Ellis County GOP Blog

Moving Primary Dates Creates unexpected Reults

2007-05-08T10:16:00.000-05:00

Urge to be gripping puts Texas in wrong hands
EDITORIAL BOARD -
Austin American-Statesman, 05/08/07

While a bill to move up Texas primaries to Feb. 5 reposes in a Senate committee, the Florida Legislature has approved moving its party primaries up to Jan. 29, escalating the race of states to move their primary election dates back. There is even talk in New Hampshire of a December primary.
The race to be first has taken on absurd proportions, and the Texas Legislature would be wise not to get caught up in the rush. Senators should recognize that an even earlier primary benefits just about everybody in politics except the voter. In short, the Texas version of the early primary bill serves voters best just where it is — bottled up in committee.
The argument for moving the primary dates back is that states with large populations yearn to be relevant in the presidential nomination derby. There may be something to that, but whatever merit that argument holds is overwhelmed by the reality that early primaries won't work to enhance voter education on the issues. What early primaries enhance are the fortunes of the front-runners whose status is determined by a relatively small stable of donors, pundits, pollsters and party insiders.
Early primaries will magnify the influence of big donors as well because the earlier the primaries, the more expensive the air time. A February primary means a December filing deadline. Candidates not only will have to compete for attention, they will find the competition expensive because of holiday advertising rates.
The real beneficiaries of an early primary are not voters but incumbents — they have established name recognition — other political insiders and the people who give to them.
The March primary date is soon enough — too soon really — but it sure beats moving the date back to strengthen the grip of incumbents and big political donors.

TEXAS GOP BLOG: Texas House Republican Caucus

2007-04-16T23:18:00.000-05:00

The Texas House Republican Caucus has started their own BLOG to keep the grassroots informed. The BLOG is located http://www.txcaucus.blogspot.com/

The Texas House Republican Caucus represents Republican members of the Texas House of Representatives from across the wide expanse of the Lone Star State. Texas Republicans are committed to bringing common-sense conservative leadership and fiscal responsibility to the People of Texas. TEXAS GOP BLOG

Protecting the right to keep and bear arms

The right to keep and bear arms is a sacred right to Texans. Naturally, Texans were shocked when police in a neighboring state, Louisiana, confiscated the firearms of lawful citizens during an emergency, and never returned them.That’s why Representative Frank J. Corte, Jr. (R-San Antonio), filed and the House passed legislation banning local authorities from permanently confiscating citizens’ lawful firearms during an emergency.Natural disasters, such as Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, create unique circumstances, and police in extreme cases may need to resort to otherwise excessive measures, such as martial law. However, Corte argued, such measures should only be temporary and should be ended once the immediate danger has passed. When it has, citizens should be allowed to regain their weapons, provided there is no evidence they intend to use them for criminal purposes.“Constitutional rights should still be protected in times of disaster,” Corte said. “No temporary expediency of law enforcement justifies the permanent removal of a citizen’s constitutional rights to keep and bear arms.”
Posted by Texas House Republican Caucus at 2:21 PM 0 comments
Tuesday, April 10, 2007

Congratulations for a great Choice County Commissioners.

2007-04-14T14:55:00.000-05:00

Greg Wilhelm was appointed unanimously to the vacancy of County Court at Law, #1 position. As a staunch conservative and faithful republican congratulations are in order for Greg Wilhelm.

Good Luck Judge Wilhelm!

WDL Editorial on County Bond Election

2007-04-12T10:56:00.000-05:00

A matter of trust
Posted: Wednesday, April 11, 2007 11:42 AM CDT

Earlier this week the Ellis County Commissioners Court passed a resolution in support of creating a citizens oversight committee that would be in place during the construction of the new county facilities should the May 12 bond referendum be approved by voters.We hail the resolution as a positive step in creating a new level of trust between county government and the people it serves.In discussing the matter with voters during recent forums on the bond election, one concern continues to rise above all others. Overwhelmingly, the majority of citizens who have weighed in on the matter recognize the need for new county facilities that will primarily be used for our justice system. Overwhelming, the majority of citizens recognize the proposal that is being put before the voters is a fiscally sound, cost effective solution that will not only meet our immediate needs, but serve our county for the next 10-15 years. Overwhelming, those citizens agree the current facility crisis will not go away and that inaction will end up costing the taxpayers a lot more than the bond’s $53 million price tag.

