A New Era or Politics of the Past?
Chattanooga Tea Party members:
In case you've missed the media coverage over the last few days concerning the Recall efforts, I thought I'd provide you with a quick update.
This coming Tuesday (Sept 7) at 9:00am, the case that was filed by the Mayor against the Hamilton County Election Commission and the Petitioners to Recall the Mayor (Chattanooga Voters) will be heard in Circuit Court by Judge Hollingsworth at 625 Georgia Avenue. If you plan to attend I would encourage you to arrive early, dress appropriately and act professionally. I plan to be there and trust that many of you will attend to reflect your support for the Recall effort.
I will not attempt to address the details of the case or the likelihood of our prevailing. But suffice it to say that should the Mayor and his legal team succeed on the technicalities that they have cited, it will serve to crush and silence the voices of 10,000 Chattanooga voters who united to Recall the Mayor.
Chattanooga is on the threshold of a new era – one of renewed optimism, increased accountability and a heightened involvement by thousands of area citizens in their government. But will we in fact turn the page and embark on this new era or will we sink back to the politics of the past which seeks to govern in spite and against the will of the people? Let us hope and pray that we will be affirmed in our efforts to expect a new level of servant leadership...
A Cause Worthwhile -- Recall Update
Chattanooga Tea Party members:
Phew!! What a busy couple of months we have had but what a fulfilling effort it has been. Many of you have been a part of creating history in our city by accomplishing what has never been done before -- removing an elected official from office who ignored the will of the people and pursued his own insensitive and hurtful agenda -- at the expense of hard working, everyday citizens. And over 10,000 city residents rose up to acknowledge their opposition to the Mayor's policies.
As of last week, according to Wikipedia only 9 Mayors have been recalled over the last 100 years in our nation! But when I checked tonight it listed 10!!! And guess what? Yes, you guessed it, Mayor Littlefield is listed as #10! Check it out here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Recall_election And you contributed to this!!
So what's next? I would speculate that the Mayor will file some kind of legal action in the next day or so. We have engaged our own attorneys to represent the rights of the Petitioners so we will now have to wait for the process to work its way through the courts. But, assuming a victory on our part (which I believe will occur), the next urgent step is to rally behind the right Mayoral Candidate. So let me tell you what we have done in this regard.
Over the last couple of weeks I have been communicating with a variety of folks who...
URGENT Message from one of your Members!!
Dear Tea Party members,
What was your reason for joining the Chattanooga Tea Party? To learn? To get involved? To be part of a movement towards liberty? To make a difference in Chattanooga and America? Personally, I chose all of the above.
Like it or not, the CTP is watched carefully in what it does and what it accomplishes. We have taken on the task of getting enough signatures to recall the Mayor of Chattanooga. If we fail in this mission, the Tea Party as a whole and all its members will be viewed by some as failures.
Very few members have taken it upon themselves to help gather the signatures. It’s not that much fun, especially in the heat. But changing America back to the America we see as the shining city on the hill will not be easy and will take all of our efforts to be successful.
Mark West has sent numerous emails to the group for help – very few have responded. When we present the proper amount of signatures to the commission and get the recall approved – that will give the Chattanooga Tea Party the voice it needs to wield true influence in matters affecting Chattanooga and Hamilton County.
So do this TODAY to find out several simple ways you can help:
- Clip reply to this message or Contact Mark West at mark@chattanoogateaparty.com to volunteer.
- Call Charlie Wysong at 314-0183,
- Visit our website here: http://chattanoogateaparty.com/RecallRon/ to download the petition and read up on the effort.
Thank you.
Gregg Juster
Are you Taxed Enough Already... in Chattanooga???
Taxed Enough Already
Just as Obama got the Healthcare Bill passed over the will of the people, Ron Littlefield has pushed through a 19% property tax increase -- he wanted 33%, a storm water fee increased of 300% for homeowners and 600% on businesses and churches, a 5% sewer tax increase, and raised over 100 permits and fees by 25-900%. And our Mayor did all this in tough economic times and in a year when your property valuation goes up. Then he is annexing county residents against their will at a time when the city does not have the funds to provide services or protection to them.
By his continued action, Mayor Littlefield has demonstrated that he no longer represents the interests of the citizens of Chattanooga. This is why he must be Recalled and replaced by someone who cares for the people he or she is elected to serve.
We have less than 3 weeks remaining in the recall. We have 6,500 signatures on our way to 9,200 valid signatures.
I am asking for your help.
First, would you download and sign the recall petition here: http://chattanoogateaparty.com/RecallRon/
Second, take the petition to your neighbors--- be a Block Captain -- do your block. This is easy!
Third, call your family and friends; some people are using their church list to get others to sign and do their block.
If you have any questions or will volunteer a few hours over the next two weeks you may:
4,000 signatures and counting -- Your help is needed -- Recall the Mayor
Chattanooga Tea Party Friends:
As of this weekend, the total tally of signatures gathered by all the groups and individuals that have been working on the Recall of Mayor Ron Littlefield is approximately 4,000! This is good news but if we are to hit our goal of 15,000 we need YOUR help THIS WEEK!
Here's how you can help:
- Volunteer this Thursday (August 5) Election Day, to help collect signatures at the Polls. Whether it's for two hours, four hours or all day, any amount will be appreciated.
- Volunteer to be a Block Captain -- just get the neighbors on your block to sign a Petition.
- Contribute to the Cause. Our 4 ads and printing this last week cost $3,181. We have only raised $1,830 so far. And we have at least another $6,000 of expenses still to cover. Can you send $10, $20, $50 or more? If so, send to CTP, PO Box 28357, Chatt, TN 37421. Or you can go to our website and donate with your credit card using PayPal.
Remember, you can download the individual Petition or a 10 signature per page version on our website here: http://chattanoogateaparty.com/gallery.php?id=34&type=file
No doubt you are busy like everyone else. But our time is limited (a little over 3 weeks) and we have a ways to go. So will you pitch in today?
Remember, all politics starts local. This is your chance to impact your government this month in your hometown. Let's send a strong message to the Mayor, city council and other elected officials that our...
Vote in our Poll! Do you support the Mayoral Recall?
Chattanooga Tea Party members:
We'd like to get your thoughts about the Recall of Mayor Ron Littlefield that is gaining momentum in the city of Chattanooga (and that the CTP has been supporting). Would you please click on this link and register your opinion to the following question?
"Do you support the Recall of Mayor Ron Littlefield?"
http://chattanoogateaparty.com/
(The Poll is in the right hand column and you will need to be logged in to vote.)
We are only keeping this poll open for 2-3 days so please don't delay in registering your opinion. Thank you.
Mark West
Chattanooga Tea Party
Vounteers Needed for Recall Ron Initiative -- URGENT!
Dear Friends and Fellow Patriots,
Jim Folkner, Jolee Parry and Charlie Wysong are working diligently to recall Mayor Ron Littlefield. (See link below).
They are really in a crunch right now for folks to help acquire signatures. Could you please donate an hour or so for the effort?
If there's something or someone else that might be able to help, please forward their name and contact information.
Please folks, this effort has a time limit and everyone is working very hard. Please step up and help! Will you commit to getting just 10 signatures yourself? If so, please call:
Jolee Parry 423-305-5448 asap.
http://timesfreepress.com/news/2010/jul/17/effort-recall-mayor-may-be-gaining-steam/
Kindest regards and thanks,
Karen Chastain
Marketing Chair
Chattanooga Tea Party
PS. You can go here to get the latest and download the Petition: http://recallron.com/
Meet Ron Ramsey at Hamilton County GOP Wednesday Evening
Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey is coming to Chattanooga to meet with Chattanooga Tea Party members Wednesday, July 14 at the Hamilton County Republican Headquarters on the North Shore, 316 North Market Street, Chattanooga, 37405-3909.
This event will run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Lt. Gov. Ramsey is the choice for many in Tea Party groups throughout Tennessee, as well as within the Chattanooga Tea Party. Come by to meet Ron and ask him to address your particular issues.
One of the main purposes of Tea Parties everywhere is to get the right kind of people elected to office.
We hope to see you there.
Pops in the Park this Saturday! -- Volunteers Needed
URGENT!! VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR POPS IN THE PARK THIS SATURDAY!!
From 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. (any of the time in between that you can help).
Help at the CTP table and also distributing material and obtaining signatures for "Recall Ron" campaign.
Bring a chair and water-Food available in and around Coolidge Park.
To volunteer or for more info, call Karen at 423-883-1818 asap.
Help Us Celebrate Our Country!
Tax Opposition Group Asks for Help from Citizens and Experts
For Immediate Release Contact: Brandon Lewis
June 29, 2010 Stop The Tax Increase
PO Box 4024
Chattanooga, TN 37405
(423) 313-4624
www.StopTheTaxIncrease.com
Tax Opposition Group Asks for Help from Citizens and Experts
Chattanooga, TN – After weeks of stonewalling, the City of Chattanooga released detailed financials by departmental cost centers only days before the first reading of the budget. Many Chattanoogans have interpreted this last-minute disclosure as an attempt to keep citizens in the dark during the budgeting process.
Local tax opposition groups, which include a broad coalition of industry and political factions, are asking common citizens and budgetary experts to review the now released documents and offer suggestions on how the city might reach a balanced budget without additional tax increases.
“We have posted the detailed budget documents at www.StopTheTaxIncrease.com . Many of our city officials lack the fiduciary will to make tough decisions during this rough economy, and we need to show them there are a variety of ways to arrive at a zero budget increase”, said Brandon Lewis
“City revenues have risen due to increased assessments, increased storm water fees, increased city fees and annexation. If the city cannot live within its means given these increases when can it ever manage the taxpayer’s money responsibly”, he concluded.
###
2010 Tennessee Gubernatorial Race Resources
In order to assist our Chattanooga Tea Party members with their research of the various candidates who are running for Governor, we have posted the following resources to the Chattanooga Tea Party website:
1. Answers to a Gubernatorial Questionnaire that was posed by the TN Patriot Vetting Committee [link]
2. Summary of Gubernatorial Candidates [link]
3. Summary of Gubernatorial Debate responses [link]
If you would like to see all of the resources that have been collected by the Chattanooga Tea Party regarding the upcoming gubernatorial race, please go the the Chattanooga Tea Party website and click on the "2010 Governor's Race" file box on the right side of the home page, or click here.
