Thunder Pig

The Declaration of Independence

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 10:25:00 +0000

Declaration of Independence

Here is the complete text of the Declaration of Independence.The original spelling and capitalization have been retained. (Adopted by Congress on July 4, 1776)

The Unanimous Declarationof the Thirteen United States of America

When, in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bonds which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the laws of nature and of nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. That whenever any form of government becomes destructive to these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shown that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security. --Such has been the patient sufferance of these colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former systems of government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute tyranny over these states. To prove this, let facts be submitted to a candid world.
He has refused his assent to laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.
He has forbidden his governors to pass laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.

He has refused to pass other laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of representation in the legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.

He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their public records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.
He has dissolved representative houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.

He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected; whereby the legislative powers, incapable of annihilation, have returned to the people at large for their exercise; the state remaining in the meantime exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.

He has endeavored to prevent the population of these states; for that purpose obstructing the laws for naturalization of foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migration hither, and raising the conditions of new appropriations of lands.

He has obstructed the administration of justice, by refusing his assent to laws for establishing judiciary powers.

He has made judges dependent on his will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.

He has erected a multitude of new offices, and sent hither swarms of officers to harass our people, and eat out their substance.

He has kept among us, in times of peace, standing armies without the consent of our legislature.
He has affected to render the military independent of and superior to civil power.

He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his assent to their acts of pretended legislation:

For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:

For protecting them, by mock trial, from punishment for any murders which they should commit on the inhabitants of these states:

For cutting off our trade with all parts of the world:

For imposing taxes on us without our consent:

For depriving us in many cases, of the benefits of trial by jury:

For transporting us beyond seas to be tried for pretended offenses:

For abolishing the free system of English laws in a neighboring province, establishing therein an arbitrary government, and enlarging its boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule in these colonies:

For taking away our charters, abolishing our most valuable laws, and altering fundamentally the forms of our governments:

For suspending our own legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.

He has abdicated government here, by declaring us out of his protection and waging war against us.

He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burned our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.

He is at this time transporting large armies of foreign mercenaries to complete the works of death, desolation and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of cruelty and perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the head of a civilized nation.

He has constrained our fellow citizens taken captive on the high seas to bear arms against their country, to become the executioners of their friends and brethren, or to fall themselves by their hands.

He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavored to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian savages, whose known rule of warfare, is undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.

In every stage of these oppressions we have petitioned for redress in the most humble terms: our repeated petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.
Nor have we been wanting in attention to our British brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which, would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, enemies in war, in peace friends.

We, therefore, the representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress, assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the name, and by the authority of the good people of these colonies, solemnly publish and declare, that these united colonies are, and of right ought to be free and independent states; that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the state of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as free and independent states, they have full power to levy war, conclude peace, contract alliances, establish commerce, and to do all other acts and things which independent states may of right do. And for the support of this declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor.

New Hampshire: Josiah Bartlett, William Whipple, Matthew Thornton
Massachusetts: John Hancock, Samual Adams, John Adams, Robert Treat Paine, Elbridge Gerry
Rhode Island: Stephen Hopkins, William Ellery
Connecticut: Roger Sherman, Samuel Huntington, William Williams, Oliver Wolcott
New York: William Floyd, Philip Livingston, Francis Lewis, Lewis Morris
New Jersey: Richard Stockton, John Witherspoon, Francis Hopkinson, John Hart, Abraham Clark
Pennsylvania: Robert Morris, Benjamin Rush, Benjamin Franklin, John Morton, George Clymer, James Smith, George Taylor, James Wilson, George Ross
Delaware: Caesar Rodney, George Read, Thomas McKean
Maryland: Samuel Chase, William Paca, Thomas Stone, Charles Carroll of Carrollton
Virginia: George Wythe, Richard Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Harrison, Thomas Nelson, Jr., Francis Lightfoot Lee, Carter Braxton
North Carolina: William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, John Penn
South Carolina: Edward Rutledge, Thomas Heyward, Jr., Thomas Lynch, Jr., Arthur Middleton
Georgia: Button Gwinnett, Lyman Hall, George Walton
Source: The Pennsylvania Packet, July 8, 1776

Celebrate Independence Day in Franklin, NC !!!

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 09:53:00 +0000

Here is what is happening in Franklin on July 4th...

July 4 -Annual 4th of July Fun Day & Fireworks - Macon County Recreation Park US 441S.
Activities begin at 11:00am and conclude at dark with the largest fireworks display in Western North Carolina!

Contact 800-336-7829 for additional information.

Live Entertainment:

10am am - Drumming Circle
10:30am - Parade in Historic Downtown Franklin (until 1pm)
11:30 am - Veterans Memorial Dedication (I am looking forward to this!)
1:00 pm - Frog Town 4
2:00 pm - Rye Holler Boys
3:00 pm - Dave Stewart
3:30 pm - Brian Sanders
4:00 pm - Touch of Class Band
4:45 pm - Eric Haggart
5:15 pm - C-Square
6:00 pm - Children's Choir
7:00 pm - Sundown
8:00 pm - Raffle/Awards/Announcements/Bulls Eye Bingo
8:15 pm - Presentation of Colors/Salute to Veterans/National Anthem Nikki Corbin
8:30 pm - Loose Cannons - Army Ground Forces Rock Band
9:30 pm - Fireworks Display (YAY!)

Governor Sarah Palin Resigning, No Plans to Run for Re-election Updated With Video, Full Text of Announcement

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 19:35:00 +0000

ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- Gov. Sarah Palin will resign her office in a few weeks, she said during a news conference at her Wasilla home Friday morning.
Lt. Gov. Sean Parnell will be inaugurated at the Governor's Picnic at Pionner Park in Fairbanks on Saturday, July 25, Palin said.
There was no immediate word as to why she will resign, though speculation has been rampant that the former vice presidential candidate is gearing up for a run at the 2012 Republican presidential nomination.

Source: KTUU-TV Anchorage, Alaska

Another breaking story I saw on Twitter before anywhere else...

**3.52pm**

Lt. Gov. Sean Parnell will be inaugurated at the Governor's Picnic at Pioneer Park in Fairbanks on Saturday, July 25th.