The primary concern, however, comes down to a matter of trust. It is not easy to forget, nor forgive the mistakes of the Ellis County Justice Center. For many of the citizens we have talked with, the question comes down to this: “Can we be sure there will never be another ‘Pink Elephant?’”It’s a matter of trust.This is a different court. While a change in leadership doesn’t guarantee different results, this court has taken great strides in rebuilding both trust and confidence with the people they serve. Should the bond pass, many steps are already in place to ensure quality, efficient and cost-effective buildings are constructed to serve county citizens. For starters, the county now has a full-time engineer who will be working hand-in-hand with the contractor on a daily basis and reporting back to the commissioners court. Additionally, the city of Waxahachie will be allowed to conduct regular inspections — as it does for every new building project in the city — throughout the construction process.
The citizens oversight committee will be another step in helping rebuild that trust. Their eyes and ears will serve as another layer of insurance to prevent what happened in the past from occurring again. It’s time for Ellis County to move forward. The next step is for us, as voters, to approve the bond.

Texas GOP prefers Newt for President.

2007-03-20T09:54:00.000-05:00

...... Disappointed in current GOP front runners!

The DMN has a good article discussing how the SREC (State Republican Executive Committee) like many Texas republicans are luke warm on the current presidential GOP Hopefuls. The general consensus is that we'd like to see someone in the mold of Ronald Reagan. Thus, Speaker Newt!

By WAYNE SLATER
AUSTIN – None of the GOP presidential front-runners has generated much support among Republican Party loyalists in Texas, whose early favorite to head the ticket in 2008 hasn't even announced – Newt Gingrich.
Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani and former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney have few enthusiastic backers on the State Republican Executive Committee.
Support for Arizona Sen. John McCain in the party's governing body appears near zero, according to The Dallas Morning News canvass of committee members.
"I can definitely tell you that if John McCain were the candidate, I probably wouldn't vote," said Ellen Guthrie, a committee member from Tyler. REST OF STORY

Newt for President?

2007-03-10T10:24:00.000-06:00

While the Wall Street Journal can hardly be called fair & balanced they have atleast acknowledged the presence of Newt Gingrich in the '08 presidential race.

WASHINGTON -- The queue for Newt Gingrich's autograph started forming at 3 p.m. at the Conservative Political Action Conference here earlier this month. By the time the former Speaker of the House of Representatives took out his pen two-and-a-half hours later, the line snaked across a hallway, around a corner and down two flights of stairs.

Halfway back in the line, Deborah Reppenhagen, a retired Defense Department controller, held four of Mr. Gingrich's books that she was determined to get signed, and explained her enthusiasm. "I want him to be my president," she said.

President Gingrich? READ FULL STORY (membership required)

TPPF: Texas Road Policy - Keeping Up With Demand

2007-03-04T23:22:00.000-06:00

Find the following limk to Byron Schlomach, Ph.D. Chief Economist, Texas Public Policy Foundation Report on Texas Road Policy. It discusses many, if not all, options Texas can utilize in the coming years. TPPN REPORT

"Texas faces a host of transportation challenges, not the least of which is to maintain the
largest road network in the nation. Texas is a major throughway for freight from Mexico
and throughout the world. Consequently, Texas roads are getting more use than ever, and
more roads are needed in Texas than ever before.

Texas has fallen behind on its road infrastructure investment. Other priorities at the state
and federal levels have forced the state’s economy to grow by consuming a road
investment that was made decades ago".

Dick Armey for Prez?

2007-03-04T22:53:00.000-06:00

At this weekend's annual Happy Birthday Texas thrown by US Rep. Joe Barton former House majority Leader Dick Armey spoke briefly to an Arlington, Texas crowd. As always, Armey showed the Wit & Wisdom he is known for along with his ability to read the nations political temperature.

Armey spoke about the pride of being a Texan. More importantly, he touched on the fact that many of the national leadership has left the conservative grassroots behind. The grassroots who identify so greatly with the Regan Revolution feel they have been abandoned by their elected brethren in their pursuit for power in the beltway.

It's time for the conservative grassroots to be heard again or greater looses are almost certain to occur in '08. Unfortunately, the national GOP believes they lost in '06 for being too conservative. It's time they listen to the people and realize that the GOP lost so badly because they have left behind the "one's that brought them to the party".

The grassroots need to re-energize and take their party back before the moderation of our party takes hold forever.

As one of many worth listening to Saturday night stated "If things keep going the GOP will not regain a majority in our lifetime".

We best heed this warning before the conservative movement is lost forever.....

Visit Dick Armey's Freedom Works organization

Non-Binding Resolution Against Iraq War Voted on in House

2007-02-16T17:09:00.000-06:00

QUESTION: On Agreeing to the Resolution

BILL TITLE: Disapproving of the decision of the President announced on January 10, 2007, to deploy more than 20,000 additional United States combat troops to Iraq

YEAS 246

NAYS 246

NV 6

How did your Representative vote? CLICK HERE

President Bush: This one is always worth a good laugh!

2007-02-16T17:02:00.000-06:00

President Bush at this year's White House Correspondence Dinner

http://video.google.com:80/videoplay?docid=-1921276117304287501&q=genre:comedy

Bank of America (BAC) Credit Card Program for Illegal Immigrations

2007-02-12T23:12:00.000-06:00

Well, here's a new one for rewarding law-breakers. Bank of America (BAC) is introducing a new program in the U.S. seeking to provide credit cards to people without a social security card or credit history. The only history one needs is to have a checking account for 3 months....

