Time to Fire Coach!

No I am not talking about Bill Stewart. I know that the governor hired him and that many have found him disappointing in some ways. I like Bill Stewart and think he should stay on. He's done a good job and shows promise for an even better future.

Yes he is a nice guy, too. However, if he failed to deliver wins consistently, I would say he should be fired. If West Virginia University finished in the bottom half of the Big East the past few years, I'd be saying get rid of him. No matter how nice someone is, if they fail over and over, you must get someone else to run your program.

West Virginia fans are not completely satisfied with anything less than first place. They would be mortified with being in the bottom half of the conference. Rightfully, they expect very good, if not the best, from athletic leadership.

And then every November, most of them will dutifully go off and vote Democratic. Democratic leadership for the past eighty years has earned us not just bottom half results, but usually bottom fifth, if not dead last.

Yes, the Democratic Party's leadership and ideology in West Virginia has led to literally decades of failure. Republicans have only had a few governorships and have never controlled the Legislature. Our economic indicators and ratings of business friendliness hover near the bottom. Sometimes they do edge up, but that is like Syracuse getting excited because they scored more than ten points against a power team.

We need actual improvement. That only comes from a change of philosophy at the top. The Democratic Party's vision for West Virginia has been so bad, that we accept losing as inevitable, as being something that we all share a part in, for whatever reason. And we do. So long as we keep elected people who share the same failed vision, we will always be near the bottom.

The Democratic Party has coached this state for eight decades and has led us to last place. Time to fire the coach.

Sarah Palin Again

Admittedly there is something alluring about Sarah Palin. The former Alaska governor has tremendous charisma. Her speeches mystify intellectuals and electrify crowds. Those who witness her political performances often evoke images of Reagan. She certainly attracts attention and ire from many sides. The question is whether or not she is the right standard bearer in 2012.



Personally I am not completely sold on her. My main issue lies in her abandonment of the chief executiveship of her state. The voters put their trust in her and she left them for brighter lights and bigger cities before finishing the job she started. This does not leave a good taste in the mouths of rural folks. See Rich Rodriguez for an illustration.



On the other hand, I'm reading Lou Cannon's biography of Ronald Reagan from about 1982 or so. It reflects the doubts held about Reagan from figures in both parties. It also details the confidence that Jimmy Carter and his people had when Reagan won the nomination in 1980. They saw him as an intellectual lightweight and underestimated his hold on regular folks. Obamunists have that same cockiness about Sarah Palin.



Although Palin and Reagan share some attributes, Palin falls short in some respects. Reagan completed two terms as California governor, his second term besting his first in effectiveness. He also had three chances to hone his national campaign abilities. Few remark about his 1968 presidential run. Palin has never run her own national campaign.



Don't get me wrong, I admire her for what she has done and what she can potentialy do. I do think that she needed the seasoning and the added clout of finishing her term as governor. From what better position could she have attacked the anti-state measures of Congress and Obama while remaining relevant to national politics? Also a governor remains a little more immune from the sometimes demeaning "celebrity treatment" that has been meted out by the media to her family.



Is Sarah Palin prepared to win a presidential campaign. Likely, we'll soon see. That being said, I would be more comfortable with a figure that has more experience

Allen Evans, Ruth Rowan, and Robert Schadler Secure Funds For Camp Minco

Mineral County's three elected members of the House of Delegates presented a check to the county commission for $10,000 to help construct a new bath house for the facility. The camp is used by many groups, including the 6th grade camp program run by the Board of Education. Long time supporter and advocate for the facility Bob Harman joined the delegates and county commissioners for the official delivery of the funds.

History Day, Courtesy of the Detroit News

Three titans: From left, Edison, Ford and Firestone.
Henry Ford and Thomas Edison -- a friendship of giants
By Patricia Zacharias / The Detroit News
August 7, 1996

Henry Ford shouts in the ear of his friend, Thomas Edison, who was hard of hearing.
As a young man on his father's farm in Dearborn, Henry Ford had followed Thomas Edison's career.
Henry took a job at the Edison Illuminating Company, which later became Detroit Edison, and soon worked his way up to chief engineer.
In 1896, Ford and Alex Dow attended a company-sponsored convention in Manhattan Beach, New York. Edison was the guest of honor at the evening's banquet. Alex Dow pointed out Ford to Edison, telling him "There's a young fellow who has made a gas car." Edison asked young Henry Ford a host of questions and when the interview was over, Edison emphasized his satisfaction by banging his fist down on the table. "Young man," he said, "that's the thing! You have it! Your car is self contained and carries its own power plant."
Years later, Ford, reflecting on their first meeting, said in a newspaper interview, "That bang on the table was worth worlds to me. No man up to then had given me any encouragement. I had hoped that I was headed right. Sometimes I knew that I was, sometimes I only wondered, but here, all at once and out of a clear sky, the greatest inventive genius in the world had given me complete approval. The man who knew most about electricity in the world had said that for the purpose, my gas motor was better than any electric motor could be."
Ford never forgot those words of encouragement. After that initial meeting, Ford was always very close to Edison. When Ford became a wealthy industrialist, he cooperated with Edison in technical and scientific projects. He convinced Edison to devote significant research to finding a substitute for rubber.
Together with John Burroughs, naturalist Luther Burbank, Harvey Firestone and occasionally, President Harding, Ford and Edison participated in a series of camping trips. A major source of fun for Ford and Edison was building dams on small streams and examining old mills for a calculation of the power output.
Edison, left, and Ford on one of their camping trips.
"They think in terms of power," Firestone wrote. After his first experience with the Nature Club, President Harding joined the group whenever he could.
En route to a new campsite on a rainy day, the Lincoln touring car carrying Harding, Ford, Edison, Firestone and naturalist Luther Burbank bogged down in deep mud on a back road in West Virginia. Ford's chauffeur went for help and returned with a farmer driving an ancient Model T. After the Lincoln was yanked from the mire, Ford was the first to shake the farmer's hand.
"I guess you don't know me but I'm Henry Ford. I made the car you're driving."
A 1921 camping trip. From left, seated: Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, President Warren G. Harding, Harvey S. Firestone and George Christian. The man standing is unidentified.
Firestone chimed in, "I'm the man who made those tires." Then he introduced two of the campers: "Meet the man who invented the electric light -- and the President of the United States."
Luther Burbank was the last to shake hands. "I guess you don't know me either?" he asked.
"No," said the farmer, "but if you're the same kind of liar as these other darn fools, I wouldn't be surprised if you said you was Santa Claus."
The vagabond camping trips ended following the death of President Harding.
Edison, on the advice of his doctors, left his home in Menlo Park, N.J., for the warmer climate of Fort Myers, Fla. As would be expected of a man with 1,097 patented inventions, Edison outfitted the home with all kinds of novelties. There was an intercom system which he mischievously used to startle guests, and lights in the closet that blinked on automatically whenever the doors were opened. Edison also had the kitchen built in another building instead of the main house because he didn't like to smell food cooking.
Edison out front of his winter home in Fort Myers, Fla.
Ford was a regular visitor. In 1916, when the seven-bedroom home next door became available, Ford bought it. A wooden fence separated the two estates, but the gate always stood open and became known as the "friendship gate." When Edison's doctors ordered him into a wheelchair in the last years of his life, Ford, still brisk and active, bought one too so they could race around the grounds together.
In October 1929, on the 50th anniversary of the light bulb, Ford established the Edison Institute, which now operates Greenfield Village and Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn.
Even the rainy weather that October couldn't put a damper on the festivities. Crowds lined 30 miles of Detroit streets to cheer Edison, President Hoover and 500 nationally and internationally known guests as they drove to the museum.
The ceremonies featured the re-enactment of the invention of the first successful incandescent bulb in the original Menlo Park laboratory, which had been moved by Henry Ford with other significant buildings to the Village.
Ford had brought in seven railroad cars of New Jersey soil to place around the buildings for complete accuracy. He even tried to get an old elm tree that stood near the door of the lab, but had to settle for a cutting of the old tree planted in the same spot.
Edison signs his name in cement at the dedication ceremonies at Greenfield Village.
Edison was pleased with Ford's efforts, remarking that Ford got everything 99-9/10ths perfect. The inaccuracy, he told Ford, was that "our floor was never this clean."
Ford and Edison's assistant, Francis Jehl, who was with Edison when he developed his successful incandescent lamp, helped in the re-enactment.
Nationwide, people turned on their electric lights in honor of the historic event.
Later in the banquet hall, Edison stood up to speak, his snow-white hair disheveled, his hands and voice a bit shaky.
"I would be embarrassed at the honors that are being heaped upon me this unforgettable night were it not for the fact that in honoring me, you are also honoring that vast army of thinkers and workers of the past. If I have helped spur men to greater effort, if our work has widened the horizon of thousands of men and given a measure of happiness in the world, I am content."
His last words were for Henry Ford.
"I can only say that in the fullest meaning of the term, he is my friend."
Bibliographic Note: Edison As I Know Him, by Henry Ford; Edison, Inventing the Century, by Neil Baldwin; Detroit's Coming of Age, by Don Lochbiler and the clip and photo files of The Detroit News.
(This story was compiled using clip and photo files of The Detroit News.)
From The Detroit News: http://apps.detnews.com/apps/history/index.php?id=105#ixzz0znWlFaR1