**3.58pm** Here is video from KTUU-TV:

**4.05pm**

And this is video from Fox News:

**4.21pm** Full Text of Governor Sarah Palin's announcement:

Hi Alaska, I appreciate speaking directly TO you, the people I serve, as your Governor.

People who know me know that besides faith and family, nothing's more important to me than our beloved Alaska. Serving her people is the greatest honor I could imagine.

I want Alaskans to grasp what can be in store for our state. We were purchased as a territory because a member of President Abe Lincoln's cabinet, William Seward, providentially saw in this great land, vast riches, beauty, strategic placement on the globe, and opportunity. He boldly looked "North to the Future". But he endured such ridicule and mocking for his vision for Alaska, remember the adversaries scoffed, calling this "Seward's Folly". Seward withstood such disdain as he chose the uncomfortable, unconventional, but RIGHT path to secure Alaska, so Alaska could help secure the United States.

People who know me know that besides faith and family, nothing's more important to me than our beloved Alaska.

Alaska’s mission – to contribute to America. We’re strategic IN the world as the air crossroads OF the world, as a gatekeeper of the continent. Bold visionaries knew this - Alaska would be part of America's great destiny.

Our destiny to be reached by responsibly developing our natural resources. This land, blessed with clean air, water, wildlife, minerals, AND oil and gas. It's energy! God gave us energy.

So to serve the state is a humbling responsibility, because I know in my soul that Alaska is of such import, for America’s security, in our very volatile world. And you know me by now, I promised even four years ago to show MY independence… no more conventional “politics as usual”.

And we are doing well! My administration's accomplishments speak for themselves. We work tirelessly for Alaskans.

We aggressively and responsibly develop our resources because they were created to be used to better our world... to HELP people... and we protect the environment and Alaskans (the resource owners) foremost with our policies.

Here’s some of the things we’ve done:

We created a petroleum integrity office to oversee safe development. We held the line FOR Alaskans on Point Thomson – and finally for the first time in decades – they’re drilling for oil and gas.

We have AGIA, the gasline project – a massive bi-partisan victory (the vote was 58 to 1!) – also succeeding as intended - protecting Alaskans as our clean natural gas will flow to energize us, and America, through a competitive, pro-private sector project. This is the largest private sector energy project, ever. THIS is energy independence.

And ACES – another bipartisan effort – is working as intended and industry is publicly acknowledging its success. Our new oil and gas “clear and equitable formula” is so Alaskans will no longer be taken advantage of. ACES incentivizes NEW exploration and development and JOBS that were previously not going to happen with a monopolized North Slope oil basin.

We cleaned up previously accepted unethical actions; we ushered in bi-partisan Ethics Reform.

We also slowed the rate of government growth, we worked with the Legislature to save billions of dollars for the future, and I made no lobbyist friends with my hundreds of millions of dollars in budget vetoes... but living beyond our means today is irresponsible for tomorrow.

We took government out of the dairy business and put it back into private-sector hands – where it should be.

We provided unprecedented support for education initiatives, and with the right leadership, finally filled long-vacant public safety positions. We built a sub-Cabinet on Climate Change and took heat from Outside special interests for our biologically-sound wildlife management for abundance.

We broke ground on the new prison.

And we made common sense conservative choices to eliminate personal luxuries like the jet, the chef, the junkets... the entourage.

And the Lt. Governor and I said "no" to our pay raises. So much success in this first term – and with this success I am proud to take credit... for hiring the right people! Our goal was to achieve a gasline project, more fair oil and gas valuation, and ethics reform in four years. We did it in two. It’s because of the people… good public servants surrounding the Governor's office, with servants' hearts and astounding work ethic... THEY are Alaska's success!

We are doing well! I wish you'd hear MORE from the media of your state's progress and how we tackle Outside interests - daily - SPECIAL interests that would stymie our state. Even those debt-ridden stimulus dollars that would force the heavy hand of federal government into our communities with an “all-knowing attitude” – I have taken the slings and arrows with that unpopular move to veto because I know being right is better than being popular. Some of those dollars would harm Alaska and harm America – I resisted those dollars because of the obscene national debt we’re forcing our children to pay, because of today’s Big Government spending; it’s immoral and doesn’t even make economic sense!

Another accomplishment – our Law Department protected states’ rights – TWO huge U.S. Supreme Court reversals came down against that liberal Ninth Circuit, deciding in OUR state’s favor over the last two weeks. We’re protectors of our Constitution – federalists protect states’ rights as mandated in 10th amendment.

But you don’t hear much of the good stuff in the press anymore, do you?

Some say things changed for me on August 29th last year – the day John McCain tapped me to be his running-mate – I say others changed.

Let me speak to that for a minute.

Political operatives descended on Alaska last August, digging for dirt. The ethics law I championed became their weapon of choice. Over the past nine months I've been accused of all sorts of frivolous ethics violations – such as holding a fish in a photograph, wearing a jacket with a logo on it, and answering reporters’ questions.

Every one – all 15 of the ethics complaints have been dismissed. We’ve won! But it hasn't been cheap - the State has wasted THOUSANDS of hours of YOUR time and shelled out some two million of YOUR dollars to respond to “opposition research” – that’s money NOT going to fund teachers or troopers – or safer roads. And this political absurdity, the “politics of personal destruction” … Todd and I are looking at more than half a million dollars in legal bills in order to set the record straight. And what about the people who offer up these silly accusations? It doesn’t cost them a dime so they’re not going to stop draining public resources – spending other peoples’ money in their game.

It’s pretty insane – my staff and I spend most of our day dealing with THIS instead of progressing our state now. I know I promised no more “politics as usual,” but THIS isn’t what anyone had in mind for ALASKA.

If I have learned one thing: LIFE is about choices!

And one chooses how to react to circumstances. You can choose to engage in things that tear down, or build up. I choose to work very hard on a path for fruitfulness and productivity. I choose NOT to tear down and waste precious time; but to build UP this state and our country, and her industrious, generous, patriotic, free people!

Life is too short to compromise time and resources... it may be tempting and more comfortable to just keep your head down, plod along, and appease those who demand: "Sit down and shut up", but that's the worthless, easy path; that's a quitter's way out. And a problem in our country today is apathy. It would be apathetic to just hunker down and “go with the flow”.

Nah, only dead fish "go with the flow".