Now, this can either infuriate you because they are offering credit cards to illegals helping make "their dream in America" come true. Or you can can get upset about the usury interest rates and large upfront fee required with these cards. Either way BAC needs to be forced to withdraw this new policy!

WSJ 02/12/07 -

Lender Risks Controversy Aiming New Credit Card At Illegal Immigrants

By MIRIAM JORDAN and VALERIE BAUERLEINFebruary 13, 2007; Page A1

LOS ANGELES -- In the latest sign of the U.S. banking industry's aggressive pursuit of the Hispanic market, Bank of America Corp. has quietly begun offering credit cards to customers without Social Security numbers -- typically illegal immigrants.

In recent years, banks across the country have begun offering checking accounts and, in some cases, mortgages to the nation's fast-growing ranks of undocumented immigrants, most of whom are Hispanic. But these immigrants generally haven't been able to get major credit cards, making it hard for them to develop a credit history and expand their purchasing power.

The new Bank of America program is open to people who lack both a Social Security number and a credit history, as long as they have held a checking account with the bank for three months without an overdraft. Most adults in the U.S. who don't have a Social Security number are undocumented immigrants.

The Charlotte, N.C., banking giant tested the program last year at five branches in Los Angeles, and last week expanded it to 51 branches in Los Angeles County, home to the largest concentration of illegal immigrants in the U.S. The bank hopes to roll out the program nationally later this year.

"We are willing to grant credit to someone with little or no credit history," says Lance Weaver, Bank of America's head of international card services, whose team designed the program based in part on the bank's experience in markets like Spain, which lack conventional credit bureaus to rate a client's credit-worthiness.

The credit cards involved aren't cheap. They come with a high interest rate and an upfront fee. And the idea of catering to illegal immigrants is controversial.

Bank of America defends the program, saying it complies with U.S. banking and antiterrorism laws. Company executives say that the initiative isn't about politics, but rather about meeting the needs of an untapped group of potential customers.

"These people are coming here for quality of life, and they deserve somebody to give them a chance to achieve that quality of life," says Brian Tuite, the bank's director of Latin America card operations and one of the architects of the program.

Critics say Bank of America is knowingly making a product available to people who are violating U.S. immigration law. "They are clearly crossing the line; they are actually aiding and abetting people who broke the law," says Ira Mehlman, a spokesman for the Federation for American Immigration Reform, a group that advocates a crackdown on illegal immigration.

Typical of the new card's customers is Antonio Sanchez, a Mexican immigrant whose only major asset is a white 1996 Ford Thunderbird, which he drives to the two restaurants where he works each day on opposite sides of Los Angeles. Mr. Sanchez, who says he sneaked across the border a decade ago, has been a customer of Bank of America's East Hollywood branch for nine years. He has no borrowing history and no Social Security number.

Paying Balances
To obtain a Bank of America Visa card with a $500 line of credit, Mr. Sanchez had to put down $99. If he stays within his $500 limit and pays his balances in a timely fashion, he will receive his $99 security payment back in three to six months, and his credit limit might be increased.
"I always wanted to start building credit to buy a home, but I couldn't," says Mr. Sanchez, a father of three, who earns about $25,000 a year from his two jobs. "When a señorita at the bank told me about this card, I couldn't miss the opportunity to get it. You need credit to succeed in this country"

"The variable annual percentage rate charged on Mr. Sanchez's card is 21.24%, higher than the average interest rate of 18.1% card issuers nationwide charge on unpaid balances, according to the Nilson Report, an industry newsletter based in Carpinteria, Calif.
David Robertson, publisher of the report, says a rate of 21.24% is "unquestionably high." "If that's the rate you're offered, it's a pretty safe bet you're in a high-risk group," he said.
To assess an applicant, the bank employs "judgmental lending," a concept pioneered by MBNA Corp., the credit-card company that Bank of America acquired in January 2006. In essence, the bank bases its evaluation of a potential client's credit-worthiness on a subjective review by its employees, rather than on standardized financial data crunched by a computer.

Unorthodox initiatives like the new credit-card program may be crucial to Bank of America's long-term success. In the past the bank, which operates in 31 states and the District of Columbia, grew mostly by buying up other banks. Now, however, it is bumping up against a regulatory cap that bars any U.S. bank from an acquisition that would give it more than 10% of the nation's total bank deposits. That means Bank of America's only way to grow domestically is to sell more products to existing customers and to attract new ones.........."