Tea Parties On the March

The liberal media is enjoying the so-called upset Tea Party victory over the establishment Republican candidate in the Delaware Senate primaries. They obviously hope that this indicates a division in Republicans and conservative ranks that can be exploited in November to at least head off GOP control of the Senate. Almost every indicator shows that Republicans will oust Democrats from control there.

Liberals and leftists still have a stereotype of Tea Partiers as wild eyed extremists instead of principled libertarians and conservatives. Perhaps their main frame of reference lies in the aimless protest movements of the 1960s that simply sought to gather young white suburbanites into an area to show numerical support for whatever. Tea Partiers take off of work, bring their children, and travel hundreds of miles to jon in common cause. These are not knee jerk, professional revolutionaries. They are reasonable people in unreasonable times.

The Tea Party victories do not demonstrate divisiveness among the electorate as much as a resolve to actually alter the course of events. Voters have so far rejected individuals whom they fear will compromise the change that is to take place next year. They fear adding Olympia Snowes and Lindsay Grahams to the Congress. Compromising most of your principles is no longer acceptable to the voters.

Here in West Virginia we have an opportunity this fall to help bring our nation back to the right course and also take steps to resurrect our state. It will take time and effort, but it can be done. Please help your local and state Republicans parties and their candidates this fall. West Virginia, incidentally, has had for a long time one of the most Tea Party friendly GOPs. It's good to see people of principle working hard in the common cause of saving our state and nation.

Do You Support Zoning? This Is What You Get

There are some in Mineral County that support the idea that property rights should be traded in for the strict definitions set on property use by zoning laws. The story below shows where that kind of policy can lead. You can't even quietly grow vegetables on your own property!



County Sues Farmer, Cites Too Many Crops


WSB-TV
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Posted: 5:20 pm EDT September 12, 2010Updated: 10:00 am EDT September 13, 2010
DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. -- DeKalb County is suing a local farmer for growing too many vegetables, but he said he will fight the charges in the ongoing battle neighbors call “Cabbagegate.”
Fig trees, broccoli and cabbages are among the many greens that line the soil on Steve Miller’s more than two acres in Clarkston, who said he has spent fifteen years growing crops to give away and sell at local farmers markets.
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“It's a way of life, like it's something in my blood,” said Miller.
In January, Dekalb County code enforcement officers began ticketing him for growing too many crops for the zoning and having unpermitted employees on site.
Miller stopped growing vegetables this summer and the charges were put on hold as he got the property rezoned.
WATCH: Farmer Sued For Excessive Veggies
Two weeks after approval, however, his attorney said the county began prosecuting the old charges, saying he was technically in violation before the rezoning.
“It should go away. I think it borders on harassment,” said Miller’s attorney Doug Dillard.
Miller faces nearly $5,000 in fines, but he said he plans to fight those citations in recorders court later this month.
A county spokesperson said officials can’t discuss the matter while it is in court, but neighbors were quick to come to his defense.
“When he moved here and I found out what he was doing I said, ‘Steve, you’re the best thing that ever happened to Cimarron Drive. And I still say that,” said neighbor Britt Fayssoux.
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Copyright 2010 by WSBTV.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

An Explanation Is Long Overdue

Immediate Release Contact: Mike Stuart September 12, 2010 mike.stuart@wvgop.org 304.553.1084
304.768.0493
Time to Tell West Virginians the Facts
WVGOP Chair Calls on Governor & Democrat Chair to Share Truth with Public
CHARLESTON, WV. The Chairman of the West Virginia Republican Party today called on Governor Joe Manchin and Larry Puccio, Chairman of the Democrat Party, to come forward and end the speculation surrounding the confirmed issuance of subpoenas to the State of West Virginia.“It is far past time that Governor Manchin and Chairman Puccio come forward and inform the public of the facts surrounding the confirmed issuance of subpoenas and the rumors involving the Governor, members of the Governor’s administration, and the Chairman of the Democrat Party. We have been patient long enough.

We hoped that those with direct knowledge of the investigations would come forward and provide essential information to the public. Clearly, the Governor and Chairman Puccio believe information concerning federal probes, subpoenas, and the legality of the conduct of elected officials is on a ‘need to know basis.’ The people of West Virginia deserve the complete truth and they deserve it now,” Stuart stated. Stuart continued, “Piece by piece, information leaks to the public through the media from ‘unnamed sources.’ It is time for the Governor and Chairman Puccio to tell us the facts about the subpoenas and federal investigation. Any issue of public corruption is serious business. I am concerned that facts are being withheld.” “At a minimum, we need to know if Governor Manchin or Larry Puccio received a subpoena, whether either is a target of a federal investigation, and the subject matter concerning any issued subpoenas or federal investigations,” said Stuart. “Facts are stubborn things. These are facts for which the public needs and deserves answers,” concluded Stuart. ·

Who received subpoenas? ·
What is being investigated? ·
Is the Governor or Chairman of the Democrat Party the target of any federal investigation or probe? ·
Has the Governor or Chairman Puccio been named the target of any federal investigation or probe? ·
Has any member of the Governor’s administration received a subpoena or been named the target of any federal investigation or federal probe? ·
What state vendors have been notified that they may be targets of a federal probe or investigation?
PAID FOR BY THE WEST VIRGINIA REPUBLICAN PARTY
Thank you,
Mike
Chairman Mike Stuart
West Virginia Republican Party
P.O. Box 2711Charleston, WV 25330
304.768.0493 (office)
304.553.1084 (cell)
304.768.6083 (facsimile)
mike.stuart@wvgop.org

Two Timeless Economic Truths From Wealth of Nations

Adam Smith in Wealth of Nations made significant points about labor and money that we desperately need to remember today.

First, Smith differentiated between labor that produces a good or commodity of some sort versus labor that does not. He said that an economy is in trouble when it relies more on "unproductive" (meaning not producing goods) versus productive labor. Productive labor creates tools, refrigerators, software, anything of value that can be sold in the market place, sometimes more than once. Unproductive labor includes lawyers, doctors, bureaucrats, domestic servants, and others. It is not that he has no respect for their work, but his point is that once that work is done, it disappears into thin air and cannot be resold in the marketplace. There is a place for these laborers, but your economy should not rely too heavily upon them or it risks having a bad foundation.

Federal environmental policies, union contracts, and other issues have created a significant competitive disadvantage for this country when it comes to expanding what Smith would call the "productive" labor force. He would argue that this puts our economy in peril.

Second, Smith argues about assets and money. If your economy has most economic assets tied up in capital, it has a strong foundation. Capital is money in your savings account, CDs, stocks, etc. Capital is improvements you make on your home or business to increase its value. An economy based upon spending is weak and vulnerable. We have relied way too heavily on the consumer sector for way too long as an economic jolt. In the past few years, public spending has increased considerably with an eye towards stimulating the economy. Adam Smith explains that an economy cannot thrive on spending. Public spending is even worse because it confiscates capital.

So according to Adam Smith we are headed in the wrong direction. It will take a fundamental shift in policy and prioities to get us back on track. Do we have the courage to set things right again?

Joe Manchin Supports Obama and Government Run Healthcare

McKinley Tightening Up Congressional Race in West Virginia 1st

From the Parkersburg News and Sentinel . . .