We want to thank Sumner United for Responsible Government for their efforts in preparing and sharing this with Tennesseans.
Want to Repeal Obamacare? Read how to here... Urgent Follow through Requested!
CTP Members:
Do you want Congress to Repeal Obamacare? Then you'll want to read this email and follow through today with Congressman Wamp or if you live in another state then contact your particular Congressman. Here's the deal:
Congressman Steve King has a discharge petition against OBAMACARE that the Republican Party and any truly conservative Democrat should be moving aggressively to support. MARSHA BLACKBURN is the ONLY Tennessee Rep. signed on so far! This is a fight we can wage right now and we should be in the thick of it.
Here are the specifics on the discharge petition: http://www.redstate.com/erick/2010/06/28/202-225-2815/#comments
And here are those who have signed on so far: http://clerk.house.gov/111/lrc/pd/Petitions/Dis11.htm
I just called Zach Wamp's office and would encourage you to also call Congressman Wamp today and request that he sign on to this. His number is 756-2342 in Chattanooga or (202) 225-3271 in DC. If you need the number for a GA or AL representative you can go here: http://chattanoogateaparty.com/page.php?id=local%20representatives
Thanks in advance for your support of this important measure.
Also, unbelievably, Congressman Eric Cantor has NOT signed on to the petition of the writing of this email. Please call him at 202-225-2815 and request that he do so as well.
Thank you.
Promoting Liberty & Restoring Values...
Mark West
Seniors Affected most by Property Tax Increase
Chattanooga, TN – Senior citizens on fixed incomes are worried about the affects of the proposed property tax increase. After their storm water fees and assessments were recently increased, many seniors are wondering where they are going to get the money to meet their household budgets for food, utilities, and medical care.
“I’ve had a heart transplant. We live off my small retirement and social security, so any more tax increases would affect our family greatly,” said Joe Myers who is 80 years old and lives on Germantown Road. He believes the local government is out of control. “They waste too much money and need to cut expenditures instead of raising taxes again and again. It’s crazy to think about raising taxes during these times,” Mr. Myers stated.
Many seniors have planned for retirement and been responsible in their financial decision making. But, many did not anticipate the steady rise of taxes in Chattanooga. Rose Gayle Armstrong who lives in Midfield Acres and is 74 said, “It seems like every year we’ve had a small increase. We thought if we bought a house and got it in the clear we’d be ok.”
Rose Gayle’s words echoed the sentiments of many people in the Chattanooga area that have recently decided to speak out. “I’ve never gotten involved in anything, but when it’s taking the food off your table that’s when you say this has to stop. Any tax increase is too much,” she concluded.
Seniors aren’t the...
How to Fight Back Against Public Unions: A Primer - By Ed Lasky
By Ed Lasky
We have reached a potential turning point in the relationship of public employee unions and the electorate they ostensibly serve. Over the past year, there has been a steady drumbeat of criticism focused on public unions and the havoc they have wrought on our public finances. Governments -- city, country, state, and federal -- are drowning in red ink Our taxes are flowing to ever-voracious government workers (whose own ranks are growing steadily while the private payrolls shrink); they are better compensated than private workers in comparable positions.
What is to be done?
We -- taxpayers, tea partiers and sympathizers, independents, Republicans, and Democrats -- need to come together and forge a blueprint to take back our nation. The inclusion of Democrats was deliberate, despite the fact that many Democrat politicians are in the pockets of public unions. AFSCME, the government employee union, has a political action committee that is the second-largest in the nation, and virtually all of its donations are to Democrats; ditto the teachers' unions, or as they like to call themselves, "federations" and "associations" -- teachers know how to use thesauruses for political purposes. But when liberal newspapers such as the New York Times now report on subway conductors earning hundreds of thousands of dollars a year and the Boston Globe takes editorial swipes at public employee unions and their greedy and self-centered leadership, the timing may be ripe for Democrats to come out of the closet and transform themselves from...
Expert Says Property Tax Increase Will Hurt Economy, Costs Jobs
Here's an update from Brandon Lewis:
Chattanooga, TN – Chattanooga City Council members are still undecided about how to meet budgetary shortfalls. Commercial and residential property owners have expressed their anxieties and fears about what yet another tax increase will do to their businesses and family budgets.
According to one expert, their concerns are well founded. “During these tough economic times, the last thing Chattanoogans should have to face is a property tax increase,” said Justin Owen, director of policy & general counsel of the Tennessee Center for Policy Research. “A property tax hike will result in taking much-needed resources away from businesses, inevitably causing them to reduce wages, lay off workers, or even worse, close their doors entirely.”
The Tennessee Center for Policy Research is an independent, nonprofit and nonpartisan research organization that studies the impact of taxes on Tennessee citizens and business across the state of Tennessee. Studies conducted in other states have also concluded that increased taxes on business property result in fewer businesses and fewer jobs.
“The City Council has a pretty easy choice when it comes to closing the budgetary gap,” said Brandon Lewis of www.StopTheTaxIncrease.com . “Councilors can either decide to continue to insulate the city government and workers from the effects of the recession, ignoring the inefficiencies and waste in many departments, or they can raise taxes. Raising taxes will cost many private sector jobs and perhaps place some residents out on the streets.”
Lewis went on to encourage residents and...
High Priority: Your Taxes are going up 33% unless you act NOW.
Your property taxes are about to increase 33%! Don't wait until tomorrow -- Call and Email your city council member today and tell him or her you oppose any tax increase. You can look up your city council rep by entering your street name at
http://www.chattanooga.gov/City_Council/110_council_search.asp
During these tough economic times, the people of Chattanooga are struggling to balance our budgets. Fees and taxes have increased enough already. With this proposal, average household property taxes will increase $400-700 or more per year. Business owners will be forced to layoff employees and raise prices due to this proposed tax increase.
Imagine asking for a 33% raise at work, especially in these times! Ask your council member to oppose any property tax increase and balance the budget by cutting back and only funding those necessary government functions.
Send this email to everyone you know! Spread the word! The tax hike will certainly pass unless you take action!
District 1: Deborah Scott, Phone: 425-7858
Email: scott_d@mail.chattanooga.gov
District 2: Sally Robinson, Phone: 757-5334
Email: robinson_sa@mail.chattanooga.gov
District 3: Pam Ladd, Phone: 757-5344
Email: ladd_p@mail.chattanooga.gov
District 4: Jack Benson, Phone: 757-5196
Email: benson_j@mail.chattanooga.gov
District 5: Russell Gilbert, Phone: 757-5332
Email: gilbert_r@mail.chattanooga.gov
District 6: Carol Berz, Phone: 425-7852
Email: berz_c@mail.chattanooga.gov
District 7: Manuel Rico, Phone: 425-7856
Email: rico_m@mail.chattanooga.gov
District 8: Andraé McGary, Phone: 757-5364
Email: mcgary_a@mail.chattanooga.gov
District 9: Peter Murphy, Phone: 757-5367
Email: murphy_p@mail.chattanooga.gov
Thank You.
REMINDER: Show your Opposition to the Mayor's 33% Tax Increase Proposal!
Friends,
REMINDER: Show your Opposition to the Mayor's 33% Property Tax Increase Proposal
WHEN: Tuesday, June 8
WHERE: Chattanooga City Council, 1000 Lindsay St.
TIME: 5PM - 7PM (protest begins at 5; meeting at 6)
URGENT: We do not have much more time to make our point. Don't miss this event!
Thank you.
Mark West, CTP
More info: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=122268404480131&ref=mf
Property Tax Alert - Time is Running Out
Dear Friend,
You may often find yourself wondering: How can my local, city, and state governments increase my taxes, pass terrible legislation, or infringe on my rights? How can they create programs and positions that are inefficient, costly, and permanent? Why can’t the government work within a simple budget?
You know, I’ve asked myself the same question, and here’s what I’ve concluded: WE LET THEM! Voter apathy and old-fashioned laziness have gotten us into quite a mess over the past few years.
And, regarding the pending property tax increase, I’m afraid if we don’t act soon, it will likely be too late. You may stand to lose hundreds or even thousands of your hard earned dollars. Chattanooga citizens stand to lose tens of millions.
So here’s what I’d like to ask you to do:
#1 - Please donate at this link: http://www.stopthetaxincrease.com/help-the-fight Contributions will go for the following Phase 1 Goals. They are listed in order of importance.
PHASE 1 Tax Opposition
#1 - Mailer w/Return to Recent Voters - 11,591 houses $4,297.10
#2 - Phone calls to Recent Voters $650.00
#3 - Stop the Tax Increase Yard Signs - 300 Signs $600.00
#4 - WGOW Radio Advertising - Two Weeks Heavy $3,260.00
Total $8,807.10
#2 – Arrange a group meeting with your Council Representative. Find 2 or 3 people who oppose the tax increase in your district (perhaps you and your spouse or a close neighbor) and arrange a...
Comrade Obama - by Jerry Henderson
[The following was written by Jerry Henderson and published in the Chattanooga Times Free Press]
President Obama's "Enemies of the State" list continues to grow under his direction and that of his fellow conspirators. His enemies list is comprised of any group that opposes his leftist agenda or anyone or group that he can demonize thus diverting attention from his own failed policies.
In the past few months Obama and his comrades have repeatedly maligned and slandered those citizens of the United States that have stood against them and demanded that they honor the provisions of the United States Constitution and refrain from the wasteful spending that is bankrupting our nation.
His latest attack is directed against the United States Citizens of Arizona for daring to demand that the United States Government defend our boarders as required by Article I section 8 of the U S Constitution. Even though no one in his regime has apparently read the Arizona law they have dismissed it and the Arizona citizens, labeling them as "Racists", a term that they regularly employ against anyone that gets in their way.
"Those who think themselves injured by their rulers are sometimes, by mild and prudent answer, convinced of their error. But where complaining is a crime, hope becomes despair". - Benjamin Franklin
Voice your Opposition to Mayor Littlefield's 33% Tax Increase Proposal
Join us this Tuesday as we repeat last week's property tax hike protest. See the news coverage from last week's protest below as well as details on the upcoming protest.
video from Channel 12 news
http://wdef.com/video/local_tea_party_protests_property_tax_increase/05/2010
Taxed
Enough
Already
A Call to Action
Last week we protested at the City Council Meeting, and I am asking that we protest again this week. Council members will begin discussing the 2010 budget in committee meetings this Tuesday at 2pm. These meetings are open to the public, but have little opportunity for the public to speak. We will again gather at the City Council building at 1000 Lindsay Street at 5pm to protest prior to the 6pm meeting. The Council meeting usually lasts about one hour and a few of us will be given 3 minutes to address the council at the end of the meeting. Last week Councilman Manny Rico allowed 5 people to speak on the issue. Hopefully we will have the same 15 minutes this week.