No. Productive, fulfilled people determine where to put their efforts, choosing to wisely utilize precious time... to BUILD UP.

And there is such a need to BUILD up and FIGHT for our state and our country. I choose to FIGHT for it! And I'll work hard for others who still believe in free enterprise and smaller government; strong national security for our country and support for our troops; energy independence; and for those who will protect freedom and equality and LIFE... I'll work for and campaign for those PROUD to be American, and those who are INSPIRED by our ideals and won't deride them.

I WILL support others who seek to serve, in or out of office, for the RIGHT reasons, and I don't care what party they're in or no party at all. Inside Alaska – or Outside Alaska.

But I won’t do it from the Governor’s desk.

I've never believed that I, nor anyone else, needs a title to do this - to make a difference... to HELP people. So I choose, for my State and my family, more "freedom" to progress, all the way around... so that Alaska may progress... I will not seek re-election as Governor.

And so as I thought about this announcement that I wouldn’t run for re-election and what it means for Alaska, I thought about how much fun some governors have as lame ducks… travel around the state, to the Lower 48 (maybe), overseas on international trade – as so many politicians do. And then I thought – that’s what’s wrong – many just accept that lame duck status, hit the road, draw the paycheck, and “milk it”. I’m not putting Alaska through that – I promised efficiencies and effectiveness! ? That’s not how I am wired. I am not wired to operate under the same old “politics as usual.” I promised that four years ago – and I meant it.

It’s not what is best for Alaska.

I am determined to take the right path for Alaska even though it is unconventional and not so comfortable.

With this announcement that I am not seeking re-election… I’ve determined it’s best to transfer the authority of governor to Lieutenant Governor Parnell; and I am willing to do so, so that this administration – with its positive agenda, its accomplishments, and its successful road to an incredible future – can continue without interruption and with great administrative and legislative success.

My choice is to take a stand and effect change – not hit our heads against the wall and watch valuable state time and money, millions of your dollars, go down the drain in this new environment. Rather, we know we can effect positive change outside government at this moment in time, on another scale, and actually make a difference for our priorities – and so we will, for Alaskans and for Americans.

Let me go back to a comfortable analogy for me – sports… basketball. I use it because you’re naïve if you don’t see the national full-court press picking away right now: A good point guard drives through a full court press, protecting the ball, keeping her eye on the basket… and she knows exactly when to pass the ball so that the team can WIN. And I’m doing that – keeping our eye on the ball that represents sound priorities – smaller government, energy independence, national security, freedom! And I know when it’s time to pass the ball – for victory.

I have given my reasons candidly and truthfully… and my last day won’t be for another few weeks so the transition will be very smooth. In fact, we will look to swear Sean in – in Fairbanks at the conclusion of our Governor’s picnics.

I do not want to disappoint anyone with my decision; all I can ask is that you TRUST me with this decision – but it’s no more “politics as usual”.

Some Alaskans don’t mind wasting public dollars and state time. I do. I cannot stand here as your Governor and allow millions upon millions of our dollars go to waste just so I can hold the title of Governor. And my children won’t allow it either. ? Some will question the timing. ? Let’s just say, this decision has been in the works for awhile…

In fact, this decision comes after much consideration, and finally polling the most important people in my life - my children (where the count was unanimous... well, in response to asking: "Want me to make a positive difference and fight for ALL our children's future from OUTSIDE the Governor's office?" It was four "yes's" and one "hell yeah!" The "hell yeah" sealed it - and someday I'll talk about the details of that... I think much of it had to do with the kids seeing their baby brother Trig mocked by some pretty mean-spirited adults recently.) Um, by the way, sure wish folks could ever, ever understand that we ALL could learn so much from someone like Trig - I know he needs me, but I need him even more... what a child can offer to set priorities RIGHT – that time is precious... the world needs more "Trigs", not fewer.

My decision was also fortified during this most recent trip to Kosovo and Landstuhl, to visit our wounded soldiers overseas, those who sacrifice themselves in war for OUR freedom and security… we can ALL learn from our selfless Troops… they’re bold, they don’t give up, they take a stand and know that LIFE is short so they choose to NOT waste time. They choose to be productive and to serve something greater than SELF... and to build up their families, their states, our country. These Troops and their important missions – those are truly the worthy causes in this world and should be the public priority with time and resources and NOT this local / superficial wasteful political bloodsport.

May we ALL learn from them!

*((Gotta put First Things First))*

First things first: as Governor, I love my job and I love Alaska. It hurts to make this choice but I am doing what’s best for Alaska. I’ve explained why… though I think of the saying on my parents’ refrigerator that says “Don’t explain: your friends don’t need it and your enemies won’t believe you anyway.”

But I have given my reasons… no more “politics as usual” and I am taking my fight for what’s right – for Alaska – in a new direction.

Now, despite this, I don’t want any Alaskan dissuaded from entering politics after seeing this REAL “climate change” that began in August… no, we NEED hardworking, average Americans fighting for what’s right! And I will support you because we need YOU and YOU can effect change, and I can too on the outside.

We need those who will respect our Constitution where government’s supposed to serve from the BOTTOM UP, not move toward this TOP DOWN big government take-over… but rather, will be protectors of individual rights - who also have enough common sense to acknowledge when conditions have drastically changed and are willing to call an audible and pass the ball when it’s time so the team can win! And that is what I’m doing!

Remember Alaska… America is now, more than ever, looking North to the Future. It'll be good. So God bless you, and from me and my family - to ALL Alaska - you have my heart.

And we will be in the capable hands of our Lieutenant Governor, Sean Parnell. And Lieutenant General Craig Campbell will assume the role of Lieutenant Governor. And it is my promise to you that I will always be standing by, ready to assist. We have a good, positive agenda for Alaska.

In the words of General MacArthur said, “We are not retreating. We are advancing in another direction.”

###

**4.26pm**

Here is the actual video of her Press Conference:

**6.59pm**

The Anchoress has a very thorough linkfest going to some of the speculation behind why Sarah Palin is resigning. Keep her and her family in your prayers, people.

Carolina Stompers and Thunder Pig recognized by Bothwell Campaign

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:17:00 +0000

Snapshot from Bothwell Campaign Newsletter

Information on how you can subscribe to Cecil Bothwell's newsletter. I disagree with Bothwell on virtually every issue, and I think it is imperative that we keep up with what the opposition thinks, and what they are up to in their campaigns.