McKinley poll shows gap closing with Oliverio
September 7, 2010 - By JESS MANCINI, jmancini@newsandsentinel.com
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PARKERSBURG - Democrat Mike Oliverio's lead over opponent David McKinley is dwindling, according to the latest poll taken for McKinley.
The poll by Public Opinion Strategies for release today shows McKinley trailing the Morgantown insurance agent 41 percent to 36 percent in the election for the U.S. House of Representatives 1st Congressional District in West Virginia.
Oliverio released a poll by Hamilton Campaigns immediately after the Aug. 28 special primary election that said he was ahead 52 percent to 36 percent over McKinley, a Wheeling businessman and former state Republican Party chairman.
"These numbers reflect what I am hearing from voters throughout the district, that they have had enough of Obama's War on Coal and Nancy Pelosi's job-killing Capitol Hill agenda," McKinley said in a release from the campaign. "Voters have had enough of the attack from Washington on West Virginia jobs."
In response, the Oliverio campaign said McKinley has been lying about Oliverio.
"David McKinley's been lying about Mike Oliverio since May, and he's spent hundreds of thousands of dollars of his own money doing this," Randy Coleman, an Oliverio spokesman, said Monday. "Now, according to his own poll, he's still stuck in the mud at 36 percent. The lying and buying doesn't seem to be working."
Results also showed Oliverio's "favorables" have sharply fallen, the campaign said.
McKinley's "intensity quotient," the opinion of those paying attention to the race, is 5 points higher than Oliverio's among voters with a "high interest" and 15 percent higher than Oliverio's among voters with an "extremely high interest," the campaign said.
McKinley's lead among voters who have an opinion of both candidates is 53 percent to Oliverio's 40 percent, Rob Autry, McKinley's polling strategist, said.
The survey by Public Opinion Strategies was conducted Sept. 1 and 2 and polled 500 likely voters. The company's clients are primarily Republicans, including Rep. Shelley Capito of West Virginia and Sen. John McCain of Arizona.
"They are the premiere polling firm on the U.S. political scene," said Steve Cohen, a McKinley spokesman.

Shelley Moore Capito Initiates Student Advisory Committee

Sep 07 2010
Capito Invites Local Students To Apply To Inaugural “Student Advisory Committee”
Today, Congresswoman Shelley Moore Captio, R.-W. Va., announced that she is seeking applications from high school students for the 2010-2011 Student Advisory Committee.
The goal of the Committee is two-fold. First, Capito seeks to give interested students the opportunity to learn more about national issues, current events and the legislative process. Second, she hopes that selected students will serve as their generation’s ambassadors by sharing their views and insights on important issues being discussed in Congress.
“I truly believe that while young people only make up a fraction of the population, they are 100% of the future. I’m seeking motivated and eager students to take part in what I believe will be an educational but fun academic program,” stated Capito.
The Committee will be comprised of approximately 30 high-school students from across the 2nd District of West Virginia. Students will be selected based on leadership ability, academic success and extracurricular actives. A student may only serve on the Committee for one academic year.
Students will attend quarterly meetings planned and hosted by Capito’s office and will be required to complete a final project in order to graduate from Capito’s program. Through meetings and assignments, students will explore the role of citizens, lawmakers and non-governmental organizations and their impact on the development of public policy.
To apply, students must submit an application form (available under the “student” section at www.capito.house.gov), a parental permission slip, as well as one letter of recommendation to the address below by September 30, 2010:
Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito
C/O Mary Elisabeth Eckerson
4815 MacCorkle Ave., SECharleston, WV 25304Phone: 304.925.5964Fax: 304.926.8912

Upcoming Tea Party and GOP Events

Monday September 20th, 7 PM: Meeting to plan events

Monday October 4th, 7 PM: Meeting to plan rally

Saturday October 16th: Tea Party Rally in Keyser 1 PM

All meetings and rally to be held at Grand Central Center in Keyser.

Mineral County Republican Headquarters Grand Opening TBA, but it is already open for business.

A Tempest In a Teapot: Manchin's Desperate Ploy Against John Raese

It's all the Democrats have got at this point. Photogate.








The photo to the left was taken at the Byrd memorial service in Charleston. Predictably the Byrd family expresses howls of outrage. Of course it's only obvious that this was at the Byrd memorial because that is almost the only time that Obama has visited this state. That is part of the story that the media is conveniently missing.

Democrats cannot counter the accusations that Manchin has grown increasingly servile to a president that over 70% of this state dislikes, so they have hung their hats on photogate. I could see if there was actually a picture of Byrd involved in this, but again, it's not obvious to most people where this picture was taken.

It's a desperate ploy, completely ignoring the issues while undermining the message. Manchin's victory parade has taken an untimely detour into falling poll numbers. He wants the story to be anything except his buddying up to Obama as the election draws near. And that is a legitimate position to attack. West Virginians do not like the War on Coal, escalating debt, Obamacare, or other features of Obama policy.

If Manchin cannot distance himself from these policies that have proven destructive to West Virginia and the nation as a whole, he ought not go to the Senate.

Joe Manchin Accuses John Raese of Trying to "Buy" Senate Seat

A certain candidate has $1.5 million in his coffers to spend over the next two months and recently sent out an e mail beating the bushes to come up with more. Looking at the title of this piece, you might think I am talking about John Raese, right?

Wrong. Governor Manchin is the candidate with $1.5 million to spend and hundreds of thousands more coming in.

In 2008, the governor did not hesitate to deploy staggering amounts of money against the poorly funded gubernatorial campaign of State Senator Russ Weeks. Now, when facing an opponent with money of his own, Manchin suddenly cries out that someone is buying the election.

No one complained on the Democratic side when John Rockefeller spent $10 million of his private funds in the mid 1980s to narrowly defeat Raese.

A self-funded campaign has certain benefits, namely that the man or woman has no special interests to consider if they win election. Who will Manchin owe after this go-round? Lots of folks ponied up and lots of folks will expect something. If John Raese's campaign remains largely self funded, he will only be beholden to those that cast ballots for him.

The money that John Raese spends will be to educate and inform people about the issues. No one "buys" a campaign unless they are illegally paying voters. That's not a crime that you generally see Republicans accused of here. Raese will spend money to inform the public that he supports the free market American economic system and that Manchin, if elected, will be increasingly beholden to Obama's plans for European style socialism.

Tennessee Teacher and Coach Fired For Criticizing Obama

In Tennessee a middle school teacher and football coach got his pink slip for composing and circulating a song he wrote about Obama. The principal said the song had "racial overtones" and he was backed by the superintendent of schools. Can you find the racial overtones here? I can't. Read and decide for yourself. I guess that teachers can sing his praises, but just can't dissent. Right?

He was a little man, just turned three
Took the present from his daddy’s hand
A genuine toy hammer
He started beatin’ to beat the band
He hit the floors and the wall, broke a lamp in the hall,
Started swinging at the puppy’s tail
When you’re holding a hammer
Everything looks like a nail.

He was the president, number 44
He says, “Trust me, I’m here to help you
I have got some big big plans
You’re gonna love what I’m gonna do.”
There’s no problem too big or small
He thinks he’s got an answer that just can’t fail
When you’re holding a hammer
Everything looks like a nail.

He thinks big thoughts and he dreams big dreams
But it’s another man’s sweat that pays for those schemes
He don’t care how the little people feel
‘Cause saving the world is a big freaking deal
So he does his business behind closed doors
And pretends that the world is just begging for more
When the stuff hits the fan he says, “Don’t look at me
If you got trouble, blame 43.”

Now Congress is saving Wall Street
While they’re watching Main Street fall
They got health care all figured out
But it don’t seem to care much at all
As soon as they save the planet
They’ll put the fire out in hell
When you’re holding a hammer.
Everything looks like a nail.

He thinks big thoughts and he dreams big dreams
But it’s another man’s sweat that pays for those schemes
He don’t care how the little people feel
‘Cause saving the world is a big freaking deal
So he does his business behind closed doors
And pretends that the world is just begging for more
When the stuff hits the fan he says, “Don’t look at me
If you got trouble, blame 43.”

There’ll be a party come this November
When we’re gonna set things straight
All good people gonna gather ‘round
Gonna show what made this country great
We’ll run off the schemers and backroom dealers
So the Red, White and Blue will prevail
When we’re holding the hammer
When we’re holding the hammer
Everyone of them looks like a nail.