Also at this week's protest Jim Folkner will be present with Mayoral Recall petitions. All those that live in Chattanooga will be encouraged to sign the petition. Jim will also be recruiting volunteers to assist him with collecting signatures. His petition is based on the following :
"Count 1: The Mayor has requested large and unnecessary storm water fees and permit increases to cover four years of negligence in handling these permits.
"Count 2: The Mayor...
Let's keep up the Pressure against Littlefield's 33% tax increase!!
Chattanooga Tea Party members:
Thanks to all of you who showed up at the Chattanooga City Council meeting this Tuesday evening to show and voice your opposition to Mayor Littlefield's proposed 33% tax increase.
During these times when it's hard to look your opposition in the eyes because they are sheltered off in Washington DC, this clash with Mayor Littlefield is in our backyard! SO DON'T SIT THIS ONE OUT!
During these difficult economic times when you and I are directly impacted at home, is it too much to ask our city government to rein in its own house? I say NOT and ask that you join the Chattanooga Tea Party in saying NO MORE! We can prevail if we will all do our part. WILL YOU?
Remember Thomas Jefferson said, "When the people fear the government there is tyranny; when the government fears the people there is liberty!" So are you ready to instill some healthy FEAR in the Chattanooga government? COME ON, JOIN US!
Finally, continue to check back at our website: http://chattanoogateaparty.com/ and at the website that Brandon Lewis has set up to track the latest happenings on this: http://www.stopthetaxincrease.com/.
Respectfully,
Promoting Liberty and Restoring Values...
Mark West
You've joined the CTP. Now what?
by Karen Chastain
So you have joined the millions of Americans that were previously busy growing their careers and families during the 80’s and 90’s, quietly taking our Constitution and the American Way of Life for granted.
You are now shocked, appalled and saddened by the results of socialist and Marxist politicians and their appointed officials; and the special interest groups and organizations that are destroying this great country on a daily basis.
You’re awake. You’re engaged. But you’re not sure what all you need to be doing…
Are you a registered voter? You know the drill!
Investigate, determine and support candidates on a local, state and national level…And I mean everyone including the lower-level positions. Now, DONATE to their campaigns. Even $5 handed out to 5 of your chosen candidates will help defray their enormous costs. It’s no coincidence that names like Rockefeller and Kennedy are associated with politics! Don’t prevent a good candidate from success because they run out of money. By the way, it’s easy to give on line, but if you send a check, you avoid the 4% transaction fee that is charged to the candidate.
Volunteer for a campaign. Even something as simple as putting out yard signs, doing data entry at their office, writing a letter to the editor or making phone calls and knocking on your neighbor’s door. And talk with your own friends and family members about who you support and why.
And of course, participate in the Tea Party. Volunteer if you can, donate what ever you can...
Say "NO" to Mayor Littlefield's 33% increase in Property Taxes
Taxed
Enough
Already
A Call to Action
Chattanooga's Mayor Ron Littlefield has presented the City Council with a proposed budget that raises property taxes 33%. In these difficult economic times and following a new storm water run off tax and a recent property assessment which has raised many people's property tax, the Mayor proposed to raise the property tax rate by $0.64 per $100 assessed. This is a 33% rate increase. While many of us are adjusting our own budgets to account for a reduced income, the Mayor wants to increase the City's income by taking some of our income. We cannot afford any government expansion.
I would like to ask all those who can attend to make it to next Tuesday's 6pm City Council meeting. Please bring signs and wear Tea Party related shirts. Signs should all be family appropriate. I suggest sings like:
Taxed Enough Already!
No New Taxes!
Born Free. Taxed to Death.
Parking will be tight so please arrive early. We will gather in front of the City Council building as early as 5pm and enter the meeting at 6pm. The meeting usually last about an hour, and at the end of the meeting the floor will be opened to persons wishing to address the council. This will be our opportunity to speak. Each person will have about 3 minutes to address the City Council with their concerns. Please keep your statements related to the recent and the proposed tax increases. If you...
Please note correction: An intimate luncheon with Rep. Steve King
PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A CORRECTION OF A PREVIOUS POST
You are cordially invited to an intimate luncheon with Representative Steve King, Keynote Speaker of the Tennessee Tea Party Coalition’s First Annual Convention.
Rep. King is a Republican Congressman representing the 5th District of Iowa.
- Endorsed by the National Rifle Association
- Scored 100% on the Focus on the Family Action
- Congressional Scorecard
When: Saturday, May 22, 2010 at 12 noon
Where: The Clarion Hotel, 1100 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
Menu: Choice of Prime Rib, Roasted Chicken Breast, or Vegetarian Fettuccine.
- $150 per plate
- Limited Seating
Please RSVP by email with menu choice by May 14th to:
gregg@juster.com
Checks should be made out to: Steve King For Congress
and mailed to:
Gregg Juster
55 E Main #304
Chattanooga, TN 37408
National Day of Prayer
Friends and Members:
These days in America it seems popular to diminsh the value and importance of God, religion and prayer -- particularly in the public square. However, our Founding Fathers understood and frequently spoke of the importance of God, religion, morality and prayer. Consider just a few of their quotes:
Benjamin Franklin: "God Governs in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without his notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without his aid? ...I therefore beg leave to move that henceforth prayers imploring the assistance of Heaven, and its blessings on our deliberations, be held in this Assembly every morning before we proceed to business..."
George Washington: "Of all the dispositions and habits, which lead to political prosperity, Religion and Morality are indispensable supports."
Abraham Lincoln: "Intoxicated with unbroken success, we have become too self-sufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to the God that made us. It behooves us then, to humble ourselves before the offended Power, to confess our national sins, and to pray for clemency and forgiveness.”
This Thursday our nation will once again observe the annual National Day of Prayer. And certainly it would appear that we need prayer and God's intervention more than ever.
In Chattanooga there are at least a couple of events that you may want to consider attending. They are:
1. Abbas House (Central Baptist of Hixson) - 5208 Hixson Pike; 875-9311; 11:30AM - 1:00PM. (I will be attending this event along...
Join the Tennessee Tea Party Coalition in Gatlinburg
The Tennessee Tea Party Coalition is hosting a weekend of seminars and special events Saturday and Sunday, May 22 and 23, at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. The schedule includes seminars on The Constitution, free markets, tax reform and grassroots activism; discussion panels on state sovereignty and the 10thAmendment, featured speakers including Iowa Congressman Steve King, a gubernatorial debate, and the opportunity to meet and greet federal and state candidates running for office this year.
For Chattanooga Tea Party activists looking to take the next steps forward, this could be a great opportunity to learn how to get more involved – and how to get more effective.
For more information, visit the Tennessee Tea Party Coalition website at: http://tennesseeteapartycoalition.com/
Political Precinct Caucus - Republican Party
Chattanooga Tea Party Members:
While the Chattanooga Tea Party is non-partisan and does NOT endorse a particular party or candidate, I thought I would make you aware of the Republican Precinct Caucus that is taking place tomorrow, Thursday, April 29 beginning at 6:30PM, in case you might be interested in attending. The Caucus is being held at the East Ridge Community Center (1517 Tombras Avenue) to elect the delegates who will cast their votes two weeks later on May 13 (at the same time and location) for the Republican nominee to replace Chancellor Howell Peoples.
Thank you.
Mark West, Pres.
Chattanooga Tea Party
MAP to East Ridge Community Center:
http://maps.google.com/places/us/tn/chattanooga/tombras-ave/1517/-east-ridge-community-center?gl=us
Chattanooga Tea Party Essay Contest Winner
As many of you know, the Chattanooga Tea Party held an essay contest in conjunction with the Tax Day Tea Party. The winner of the essay contest is Ryan Moss, a 10th grader at Calhoun High School.
We wish to congratulate Ryan for his accomplishment and share his essay with everyone in the CTP community, so here it is:
CTP Tax Day Tea Party Essay Contest
Winning Essay
submitted by Ryan Moss, Calhoun High School
Over the course of American history, we have had many great leaders from Dwight D. Eisenhower to Ronald Reagan, but our best leaders were the first ones. The Founding Fathers were great men who devoted their lives to fighting a corrupt empire and giving liberty to normal, everyday people. The Founders established this great country so that everyone after them could live freely in a Republic founded on the morals of Christianity. Sadly, we have strayed from these basic liberties and principles that the Founders granted us. These liberties include the right to say and think whatever we want, believe whatever we want, defend ourselves however we deem necessary, and live a life that we have full control over, free from the powers of a corrupted central government. Due to the same corruption we were to be free from, we allowed ourselves to be tricked by the Federal Government and we have lost or are about to lose these central freedoms.
“These are the times that try men’s souls,” was a phrase first used by one of our...
CTP Tax Day Tea Party This Week
We are just a few short days away from the 2nd Annual (Thursday) April 15th Chattanooga Tea Party Tax Day Rally. This year it is being held at Coolidge Park, 150 River Street in Chattanooga. Click here for a map.
Our Theme this year is "Promoting Liberty & Restoring Values". The official Program will be from 5:30PM to 7:00PM but there will be activities and opportunities to engage with your fellow citizens from 4 - 8PM. Here are a few highlights:
* Stimulating Speakers
o Jim Place -- Host of "Let's Talk Money" (WGOW)
o Larry Stewart (FairTax)
o Tony Sanders -- Host of "Tony Sanders Outdoors" (WGOW)
o Mark Alexander -- Executive Editor and founder of The Patriot Post
o Joe Wolverton (Professor, Writer New American)
o Ben Brandon (Tenth Amendment Center)
* Inspirational LIVE Music
* Essay Contest for High School and College students (Winners to be announced at Rally)
* Gubernatorial, Congressional and other local political candidates will be provided with booths and tables to interact with you and answer questions about their candidacy.