Read for yourself how this all started.

I will give kudos to the Bothwell Campaign because they handled the criticism very well, and my fellow Republicans should learn from that, including my friend Chad Nesbitt and his sponsor, Tim Johnson, who continues to foster the destruction of what is left of the Republican Party in Buncombe County, and is working hard on spreading that disease to the 11th District, as well the rest of the state.

I wonder if he can tell me how many Buncombe Republicans actually won their races in the past two years?

Even though I consider Chad a friend, I will fight him every step of the way on this with every tool at my disposal. I do not want to see the circus that is the Buncombe County GOP spread past the borders of Buncombe County.

Bloodhounds

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 12:24:00 +0000

This is hilarious!

From the video description of the video that was released yesterday...

WASHINGTON, D.C. House Republican Leader John Boehner (R-OH) today released a new YouTube video targeting the failure of Washington Democrats trillion-dollar stimulus bill and asking where are the jobs? The tongue-in-cheek web video, inspired by a classic 1984 TV commercial by now-Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), features a job-sniffing GOP bloodhound named Ellie Mae and a down-home voiceover by Rep. Lynn Westmoreland (R-GA).

This is a lighthearted web video, but the underlying point is no laughing matter, Boehner said. At a time when Americans are looking to Washington for leadership, the trillion-dollar stimulus has been a wasteful failure. Americans were promised the stimulus would keep the unemployment rate from going above eight percent. Its now at 9.4 percent, and rising. Where are the jobs?

In the video, job-sniffing bloodhounds follow the stimulus money trail across the nation in search of the millions of jobs the Obama Administration promised to save or create if the trillion-dollar spending bill were enacted. The trail takes them to AIG Headquarters in New York City, where stimulus funds were used to pay big bonuses to top executives; to Wisconsin, where stimulus funds are paying for repairs to a bridge that reportedly carries about 260 cars per day, many to a place called Rustys Backwater Saloon, according to a June 16 report in the Wall Street Journal; and to North Carolina, where stimulus funds were reportedly used by one town to hire a new worker whose job is to apply for more stimulus funds from Washington.

A real stimulus would help small businesses across America get back on their feet and create jobs. Washington hasnt tried that yet. Instead weve made government bigger, wasted taxpayers money, and piled new debt on our children and grandchildren, Boehner said. Republicans have put forth a better solution a plan that recognizes small business, not government, is the engine of the American economy. We hope Washington Democrats will work with us in the months ahead to make it a reality.

President Obama and the Honduran Constitution

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 11:25:00 +0000

Eric Erickson has an excellent column at Macon.com, and here is the money quote that tells us all we need to know about President Obama:

The Hondurans are so concerned about potential despots, that Article 239 of their constitution states that any president who proposes extending his term in office is automatically removed from office. Article 313 of the Honduran constitution allows its Supreme Court to deputize the Honduran military to carry out its orders, including removing politicians from office who seek to extend a president’s term.
Ignoring the constitution, President Manuel Zelaya, a man less popular in Honduras than George Bush was when he left office in this country, ordered a “non-binding” referendum be put to the voters on extending his stay in office.
Glenn Garvin wrote in the Miami Herald, “After the Honduran supreme court ruled that only the country’s congress could call such an election, Zelaya ordered the army to help him stage it anyway. ... When the head of the armed forces, acting on orders from the supreme court, refused, Zelaya fired him, then led a mob to break into a military base where the ballots were stored.”
The Honduran Supreme Court, congress, attorney general and members of Zelaya’s cabinet opposed his move as unconstitutional. The supreme court ordered the military to remove Zelaya from office. Honduras has no impeachment process as we know it.

Source: Macon.com (via @ewerickson)

Commentary

It is notable that President Obama (who has been accused of being a Communist, Marxist, Socialist, etc has managed to side with Chavez and Castro on this issue (and many others).

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has called on the Hondurans to uphold their constitutional processes...the very thing they did when they got rid of the would-be dictator Zelaya.

I guess the Obama Administration should be up for some sort of Orwellian Award for doublespeak.

SunSpots Productions Asheville Black Bear

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:08:00 +0000

I found this video by a couple in Asheville who seem amazed that Black Bears live in this region...

...this bear has apparently been rewarded for getting close to humans in the past, and may have to be destroyed or relocated in order to protect it.

Here are some tips for behavior around bears, and how to avoid endangering these bears by giving them food by thoughtlessly putting out garbage, petfood or birdfood where they can obtain them...

Bears should never obtain human food, pet/livestock feeds, or garbage. Bears that receive these "food rewards" may become aggressive towards humans or cause property damage. To protect people and their property, these bears may have to be destroyed.
Wild bears have a natural fear of humans and will attempt to avoid people and developed areas fed bears do not!
Wild bears rely on natural foods such as berries and fish. Fed bears will abandon vital food sources for human foods and garbage!
Wild bears quickly become conditioned to handouts and will teach their cubs to do the same.
Wild bears fed along roads tend to stay near the road - increasing vehicle-animal accidents.

Residential Areas Minimize odors and the availability of food rewards throughout your yard and community.
Put out garbage on the day of pick-up, not the night before. Store in sturdy building or place in a bear- resistant trash receptacle.
Do not leave pet food out. Hang bird feeders out of reach of bears.
Keep bar-b-ques clean and grease free. Store with livestock/pet feed inside a sturdy building.
Pick all ripe fruit from the tree and surrounding ground as soon as possible.
Vegetable gardens and compost piles may attract bears. Do not put meat, fish or other pungent scraps in compost pile. Add lime to reduce odors and accelerate decomposition.
An electric fence is an effective way to keep bears out of orchards, gardens, compost piles, and beehives. Follow appropriate safety precautions.
Bear activity may intensify in spring when bears are hungry and emerging from their dens, in the fall when bears are bulking up for hibernation, and during drought periods. This is due to the scarcity of natural foods.

NC General Assembly 7-02-2009 Legislative Calender

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 10:14:00 +0000

Here is the legislative calender for today in the North Carolina General Assembly. The next meeting is Monday afternoon, when the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee meets...