Keep Manchin In the Mansion

It has to be admitted here. Joe Manchin has not been a bad governor of West Virginia.

Sure there is a lot to pick apart. He forced West Virginia University into a series with Marshall, entering into a field where he had no business. His daughter was discovered to have claimed an unearned degree. Manchin has not been nearly aggressive enough in defending West Virginia from an administration bent on destroying our industry.

That all being said, as far as West Virginia governors go, he has not done a bad job.

Part of Manchin's effectiveness comes from a style that irritates legislators. He has the ability to wield authority and shove through measures because of his personal popularity, which now hovers at about 75%. But what would happen to Manchin in the United States Senate, were he to win?

Probably something similar to Bob Wise when he moved from the House of Representatives to the Governor's Mansion. Wise abandoned a place of comfort and familiarity for a job that challenged him in different ways. His learning curve harmed the state at a vital time. Manchin would struggle initially in the Senate trying to recast his role. He would not be able to get things done through popularity and personality as he does in Charleston.

Now more than ever, West Virginia needs defenders in the halls of Congress. We know we have Capito, but Manchin has been coy lately, edging towards the left wing Obama line rather than standing up for us. As a popular governor, Manchin can defy Obama and Democratic leadership in the Senate (even though lately he has been less eager to do so0. Can he do the same as a United States Senator? No.

Add this to the fact that the Senate might be under Republican control in a year. Manchin would then be tossed to the back of the line for every consideration.

West Virginia is entering a tough transition economically. Manchin has had a steady hand on the wheel of the ship of state. We need change in the Senate, putting it back under Republican control. We do not need change at this point in Charleston.

Keep Manchin where he is. Send a stalwart defender of our interests to Washington. Vote for John Raese.

Rasmussen Moves West Virginia to Leaning Democratic in Senate Race

West Virginia may be able to duplicate Scott Brown's achievement. Brown won a special election to fill the seat of Democratic icon Ted Kennedy in Massachusetts. Now John Raese has scored surprisingly high poll results in the latest Rasmussen Poll. Joe Manchin leads by a relatively slender 48-42% margin.

Clearly West Virginians understand that Democratic control of Congress is potentially destructive to the state and nation at large. Manchin remains personally popular and a high percentage approve of his job as governor.

This race should attract a great deal of attention, especially since this is expected to be a high Republican turnout year. Raese's principles and business experience have helped him rise in polls and public esteem.

David McKinley Coming to Mountaineer Cafe In New Creek

A joint Mineral and Grant County Fundraising Coffee and Meet and Greet For Congressional Nominee David McKinley

Hosted by Beverly Evans, Bob Harman and Dr. Harry Boggs

Monday August 30th12:30 to 1:30 PMMountaneer All Star Café1.5 miles south of Keyser, WVSouth on U.S. 220

Please come visit with and support David McKinley in his race for Congress. If you can't make the event, please use the enclosed envelope and mail a generous check to David's campaign. Or go to his website www.McKinley2010.com and make an online donation. We haven't had conservative representation in Congress for over 40 years - its time for a change. Mail checks to McKinley for Congress, P.O. Box 6861, Wheeling WV 26003 RSVP to 304.813.6665 or 304.257.1426

Mountaineer All-Star Cafe
RR 4 Box 70a
Keyser, WV 26726

It is located on US 220 south of Keyser between the Hospital entrance and Walmart.

Vacation, All I Ever Wanted! Vacation, Had to Get Away!

The gifts just keep on coming.

First the White House either ventured into excessive spin or fantasyland by calling the last three months "the summer of recovery." If someone is recovering somewhere, we must have missed it. The stimulus has not improved unemployment. We have seen home buying at its lowest point in, well, ever. Durable goods orders are also way down. Politically it was a tremendous gaffe. Unfortunately it comes during a time of real tribulation in this nation. We don't know how long this will last. All we know is that the White House has run up our debt in a time when we need to be cutting back.

Then comes Obama's idiotic backing of the Monster Mosque project at Ground Zero. He did not have to say anything, but could not resist weighing in on a local issue. This took the heat off of Mayor Bloomberg of New York City while harming every Democratic candidate everywhere. Congressional candidates in Iowa are having to answer whether or not they support the mosque. Some Democrats have started bashing Obama and Pelosi out of sheer desperation.

Best of all, we are once again seeing Obama on vacation, this time in Martha's Vineyard. While most Americans struggle to afford to go on a weekend trip, Obama has taken six vacations in two years. This doesn't count Michelle Antoinette's excursion to Spain where she toured much as a queen, closing beaches, etc.

His political handlers are either foolish or being ignored. Surely they know that all these trips with the ever present coverage of Obama's golf game alienate millions of voters. At least when President Bush left Washington, he generally went to his actual house in Texas. Unfortunately with Obama, we get a president who spends half of his time like the indolent and uninterested Warren G. Harding and the rest trying to put in place plans that look more like Mussolini than any American. I guess we should be grateful that he only works part time. Imagine how bad things would be if he actually worked as hard as a normal person.

From the Land of Busted Budgets and State Bankruptcy . . . A $578 million High School

You heard me right. A half billion dollar high school. It's more expensive than China's Olympic Stadium. It has fine art, a faculty dining room finer than most restaurants, and countless other luxuries that equal about $250,000 per child. This happened when the school system had a $640 million shortfall that caused the layoffs of 3,000 teachers.

People ask why we are so tough on government. Why is it that conservatives and libertarians do not trust government to do anything. Right here is the answer. This school district laid off teachers so that a high school could have avant garde architecture and fine art. It got rid of experienced educators so it could have a school more expensive than almost any professional football stadium in the United States. This money was not even invested in instructional and educational needs, but swimming pools and fine art.

On top of all that, this school was built by the worst school district in the entire country, L. A. Unified. This district has a 35% dropout rate. Maybe a state of the art swimming pool can convince kids to not drop out? I have my doubts.

The current superintendent cannot even defend the project, saying it was planned before his time. He has the good sense to plan to not attend the ribbon cutting of this monstrous insult to the taxpayers.

Okay, I'm not very socially conservative. I believe in live and let live, freedom of choice, etc. Sexuality is something for the individual consenting adult to make choices about. However, this blog post from Chicks on the Right really bothered me.

http://chicksontheright.com/2010/08/23/im-not-a-prude-but-this-is-totally-wack/

Why would any parent want to sexualize their child before their time? When my son played for the Mini-Tornadoes, we'd travel to towns in Maryland where their cheerleaders danced to sexually explicit music. You have to wonder why.

Nine year old girls pole dancing is just plain sickening. They have to spin on a pole to workout? They can't play soccer, basketball, or tennis, or just run around in a park? They have to pole dance? This sounds more like mothers trying to look hip on sexuality more than trying to keep their kids in shape. They want to shock their friends and look cool. Meanwhile their daughters will be exposed to the cultural perceptions of pole dancing, and may try to live up to them as time goes on.

My question is, why do so many parents want sexualized children? It's not cute. It's downright creepy and almost an open invitation for sexual predators. It also teaches girls that their sexuality is more important than brains or accomplishments. Parents need to wake up. Prudently guiding children does not make one prudish. Be open about sex when kids ask questions, but guide them towards appropriate behavior while they are growing up.

An Omission Or a Plan?

In the map to the right, and it may be too small a scale to see clearly, there is a startling omission.

This map comes from the Mineral County Comprehensive Plan draft. The county commission is trying to push the draft into law. On the other hand, some local businessmen have cried foul and claimed that the public hearings on the draft were more of a facade than a true input session. Some have claimed that the current plan violates the law and that court action will be taken.

This map's omission could open a Pandora's box of questions about the plan. It lists every school in the county save one, Fountain Elementary. Although the public has been reassured for years that this small but effective school will remain open, Fountain has no presence on the map made for the Comprehensive Plan.

Is this an oversight, or is closing Fountain Elementary part of their plan for the county?

Is Recovery Impossible?

With an out of control debt combined with the government willing to only raise taxes to address it, many Americans ask "can we ever get out of this mess? Is recovery even possible?"