"..........Department of Homeland Security spokesman Russ Knocke said banking products aimed at illegal immigrants "reinforce the need for a temporary worker program" that the Bush administration has been promoting. That program would screen, tax and otherwise regulate immigrant workers and, the administration contends, would squeeze out illegal workers who now use forged or stolen documents to get jobs, driver's licenses and occasionally credit.

Anti-money-laundering regulations passed in the wake of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks put more pressure on banks to verify customers' identity and watch for suspicious transactions, but they don't require banks to ascertain whether account holders are in the U.S. legally. Most banks require a Social Security number or ITIN to open an account, but regulations also allow them to accept other government-issued forms of identification in some instances, including passport numbers, alien identification numbers or any government-issued document with photo showing nationality or place of residence."

THE REST OF THE STORY

Sen. Barack Hussein Obama

2007-02-11T00:33:00.000-06:00

Here's a nice piece from Ellis County's own David Hunnicutt. As you may recall he is the county party's Sargeant at Arms & and a Precinct Chairman. It goes without saying the party does not neccesarily endorse the Captain's opinions. They are only provided for your interest.

Having just reviewed Sen. Barack Hussein Obama, Jr.’s “I wanna be president” speech, published in the NY Times, I could not help but opine.

Drumming up emotionally based parallelisms between himself and Abraham Lincoln in an attempt to put himself on a pedestal seems to be a repeat of the all too familiar. When politicians compare themselves to previous politicians, I immediately question their sincerity, and instead start to recognize their lack of originality and that they are but another version of the status quo. To espouse that there are problems in Washington, D.C., in our nation, and around the world, is not novel. We are all too aware of the quagmire of politics that our country is slowly but surely sinking into. To fix those problems, Mr. Obama, takes more than a pretty speech obviously designed to stroke the egos of the far left.

The closest thing to an “answer” that I could derive from his announcement for seeking the Presidency, was the statement of his intent to establish universal medical care. There is no doubt that our medical system is indeed a disaster that needs rebuilding; however, the answers (though elusive) by no means lay in socialism.

Mr. Obama may have the answers…I don’t know. But I do know that anyone who professes to have the answers usually does not understand the questions. Far be it from me to attempt to sway the opinion of the leftist in this country as to which candidate they should present to the public in their vie for the office of the Presidency, but it concerns me to see an individual who seemingly is saying “trust me, I have a plan” (but then does not even give a hint of what that plan may be). It rings of politics as usual. Senator Obama declares that he is not “politics as usual”, but infers that he is some version of the personification of a great hope for the oppressed peoples of America, if not the world.

The people of a portion of the state of Illinois elected him to represent them in the House of Senate…he did not come forward to stop the encroachment of the government upon the people through the recent nationwide abuses of eminent domain. He did not join in a crusade to stop the Real ID Act, the Military Commissions Act, nor a plethora of other recent legislative acts aimed at undermining the liberties of the people. He has not swayed the Senate to close our borders to protect our citizens. How now are we to believe that by being President and Commander in Chief of the Armed forces he will magically solve the problems? He has said that the problem in Iraq is a political problem, not a military one. I would expect as much from a lawyer turned politician, who never wore the uniform, but wants the job of quite possibly ordering uniformed Americans to their deaths.

Our current misguided administration, which Mr. Obama berates (and possibly deservedly so), has indeed entangled our nation in a nightmare called the Middle East. Soon, that nightmare may include Iran. Will that too, sir, be political? The entanglement…yes; the answer…no. The answer is to allow our military to complete the mission, and then come home. When towers fall and American civilians die, and each day more American blood is spilled on foreign sand…that is a military issue, sir!

It is little wonder that the Hollywood socialites are so entranced with him…his words are eloquent, his message (though without substance) is moving, his demeanor proud, yet humble…he fits in well within a crowd of actors, who in another time would have been called jesters, chosen to entertain, not elected to make laws or establish policy. I could not help but wonder, is he running for president, or auditioning for the role of Moses in an upcoming remake of “The Ten Commandments”?

I agree that it is indeed time for change, but that change will not come from emotional rhetoric. It will come when the people of the nation at long last see politicians for what they are, and amass together to take back their liberties, stand up for their inherent conservative moral values and their belief in Christ, and place in representative offices, Statesmen, brought forth from the people themselves (not from law schools), who will speak for the interest of the people, not for the interest of the corporate, political or social elite.

David C. Hunnicutt
Ellis County, Texas
214 766 8708

Pelosi’s Partisanship Falls Flat

2007-02-07T15:57:00.000-06:00

Newsmax.com's Washington Insider Discusses how non-partisan the Dems have been since taking over the congress in January.

Coming to power, the Democrats promised they would work with Republicans in a bipartisan manner to achieve results for the country.

“I accept this gavel in the spirit of partnership, not partisanship,” a beaming Nancy Pelosi told her colleagues after her election as speaker. “In this House, we may belong to different parties, but we serve one country.”