* Representatives from various liberty minded groups will be providing information about their organizations at tables / booths
* Activities for the entire family (bring your children) -- face painting, clowns, balloons
* Bring your flags and "family friendly" signs expressing your views on current issues
* Bring your lawn chairs
* Food vendors will...
Tax Day Tea Party Student Essay Contest
The Chattanooga Tea Party and North GeorgiaTea Parties is pleased to announce The Tax Day Essay Contest to help generate citizen interest in reading and understanding The Constitution in context with current events.
The contest is open to the public, with entries divided into three divisions: College, High School (grades 9-10), High School (grades 11-12).
Central Theme: "What are the principles of liberty enshrined by our Founding Fathers in the Constitution and how have we departed from them." Used as a title or part of a title, the central theme does not count toward your word count.
Criteria: No more than 500 words, double-spaced, word-processed (or clearly printed if computer is unavailable), using black ink in size 12 font) faxed to (423) 305-1304 by no later than Friday, 5 p.m. (ET), April 9, 2010. A completed cover sheet (see below) must accompany the fax. Alternatively, the writer may scan and email the essay and completed cover sheet to carolgrohn@comcast.net. Each page of the essay must have the writer’s name at the top left followed by a blank line (does not count in the word count).
References: Please credit any references used on a separate sheet of paper and this page does not count toward your word-count.
General: All writers must complete the accompanying cover sheet and submit it along with their essays; essayists age 17 or less must also include the name of their parent or guardian and the signature of the parent on the completed cover sheet.
Health Care Freedom March on Nashville
CALLING CHATTANOOGA AREA PATRIOTS
PLEASE TAKE ACTION!
ACTION: WEDNESDAY, March 31 - We need HUNDREDS state-wide to travel to Nashville for the 10 AM Comm. Vote & urge our Atty. General to join the other 13 states that have already filed lawsuits against the fed gov't. The Health Care Act is likely a tie vote, so your calls & presence are vital. (See directions to Legislative Plaza at bottom)
ACTION: MON. & TUES. PRIOR TO THE VOTE- STATE-WIDE PHONE BLITZ - Just list off the 5 state sovereignty bill numbers below when you call or email and urge them to vote YES on each of them:
HB3433: Healthcare Freedom Act sponsored by Rep. Bell and Senator Beavers: Prevents Tennesseans from being forced to purchase federal health insurance. The comm. is split 6 dems/6 rep., however, Rep. Bell's office has told us they do believe that one or more of the Dems. on the Subcommittee could be persuaded into voting YES on HB3433 if contacted by concerned citizens throughout the state. To pass HB3433 either one or more Dems must vote for the bill or the Speaker of the House Kent Williams must be urged to come to the meeting and vote as allowed under House Rule 65. Kent Williams is a co-sponsor of the bill.
HJR745: Tennessee Constitutional Amendment sponsored by Rep. Lynn: Prohibits laws or rules that would compel any person, employer, or health care provider to participate in any health care system.
HB2622: Prohibits...
Share CTP's April 15 Tax Day Tea Party Event on Facebook with Your Family and Friends
Fellow Tea Partiers, let's double the crowd we had last year and bring as many friends and family members as we can to the April 15 Tax Day Tea Party event at Coolidge Park. Please go to the CTP's Facebook page and share the event information with your Facebook friends. Let's keep stoking the fires and build to a successful November election. Take a stand and make your voice heard in Nashville and Washington!
Candidates' Answers to 3rd District Congressional LiberTea Debate Questions
Chattanooga Tea Party Members:
We are pleased to be able to post the 3rd District Candidates' answers to the 38 questions that were asked at and/or prepared for the Congressional LiberTea Debate sponsored by the Chattanooga Tea Party last month.
You can find all of the questions and the Candidates answers here: http://chattanoogateaparty.com/libertea/debateanswers.htm
We trust that the Candidates' written answers to these questions will assist you in gaining a better understanding of the positions of each Candidate.
Keep in mind that most, if not all, of the Candidates will be attending the Chattanooga Tea Party's upcoming Tax Day Tea Party Rally on April 15th at Coolidge Park from 4PM - 8PM. While the Candidates themselves will not have a speaking part in the Event Program, we are providing them with the opportunity to set up a table or booth to meet with you and to answer additional questions that you might have. So I would encourage you to take advantage of this additional occasion to meet the Candidates up close and in a personal manner. In our opinion, these are excellent ways to get to know just who they are and what they believe.
Finally, thank you for your continued interest and participation in this vital aspect of our republican form of government. If We the People shun our duties in this regard, we truly have no basis to decry the corrupt and ineffective government that we most surely will deserve.
Respectfully and with the desire to Promote Liberty & Restore Values...
Mark West, President
Chattanooga Tea
Protests Planned in Nashville
Chattanooga Tea Party member:
Are you infuriated over the continued arrogance of our elected officials by their willful defiance of "We the People"? Do you feel it's time once again to communicate to them that if our voices continue to fall on deaf ears they will soon be expelled from their cozy positions? Then join 1000's of other fellow Tennesseans in Nashville this Saturday, or next Tuesday or Wednesday. Here are the details from the Tennessee Tea Party in Franklin, TN:
SATURDAY (3/20):
Protest Government Healthcare Takeover!!! Bring your signs and patriot friends. Let’s show Cooper, Gordon, Davis, Tanner and the rest in D.C. how we feel about this government takeover. There will also be a petition to sign to help get the Health Care Freedom Act passed in the State of Tennessee.
Tennessee State Capitol - NOON
600 Charlotte Ave.
Nashville, TN 37243
TUESDAY (3/23):
Encampment at the Capitol beginning at 10:00am on Tuesday 3/23 and remain there until the State Legislature votes on the Tennessee Health Care Freedom Act. The Health Care Freedom Bill was passed by the State Senate over one month ago. This bill asserts our state sovereignty from participating in the Federal Healthcare Bill. Currently it is languishing in the Industrial Sub Committee. In light of what is occurring in D.C., we must get this bill passed. Time is of the essence! Several states, thirty-four, have already passed a similar bill. WHY NOT TENNESSEE?
They will also vote on other crucial bills that are important in drawing the line of...
Tax Day Tea Party Protest Set for Coolidge Park April 15
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (March 17) – The Chattanooga Tea Party (a nonprofit organization) and North Georgia Tea Parties today announced that the second annual tax day tea party rally will be held Thursday, April 15 at Coolidge Park on Chattanooga’s North Shore. The event will get underway at 4 p.m. with the opening of concession tables and recorded music as people start to gather.
The official 90-minute program will start at 5:30 p.m. and will include live music, petition signing tables, food and memorabilia concessions, a few short speeches by concerned citizens as well as a keynote speaker, audience participation and family fun. Attendees are urged to bring lawn chairs, "family-friendly" signs and flags.
Last year, more than 850 tea parties were held across the country on April 15 with over 1.2 million citizens in attendance including Chattanooga's event with an estimated attendance of 2500. The theme for this year's event is "Promoting Liberty and Restoring Values".
The local Chattanooga and North Georgia tea parties are non-partisan, independent grass roots organizations that are loosely affiliated with the national tea party movement, whose core values of fiscal responsibility, constitutionally limited government, and free markets continue to be our unified rallying cry.
Event Details
Date: April 15, 2010 (Thursday)
Concessions open at 4 p.m., program runs from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Location: Coolidge Park on Chattanooga’s North Shore.
Please RSVP at http://chattanoogateaparty.com/singleevent.php?id=22
Donations will be gladly accepted at the event to help defray costs.
3RD DISTRICT LIBERTEA DEBATE DRAWS MORE THAN 530 ATTENDEES
The first in a series of LiberTea Debates, co-sponsored by the Chattanooga Tea Party and the Hamilton County Campaign for Liberty, was a success, drawing more than 530 people to the event Saturday afternoon, February 28.
This first debate of six Republican candidates vying for the 3rd District seat currently held by Zach Wamp, who is running for Tennessee governor, was hosted by Woodland Park Baptist Church in its spacious facility off Standifer Gap Road. The six candidates, including Tommy Crangle, Chuck Fleischmann, Tim Gobble, Van Irion, Art Rhodes and Robin Smith, sat through 90 minutes of questions submitted by co-moderators Renee LaSalle (WDEF news anchor) and Gregg Juster and made themselves available to speak individually with attendees for another 75 minutes in separate rooms off the main auditorium.
“I was pleased that we had such a nice turnout on one of the few sunny and mild days we’ve had lately,” said Mark West, CTP president. “I couldn’t have been more pleased and we couldn’t have set this up and kept so closely to the schedule without the help of all of the volunteers from the Chattanooga Tea Party, the Hamilton County Campaign for Liberty and the Community Impact Team at Woodland Park Baptist Church. We are looking forward to posting the candidates' written responses to all the debate questions on our website by March 15.”
An Open Letter to 3rd District Candidates
3rd Congressional Candidates:
Thank you for your attendance yesterday at the LiberTea Debate and your willingness to present yourselves to our membership and the public at large at Woodland Park Baptist Church. I truly believe that not only was the public served by our partnering together, but many hundreds of voters have now met you and understand your positions, values and persona a little bit better. While we are still a few months away from the finish line in this race, I trust that you will continue to see the Chattanooga Tea Party as a group that is not only engaged in our electoral system but it is also one that seeks to influence and impact our district in a way that will promote liberty and restore those values upon which our nation was founded.
As promised, I am attaching the list of the Debate Questions that were asked or compiled for yesterday's Debate. There are a few that were not asked due to time but we look forward to your thoughtful responses to each question. And as agreed, please return your responses back to me by no later than March 15th so that we may post them on our website for the benefit of our membership and the public at large.
As a reminder, the CTP holds its monthly meetings the 3rd Thursday of each month at 7:30PM at Creekside Retirement on Shallowford Road and you are always welcome. While our agenda is typically full, you...
Wear Your Tea Party Spirit!
Chattanooga Tea Party members: Help spread the Tea Party message and show our unity! Get your CTP t-shirts, polo shirts and bumper stickers (removable vinyl) at the next Tea Party event!
These items will be available at Saturday's 3rd District LiberTEA Debate, Tea Party monthly meetings and movie nights. Remember, all the proceeds from the sale of these items go directly to Chattanooga Tea Party's efforts in "Promoting Liberty and Restoring Values.” (Remember, we are a non-profit organization).