8:30 AM	FINANCE (House) Annexation - Omnibus Changes. (H524)	544LOB
8:30 AM	APPROPRIATIONS/BASE BUDGET (Senate) Voter-Owned Election for Treasurer (S20) Military Death/In-State Tuition/Dependent (S137) DOT Participation in Fixed Rail Projects (H1005) RVAP/Ensure Grant Eligibility (H1342)	643LOB
10:00 AM	JUDICIARY I (Senate) Notice of Special/Emergency Meetings (H81) Clarify Entitlement to Counsel/Appointment (H506) Clarify/Alien. of Affection/Crim. Conversation (H1110) Sex Offenders/Permanent No Contact Order (H1255) Larceny of a Motor Vehicle Part (H1256) Clarify Volunteer Immunity/AED (H1433)	1027LB
10:00 AM	JUDICIARY II (Senate) Kill Search and Rescue Animal (H1098) Juvenile Code Revisions (H1449)	1124LB
10:00 AM	JUDICIARY I (House) Renew Concealed Carry Permit/30 Day Limit. (H1132) Critical Infrastructure Assm't Changes. (S97) Advanced Directives on Drivers License. (S595) Real Estate/Settlement Agent Embezzlement. (S764) Probationary Teacher Appeals. (S962) Delay Bond/Probationer Arrested For Felony. (S1078)	1228LB
10:00 AM	JUDICIARY III (House) Sheriff/Inspect Prescription & Drug Records. (H1119) Modernize Precious Metal Business Permitting. (H1637) Clarify MV Franchise Laws/Termination Assist. (S913) Amend Alarm Systems Licensing Act. (S1073)	1425LB
10:00 AM	JUDICIARY II (House) Amend Prior Record Point Levels. (H1606) Robbins Deannexation. (S215) Trustee's Power to Appoint to Other Trust. (S481) CON Changes. (S804) Rewrite Sanitarian Examiners Laws/Fees. (S834)	421LOB
11:00 AM	INSURANCE (House) Revise UM/UIM Liability Coverage Requirements. (S749) Health Plan Provider Contracts/Transparency. (S877) PEO Amendments. (S1029)	1228LB
11:00 AM	Session Convenes (Senate)	Senate Chamber
12:00 PM	ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES (House) Regulate Ownership & Use of Certain Reptiles. (S307) Condemnation of Conservation Easements. (S600)	643LOB
1:00 PM	Session Convenes (House)	House Chamber

Asheville Chamber of Commerce Video Reports on Economic Conditions

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:30:00 +0000

One of the video channels I monitor is that of the Asheville chamber of Commerce, and here are two videos recently uploaded to that account:

Asheville Metro Update- June 2009

3rd Quarter Report

The Law by Frédéric Bastiat A Tool to Combat Today's Socialists

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 17:40:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Bobby Coggins

Frédéric Bastiat was born on this day on the year 1801.His writings can be said to form one of the foundation stones of conservative thought, and his work, The Law is one of his best known and was written shortly after the failed socialist revolution in France of 1848. Even then, he identified the Untied States at the hope of mankind. I cannot help but wonder at how disappointed he would be at how we have corrupted things on our way deep into Socialism.

Source: Conservative Thunder

Commentary

I have become convinced that one of the tools conservatives must use in order to reverse our course into Socialism is education. Most people who call themselves conservative are woefully uneducated on the philosophy of conservatism. This is mostly due to the public school systems' penchant for teaching socialist ideas over that of conservatives ideas.

We must encourage conservatives to read works by conservative thinkers, especially those who wrote with clarity...among them, I identify Frédéric Bastiat as one of the first tier authors we should study.

To begin your study of Bastiat I suggest Bastiat.org. His ideas are as devastating to Socialists today as they were in 1850. Arm yourself with this man's words to counter the socialists of today!

NC General Assembly 07-01-2009 Legislative Calender

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 09:57:00 +0000

Keep up with what your elected representatives are doing in Raleigh today with the following schedule...

9:00 AM	SELECT COMMITTEE ON ENERGY, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (Senate) Presentations by Dr. Jeffrey Riggs, CAUSwave and Dr. Miles Palmer with Bill Brown, Promethean Energy	1027LB
9:00 AM	SELECT COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC RECOVERY ---CANCELLED--- (Senate) Solar Collectors on Residential Properties (H1387)	1124LB
9:00 AM	FINANCE (House) Open Government Act. (H1134) Norwood Satellite Annexations. (S29) CCPS Wrecker Service Fee Rules. (S69) Zoo and Zoo Funds Modifications. (S332) Indian Trail Charter Revised. (S570) Amend Private Protective Services Act. (S584) Amend Rabies Laws. (S674)	544LOB
10:00 AM	APPROPRIATIONS/Justice and Public Safety (House) Eminent Domain. (H1268)	415LOB
10:00 AM	LOCAL GOVERNMENT I (House) Kannapolis Deannexation/Expedite Schools. (S346) Incorporate Sneads Ferry. (S359) Urban Area Revitalization Made Uniform. (S618)	425LOB
10:00 AM	EDUCATION/HIGHER EDUCATION (Senate) Encourage Policies to Facilitate Graduation (H187) Public School Activity Bus Use/Stecoah Valley Center (H385) City Managers on School Boards (H661) Amend Law Re: Personal Education Plans (H804) Report School Violence to LEA Office (H1078) Counties & Schools Share P. E. Equipment (H1471)	643LOB
11:00 AM	TRANSPORTATION (House) DMV to Issue Special ID Cards/Special Cir. (S203) Clarify Closest Market. (S295) Various Changes in Motor Vehicle Law.-AB (S368) Create New Titling Categories. (S820)	1228LB
11:00 AM	HEALTH CARE (Senate) EMS Personnel/Recovery Rehab./DHHS (H878) Est. Drug And Medical Device Repository/BOP (H1296) Provider Credentialing/Insurers (H1297) Residential Treatment Facilities/TBI (H1309)	544LOB
12:00 PM	MENTAL HEALTH & YOUTH SERVICES (Senate) Joint DV Committee/Recommendations (H115)	414LOB
1:00 PM	COMMERCE, SMALL BUSINESS, AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP (House) Conform Low-Income Housing Tax Credits. (H1227) Rewrite Foreign Money Judgments Laws. (S285) Real Property Sales Information. (S405) GED HS Diploma/No Drug Convict/Bail Bondsman. (S458) Amend State Fair Housing Act. (S465) Amend Drug Exam Regulation. (S643) Affordable Housing/No Discrimination. (S810) Statute of Repose/Products Liability. (S882)	1228LB
1:00 PM	WAYS AND MEANS/BROADBAND CONNECTIVITY (House) Supervision of Certain Defendants. (S851) Motion for Appropriate Relief/New Requirement. (S853) No Set Aside of Bond Forfeit/Actual Notice. (S929) Enhance Protections against Identity Theft. (S1017) Expand Parole Officers' Delegated Authority. (S1077)	415LOB
1:00 PM	FINANCE (Senate) License Plate Frame/State Name Visible (H67) Congestion Relief/Intermodal Transport Fund (H148) Lottery Act Changes (H205) Tax Certification - Add Catawba & Alexander (H215) Extend IDS Copy Exemption (H447) Amend Professional Counselors Act/Fees (H746) Defer Tax on Builders' Inventory (H852) Raleigh Stormwater Assessment (H1011) Amend Laws/Refrigeration Contractors (H1105) Smoky Mountains National Park Plate Changes (S3) Stowe Botanical Gardens Special Plate (S116) N.C. Life Science Development Corp. Act (S580) Student Protection Fund/Proprietary Schools (S860) Stock Car Racing Theme Special Plate Change (S924)	544LOB
2:00 PM	ENERGY AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY (House) Finance Energy Improvement with Assessments. (H1389)	421LOB
2:30 PM	Session Convenes (House)	House Chamber
2:30 PM	Session Convenes (Senate)	Senate Chamber