In fact, when it comes to cooperation across the aisle, Republicans say the Democrats have been far more intransigent than they were. When Dr. Paul S. Teller, deputy director of the House Republican Study Committee, e-mailed a staffer in the House Republican leadership to ask, “Any word on next week’s schedule?” the staffer e-mailed back, “Hahahahaha.”

While Republicans did not lay out a detailed agenda for Democrats when they were in power, they did give them a heads up on the issues most likely to come up during the week. “They have us on total lock-down mode,” said a senior GOP aide. “No amendments allowed. No advance notice of changes to bill text. Little advance distribution of bill text. We Republicans may not have been angels to the Democrats, but we never did this — and certainly not on legislation as big as the 100-hour agenda.” NEWSMAX.COM

China vs USA: On Satellite-Destroying Weapons Issue

2007-02-05T01:37:00.000-06:00

Everyone is concerned about China's destruction of one of its satellites last week. But what was the message China was conveying to the US? Ultimately, It looks like it could be a "shot across the bow" regarding America's continued position on Taiwan.
To further clarify whether such actions have taken place before it appears they have. During the '80s The United State & the USSR both developed an tested scuh weaponry.

EMABASSY OF THE US, JAPAN: U.S. Seeks More Transparency from China on Defense Issues

And from the Chinese language Liberty Times: (the sister newspaper of the Taipei Times):

"On Jan. 29, the Chinese-language Liberty Times (the sister newspaper of the Taipei Times) ran an editorial discussing the impact of China's recent launch of its new satellite-destroying weapon on the overall US and Japanese regional strategy. Besides those issues, China's decision is going to have major repercussions for the Taiwanese space program.
By successfully reproducing the anti-satellite technology developed by the US and the Soviet Union in the 1980s, the Chinese military has caused Europe, the US and Japan to question the nature of its space development program."
READ TO READ MORE

TX. Senator Kip Averitt Friend of Elderly

2007-02-02T16:46:00.000-06:00

Ellis County's own state senator Kip Averitt has file SJR 13 which would help out senior property tax payers.

The introduction reads as follows: READ FULL TEXT

"Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for a reduction of the limitation on the total amount of ad valorem taxes that may be imposed for public school purposes on the residence homesteads of the elderly or disabled to reflect any reduction in the rate of those taxes and providing that state appropriations made for the purpose of directly reducing local government taxes do not count against the constitutional state spending limit."

Senator, Thank you for keeping in mind the seniors in your district. Many in Texas who live on a fixed income have a hard enough time as it is.

TTC - Editorial requesting "greedy whiners" to see the upside

2007-01-31T23:36:00.000-06:00

An editorial by resident Mr. Waldo DeDuir wrote a letter to the Waxahachie Daily Light editor worth directing your attention to. DeDuir's Letter. Actually I have been good given reason to believe the last name should be "DeCuir". Mr. Waldo DeCuir is a longtime and well-respected resident.

Here's a teaser:

"The farmers and others who own land in the path of the TTC are a bunch of greedy, whiney individuals who are self-centered and they don’t want to give up their land for the Trans-Texas Corridor. Just think of all the great things that can be done if we have the Trans-Texas Corridor. I can’t understand why these land owners can’t look ahead and see all of the great things that can be done if we have the TTC." THE REST

So much for the Democrats looking for fairness in Washington

2007-01-31T22:04:00.000-06:00

Have you ever heard of Elliot Mincberg, legal director of the liberal lobbying group People for the American Way? NO? Well allow me ro pass along a little background.

Mr. Mincberg has been the liberal's political pitbull for year. He has done more damage to traditional American culture and conservative issue than most any other activist.

Now his liberal legal tactics and extremism are being put to better use ( WSJ membership may be needed to view).

"For the past six years, the Justice Department has brushed off the concerns of Elliot Mincberg, legal director of the liberal lobbying group People for the American Way. Now, however, his queries could well come with a subpoena.

On Jan. 17, Mincberg started a new job, heading a brand new unit at the Democratic-run House Judiciary Committee: oversight and investigations. “The time is long past due for much needed oversight of the administration in general and the Department of Justice in particular,” the committee chairman, Rep. John Conyers (D., Mich.), said in a statement. He promised an emphasis on “constitutional and civil rights issues.”

Mincberg’s Oversight and Investigations Unit already has one former federal prosecutor on staff, and expects to hire three or four additional attorneys. Earlier today, he helped put together his first hearing, on President Bush’s practice of appending statements that qualify his view of the scope of bills he signs. Next up: a dispute over committee access to confidential orders issued by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court regarding the administration’s use of wiretaps in counterterrorism operations. So much for the democrats promises to bring back bi-partisan rule. As you may remember, the dem's mantra during the general election is how the republicans have used & abused not only the house mority but the people in general. "

Let's see how far Mr. Mincberg's leadership helps to rectify these perceived wrongs.