To order (in multiples of 10) or to find out more, contact Karen Chastain at 423-883-1818 or via e-mail at c2cconsulting@yahoo.com.
Test your Political IQ!
This is a good opportunity to put your knowledge of a variety of issues to the test. It will only take you 2-3 minutes.
Here's the brief, 12 question quiz: www.pewresearch.org/politicalquiz/quiz/index.php
Enjoy!
Chattanooga Tea Party February Monthly Meeting Features Two Candidates
Chattanooga Tea Party's February monthly meeting will feature two candidates for public office. Mark DeVol is an independent candidate for 3rd Congressional District U.S. House of Representatives seat held since 1995 by Zach Wamp. Mr. DeVol is a business owner of DeVol Millwork in Anderson County and his website is www.devol2010.com. Mr. Hullander is owner of Hullco Exteriors in Chattanooga and he has served for 12 years on the Hamilton County Commission. Regular Tea Party committee reports and other business also will be included on the agenda.
The February meeting will be held Thursday, February 18, from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Creekside Retirement Community, 7511 Shallowford Road, Chattanooga.
Event:Chattanooga Tea Party Monthly Meeting
Time:Thursday, February 18, 2010
Place:Creekside Retirement Community, main dining room
For more information, visit chattanoogateaparty.com.
3rd District LiberTea Debate Rescheduled for February 27
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (Feb. 6) – The Chattanooga Tea Party and Campaign for Liberty have confirmed a new date for the LiberTea Debate of the six announced Republican candidates for Tennessee’s 3rd Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives for Saturday, February 27, 2010, from 2-5 p.m. at Woodland Park Baptist Church. The debate will be free and open to the public.
The six candidates are Tommy Crangle, Chuck Fleischmann, Tim Gobble, Van Irion, Arthur Rhodes and Robin Smith.
The media is invited to cover this debate as a public service to help inform voters of the choices they will face. At the conclusion of the debate, each participating candidate will have an opportunity to meet with and answer attendees’ questions in a separate room, allowing attending citizens to meet with candidates to further discuss issues of interest to them.
The Chattanooga Tea Party and the Chattanooga area Campaign for Liberty are both non-partisan grassroots organizations seeking to educate and inform their members and the public at large of the fundamental issues and struggles our country is facing. Additionally both organizations are committed to energizing voters to become engaged in the process of solving the nation’s problems.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, February 27, 2010
Debate Time: 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
“Meet the Candidate” Time: 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Format: Moderator to present questions (submitted by CTP and C4L members)
Location: Woodland Park Baptist Church (Chattanooga)
Please RSVP to Chattanooga Tea Party’s Facebook page (link at ChattanoogaTeaParty.com).
Donations will be gladly accepted at the event to help defray costs.
#...
Corker Signs On To Proposed Enumerated Powers Act
Some good news on the Congressional front: Tennessee Senator Bob Corker has agreed to co-sponsor the proposed Enumerated Powers Act in the Senate. The bill, introduced by Senator Tom Coburn of Oklahoma, simply requires Congress to cite specific Constitutional authority for any bill that they consider as the first step in the legislative process. Senator Corker joins 22 other Senate co-sponsors (all Republicans) of the bill in the Senate, with a similar measure in the House having 60 co-sponsors (again, all Republicans, including Zach Wamp).
Why don’t we all challenge Senator Lamar Alexander and Democrats in Congress to join in co-sponsoring this common sense legislation? Let them know we expect them to take seriously their oath of office to “support and defend the Constitution of the United States” by making this practice a permanent part of the legislative process.
The "National Tea Party Convention" Deception
For the past several months, I’ve been following the developments of Tea Party Nation, a “for profit” company in Nashville headed by Judson Philllips, a Nashville Lawyer. I’ve been particularly suspicious of the organization, and became even more so when I started hearing about the “National Tea Party Convention” that TPN is putting on in February, for which tickets are being sold for over $500 each.
After receiving MANY emails about this convention, it is clear that Mr. Phillips has done an excellent job convincing people that this is actually an official Tea Party event, implying that there is an official National Tea Party organization that is responsible for coordinating the efforts of Tea Party groups across the United States.
As a response to the emails I’ve received, I want to make a few points very clear, for I am concerned that the real Tea Party movement, a true grassroots initiative, is coming under fire as a result of this “convention.”
FIRST, it should be understood that local Tea Party organizations, such as the Chattanooga Tea Party are absolutely autonomous. We don’t take marching orders from anyone on a national level. While we eagerly participate in demonstrations against an increasingly oppressive federal government’s irresponsible socialist policies, there is no “national” organization that we have to answer to.
SECOND, “grassroots,” as defined by dictionary.com, means “of, pertaining to, or involving the common people.“ We, as the Chattanooga Tea Party, along with the vast majority of other local Tea Party groups nationwide, are comprised...
GOOOH (Get Out Of Our House) on Fox News
The following video is from Fox and Friends where Get Out Of Our House (GOOOH) was highlighted in a segment.
URGENT: Call or Email Key Senators Today
Folks:
Below is a very important message from one of our fellow tea party groups here in TN. I would encourage you to email each Senator's Chief of Staff as referenced below. Although you may not be a constituent, this matter affects ALL Americans. Below is the email I sent each one of them:
Senator:
I urgently request that you vote NO on the Healthcare Vote this weekend! Your constituents are monitoring closely how you cast this vote, which will most certainly determine your future career in the Senate. Please do NOT let us down on this critical vote.
Will you please join me in contacting each of them? (Feel free to copy and paste the message above or draft your own.) This vote is perhaps one of the most critical votes out nation has faced in many decades. Please let them hear your voice. Thank you.
Promoting Liberty & Restoring Values…
Mark West
Ooltewah, TN 37363
(423) 240-8288 (c)
—- From tnteaparty.org —–
Greetings Fellow Patriots,
Erick Erickson of Red State.com wrote the following this morning regarding the health care bill in the Senate this weekend.
There is a study out today that is damaging to the Democrats efforts to pass health care in the Senate.
On Saturday, when constituents cannot contact their Senators’ offices because they’ll be closed, the United States Senate will vote on a cloture motion to debate the health care legislation.
This is important — a vote in favor of cloture on the motion to proceed (a parliamentary issue) is, in effect, a vote for the health care...
Update on Senator Corker and the Proposed Federal Reserve Audit
You’ll recall that at our October monthly meeting we discussed a piece of legislation that TN Senator Bob Corker recently sponsored entitled the Federal Reserve Accountability Act (FRAA). I shared with you my concerns that, when contrasted with Senate Bill 604 (another proposed bill to audit the Fed), the FRAA fell short in the scope of the proposed audit of the Federal Reserve.
Well, this past week I received an unexpected phone call from Senator Corker, and he offered to explain his thought process and goals as it relates to the FRAA. Senator Corker indicated that while S604 was purportedly more comprehensive in its audit of the Fed, at the same time S604 does not adequately address some areas that were either undefined or not sufficiently enumerated as it relates to the scope of the audit. Following a recent meeting between Senator Corker and Congressman Ron Paul (in which Congressman Paul also acknowledged some shortcomings in HR 1207 – the House “sister” Bill to S604), Senator Corker hopes to see a revision to or improvement in the language of either his Bill or S604 to a point that the Federal Reserve will be audited in a manner that will allow full and complete disclosure but not jeopardize the daily workings and policy formulation by the Fed.
I appreciated Senator Corker’s willingness to discuss this matter and will be watching closely to see just how this whole matter plays out in the near term. As I have any new information in regard to...
On Our Elected Officials Supporting Irresponsible Fiscal Policies by Abusing Their Power
by Brendan Jennings
Second in a series of editorials focusing on our mission statement.
Our founding fathers designed the federal government to take into account human weaknesses and foibles that have hounded man since the beginning of time. These foundational leaders wrote extensively about the importance of selecting the right people to represent them in government. They knew the people were the ultimate guarantors of liberty by the careful selection of those who would lead us.
What would they think about many of the people in Congress today, particularly those in positions of leadership? It would seem as if a perfect storm of human deficiencies swept across the Capitol and took control of their beloved country. Not that our founders didnt have their share of weaknesses, like everyone. But recent legislative classes seem set on establishing increasingly lower standards of behavior, complete with FBI investigations, indictments and convictions.
At the same time, Washington politicians have become increasingly separated from the people theyre supposed to represent, partly thanks to the virtual parallel universe created by the Washington statist-media industrial complex. By recent fiscal and statutory actions, Congress seems to have beamed over to another universe, their actions increasingly divorced from the ever grimmer reality here at home.
For example, the Speaker of the House demands limited Air Force resources to be available every weekend at her short-notice beck and call. The chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee is being investigated for tax evasion, having not paid taxes for a variety of real estate properties...
How Taxes Pervert our Energy Choices
By Joseph Somsel
“The power to tax is the power to destroy.”- Chief Justice John Marshall
Articles like this (see link below) can be drudgery to sift through but they do enlighten.
Most policy in Washington is not motivated by what is practical and productive but driven by un-American ideologies often designed to undermine our constitutional rights, traditions and values. An example of this might be: Socialism, it’s legislation and funding, is unconstitutional as it assumes powers that are not enumerated or supported constitutionally. Principles matter.
Those that write the tax code know that full well that even the most conscientious citizens get bleary eyed, weary and lose our attention on these issues. This in a real way forces us to make our own investigations a part-time job or avocation if we care about what happens. This is impractical for busy people. However, if we don’t, our neglect will overtake us all. It is a terrible thing to have to be watching our backs with such well-earned distrust of our own elected officials.
http://www.americanthinker.com/2009/10/how_taxes_pervert_our_energy_c.html
A Busy Week for Chattanooga Tea Party Patriots
All patriots, CTP members and fellow Americans, please join us September 10th at 7:45 PM at the Country Place restaurant on Shallowford Road for a send off rally for our Freedom Riders.
Our freedom riders are traveling to Washington, DC to join thousands of other Tea Party protesters on the west lawn of the US Capital September 12th. Share your thoughts and concerns by signing the WE THE PEOPLE banner that will be carried in the protest.
*There are two spaces still left on the second bus so please call Shirley Patterson 423-238-8182 or email steel9531@comcast.net for details.