Dramatic Scene Unfolds at URTV as Police Remove Armed Man from Studio, Citizens Speak Show Producer Don Yelton Suspended

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 06:58:00 +0000

The details are on The Carolina Stompers website.

My initial comment at this point is that I think the private investigator was very sloppy, and needs to work on the concealed part of concealed carry.

Don Yelton and Chad Nesbitt are friends of the recently ousted (by a vote of 8-0) URTV board member Richard Bernier. For more information on that long developing drama, see the Mountain Xpress, taking care to read the comments for a flavor of the situation.

Annual 4th of July Fun Day & Fireworks in Franklin NC

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 17:17:00 +0000

Here is what is happening in Franklin on July 4th...

July 4 -Annual 4th of July Fun Day & Fireworks - Macon County Recreation Park US 441S.
Activities begin at 11:00am and conclude at dark with the largest fireworks display in Western North Carolina!

Contact 800-336-7829 for additional information.

Live Entertainment:

10am am - Drumming Circle
10:30am - Parade in Historic Downtown Franklin (until 1pm)
11:30 am - Veterans Memorial Dedication
1:00 pm - Frog Town 4
2:00 pm - Rye Holler Boys
3:00 pm - Dave Stewart
3:30 pm - Brian Sanders
4:00 pm - Touch of Class Band
4:45 pm - Eric Haggart
5:15 pm - C-Square
6:00 pm - Children's Choir
7:00 pm - Sundown
8:00 pm - Raffle/Awards/Announcements/Bulls Eye Bingo
8:15 pm - Presentation of Colors/Salute to Veterans/National Anthem Nikki Corbin
8:30 pm - Loose Cannons - Army Ground Forces Rock Band
9:30 pm - Fireworks Display

Al Gore is Worried, Wants Lefties to Donate Money for a Democratic Senate

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 17:05:00 +0000

Here is a snapshot of the email enviro-hypocrite Al Gore sent to his loyal lefty drones...

This is gonna be a tough election cycle, and we can do our part here in North Carolina by helping US Senator Richard Burr in the US Senate. Please visit his website and contribute a little today, and when you can...and think about volunteering with the campaign locally.

NC General Assembly 06-30-2009 Legislative Calender

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 09:38:00 +0000

Here is today's legislative calender for the North Carolina General Assembly:

9:30 AM	Sen. P. Berger	Press Room LB
10:00 AM	JUDICIARY I (House) Disapprove NCMB Rule/Rept. Pub. Certain Japs. (H703) Critical Infrastructure Assm't Changes. (S97) Internet Ticket Resale Amendments. (S99) North Carolina Racial Justice Act. (S461) Clarify Judicial Creation of Trust. (S483)	1228LB
10:00 AM	JUDICIARY III (House) Insurance Law Changes.-AB (H1166) Motorcycle Learner's Permit. (S64) Implement Shellfish FMP Recommendations. (S107) Durham Anti-Sweatshop Requirements. (S504) Low-Risk Probationers May Be Unsupervised. (S1089)	1425LB
10:00 AM	JUDICIARY II (House) Increase Mecklenburg Force Account Limit. (S437) Trustee's Power to Appoint to Other Trust. (S481) Assets of Ward's Estate. (S605) Notice to Creditors Without Estate Admin. (S606) Amend Dentistry Laws/Out of State Dentists. (S694)	421LOB
11:00 AM	INSURANCE (House) Beach Plan Changes. (H1305)	1228LB
1:00 PM	JUVENILE JUSTICE (House) Study/Standards/Disputed Child Custody Cases. (H1174) Legislative Study on Youth Violence/Funds. (H1279) (the following are for discussion only) Probation Reform. (S920) Access to Juvenile Records/Violent Offenders. (S984) Juvenile Records/Probation Risk Assessment. (S1082)	415LOB
2:00 PM	STATE GOVERNMENT/STATE PERSONNEL (House) Upgrade Security Services-Government Complex. (H1633) Expand Chem. Analysis Sites/Contr. Substance. (S36) Collection of Offender Fines and Fees. (S388) Clarify Local Special Separation Allowance. (S986)	424LOB
3:00 PM	Session Convenes (House)	House Chamber
3:00 PM	Session Convenes (Senate)	Senate Chamber

I am the Right Hand of Vengeance

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 13:39:00 +0000

This was the best series that ever appeared on television, and one of my favorite moments...

Asheville, The Video

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 12:29:00 +0000

I can't stand the "music" in this video, but the visuals and the editing are excellent. The video also showcases an element of the feakshow that Asheville has become over the last few years...

The Carolina Stompers and the Case of the Dubbed Applause Updated with Video Mockery Update #2: A Ron Paul Supporter Goes Off...