You can see why people ask that question. We are getting close to seeing over 50% of the country on some form of government assistance. Our debt approaches 90% of our GDP. Business are holding back $2 trillion in investment capital because they fear that it will just get confiscated in taxes. The stimulus spending has only driven the private sector into hiding, like John Galt in Atlas Shrugged.Things do look bad. Even worse.....they are bad. Meanwhile China just surpassed Japan as the second wealthiest world economy.

The answer is this. America can always bounce back. This country went from a military of a little over a hundred thousand to many millions in World War II. Then, as now, faith in what we accomplish if we do what is right will see us to victory.

This time the enemy is the basic human urge to let others take responsibility and provide guidance. Freedom is hard, slavery is easy. Free people have to make choices and live with the results. Brave people relish the risk. America has always been the land of the free and the home of the brave. When we get people into office who trust free markets and individuals, we will once again unleash the potential of this country.

This November we will see voters take back the country from those who think they know better. We will see an America with elected oficials that work with what the people want, not try to rule over them.

For Appearances Sake At Least . . .

For the record, I will say this. I like John Raese. I like his principles and I think he is a good man. This writing is meant in no way to disparage him or his campaign. I also like Metro News, seeing it as the premiere source for state political news. However, someone at Metro News, I believe, goofed in this instance.

Yesterday, Metro News ran a story called "Gas Pedal Down on Senate Campaigns." It featured only the schedule and quotations of John Raese without even mentioning his primary opposition. At the end, the story did include the disclaimer that Raese himself operates Metro News.

It would have been far more appropriate for the writer to have included at least some details from other campaigns, like say the names of the other people running. Even if you want to angle the piece in favor of Raese, a much more subtle approach would pay dividends, such as including some detail from other campaigns, but giving Raese the final quote in the piece. Simply writing about Raese and ignoring the others only leads the reader to wonder about the opposition and why they were not mentioned.

Like I said, I like John Raese, and if he is the eventual primary winner I will be more than happy to do what I can to help him win the Senate seat this November. All the candidates in the field have strong principles. I believe that Raese, like Mac Warner and a few others, can bring lengthy experience and determination to the job and not be overawed by Washington. However, stories like this can only undermine somewhat John Raese's campaign and the integrity of Metro News itself.

Mosque? Sure! Greek Orthodox Church? Nope.

Various elements of the government of the City of New York have in recent weeks expressed support, or at least neutrality, when it comes to the building of a gigantic mosque near Ground Zero. Defenses of the building from the president on down have centered on religious and property rights. Even though the building is certainly meant to be an insult, if you believe in these rights, you have to let it go forward.

Then comes the story about the small St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. This was the only Christian structure destroyed by the 9/11 attacks.

New York's Port Authority, according to Fox News, has ended the congregation's eight year odyssey to rebuild their church. This comes despite community support and the active assistance of former New York Governor George Pataki.

Why is New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg so enthusiastic about this mosque while his administration has blocked the reconstruction of a church?

Shelley Moore Capito Garners More Endorsements

The Save America's Free Enterprise Trust, a political arm of the National Federation of Small Business has endorsed Shelley Moore Capito's re-election bid.

The group proclaimed that Ms. Capito's retention in office would help to protect small business within her district and free enterprise across the nation.

The NFIB has 350,000 small business members across the nation and 1,500 in West Virginia.

Is Obama Destroying the Democratic Party?

Interesting question. I highly doubt it, but you have to wonder what is going on in the White House some days.

Obama gets involved in a lot of issues that do not require his direct attention. Case in point, the Ground Zero mosque. I am torn on this. On one hand it is about as appropriate to build that there as it would have been to build a Shinto Temple near Pearl Harbor in 1950. Then again, I am a firm believer in property rights. Build it, but don't complain if a gay bar or a pork restaurant show up next door. And don't violate noise ordinances by blaring a call to prayer at 5 AM.

Obama didn't have to say anything except that it was a New York City issue and none of the business of the President, which it certainly is not. Then again, Obama thinks your kids' waistline is his business too. 70% of Americans are against the construction of this mosque. So Obama holds a Moslem dinner at the White House and voices his support.

Really? Do you honestly think that this will help your party win elections this fall? This is not the only time that Obama has undercut the diminishing support of his party with elections coming up.

So let's speculate. Why would Obama want to destroy the Democratic Party? Where would he gain? Will Rodgers once said "I belong to no organized party. I am a Democrat." That holds true in every era. Democrats have grown like an onion since the 1790s, with fully functioning and distinct layers from a Jeffersonian core to the New Left. These prevent any kind of real ideological unity such as you see in a European political party. Obama would love to have that kind of control and has exhibited a Messiah complex at times. He would love to have an obedient, compliant, and efficient party at his command. Instead, he has the Democrats.

If the Democrats lose in large numbers this fall, they could conceivably evict Obama in the primary season in 2012. If he foresees that, he might try to split his supporters off, a la Theodore Roosevelt to the GOP in 1912. Obama could create his own organization, own party, and try to campaign on personal appeal again against the GOP and a weakened Democratic organization.

It wouldn't work and this is all speculation. That being said, Obama seems rather uninterested in his own party's chances of success this year.

Harry Reid Does Not Believe that "Hispanic-Americans" Can Think For Themselves

Harry Reid once again tried to haul out race as an issue and once again it backfired.

Reid found himself under fire in the 2008 election by referring to Obama's light skin and "lack of . . . dialect." Now he has come out and said that he can't see why any Hispanic-American would be conservative.

Is this not racism? They expect blacks and Hispanics to all follow the same party, same leaders, and same principles. Does anyone suggest that all whites need to follow the same party? How about Asians? Are they expected to all mindlessly follow one leader? Nope, just blacks and Hispanics are expected to stay on the left wing plantation.

Were I a member of these groups, I would take serious offense even if I was already liberal. It echoes the old pre Civil War assertions that blacks have to be guided like children by their betters because they cannot decide for themselves. Republicans preached differently then and differently now.

People of all races, religions, sexual orientations, and anything else you might think of choose the Republican Party because they usually believe in less government, less taxes, and more freedom. When Republicans concentrate on core economic, national security, and freedom issues, they attract supporters from all groups. Republicans increasingly tend to look at individuals more than groups. That leads to less offensive stereotyping than you see from the other side.

Reid publicly stuck his foot in his mouth, but he only said what a lot of liberal/leftists believe.

You Won't Have Alan Mollohan to Kick Around Anymore

Alan Mollohan, twenty-eight year congressman from West Virginia's First Dictrict, has decided to not go quietly into that electoral good night.

In a season littered with the carcasses of Democratic politicians done in by ethics issues, Congressman Mollohan has decided to go onto the offensive with a letter. He states that he is trying to explain, but ends up describing that old "vast right wing conspiracy" that Hillary Clinton loved to cite. Of course this vast right wing conspiracy includes the New York Times. He lashes out at Chris Wakim and Mike Oliverio merely for doing what aspiring politicians always do, use their opponents' weaknesses. Mollohan certainly did not hesitate to go on the attack against them. According to Hoppy Kercheval, he only left out "the Trilateral Commission" and " the Easter Bunny."

Guilty or not guilty, this is not how a gazillion term congressman wants to end his career. Were I a Mollohan supporter, I would tell him to look at the story of George Washington and his Farewell Address. Washington initially wrote a frustrated essay on his enemies and their conspiracies against him. Old friend Alexander Hamilton encouraged him to lose the anger and write a statesmanlike piece that dwelt on themes of hope and constructive criticism. Mollohan could have gone this route and sealed his legacy. Instead he wrote a piece that Republicans and Oliverio supporters could shrug off as daft and defensive.

Think You're a Liberal? Not So Fast. You Might Be a Libertarian!

I have noticed that people will often say they are Republicans or conservative Democrats, but that they are liberal in some areas. Fair enough. But when you ask them what they mean by "liberal," you often see that they are not that at all.

Liberal in today's political parlance comes very close to what it meant in the 1500s when it was used as a political term by Nicolo Machiavelli. To him, "liberal" meant first and foremost that you doled out a lot of the public treasury to a lot of the people. The leader did that to look generous and to gain the support of the multitudes. Of course, Machiavelli warned that you have to tax others to get that money and you risk alienating them from your system.

When I ask self-identified "liberal Republicans" what they mean, they usually respond with similar issues. They generally want to legalize some drugs, some are uncomfortable over outlawing abortion, and most have no problem with gay marriage. This does not necessarily mean that you are liberal, but probably libertarian.

