesseans need: more jobs, less spending, and smaller government. I support her without reservation."
 
“Debra Maggart epitomizes the definition of principled conservative. With her leadership of the Republican Caucus, our Majority has achieved a number of reforms to cut taxes, balance our State’s budget, and reduce the size and scope of government. She is an asset to Tennessee and I’m proud to support her campaign,” said Speaker Harwell, who joined Ramsey in backing Maggart.
 
Since taking office, Maggart has helped pass vital legislation such as:
  •  A balanced budget in 2011 that cut over $1 billion dollars in spending without raising taxes;
  • A constitutional amendment placed on the ballot so Tennesseans can ensure they will never face a State income tax;
  • A law to streamline government operations by reducing the size of Legislature, removing duplicative committees, saving Tennesseans nearly $1 million in efficiencies;
  • A voter photo ID law to ensure the legitimate votes of all Tennesseans will count in State elections;
  • Tenure reform and collaborative conferencing laws that ensure teacher excellence and student achievement are the top goals for education in Tennessee;
  • Much-needed lawsuit reform so Tennessee businesses can quantify their risk;
  • Restoration of $70.4 million to the State’s rainy day fund for the first time in three years.
Maggart concluded, “A growing number of Tennesseans are looking for leaders who will make a real difference on their behalf. They see a dysfunctional Washington that wastes our taxpayer dollars and a government that only seems to get bigger. That is unacceptable. Tennesseans want State lawmakers who will fight back against this injustice. I believe my record proves I am a difference maker for Tennessee and I look forward to continuing my service for Sumner County.”
 
Debra Maggart is the conservative Republican candidate for the House of Representatives in Tennessee's 45th District who champions pro-growth policies for Tennessee. Learn more about her campaign at www.debramaggart.com.

Stumble Upon Toolbar
My Zimbio
Top Stories