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 09:03:00 +0000

The Carolina Stompers have discovered fake applause in a campaign commercial for Cecil Bothwell, a candidate for Asheville City Council.

I find it funny because Cecil Bothwell's slogan is "Keeping it Real". Uh-huh!

**8.11am** I was inspired by the Carolina Stomper post to make a video of my own, mocking the video for Cecil Bothwell...

**2.26pm**

A friend has forwarded an email to me concerning fallout over the Carolina Stompers spotting fake applause in a Cecil Bothwell video, and a friend was kind enough to forward me the email (not Chad Nesbitt, but a mole in the Liberty group). Here it is in all it's "Christian" glory:

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Gary Shoemaker
Date: Sun, Jun 28, 2009 at 10:25 PM
Subject: Re: Democrat Bothwell Busted.
To: The Nesbitt's
Cc: "Timothy F. Johnson" , "dr. carl mumpower"

Where were you and Carl Mumpower when everyone thought that vice chair
candidate Tim Johnson was going down? We were there for Tim and we helped
get him elected. Why do you have that ThunderPig bullshit video about Ron
Paul supporters on your website? Do you think that we are liberals? We
know more about the Constitution, free markets, civil liberties and limited
government than you will ever know.
Gary

On Sun, Jun 28, 2009 at 7:48 PM, The Nesbitt's wrote:

> www.carolinastompers.com

> Bothwell busted!
> Democrat Cecil Bothwell, (running for Asheville City Council) uses fake
> applause in newest video.
> The video's sound has been altered to make you think that there are more
> people to support him than what was really there.

> See it at www.carolinastompers.com

--
Gary M. Shoemaker

Of course I am a Republican, my mission is to restore the Republic.
The American Revolution continues...

Republican Liberty Caucus, the Liberty Club
http://BuncombeCountyncGOP.ning.com

Liberty Asheville
http://libertyasheville.ning.com/

9-12 Project - Asheville, NC
http://9-12projectashevillenc.ning.com

Freedom Fest in the Mountains Jonathan Krohn, Ben Franklin & Bill Fuchs

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 20:11:00 +0000

Here are three videos from last night's Tea Party in Franklin. I'll have the rest up Monday. Right now, I have to go give a seminar on precinct building...

Jonathan Krohn at Freedom Fest in the Mountains By Bobby Coggins
View in HD Download 480p Version Visit Bobby Coggins's ExposureRoom Videos Page

There were about 300 people at the Tea Party who enjoyed listening to Bluegrass music and speeches given by several people concerning high taxes and the loss of our Constitutional Rights.

WSC III: How Christians Will Change the Future

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 14:58:00 +0000

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND, American Vision is pleased to announce our third Worldview Super Conference to be held July 22–25, 2009, in Powder Springs, Georgia. This year’s theme is The Great Reversal: How Christians Will Change the Future. This unique event will equip you in gaining a biblical understanding of media, economics, politics, education, and science. More importantly, it will show you how Christians can use new media (Internet, Print-on-Demand, Forums, In-Home Broadcasting, Pod-casting, etc.) to make an “end-run” around the liberal stronghold to advance the Gospel and a Christian Worldview. A Great Reversal is coming. Are you ready to be a part of it? Click here to find out more.

Watch the 2nd Annual Move America Forward Support Our Troops Rally Show Begins at 4 pm Eastern Time

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 16:09:00 +0000

Want to do something that will make
a real difference to the troops?
You can help make the daily routine of our troops serving
in Afghanistan and Iraq a little more bearable.

We've heard from countless members of the Armed Forces serving in the Middle East that one precious resource in short supply is quality coffee. That's why Move America Forward wanted to send only the BEST GOURMET Coffee to the troops. And what better to enjoy with a cup of exquisite coffee but with name brand Oreo Cookies? Also included in MAF care packages are special treats from Jelly Belly jelly beans, part of our Candy Diplomacy Program.

Care Packages include many varieties of items, always with Coffee, Cookies, Beef Jerky, Gatorade and Jelly Bellys, and could also include any or all of the following:
Boca Java Gourmet Coffee Oreo Cookies Chap Stick Deodorant Premium Beef Jerky Planters Trail Mix Ocean Spray Craisins Trail Mix Gatorade Candy Diplomacy Jelly Belly Jelly Beans	For The Troops CDs Hot Chocolate Hot Apple Cider Bug Repellent Battery Operated Fans Wet Wipes Foot Powder Sunblock
EVERY CARE PACKAGE comes with a personalized letter, note or comment from YOU to the receiving Soldier, Sailor, Marine, Airman or Coast Guardsman

Visit Move America Forward to find out how you can help.

Thursday Thunder Tech

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 14:51:00 +0000

Here is the latest edition in my occasional Thursday series on technology:

I'll start it off by noting that Windows 7 will be cheaper than Vista. I just hope it doesn't suck as much as Vista. (I returned my copy of Vista and am happily using XP). Here is a list of prices.

A sign of the times? It costs advertisers more to run an ad during The Simpson on Hulu than on TV.

I found a helpful list of 100 essential web tools for those with a side business.

Do you make phone calls over the Internet? If not, this article might convince you to start.

A video report concerning CNN's iReport and Iran:

It appears that Flash Games are being monetized.

I am convinced that the Associated Press is run by the most profound idiots on the planet. Here is a snippet that has blown me away:

Now, however, the AP has released "staff guidelines" for how to use social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook, and there are some highly questionable rules there. The one getting the most attention -- for good reason -- is the bizarre and troubling demand that those who use Facebook not only have to watch their own language, but the language of any friend that posts a comment on their Facebook "wall." Seriously. They want AP employees to comb through any comments that friends/family/etc. post on their wall -- and if they "violate AP standards: any such material should be deleted." It's difficult to fathom how this could possibly make sense and isn't a huge burden for AP employees as well as obnoxious to their friends and family. Does the AP also tell its employees that when out to dinner with friends, they must "shush" them if their friends say anything not up to "AP standards"?

Source: TechDirt

Seriously, newspapers and websites...just stop carrying AP material. I actively avoid reading the stuff.

China (a nation that routinely murders it's own people) has accused Google of "spreading vulgar content". Really.

Adsense ads are headed for smartphone territory.

Here's good news, Full HD (1080i) is coming to a cell phone near you.