Libertarians believe in maximum freedom of choice for each individual. They adhere most closely to the Jeffersonian maxim "the government that governs best, governs least." Here is how you can tell if you are a libertarian instead of a liberal.

Drugs:

Libertarians want to legalize drugs, at least the ones that grow out of the ground and need no manufacturing. They believe that the drugs should be used or sold with a minimum of government interference. One of their arguments is that marijuana sales would boost the legitimate economy of states like West Virginia.

Liberals believe that if drugs are legalized, they ought to be taxed to the point that the producers receive little or no profit. They pretty much feel the same about pharmaceuticals.

Gay Marriage:

Libertarians tend to want to government to get away from marriage period. Many want marriage to be a sacrament or social institution separated from government control, authority, and definition. Civil unions for all couples make more sense.

Many liberals would love to see controls exerted to force clerics to perform marriages that go against their belief system.

Polygamy:

A libertarian says if they are consenting aduts, leave them alone. Why should the government dictate to anyone what their living arrangements are? As long as they are not committing fraud or expecting extra welfare benefits because of their arrangement, who cares?

A liberal wants to outlaw polygamy if their is a Mormon basis for it and they call it "marriage." They have no problem with it if it is a group of people in San Francisco doing the same thing with no religious overtones.

As far as abortion is concerned, many libertarians are uncomfortable with the issue. They see it as a personal rights issue. I consider myself somewhat libertarian, but see it this way. When you choose to engage in sex, you have to live with whatever consequences come from that. Also, what are the individual rights of the child? The right of the innocent to live is one of the primary natural rights; their defense is the main job of the government.

Basically you can see that the main difference between the two lies in the fact that libertarians want to government to butt out because it screws up almost any situation. Liberals believe that the answer to any issue is more government. Where do your principles lead you?

How Can Republican Victories This Fall Help Kill Obamacare?

This question came up in a Facebook discussion yesterday. I made a casual comment that Republican victories could help kill Obamacare and got a fair question. How?

First of all we have the court cases challenging the notion that the federal government can force you to purchase a commodity because you are alive. This runs counter to any principles or ideals Americans generally hold, as well as the Constitution, but without this part, Obamacare does not work. The Virginia case has gone farthest. This case will end up in the United States Supreme Court. Only five justices have consistently shown a dedication to restrained government and the Constitution. If one gets sick or dies, a Republican Senate can ensure that we keep socialists off the bench. It can also prevent any attempt by Obama to enlarge the court to get what he wants.

Second comes the matter of funding. All money bills start in the House of Representatives. The best way to kill a bad policy is to either vote it out or simply defund it until it dies of its own accord.

Finally there is the matter of states' rights. Missouri voters by an overwhelming margin (71% of the vote, more than Manchin got in West Virginia in 2008!) put into law a proposition that nullifies the federal government's power to compel anyone to purchase health insurance. This high percentage shows that mainstream Democrats do not even support this mandate. Other state legislatures have voted to opt out of and resist other facets of Obamacare. A leftist Congress can punish states by witholding highways funds. A Republican Congress will sympathize and work with them to get rid of this bad law.

Republican gains will help destroy Obamacare. Even if they cannot overturn it in one fell swoop, they can kill it with the death of a thousand cuts. Since 60% of the people still hate Obamacare and only 40% approve of Obama at all, this looks increasingly likely.

Oh and we hope everyone enjoys the fact that the First Lady is vacationing in Spain with seventy-seven secret service and forty of her best friends on your dime. And no, she is not in the Holiday Inn, either.

An Open Letter to Doug and Sue McKinney

Dear Doug and Sue,

As a West Virginia Republican I want to thank you for your leadership in difficult times. Around the nation, our party saw declining influence, electoral defeats, and falling contributions. Despite those obstacles you cleaned up party finances, put us in a new headquarters, and brought in professional help to build an organization. It may be easy for some to forget those dark days, but I remember the discouragement of 2006 and 2008. We lost Congress and the presidency because many of the Republicans elected around the country tended to do what was expedient and not what was right. Hopefully we have found our way again as a national party. Our recent victories seem to indicate that. We may be seeing sunny days right now, but the storm clouds just passed for us. Your leadership kept us viable, active, and moving forward during those trying times.

On a personal note, I want to thank you for all your help, advice, and support. I cannot remember one major event that we planned where we invited you to come and you declined. Any questions I had got your response quickly. I appreciate that because I am not on the state committee, I am just a regular voting Republican who likes to help out when he can. You were accessible to people and that is important.

To close, I want to express my respect and my appreciation for all the hard work you put in during very difficult times. You kept us going despite all odds.

Thank you,

Stephen Smoot

Environmental Protection Agency Continues Its March to Irrelevance By Cracking Down on Farm Dust

Farm dust. Yup. Dirt stirred up by men and women working in the ground. The EPA is considering calling dust a pollutant and enacting stringent new regulations to harm our nation's farmers. As usual, this is something that will drive the little man out of business and benefit the big conglomerates.

I live right beside the Potomac State College farm. Yes there is a little bit more dust there than you would normally see. But is it really a pollutant? It is no more a pollutant than pollen that comes from certain flowers or crops. Will the EPA go after that next? I'm not joking. If they are going to regulate dust, the sky is the limit on stupid laws eminating from this agency. Will they next require states to pave every little country road in existence? What is the point of this and where will it stop? Seems to me that those who live by a farm simply have to buy a little bit more Pledge or move. Farmers have a right to use their property to make a living without so much government interference that they cannot operate.

At some point, the EPA will regulate itself into complete irrelevance. Bureaucrats who have never seen a farm are trying to force insane regulations onto teh backbone of this nation. It is constitutionally questionable whether or not the EPA actually has the authority to regulate anything. Just because we have allowed it to does not mean that it has the constitutional authority to do so.

We need to make our state legislators aware of this movement. It would not be hard to get a bipartisan group of West Virginia legislators together to petition our senators and representatives to halt this insanity.

Story below

http://www.news9.com/Global/story.asp?S=12899662

Stopping the Slow Death of Mexico

What is the biggest national security problem that America will face in the next ten years?

Islamic fundamentalist and other forms of terror certainly have the capacity to hit our country hard. However they took their best shot at our institutions on 9/11 and we bounced back domestically while aggressively demolishing much of their organization. Outside of blowing up several atomic bombs or crashing the internet, terrorists have the capacity to injure, but not undermine.

Americans need to start looking south of the border. Mexico's slow collapse should raise alarm bells for everyone. It was not that long ago that parents had no qualms in sending their eighteen year olds to Mexican resorts to celebrate graduating high school. Now full grown and seasoned adults risk a great deal to party on those beaches.

Always corrupt, Mexico has seen its institutions further degraded by the growing power of drug cartels in its northern states. Drug bandits control huge parts of the desert and mountain regions and until recently owned Ciudad Juarez, a large city across the river from El Paso, Texas. They have grown increasingly assertive against American law enforcement as well, threatening police officers and also allegedly putting prices on the heads of some Arizona sheriffs. Murder, theft, and rape have skyrocketed in Arizona cities in the past few years, fueled by illegals with cartel connections.

The common denominator in this entire issue is the existence of these cartels and the power they wield in Mexico. They destroy the effectiveness of government, hinder economic development, and are destroying the fabric of that nation. Mexico has proved itself unable to deal with this threat on its own. The cartels have even staked out federal land in southern Arizona for observation posts. Clearly they seek to spread their reign of chaos to the border states of this nation. The wreckage they have caused drives illegals into this country. Many of them work for the cartels, others seek security. Regardless, we cannot afford to relax our laws to accomodate anyone.

The solution lies in a long term and sustained covert operation to destroy the cartels in Mexico run by the Central Intelligence Agency. They need the latitude to assassinate drug kingpins, blow up facilities, and disrupt in every way possible these organizations. On our side of the border, the FBI needs to infiltrate and destroy street gangs in the same manner as it knocked out the power of the Ku Klux Klan in the 1960s. We also need an armed National Guard presense on the border with orders to act as a military force against these people.

Think of it this way. The drug cartels have slowly invaded the United States. They occupy our sovereign territory, threaten our elected law enforcement officials. Like Middle Eastern terrorists, they are a non governmental threat to our national security. The threat comes not just in the form of what they do here, but also the effect they have on Mexico. We cannot afford to see Mexico turn into a Somalia. It is time to come up with a plan and act, regardless of th eposition of the Mexican government.