Note for our Freedom Bus Riders
Overflow parking arrangements have been made next to J Alexander’s restaurant near the hotel and condo area for our freedom rider’s cars. Freedom writers will unload their luggage first at Country Place then park. A van will be taking passengers back and forth. The returning buses are leaving Washington, DC very early Sunday morning September 13th, and are expected back early that evening. Y’all come out and welcome them back.
Everyone is asked to bring lawn chairs, posters and flags. In the event of rain, the rally will be held inside the County Place restaurant.
The rally is from 7:45 pm till departure of the bus at 9:00 pm. The DayBreak band will be playing patriotic music to set the mood. CTP will conduct a farewell send off program.
PROTESTING the PROTESTERS
Our freedom riders are going to Walter Reed Hospital on Friday September 11 to protest the Code Pink protests of our...
Too Important to Ignore
Over the past few months, the American public has spoken up in an unprecedented way in defiance to the federal government’s unconstitutional increase in scope, cost, and influence. They have ignored the limitations of their contract, the United States Constitution, and have made it clear that they are not concerned with the voice of the People, who give them their authority in the first place.
We invite you to stand with us on Thursday, September 10, 2009 as we send over 50 local residents to march on Washington with thousands of like-minded patriots and speak out against the oppressive government which has ignored the voice of the People for far too long.
This event is more than just a sendoff of our “Freedom Riders,” it’s an opportunity to stand with those who are willing to fight for our American liberties. We hope to see you there!
Event Time: 7.45PM
Supporters are encouraged to come at 7:45 PM to sign the banner with their thoughts and wishes to be carried to Washington by our local Chattanooga freedom riders.
Rally program 8:00PM -8:45 PM, bus loading 8:45 M -9:00PM, final departure 9:00PM.
Location: Country Place Restaurant
Parking lot located on Shallowford Road one block from the Gunbarrel and Shallowford intersection. Bring lawn chairs, signs and flags.
A Letter to the Editor
This letter was sent to the editor of the Chattanoogan by The Chattanooga Tea Party Secretary
by Jim West
Many liberal, media sources have recently complained about the volume of grass roots’ attendance at Town Hall meetings being held around the country by congressional leaders. The major criticism is that these crowds of protesters, who are showing up, are being organized by right-wing, extremist groups for the purpose of embarrassing our elected representatives. These critics cannot seem to fathom that Americans might wish to hold their leaders responsible. They would be happier if everyone who showed up would just praise Mr. Obama’s efforts to take over one-sixth of our economy and institute a government-run, public-option system of health care. But let’s look at what is really happening. There IS irrefutable proof that the administration’s supporters are indeed enlisting paid supporters for its programs. At (http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/npo/1299047025.html), there is a solicitation of workers to advocate the programs of the administration. This is nothing but the “pot calling the kettle black.” People are being paid to show up at Town Hall meetings, but it is not the administration’s antagonists who are doing so. What hypocrisy! No wonder the public has lost confidence in government. It is being run by a bunch of scheming, manipulating, political hacks, not in the least sincere in benefiting the country, but instead obsessed with increasing their control over the lives of ordinary Americans. It’s time to support such efforts as the 9/12 March on Washington on September 12, 2009. ...
Chattanooga Tea Party Sendoff Rally
As many of you know, we’ll be sending a contingent of our local patriots to march on Washington, D.C. in the 9/12 gathering at the Capitol Building.
We would like to be there as our “delegates” load the bus and embark on this journey to let them know that they represent us all, as Chattanooga area residents tired of an oppressive Federal Government. Thursday, September 10, 2009, we’re going to be having a Chattanooga Tea Party Sendoff Rally to let them know that we’re all behind them.
Please mark your calendars now and make sure you get the word out to all patriots who may be interested in showing their support for these who will be heading to our nation’s capital to protest, as representatives of us all.
Details:
- Who: The Chattanooga Tea Party
- What: CTP Sendoff Rally: Sending our Delegates to Washington, D.C.
- Where: To Be Determined
- When: Thursday, September 10, 2009 (Time To Be Determined… will be in the evening)
- Why: To show our support for those who are going to be joining the march on Washington, D.C.
If you or anyone you know is interested in helping to plan this rally, please contact Bryan Haddock at bryan@chattanoogateaparty.com.
Representative Tom Price Stands Up Against Socialized Healthcare
This video was posted on July 16, 2009. It shows Representative Tom Price (R-GA), a former physician, calling out committee members for not being willing to consider any Conservative solutions to the Socialized Healthcare proposal that is being unilaterally forced upon the American people by an overbearing Federal Government.
As you watch this, keep in mind that, according to the American Spectator, “over the past three months, as Obama consistently pounded on the drum for health care legislation, his net approval on the issue has shrunken dramatically.”
Yes, we are being marginalized. Yes, we are being dismissed as “radical extremists” in many cases. Yes, we are being called “astroturf” because the mainstream media refuses to recognize that we, as citizens of the United States of America, have the responsibility to hold the government accountable.
Remember this: We are NOT marginal. Surveys say that we are now in the majority if we disagree with the President’s proposed socialized healthcare plan. We are NOT “radical extremists.” The President’s proposal is both “radical” and “extreme” and we’re standing against it. We are NOT astroturf. The Chattanooga Tea Party (and the vast majority of other Tea Party organizations across the nation) exists solely because of volunteers who believe strongly in the Constitutional rights that all Americans have and are willing to put the time and effort into making known the injustices enacted against those rights by our Federal...
It's All About Power and Control
Oftentimes people would like to come up with creative ideas and new and improved solutions to solve age-old problems. The age-old problem we are facing today though is not Nationalized Health Care. Rather, it is POWER and CONTROL. As long as man has existed, man has attempted to rule the lives of others. Man has desired to control others. Man has desired to dictate to his fellow citizens. We seem to understand this concept when we look across the ocean and around the world and study other nations. But we have failed to realize that the STORM of “Power and Control” has been brewing for some time in the United States of America.
It did not just start with the recent Administration. It started many decades ago. It started as a “drip, drip, drip.” You know the old leaky faucet syndrome. I’ve got one at home right now. What’s a little drip of water? At home we will often tolerate it for a while.
But in our nation, the drip is a little regulation here and little loss of control there. A little increase in taxes here and a little deficit spending there. And it all seems to be ok. It’s no big deal. And soon we become numb to the drips. Then one day we wake up and the drip is no longer a drip – rather in this instance, in Washington, it’s a tsunami.
In our nation’s capitol there’s the misguided talk of a new “mandate” in town. And there are...
Make The Most of Recess!
Over the past few weeks, I’ve heard a lot about the congressional “recess” in August, and as a ponderous soul, I started thinking about the term.
Remember “recess” from elementary school? It was a time to get some exercise… to get out all of that pent-up energy that had built up throughout the day from sitting still in class behind a desk listening to teachers tell you what to do, following their directions obediently.
You may ask yourself, “how does that have anything to do with the congressional recess?” I’m glad you asked.
Over the past several months, we’ve had to sit by idly, seemingly powerless, while our “representatives” have obsessively introduced and passed legislation that we disagree with. They started long before our new President stepped into office, Republicans and Democrats alike, approving legislation such as the infamous “Bank Bailout Bill,” acquiring private companies (i.e. GM), and introducing big-government plans such as socializing our healthcare system.
It’s now recess time. Many of our representatives will be holding “town hall” meetings to “touch base” with their constituents (after all, they’re SUPPOSED to be representing us). As the Chattanooga Tea Party, we feel that it is imperative that we make an appearance at these meetings and show up as vocal, concerned citizens who are tired of the way our government has been running over the past year(s). The government has grown far too large (according to the Constitution, not just me) in size, reach, and expense.
Please remember to make the most of this “recess.” It...
Westview Elementary School Annexation Meeting
Chattanooga Tea Party Friends:
There will be a community meeting regarding Annexation at Westview Elementary School on East Brainerd Road, TONIGHT, MONDAY, August 3rd. at 6:30pm.
Everyone on both sides of the issue, both city and county residents, are cordially invited to attend. The focus of this meeting will be on residents in the East Brainerd area, but anyone in Chattanooga and/or Hamilton County are encouraged to attend.
Confirmed attending will be County Mayor Claude Ramsey, Sheriff Jim Hammond, County Commissioners, Reuben Taylor, and other elected officials. Attorney Gary Starnes will make a presentation regarding annexation law.
Residents will have an opportunity to ask questions and voice their concerns to elected county officials.
You can find out more about this issue at: http://www.hcraa.org/
I look forward to seeing many of you at this meeting tonight.
Mark West
Why We Don’t Need Government-Sponsored Healthcare
It is just another big power grab by Democrat politicians to move this country toward a socialist State.
I lived in England for 8 years and experienced the low grade, rationed, inferior health care of a government-run system called the National Health Service.
Let’s change our system by really fixing the problems: making it more efficient by broadening competition across state lines, reforming tort law, letting people keep the insurance they are satisfied with, finding a way to insure only those who are uninsured because they can’t afford even minimal coverage, shutting out illegal immigrants who don’t merit coverage, and refusing to pay for coverage by raising taxes.
A government-run program will ration care, never be able to be funded adequately, become the ‘tail that wags the dog,’ make citizens more subservient to government, and increase the power of politicians — all measures that undermine the freedoms guaranteed under our Constitution.
On Government Deriving Its Just Powers from the Consent of the Governed
As concerned citizens who have joined together in an effort to speak rationally to our increasingly unaccountable and irresponsible leaders, it’s important for you to become familiar with the goals outlined in our mission statement. Over the next few weeks, I will address our expressed beliefs, point by point, to help explain to others what animates us and to generate a healthy discussion among ourselves. The following are my thoughts alone and are not meant to be interpreted as an official statement from the Chattanooga Tea Party organization.
The best place to start is at the beginning, the first bullet of our mission statement: “We believe that it is ‘We the People’ who have been given the power of our nation by our Forefathers.” As The Declaration of Independence more eloquently puts it,
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. (author’s italics)
This gets right at the foundation of the legitimacy of our government – the consent of the governed. It means government exists for the good of the people, not for its own purposes and perpetuation. It means the majority gets the strongest voice at...
9/12 March on Washington, D.C.
It’s time to take the tea party movement directly to Washington, D.C. Please join thousands of local organizers and grassroots Americans from across the country as we gather in our nation’s capital to deliver a message to the politicians: Enough!