ELLIOT MINCBERG: Former Vice President and Legal Director of People For the American Way (PFAW), a national organization with more than 600,000 members and supporters that works to promote and protect civil rights, civil liberties, public education, and a fair and independent judiciary. Mincberg directs much of PFAWs work on judicial nominations, and has frequently spoken and written on the subject, including in the national media. He was formerly a partner at the Washington, DC law firm of Hogan and Hartson, where he specialized in education and other litigation. He received his law degree magna cum laude from Harvard University in 1977.

NEW BILL: Cities should stay out of Day Labor Centers for illegals!

2007-01-29T15:30:00.000-06:00

State Rep. Bill Zedler (R), Arlington - Introduced HB904 which would prohibit local governments from getting into the day labor business. Thank you Rep. Zedler for being a conservative voice in Austin.

Ice Storm messes up lots of plans.....

2007-01-15T14:31:00.000-06:00

Wow, talk about poor timing. The ice storm that hit North Texas last night happened to be on a scduled holiday (MLK Day). So, school aged students already had the day off and so did many adults. Undoubtedly, turnout at local MLK parades will be affected. Well, at least in Waxahcie it appears the roads & bridges have been well maintained. If you need City of Waxahachie info click here ..... County Information click here

Thank you Rep. Pitts for your efforts....

2007-01-09T18:44:00.000-06:00

Once the sting of today's leadership battle fades I believe there will be lessons learned. First, The Texas GOP is an organization of fighters that believe in independent thought. We refuse to sit on the sidelines when we see problems arising. Jim Pitts' challenge to the Speaker is such an example.

It would have been easy to sit on the sidelines to ensure a position of power within the Texas House. Yet, Pitts heard many of the concerns being voiced by his fellow members across the state. Between himself and Rep. McCall a challenge to "business as usual" was mounted.

While Mr. Craddick succeeded in retaining the speakership I believe the Party, and as such, the state of Texas will be better in the long run. True, there may be repercussions for the actions of individuals over the past few weeks. But there should be little doubt the leadership has heard the concerns of its' members.

Moving forward into this years' legislative session hopefully we'll witness a more focused & conservative agenda coming out of Austin. And while compromise is not always acceptable Austin must realize that egos should be set aside and the people's business must come first.

For the resaons above today's excercise was not a waste of time. Let's just hope that the lessons learned will not be soon forgotten.

"Let the Healing Begin....."

2007-01-09T17:38:00.001-06:00

It's Over!

2007-01-09T17:36:00.000-06:00

PITTS IS OUT OF THE RACE........... To encourage support the current word in that Pitts has put his support behind Craddick.

Who said party politics is a democracy?

2007-01-09T17:28:00.000-06:00

Well, at noon today I, like many, logged onto the Texas House website to watch the swearing in and voting of the House Speaker. Like many I am still waiting for a vote for House Speaker.

First, everyone must learn that party politics is not always an excercise in democracy. Power & personal agenda way heavily into most decisions. And the vote for Texas House Speaker is no different. Most of the day's session has been focused on if & when to make each members' votes available to the public. Should the vote be immediately be public or should they wait until after they get their cherished committee assignments?

Blogging from the Texas Capitol

2007-01-09T17:24:00.000-06:00

Here's a link to "In The Pink" a bloggers who's sitting somewhere in Austin following the Speakers vote "blow by blow". Bless their hearts..... IN THE PINK

4:52PM. Members are voting on Motion to Table. Motion to table prevails. Now they’re voting on adoption of Hartnett amendment. 96 ayes, 51 nays. Amendment’s adopted. Can someone please tell me what all this means?
Tommy Merritt’s talking about Genesis and the rainbow flag. Somebody stop him before it gets any worse.
5:07PM. Merritt’s amendment for a confidential vote is tabled. I think I may be the only one still watching. HR 35 is adopted by a landslide.

Texas Speaker of the House Race..... Speaker Pitts?

2007-01-08T16:47:00.000-06:00

While I must admit biase being from Ellis County it appears the Texas Speakers' race is in Pitts' favor. Given the apparent wholesale backlash to Mr. Craddick's leadership style I image that by this time tomorrow Texas will have a new Republican Speaker of the House.

And his name will be Speaker Jim.....

Ode to the SSC... aka "What the hell send it overseas"

2007-01-08T16:40:00.000-06:00

Please see the article below from this weekends Wall Street Journal Online (WSJ Article). The Swiss are celebrating the "Large Hadron Collider" they just finished building. ( See website: LHC - THE LARGE HADRON COLLIDER) The article speaks on about the excitement surrounding the potential new discoveries.

Suddenly, while sitting in in Waxahachie, Texas reading this article I had the feeling of Deja Vu. Wait a minute. Wasn't the United States & the Department of Energy building this same project in Ellis County at one time? As a matter of fact, it occurred to me that because of partisan politics the U.S. cancelled the "Super Conducting Super-Collider" (SSC).