Candidates and Community

It takes a lot of time, commitment, money, and effort to run for office and I respect anyone who takes the plunge and follows through with fundraising, door to door walking, attendance at fairs and festivals, and anything else necessary.

That being said, some candidates tend to earn more respect than others from their communities. Those are the ones that didn't just start caring about community because they ran, but ran for office because they cared about their communities.

One great example is Harley Staggers Sr. Almost everyone has a story about his commitment to this region before and after his election as congressman. He taught kids to play ball, helped the sick find doctors in the middle of the night, and commuted to and from work in Washington most days. Remember, that was prior to four lane highways, too. His son keeps that family tradition alive by coaching middle school basketball in Keyser.

You see other candidates around the state with that same mentality. Charles Minimah and his wife are both running for the Legislature from districts in Charleston on the Republican ticket. They run a small business and have been active for many years in promoting black heritage in the Kanawha Valley. Locally you see Gary Howell active in Rotary, Rose Ann Maine in Kiwanis, and all our legislators, Dave Sypolt, Ruth Rowan, and Allen Evans, contributing by sponsoring livestock at the fair. You see them at the community dinners and gun bashes in and out of the political season. School Board candidate and recent addition to the county Republican executive committee, Butch Wahl has helped raise thousands of dollars for the Keyser High School athletic complex. They show their support for local fundraising by purchasing tickets and attending events whenever possible.

Clip from California Representative Pete Stark, Hat Tip to Hot Air.com

http://hotair.com/archives/2010/08/02/stark-explains-that-the-constitution-has-no-meaning-at-all/

Clearly in the minds of Democrats, power trumps the law of the land.

Legislation By Lawsuit Must Stop

A long time ago, judges and justices held a belief that their purview had fairly narrow limits. Issues that the legislative branch could handle were generally left to Congress or the states. They understood that in a republic such as ours, the judicial branch had to remain restrained and that the elected officials must make the decisions. Only in egregious situations, such as the severe and unwarranted violation of civil rights, should courts intervene.

That was generations ago. Elena Kagan represents only the latest of an army of activist judges and justices. They believe that they shape the law as opposed to an earlier time when courts saw themselves as restrained by it. A court decision can affect the lives of millions and never reach the desk of someone elected by the people.

This encourages "legislation by lawsuit." If legislatures will not act on an issue, find a court that is friendly to the issue and file suit. You can get products banned from the market, tourists banned from beaches, and beneficial state laws blocked. A federal court last week issued an injunction against Arizona's law which merely asks individuals involved in traffic stops or arrests to prove their identity. Last I checked, we all had to do that anyway. Down in North Carolina, local communities fear that special interest group lawsuits will close beaches that bring millions in revenue to the eastern part of that state. It only takes one environmental kook judge to ruin it for everyone.

We need restrained government and we need restrained judges.

Stretch Run

It will be here before we know it. Not the Christmas rush, but the November elections. I've been hibernating for a week at the Outer Banks myself and most folks have taken the whole summer off from politics. However, now that August is here, it is time to roll up our sleeves and get to work.

In all the hubbub over the replacement of Senator Byrd and the special election bill, West Virginia's fine nominees for Congress have gotten less attention. David McKinley and Spike Maynard need our help to overthrow the Pelosi machine and return Congress to sanity. Shelley Moore Capito's re-election will put her in a prime position to assume House leadership roles if the GOP regains control. Those working for Warner and Raese hopefully will put their efforts behind the nominee this fall.

Don't forget state legislative and county level races. These candidates need help as well. They inluence our daily lives more directly than anyone so these candidates races are crucial.

Mike Stuart Selected As State Party Chairman

At the state Republican Party summer meeting yesterday, Mike Stuart won election as party chair.

Regular readers of this blog know that I personally supported Doug McKinney's re-election. I felt that he had accomplished a great deal as party chair in retiring the debt, hiring an experienced executive director, and finding a good headquarters location. I would say that the party owes Dr. McKinney its thanks in leading it through a difficult time for Republicans across the nation.

That all being said, this is one of the most important election cycles we have seen in recent years. West Virginia has an opportunity to help overturn the left wingers currently running Congress. We need Maynard, McKinley, and one of the Republicans running for Senate representing this state. We need to end the assault on our rights and the ideals of this nation. Mike Stuart is now our party chair, so we need to get behind him and his efforts to get Republicans elected in West Virginia. Party unity is essential at this point, especially since the Democrats in West Virginia seem as divided as ever.

We also call upon Chairman Stuart to reach out to McKinney supporters and make this party whole. One party working together will get Republicans elected this fall and that is why we are here. Doug McKinney counted many devoted and principled Republicans among his supporters, as did Stuart. We hope that Stuart will personally reach out and invite these men and women to help him build his team and keep the West Virginia Republican Party momentum moving forward.

Press Release From Mac Warner: Warner Will Run For U. S. Senate

Mac Warner announces candidacy for U.S. Senate

Mac Warner announced he will file today to run in the Republican primary for the special election for the U.S. Senate seat vacated by the passing of Robert C. Byrd. Warner, of Morgantown, said there is a void among candidates who can bring to the race his experience in military and foreign affairs and his dedication to Constitutional principles of government.

Despite being vastly outspent by two opponents, Warner finished second in a field of six in the First District GOP primary election for the United States Congress in May. He said today, “We need more voices in Washington who have a firsthand knowledge of military issues, a real dedication to getting spending under control, and a devotion to making sure the Constitution guides us in every decision.”

Warner said he is motivated also by the national, grassroots movement among everyday citizens, whether via the Tea Party or other organizations, to reclaim their voice in government and make sure elected officials are held accountable. With a son serving in Afghanistan, Warner said he is keenly aware of how decisions made in Washington affect troops on the ground across the globe.

Warner said he is not intimidated by the candidacy of Gov. Joe Manchin, despite current polling data. “Joe Manchin has perfected the skills of the professional politician – telling people what they want to hear while straddling the fence on virtually every issue. He actually endorsed Barack Obama for president, at the same time Obama was taking aim at the coal industry. Joe may claim to be pro-coal, but his actions -- that is, his support of this President and the Administration’s assault on WV industries -- belie Joe’s claim. As Senator, don’t expect Manchin to move to repeal or replace the government takeover of health care, not after every Democrat vote was needed to jam that one on the people of West Virginia and the rest of the US. Now, look at his eagerness to step away from his elected obligations as Governor,” said Warner. “He’s a career politician, always looking for that next political step for his own benefit. Manchin will go to Washington and fall in line behind Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi. That will spell disaster for the people of West Virginia.”

Warner said Manchin has, in essence, already cast his first vote in the Senate through his handpicked appointee, Carte Goodwin. “Together, they conspired to put our country much further into debt by extending unemployment benefits to almost 2 years. Think of the irony: the big debate in America this week was about extending unemployment benefits. That alone is proof that the Obama administration has failed miserably to meet our number one challenge – creating good jobs for families,” said Warner.

Warner said he would oppose the nomination of Elena Kagan to the Supreme Court because of her shameful treatment of military recruiters at Harvard, her politically-motivated revision of a medical statement on partial birth abortion, and her previous writings extolling the virtues of socialism. Her evasive and even purposely misleading answers during her confirmation hearings should have been enough to keep her from being confirmed. Warner said he will be a staunch opponent of cap and trade, government takeovers of private industry, and would work to roll back the Obama-Pelosi-Reid health care takeover.

Warner was born and raised in Charleston. In high school he was an Eagle Scout, a U.S. House of Representatives Page, played football, and ran track. He was elected Student Body President at George Washington High School in 1972. Upon graduation from high school, Senator Robert C. Byrd nominated Mac for admission to the United States Air Force Academy, while Congressman John Slack nominated Mac for admission to the United States Military Academy at West Point. After visits to both Academies, Mac accepted the nomination and subsequent appointment to West Point.