We’ve had enough of the out of control spending, the bailouts, the growth of big government and the soaring deficits. And we reject the future tax increases to pay for all of this spending and debt down the road. We are gathering on 9-12-2009 to deliver our message in person that we’ve had enough!
- Depart: Thursday, September 10, evening (exact time can be confirmed as we get closer)
- Arrive: Friday AM, Balance of day free day, sightseeing, possibly meeting with elected officials
- Saturday: Official March day: http://912dc.org/agenda/
- Sunday: Return early morning to Chattanooga, arrive early evening.
- Bus: $120 (non-refundable – must be paid at time of reservation)
- Hotel: $187.44 per room for two nights (up to 4 people per room)
- Meals: Each person is responsible for their own meals.
If you would like to reserve a spot on the bus (maximum of 50 riders) and/or a hotel room, please visit the website and reserve your spot. Remember that up to 4 people can stay in 1 hotel room and there are only 50 seats available on the bus. All charges are...
Blue Dog Democrats Can Stop Obamacare
There are eight “Blue Dog Democrats” who sit on the House Energy and Commerce Committee. If these eight Democrats do not support the terrible House version of the health care bill, we may be able to stop it.
It is CRITICAL to contact them TODAY and make your voice heard.
John Barrow (GA-12) (202) 225-2823
Bart Gordon (TN-06) (202) 225-4231
Baron Hill (IN-09) (202) 225-5315
Jane Harman (CA-36) (202) 225-8220
Jim Matheson (UT-02) (202) 225-3011
Charlie Melancon (LA-03) (202) 225-4031
Mike Ross (AR-04) (202) 225-3772
Zack Space (OH-18) (202) 225-6265
http://www.freedomworks.org/blog/bstein80/blue-dog-democrats-can-stop-obamacare
Why I’m Against the So-Called “Public Option”
The health “reform” plan taking shape in the Democrat-controlled Congress is another case of people who played by the rules most of their lives getting screwed. It’s also why I’m protesting in front of the Federal Building in Downtown Chattanooga this Saturday at noon.
During the past year’s panic-driven race to get unread bills passed and signed to prop up the housing market, my wife and I wondered if we were among a dying breed of Americans who did not believe in overbuying and overextending ourselves into debt. Now, as we watch the healthcare cramdown, we get the same feeling – we’ve taken care of ourselves yet it looks like we’ll have to pay more, yet have fewer personal freedoms in the long run. And that’s even before rationing sets in.
The so-called “public option” is a part of health reform plans under consideration in the House and Senate that will grant the government power to compete directly against more than 1,300 insurance providers nationwide.1 The option’s stated purpose is to ensure a level playing field of “choice, competition, and stability of affordable, high quality coverage.” More than 1,300 providers and we need another one to keep the market competitive?
Which brings me to the first reason I oppose this plan: it undermines private health insurance providers. The plan bases reimbursement rates on current Medicare reimbursement levels plus 5%. Unfortunately for physicians, Medicare currently reimburses them at a rate of only 81 percent2 of average market rates, and payment levels for hospitals are...
Coalition Letter Regarding Healthcare Reform
[This is a letter that was sent by CNP Action Inc.... Notice that the Chairman of the Chattanooga Tea Party, Mark West, signed it.]
The Honorable Christopher J. Dodd
Member
United States Senate
448 Russell Building
Washington, D.C. 20510
Dear Senator Dodd,
We, the undersigned individuals and organizations representing millions of Americans, urge you to pass healthcare legislation that prohibits unelected and unaccountable bureaucrats in Washington, D.C. from controlling the system. We doubt the government’s ability to fix the nation’s healthcare system in a cost‐effective manner while protecting individual liberty.
History shows that government interference in markets rarely produces positive results. For instance, government interference in the form of wage controls led to the current employer‐provided insurance system. On this note, it’s unreasonable to assume that a few people in Washington, no matter how intelligent, can utilize imperfect information and the powers of government to heal a byzantine system broken (in the first place) by government.
While we applaud efforts to tackle this growing crisis, we ask that you tread carefully when considering the government’s role. As a nation empowered by its individuals, we recognize that choices made by consumers reflect the only true way to identify what people really want. Therefore, allowing individuals to choose their own doctor, their own hospital, and insurance policy is vital to success.
We also recognize that controlling the purse strings means controlling the final product. With this in mind, we oppose any expansion in direct public spending to fund the healthcare system. A universal tax credit, however, that allows...
July 18 Mini-Protest Reminder
We wanted to post a reminder about the July 18 Mini-Protest. Here are some ways that you can help spread the word:
- Call 5 friends who might not be on Facebook or Email
- Post the link to the event on your Facebook Status
- Email everyone you know who is concerned about socialized healthcare and the rising cost of government
- Encourage people to go to www.chattanoogateaparty.com and sign up for our newsletter
- Print the attached flyer and pass it out to everyone you can
Together, we can make this short event a success!
Come Stand With Us Against Socialized Healthcare
On Saturday, July 18, Chattanooga area citizens will join thousands of other concerned citizens in hundreds of cities across America to protest a government takeover of our health care system.
The protest will take place outside the Federal Building in Downtown Chattanooga, across from Miller Park, from noon to 1 p.m.
“We want to communicate to our elected officials in a bold and unified voice that we oppose any sort of government-run health care system,” said Mark West, spokesman for the Chattanooga Tea Party organization. “A large majority of Americans have health insurance coverage through hundreds of insurance companies, which have had to compete for that business. A so-called “public option” will force most of these companies out of business and will inevitably lead to health care rationing, which happens in every other country with a government-run system.”
To Recap:
Date: Saturday, July 18
Time: Noon to 1 p.m.
Location: Federal Building, Downtown Chattanooga
Pops on the River Update
Hello Chattanooga Tea Party supporters,
Thank you again for attending the April 15th Chattanooga Tea Party and showing your support. Here is a change to get involved and show support again.
Here’s the information for July 4th
WHAT
We are meeting at Coolidge Park July 4th to celebrate our nations 233rd Independence Day. This is a LOW KEY FUN event. We will not be rallying like the last time. We are saving that for a later date. This time we just want to show our support for the constitution and what it represents. We hope to see you there.
WHERE:
Coolidge Park. Click here for the Google Map.
- Please bring card tables, chairs and/or blankets and look for our large Constitution signs on the tables at the front of the park.
- Bring a candle for your table or blanket in the evening.
- Picnic baskets and games are the order of the day –enjoy
- The Market Street Bridge starting at 5th Street will be closed at 3:30 pm but the Coolidge Park area will be open to traffic and has a metered parking area (come early if you want one of those).
- Buses will also be running to and from Coolidge Park from points in the city. Check web page for specifics.
WHEN:
- We are setting up early–2:30pm to get a good location, but most folks won’t be there till 4:30 or 5:00 pm.
- We have scheduled two hour blocks of time for volunteer workers, and we could use a few extra workers from the 3-5pm block and the 5-7 pm block. You...
Chattanooga Tea Party - Pops on the River
Click here for the Facebook Event Page
Since many of us will be out of town or have prior arrangements for the 4th of July, we thought it would be a good idea for anyone who wants to get together at Pops on the River to come hang out.
We’ll be passing out information about the Chattanooga Tea Party and inviting other patriots there to sign up for our newsletter. This will be a good chance for others in our community to find out what we really are all about. After the media coverage of the Tax Day Tea Party, a lot of them probably think we’re dangerous terrorists or something, so maybe we will be able to accomplish a lot by gathering together with our community to celebrate the 4th of July…
* Bring card tables, picnic baskets, and anything else you can think of that would be appropriate for this casual community event.
To visit the official Pops In The Park web page, click here.
Letter to our Representatives
The following letter was sent to Lamar Alexander, Bob Corker, and Zach Wamp after the April 15th Tea Party. As of yet, we have not received any response from these “Representatives” …
Dear ______________,
No doubt you watched with interest the Tax Day Tea Parties that were held on April 15 in over 850 cities with in excess of 1,000,000 law abiding and freedom loving Americans attending. Hopefully you are aware of the fact that in Chattanooga, we too participated in this historic Protest at Ross’s Landing. By most counts more than 2,000 Chattanoogans attended our Rally. The objective of this Protest, both locally and nationally, was to protest the willful, deliberate and recklessly irresponsible fiscal behavior that is occurring in Washington DC. To be clear though, this Protest was not directed solely at the Democrats but it was also focused at Republicans and Independents, for no political party is exempt from the reckless spending that has been occurring in our nation’s capitol for too many years now.
Many in the media, as well as elected officials and even President Obama, have poked fun at these Tea Parties and have even been critical of our efforts. I would hope that you do not share that same perspective or attitude. The Chattanooga Tea Party was and is a grassroots movement that is autonomous of any particular group or party. Our mission is:
*To bring sound, transparent fiscal policies and accountability to our government through our current elected officials. If they are non-responsive, we will work...
Long Term Plans for The Chattanooga Tea Party
Many of you have been asking about where we’re going from here since the hugely successful Tax Day Tea Party on April 15th.
Well, even though there hasn’t been a lot going on from a public vantage point, there has been a lot of discussion and organization going on over the past couple of months behind the scenes. I’m looking forward to releasing details to you in the next couple of weeks that will really get you excited about the future of the Chattanooga Tea Party. I sure am excited!
Over the past couple of months, there has been some very good discussion, and a lot of this discussion has given us some good insight that will be very beneficial to us as we establish the Chattanooga Tea Party organization officially.
Anyway, I just wanted to put out a quick post to let everyone know that very soon, we’ll have a good, established network in place that will be able to keep all of you who are interested in the Tea Party movement up to date on issues, give you lots of opportunities to participate locally, and provide a good, strong organization that is capable of organizing Tea Party events as they are necessary.
If any of you have any suggestions, please let us know.
Thank you and stay tuned…
-Bryan
Contact your Senator to Vote “NO” on Dangerous “Hate Crimes” Bill
Below is an excerpt from a Coral Ridge Alert (coralridge.org) that we thought you would want to be aware of. As the Alert indicates, it is critical that you call you Senators this week and ask him to vote NO on this bill. The House has already passed a similar bill.
“The U.S. Senate is scheduled to vote any day on a federal “hate crimes” bill that will pave the way for persecuting Christians and threatening our freedoms of religion, speech, and association.
The Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act (S. 909) is the Senate version of a bill that passed the House in April. A cornerstone of the “gay” political agenda, it would raise “sexual orientation” to a legal status equivalent to that of real civil rights categories such as race or ethnicity, and it would introduce for the first time into federal law the radical concept of “gender identity.” Since “sexual orientation” is not clearly defined, it would afford special legal protections to pedophiles and other sexual deviants that ordinary Americans won’t get.
In addition, S. 909 would:
Put pressure on police and prosecutors to devote more time and money to some victims’ cases and not others.
Vastly expand the federal government’s power to intervene in criminal cases, whether local authorities want this or not.
Create a taxpayer-funded slush fund for “education” programs that lump conservative Christians among “hate groups.”
Have a chilling effect on free speech by making unpopular ideas a basis for harsher treatment in criminal proceedings.
Add a layer of law that is...
Energy Tax
Congress has returned from its Easter Recess and will begin to debate the final version of the Federal budget. Included in that debate is a proposal by President Obama to implement a so-called “cap and trade” plan to impose fees on producing carbon dioxide and raise revenue for the government.
This is simply a tax on everyone who uses energy. Every time you turn on a light switch and every time you buy a product that used energy to produce it, you will be paying this tax. It is estimated it will cost the average family $1960 per year. Do you have an extra $1960 laying around?
Unfortunately, even if Congress doesn’t pass it into law, the EPA may soon begin to do it by regulatory authority.
courtesy of heritage.org
Chattanooga Tax Day Tea Party a Success!
As the organizers of the Chattanooga Tax Day Tea Party, we’d like to express our gratitude to all of you who attended and supported the Chattanooga Tax Day Tea Party. According to our count, over 2,000 folks showed up to protest “Big Spending” of taxpayer money in Washington, D.C.
REMEMBER: This is not the end… this is only the beginning. Many of us, until yesterday, felt like we were alone, or part of a small group, because that is what the “mainstream media” has been telling us. Well, we obviously aren’t alone.
Please use the “Register” link in the left column to register for an account with chattanoogateaparty.com so you can be “in the loop” for further get-togethers.
I cannot overemphasize the importance of staying with this. Because we have remained silent, we have been ignored by those in power. When we are silent, we lose all authority that our Founding Fathers gave us when they wrote the Constitution. Don’t be silent. Join with us and amplify your voice. Register today.
If you’d like to check out a good report on the Tea Party, click here.
If you’d like to see the video of this report, click here.
If you’d like to contact your representatives to encourage them to stop spending so much money needlessly, click here.
Once you register for an account at chattanoogateaparty.com, you can upload any pictures that you have of the event.
We Applaud Those Rejecting “Stimulus” and “Bailout” Money
Hey everyone. In the midst of all this protest, we want to make sure that we acknowledge those who have done the right thing and rejected the “stimulus” or “bailout” money that has been stolen from American taxpayers.
In many cases, these companies and state governments have been rebuked and discredited for not contributing to the debt that our children and grandchildren will be chained to, so we want to let them know that we support their decision to reject “stimulus” and “bailout” money.
Companies
- Ford Motor Company has refused “Bailout” funds… need a new car, how about a Ford?
State Governments
- South Carolina Governor, Mark Sanford has rejected about $700 Million in “Stimulus” money for his state.
- Texas Governor, Rick Perry has rejected about $555 Million in “Stimulus” money designated for expanding “state unemployment benefits.”
Please contact us using the “Contact” link at the top of this page with any information about banks, state governments, auto makers, etc. that have rejected this money and we’ll post them for everyone to see on this website. In turn, WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR ANY ORGANIZATION THAT HAS REJECTED THIS MONEY!
What are We Going To Do at the Tea Party?
Several folks have asked about what we’re going to be doing at the Chattanooga Tax Day Tea Party. During the protest, we’ll be doing a bunch of things while keeping the main theme of bringing awareness about current Big Government ploys to enslave taxpayers for generations to come and letting the Government know that we’re not pleased with out of control spending.
Look for some of the following at the Chattanooga Tax Day Tea Party:
- Pledge of Allegiance
- Music
- Singing
- Interesting Speakers
- Audience Participation (this should be fun)
- Activities
- Petition Signing
- Information About How You Can Get Involved
Here are some things you should remember to bring:
- Signs (Family Friendly)
- Lawn chairs
- Blankets for the ground
- Sunscreen
- Can of non-perishable food to donate
- Cameras
- And all your family, friends and neighbors
If you need more information about the location to plan for parking, click here for a map of downtown Chattanooga.
Please Help Support The Chattanooga Tea Party
Over the past few weeks, in preparation for the Chattanooga Tax Day Tea Party, we have incurred some costs while making arrangements for the event.
If you believe in standing up against unreasonable Big Government spending, please donate a few dollars to help us cover the costs of putting this Tea Party together.
You can go to the “Donate” button at the top of the page to do so. Remember, every dollar helps. If you can only give a little, then give what you can. We appreciate your support.
Wanna See Something Cool?
These are just SOME of the locations having Tea Parties next week. Click on the link below the map to show ALL locations… I think they may have underestimated us a bit when they said they thought there would be 500 locations across the US having tea parties.
Please continue the effort of getting the word out!
View 2009 Tea Parties in a larger map
Rick Santelli's "Rant of the Year"
Ladies and gentlemen,
May I present to you Rick Santelli… the man who unintentionally started all this national tea party activity by sharing his feelings on the outrageous government spending that is going on.
Santelli drew attention for his remarks made on February 19, 2009, about the Homeowners Affordability and Stability Plan. While broadcasting from the floor of the CME Group during pre-market hours, Santelli accused the government of “promoting bad behavior”, and raised the possibility of a “Chicago Tea Party”.
Here’s the clip of those remarks, which proved to be the sparks that ignited the National Tea Party movement.
So You Say You Want A Revolution?
I’ve been getting TONS of email RSVPs for the Chattanooga Tax Day Tea Party over the past few days and many people are including comments that lead me to believe that I’m not alone in my feelings that the Federal Government has gone TOO FAR.
We have ONE WEEK left to spread the word. The only way we’re going to make an impression on our government on April 15th is if we have UNPRECEDENTED support.
Are you ready to be a part of history? Join the Revolution! Fight Big Government.
Continue spreading the word… if there’s one thing I’ve learned over the past few days, it’s that WE’RE NOT ALONE!
Help Support the Chattanooga Tea Party!
So far, there has been amazing positive response to the Chattanooga Tea Party. We have been overwhelmed with comments from those who have RSVP’d asking how they can help.
As we have been putting all of the arrangements in order, many unexpected costs have come up and we are hoping that some of you who believe in the work that is going on will consider supporting the Tax Day Tea Party with your contributions.
If you are interested in donating money to help cover the costs of this event, however much or little you are able, click on the “Donate” link at the top of the page or click here.
Thank you,
Chattanooga Tax Day Tea Party Organizers
Print Flyers, Pass Them Out!
Hey everyone… we have started posting flyers that you can print up and pass out to help spread the word about the Chattanooga Tax Day Tea Party!
Click on the “Downloads” page link on this website to get the most recent downloads that we’ve posted.
or, go there right now by clicking here.
Print flyers and pass them out!
A Note From Our Organizer, Mark West
We are glad you are visiting our website to find out more about our April 15th Tax Day Tea Party Protest. The Silent Majority in Chattanooga is joining more than 400 other cities nationwide to protest our Federal Government’s willful, deliberate, and recklessly irresponsible fiscal behavior.
While we have endured completely unacceptable deficit spending for years, the dramatic increase of TRILLIONS of dollars in our national debt in just the last few months by our national leaders is driving our country towards the precipice of financial collapse. And barring a dramatic and immediate reversal of the current policies in Washington DC we will certainly see such a collapse.
So, if you agree that “Enough is Enough” and you are tired of sitting on the sidelines, then bring your family and friends to Ross’s Landing in Chattanooga and join tens of thousands of like-minded Americans across this country on April 15th — when the SILENT MAJORITY becomes the VOCAL MAJORITY!
(Visit http://www.taxdayteaparty.com to find out more about this family-friendly national movement.)
Tax Day Tea Party Set for Ross’s Landing Wednesday, April 15
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(CHATTANOOGA, Tenn.) – A grassroots group of citizens in the Chattanooga area has scheduled a Tea Party rally at Ross’s Landing for Wednesday, April 15, from 4-7 p.m.
April 15 is the deadline for 2008 federal tax returns to be mailed.
The local tea party event is part of a growing, non-partisan national movement to protest the federal government’s recent and projected spending of trillions of dollars to bail out financially troubled companies and stimulate a lagging economy. Chattanooga is currently one of more than 400 cities nationwide for which April 15 tea party protests are being planned, 15 in Tennessee alone.
According to Mark West, the Chattanooga event coordinator, the unprecedented rate of spending with little prior thought is what most angers taxpayers.
“There is little apparent deliberation or accountability for some of these massive spending bills in Congress,” he said. “It’s bad enough that we are going to saddle generations of Americans with debt through this unprecedented, excessive spending. But to do so without Congress exercising the proper due diligence and consideration of its Constitutional limits before engaging in this spending spree is downright criminal.”
“This event on April 15th is one of the opportunities citizens have to let their voices be heard in Washington,” West said.
It will be a family-friendly event, and attendees are urged to bring lawn chairs and a can of food for the Chattanooga Area Food Bank. You won’t want to miss this opportunity.
# # #
Welcome to The Chattanooga Tea Party
The Chattanooga Tea Party is a group of people from different walks of life who are united in the belief that the Federal Government has overstepped its bounds in spending America’s money.
In the spirit of patriotism, we all stand together to protest big government, high taxes, porkbarrel spending. We believe that our founders intended that the government would be created to serve the people, and noth the other way around.
Join with us as we stand united against big government at Ross’s Landing in Downtown Chattanooga from 4-7PM on Tax Day, April 15, 2009.
Since you’re here, register for an account and share your thoughts, comments, and ideas. Thanks for visiting!
JOIN TODAY
U.S. National Debt:
UPCOMING EVENTS
- Chattanooga Tea Party September Meeting
September 16, 2010, 7:30PM
Creekside Retirement
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If you would like to help the Chattanooga Tea Party by making a donation, we very much appreciate any contributions.