At the time the politicians in Washington said that the U.S. couldn't fund such pork barrel projects and the SSC had to be shut down immediately. And shut down they project they did. Several additional years and a few billion dollars later the United States completed the shut down of the SSC.

At the time the American taxpayers received the shaft and Ellis County residents received a $50 million dollar building in the middle of nowhere. As an side fact the inherited buildings were in such great demand that Ellis County just recently managed to sell the collider facilities for a whopping $7 million dollars.

Yet I digress, the real reason for this walk down memory lane is to celebrate the "Large Hadron Collider" LHC. The same project the Americans abandoned several years back is now been completed by the Swiss. Rather than the U.S. owning the rights to any new technological discoveries the Swiss and other countries will.

And I have no doubt that many mysteries will be revealed and great knowledge and wealth will come to those who build this great scientific achievement.

Additional resources: The U.S. LHC Accelerator Research Program (LARP)

SPEAKER CANDIDATES ANNOUNCE SUPPORTERS

2007-01-08T16:38:00.000-06:00

Both challenger Jim Pitts and incumbent Speaker Tom Craddick announced some new supporters in a flurry of last minute activity prior to the Tuesday vote for Speaker. Democrats Richard Raymond and Chuck Hopson switched their support from Craddick to Pitts, but they weren't counted on as solid votes for Craddick anyway. Democrat Armando Martinez withdrew his support from Craddick while incoming freshman Democrat Eddie Lucio III endorsed Tom Craddick. REST OF STORY

VIDEO: Governor Perry Launches Second TV Ad of the Fall Campaign Season

2006-09-19T17:53:00.000-05:00

http://www.perry06.com/blog/article/412

Axis of Hugo

2006-07-26T15:31:00.000-05:00

WSJ - July 26, 2006; Page A14

Venezuelan strongman Hugo Chávez is on a two-week tour du monde that began with a visit to Che Guevara's boyhood home in Argentina and will, after several stops, reach a climax alongside Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in Tehran. This is more than just an itinerary; it's a kind of AAA guide through the world's rogue regimes and anti-Americans.

So it was no surprise that in London Mr. Chávez skipped Tony Blair. Instead, he paid a visit to London Mayor "Red Ken" Livingstone, an ostensible progressive who finds common ground with firebrand Islamist clerics. Next up was scenic Belarus, the last full-blown dictatorship in Europe, which Mr. Chávez praised as a "model of a social state." Then on to Moscow, where he plans to squander his country's oil wealth on 30 advanced jet fighters and a license to build Kalashnikov assault rifles back home. Mr. Chávez has publicly fantasized about using the fighters to take out a U.S. aircraft carrier in the Caribbean. That's implausible, given how the U.S. would respond if he tried. But Venezuela's neighbors have plenty to fear from his Kalashnikovs.

As for Iran, this will be Mr. Chávez's fifth visit. Maybe he likes the food. Already Caracas and Tehran have cemented an alliance that goes beyond anti-American posturing and oil politics to include military exchanges, according to press reports. Who knows where the madcap Venezuelan will turn up next, but we'll lay odds that Zimbabwe, Burma and North Korea are all high on his "50-dictatorships-to-see-before-I'm-deposed" list.

FEHRENBACH WARNS OF GROWING INEPTITUDE OF OUR GOVERNMENT

2006-07-21T09:47:00.000-05:00

One of Texas’ greatest historians, T.R. Fehrenbach, writes a Sunday column for the San Antonio Express-News. He puts a historian’s perspective on current events. The latest Fehrenbach column has a sense of foreboding about the growing ineptness of our government.

THE REST OF THE STORY....

2006 Republican Party Fundraiser of Ellis County

2006-07-14T13:56:00.000-05:00

“Celebrating Our Past, Anticipating the Future”

You are invited .....

When: August 10, 2006, Thursday

Time: 7:00 – 9:30pm
It's a week night. We promise to get you out early!

Where: Waxahachie Bible Church,
621 North Grande Avenue, Waxahachie, Texas

Costs: $25 per person

Keynote Speaker: Susan Combs,

Texas Agriculture Commissioner
and Republican nominee for Texas State Comptroller.

Dinner presented by Dickey's BBQ of Waxahachie
Silent & Live Auction
Casual Dress
US Army Color Guard, Regular Army
Patriotic Video Presentations
Please RSVP:
For more information: Call Rusty Ballard at 972-938-1415 or 214-394-4961
or Call your local Republican Precinct Chair for tickets.

Graciously Underwritten by: State Rep. Jim Pitts & US Congressman Joe Barton

Political advertisement paid for by the Republican Party of Ellis County. Kevin J. McDonnell, JD, CPA, Treasurer. P.O. Box 751, Waxahachie, Texas 75165

Why "Net Neutrality" is a defining issue of our time ...