At West Point, Mac served on the Honor Committee, ran track, and was on the Triathlon Team. He graduated in 1977, and was commissioned as an artillery officer in the US Army. In 1979, Mac was one of 25 officers selected to attend law school for the Judge Advocate General's Corps. He returned to West Virginia's College of Law to obtain his JD degree. Upon graduation in 1982, he was assigned overseas to Germany where he became a defense trial attorney. He counseled incarcerated soldiers at the military's confinement facility at Coleman Barracks before becoming a Senior Defense Counsel for the Army's 1st Infantry Division at Goeppingen Barracks. The Army recognized Mac for his knowledge and reporting on confinement facilities at Fort Leavenworth, KS, Fort Knox, KY, and in Germany – unique experience that would be helpful in discerning proper procedures at Guantanamo Bay (Gitmo) and elsewhere. Later, Mac personally escorted war criminals from Bosnia to the International Court at the Hague.In 1985, Mac returned to the United States to receive the first of two Masters Degrees he eventually earned in law. He attended the Army's Judge Advocate General's School in Charlottesville, Virginia, where he earned an LL.M in Military Law. In 1986, he joined the newly formed Light Infantry Division at Fort Ord, California where he became the Chief Prosecutor for the Division. When the Division was called to action for the 1989 invasion of Panama, Mac traveled extensively throughout the country, and became interested in international legal issues. In 1990, Mac was accepted into the University of Virginia's prestigious Graduate Law Program (one of seven Americans in the twenty-seven person class). He was elected president of this international group of lawyers and distinguished scholars. The year was marked with several significant events, to include the fall of the Berlin Wall and the first Gulf War. Mac wrote his thesis on trying Saddam Hussein for war crimes. He received a Masters Degree in International Law from UVA in 1991, and soon traveled to Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Israel in preparation for teaching comparative law at the Army's Judge Advocate General's School. For the next four years, Mac taught International, Military and Comparative Law to the Army's Basic and Advanced Legal Courses. He was then assigned to Forces Command in Atlanta, Georgia, where he served as Chief of International Law during the 1996 Summer Olympics and the Haiti Peacekeeping Operation. In 1997, Mac was again assigned to Europe, this time at the US Army Headquarters in Heidelberg. There, he served as the Chief of International Law for US Army Europe where he supervised the work of both American and German lawyers and staff. He also deployed to Bosnia, and led a team of military and State Department lawyers on a Rule of Law action plan. He also did leading-edge work with non-lethal weapons for our troops in Bosnia. His final assignment was to the Army's War College in Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania, where he served as the legal advisor to the Army's Peacekeeping Institute. When his mother was diagnosed with cancer, Mac retired from military service in 2000 to return to West Virginia to be close to family. Mac's international work has taken him to 50-some countries on six continents. During his 23 years on active duty, Mac and his family lived in seven states, and in Germany for six years. He worked specific projects for the Army in Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Bosnia, Macedonia, Ukraine, and Brazil. He has been to Russia, Eastern Europe and the Middle East on several occasions.

Mac is married to the former Debbie Law of Charleston. Debbie is a Realtor with JS Walker Realtors in Morgantown. Mac and Debbie have four children: Steven Warner was nominated by Senator Jay Rockefeller for admission to the United States Military Academy in 2004, and he graduated from West Point in 2008. He was commissioned into the Army Corps of Engineers, and is currently a Lieutenant deployed to Afghanistan with the 173d STB (Sappers), a combat engineer unit doing route clearance. Steven was awarded the Purple Heart for injuries sustained from an IED attack on April 22, 2010; Krista Warner graduated from the University of Virginia in 2009 with a bio-medical engineering degree, taught science last year at Trinity Collegiate School in Florence, SC, and is now enrolled at Wake Forest University in Physician Assistant School; Lisa Warner was nominated by Senator Jay Rockefeller for admission to the United States Military Academy in 2008, and is currently a Cadet at West Point, Class of 2012; and Scott Warner, an avid gymnast, just completed a year in Washington, DC, first as a US Congressional Page for Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito, and then as a Senate Page for Senator Jay Rockefeller. Scott will attend University High School for his senior year beginning in August.

What A Difference A Day Makes

A couple of days ago, most folks were speculating on a good and solid race between Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito and Governor Joe Manchin for the United States Senate. She, as far as I am concerned anyway, took the safe and smart decision and passed on this race, this year. Certainly she had a very strong chance of winning, but with the GOP possibly in position to take the House this year, she stands to emerge as one of the more powerful members. She publicly admits wanting the position, but is biding her time. That all being said if she lands a coveted committee position, that would be difficult to abandon with her relatively safe seat.

Yesterday we learned that former Secretary of State and congressman Ken Hechler jumped into the fray. He plans to make opposition to mountaintop removal the centerpiece of his campaign. He does not expect to win, but he is running to raise awareness of the issue.

This gives Republican contender John Raese a golden opportunity. Hechler could "steal" a large section of Manchin support. Raese was a Tea Partier before there was a Tea Party. He can also self fund to his heart's content. His staunch economic conservatism has always been seen as a liability in West Virginia, but this year the rules have changed.

Gary Howell Selected As Incoming Mineral County Republican Executive Committee Chair

At this evening's special meeting open to the public, Gary Howell won election as Mineral County Republican Executive Committee Chair. He thanked outgoing chair Bob Harman for forty six years of service and proceeded to conduct a regular meeting.

Time to Move On From Race

On one hand, it is not news that racial prejudice exists. It takes many forms. White on black, black on white, and everything in between. Race has flared up as an issue because the NAACP insists upon calling Tea Parties racist, despite the fact that they contain black members and support black candidates. Now a recently fired black USDA official admits that she did not do all she could for a white farmer asking for help.

Time to get over it. Everyone.

This is the 21st century. To youngsters, racial prejudice makes as little sense as a previous era's angst over Irishmen, Catholics, and Jewish people. They simply don't see race. I'm not saying that the young are always the sharpest tools in the shed, but here we can follow their example. Stop talking about race. Stop worrying about race. Be color blind like our children. That goes for everyone.

This means that we have to start thinking of individuals instead of categories. The NAACP has to stop seeing black Republicans as treasonous to some outmoded race concept and realize that people make political decisions based upon interest and opportunity. Republicans want to stay out of your life and take less of your money. That appeals to people across a broad spectrum of races, cultures, and backgrounds.

The big debates of our time do not center around what color you are, but how many of our natural rights will remain uninfringed upon.

Analyzing the Goodwin Selection

Last week, confirming the weeks long speculation of some in the state Republican Party, Governor Joe Manchin selected Carte Goodwin to fill Senator Byrd's former seat.

To many this came as a shock, but it represented a fairly logical selection on the part of the Governor, despite some protests.

First of all, the situation is as such: the Governor wants to run for this Senate seat and has to appoint someone on an interim basis. Some suggestions for nomination included Gaston Caperton and Bob Wise because of their past political position. Others included Nick Casey, former Democratic Party chair. Why would Goodwin represent a more logical selection than the aforementioned?

Frankly the Governor needed someone who would not "welsh" on a promise to step back for the special election. Goodwin has worked closely with Manchin for years and has his political career for the most part in front of him rather than behind. He has decades of life to run for the Senate again if he so chooses. Also, Goodwin is an up and coming guy in the party. He has intelligence, experience crafting legislation, and charisma not unlike the Governor's. Much like a baseball team will bring up its prospects in September and October to get them major league experience before they emerge as stars, the Democratic Party benefits from getting one of its own future leaders in the limelight and the public eye.

Like I have said before, I am a Jackson County guy originally and know the Goodwin family pretty well. This was a good selection ideologically, from a conservative point of view, when you look at the alternatives and Goodwin himself. Some people will express outrage unless a person along the same ideological lines of John Raese was selected. We were not going to get a conservative or a libertarian. What you do get with Goodwin is the same sense of pragmatism that you often get with the Governor. You will get an outlook that will be more fair to business and more reflective of West Virginians than most other selection possibilities. Another benefit, compared to Wise or Caperton, is that Goodwin actually lives in the state.

The downside for Goodwin personally is that he has been sent to join one the of the least popular Congresses in recent years. If he can separate himself somewhat from the Democratic Party leadership, he may not end up friends with the (likely) outgoing Harry Reid, but he will score points with potential future voters. Goodwin has been placed into a very difficult position at a tough time in history for the Democrats. It will be interesting to see how he negotiates the storm that currently grips the nation's politics. Personally I think he will do a good job considering the circumstances.

Cart Godowin named to Byrd's seat

Carte Goodwin named to Byrd's seat