And, in another sign that the apocalypse is near, you can now cook a pizza in your car with a cigarette lighter powered oven. For $36, you can't lose!!!

NC General Assembly 06-25-2009 Legislative Calender

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 09:39:00 +0000

The current session of the North Carolina General Assembly continues to plow through our rights and steal money from us this year, and you can keep up with their schedule below:

15 MIN. AFTER SESSION	JUDICIARY II (House) Annexation - Omnibus Changes. (H524)	544 LOB
IMMED. AFTER SESSION	RULES, CALENDAR, AND OPERATIONS OF THE HOUSE (House) Blue Ridge Parkway 75th Anniversary. (H1655)	Rep. Owens Desk
8:30 AM	COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYEE HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL BENEFITS (Joint) Financial Update	421LOB
10:00 AM	JUDICIARY I (Senate) Child Witness Testimony/Procedures (H192) Innocence Commission/Limited Witness Immunity (H937) Habitual DWI-Reinstatement Petition/10 Yrs. (H1185) AOC Omnibus Courts Act (H1269) Consolidate Expunction Statutes (H1329) Clarify DV Laws/Arrest/Valid Protective Order (H1464)	1027LB
10:00 AM	JUDICIARY II (Senate) Venue/Municipalities in Multiple Districts (H1077) Chief Court Counselor Delegation (H1347) Videoconference Tech. in Court Proceedings (H1438)	1124LB
10:00 AM	JUDICIARY I (House) Qui Tam/Liability for False Claims. (H1135) Recover Pets/Relieve Overcrowding at Shelters. (S467) File Lis Pendens for Certain Erosion Actions. (S586) Property Finders. (S1021)	1228LB
10:00 AM	JUDICIARY III (House) Greenville Housing Authority. (S560) Statewide Nuisance Notice Authority. (S564) Auto Insurance/Diminution in Value. (S660) Increase Penalty/Timber Theft. (S990)	1425LB
11:00 AM	INSURANCE (House) NC Risk Pool Premiums/Notice Requirements. (H1294) Beach Plan Changes. (H1305)	1228LB
12:00 PM	HEALTH (House) People First. (S208) Amend Rabies Laws. (S674) Diabetes Control Plans in Charter Schools. (S738) CON Changes. (S804) Comparative Effectiveness Task Force. (S1022)	544LOB
12:00 PM	ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES (House) Appeals of Quasi-Judicial Land-Use Decisions. (S44) Dry-Cleaning Solvent Act Amends. (S700)	643LOB
1:00 PM	Session Convenes (House)	House Chamber
1:00 PM	Session Convenes (Senate)	Senate Chamber

Another Republican Who Doesn't Believe in Marriage

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 22:21:00 +0000

What is the problem with Republicans who run for public or party office?

Can't these idiots get it through their thick skulls that the Republican Party has declared itself to be the party of higher morals than the Democratic Party?

The Republican Governor of South Carolina, Mark Sanford admitted to having an affair today.

Let's go to the video:

I say it is a good thing this came out now, rather than nearer to the primaries in 2012. That narrows the field a bit. Let's hope that the other hopefuls can learn a lesson from this incident.

This affair cost him a chance to run for President, as a similar infidelity cost a candidate for NCGOP Chair the win on June 14.

These politicians...especially if they choose to be Republicans, should be well aware that they will be held to a higher standard than Democrats.

NC General Assembly 06-24-2009 Legislative Calender

noreply@blogger.com (Thunder Pig) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 10:03:00 +0000

More from the legislative calender for the North Carolina General Assembly...

15 MIN. AFTER SESSION	JUDICIARY II (House) Annexation - Omnibus Changes. (H524)	544LOB
9:00 AM	FINANCE (House) Defer Tax on Builders' Inventory. (H852) Community Land Trust Property Taxation. (H1586) Update Funeral Expense Allowance/Estates. (S159) Oak Ridge ETJ. (S495) Tax Info Disclosure to State Treasurer. (S691) Antlerless Deer Tag Fee. (S1008) Hunting License Exemption for Special Events. (S1009)	544LOB
10:00 AM	PUBLIC UTILITIES (House) Utilities/Regulation of Pole Attachments. (S357)	1228LB
10:00 AM	PENSIONS AND RETIREMENT (House) Housing Authority Retirement. (S389)	415LOB
11:00 AM	TRANSPORTATION (House) DMV to Issue Special ID Cards/Special Cir. (S203) Clarify Closest Market. (S295) Create New Titling Categories. (S820) Clarify Motor Vehicle Franchise Laws. (S913)	1228LB
11:00 AM	LOCAL GOVERNMENT II (House) Amend Carrboro Charter/Conserve Energy/Water. (S475) Indian Trail Charter revised. (S570) City/County/Sanitary District Fees/Internet. (S698)	1425LB
11:00 AM	AGING (House) Home Care License Fee/New License Moratorium. (H1622)	415LOB
12:00 PM	AGRICULTURE (House)	1228LB
1:00 PM	COMMERCE, SMALL BUSINESS, AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP (House) Res. Lead-Based Paint Hazards/Renovations. (H1151) ABC Rules/Private Clubs. (S6) Workers' Comp Self-Insurance Security Association. (S893)	1228LB
1:00 PM	ELECTION LAW AND CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM (House) Superior Court Judge Elections. (H526) Municipal District Elections 2011/Census. (S38) District Court District 13 Residency. (S56) Conform County School Board Vacancy Statute. (S248) Pleasant Garden/Voters Elect Mayor. (S540)	1425LB
1:00 PM	WAYS AND MEANS/BROADBAND CONNECTIVITY (House) Notice of Hearing/Unsupervised Probation. (S513) Modify DWI Checking Station Requirements. (S759) Tort Claims Act/Local Gov. Opt-in. (S859) No Set Aside of Bond Forfeit/Actual Notice. (S929) Enhance Protections against Identity Theft. (S1017) Modify Crim. Justice Partnership Program. (S1076) Delay Bond/Probationer Arrested For Felony. (S1078)	415LOB
2:00 PM	ENERGY AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY (House) Incentives for Energy Conservation. (H512) Alternative Fuels Tax Credit. (H905) Independent Energy Efficiency Administrator. (H1050)	421LOB
3:00 PM	Session Convenes (House)	House Chamber