2006-07-07T09:34:00.000-05:00

While various permutations of "Network Neutrality legislation" continue to bubble through our largely know-nothing, out-of-touch Congresspeople, consumers should view this entire political pageant remembering one thing:

1) Phone and cable companies are going to screw you.

THE REST OF THE STORY....

Ploy for diplomacy or act of war?

2006-07-05T21:00:00.000-05:00

America woke up ready to celebrate 230 years of freedom. Traditionally Americans spend this day with family and friends; while hopefully remembering those who have fought to secure our long lived freedom. And today started out no different from most other July 4th holidays.

An additional reason for celebration was the possible launch of the space shuttle. After two-failed launch attempts NASA intended to try again today. Not only would a successful launch punctuate our nation’s birthday but it would help vindicate past NASA failures.

Mid-day Tuesday the space shuttle launched successfully; and once again such a success signified another success for that small social experiment started 230 years earlier. Sure, there were a few concerns about loss of foam and what it might mean to our astronauts; but overall we felt good about our nation and ourselves.

Unfortunately, as the day of celebration moved forward news reports began to come out about North Korea’s potential release of at least six ICBM’s. North Korea’s dictator has been threatening for months to launch missiles capable of carrying not only nuclear warheads but also possessing the range to hit American soil.

During this time the U.N., the Bush Administration, and the international community have tried to avert the scenario that took place today. With today’s launching the world must react with some sort of sanctions against North Korea. The question is what type of sanctions? And will they be sufficient to affect North Korea’s rogue attitude?

Past experience has shown us that U.N. sanctions are hardly ever enforced or work in the long run. While economic sanctions will certainly be tightened against North Korea. Will sanctions have an affect against a county whose citizenry and military are already starving from lack of financial resources?

At the writing of this article North Korea’s last missile launched less than an hour ago. Thankfully these missiles, like the others, were a failure. As such, it’s too soon to pretend any of us have the answer on handling this most delicate of situations. However, I wish to remind our President and Congress that our country stands for freedom and liberty around the world.

Whether we like it or not the United States has accepted the obligation to see rogue or unstable nations around the world are kept under control. In the coming days as our Congress and President digest what these actions mean let’s keep our leaders in our minds and in our prayers.

August 7th fundraiser for Chairman Barton in Waxahachie

2006-07-03T10:07:00.000-05:00

Word has it there will be a fundraiser for U.S. Rep. Joe Barton (R-ENNIS) in Waxahachie on August 7th. The event will be hosted by Waxahachie's own State Rep. Jim Pitts. Stay tuned for more information as we get closer to August.

Project America status update

2006-07-03T09:00:00.000-05:00

Would you be so kind and let everyone know the current status of Project America?A special thanks to everyone who helped with this project. WHAT A GREAT JOB YOU DID IN HELPING OUR TROOPS!

We will take with us on Wednesday, July 5, 2006 to Fort Hood 24 "Ditty Bags" with an average of 18 toiletry articles in each one. Four women's bags and Twenty men's bags are ready to be filled by the lovely folks that come over to help decorate the Float for the July 4th parade.

* We could use 13 more pair of men's crew socks. These socks will be used to help the circulation and keep the feet warm of the injured and sick soldiers.* We have enough individual men's razors, but the packages will need to be split and one put in each bag unless someone wants to send several packages of razors for us to use.They following items have been donated for all bags with the ladies" bags have one or 2 more female products in them such as body wash, hair clips, and wash cloths.

kleenex notepadrazor penshave gel deodarantlip balm 1 pr sockssoap

* We also have two hand written note slotion or letters for each bag as well as thefoot powder ,24 blankets, toothbrush, toothpaste, comb gum conditioner, 3 small sampler items of soap or lotion

We have three DVD's that have been donated, a large box of books, decks of cards and several other extra articles that we will take and donate.Anyone who can think of anything else to add to the bag is welcome to bring 24 over to my house before Wednesday.Jean Lane

4th of July Prade in Waxahachie

2006-06-30T09:26:00.000-05:00

Paula Baucum, president of the Ellis Countu Republican Womens Club, is seeking help decorating their float for this years' 4th of July Parade in Waxahachie.

Form more details please contact Paula at arepublicangal@yahoo.com

Architects in New York unveil new Freedom Tower

2006-06-29T00:04:00.000-05:00

By Mark Egan and Joan GrallaWed Jun 28, 5:11 PM ET

The redesigned Freedom Tower at Ground Zero in Lower Manhattan, planned to become America's tallest building, will be a monolithic glass structure reflecting the sky and topped by a sculpted antenna, the architects said on Wednesday.

Symbolic of the Declaration of Independence, the reworked 1,776-foot (541-meter) centerpiece of the World Trade Center site unveiled by architect David Childs will have a 186-foot tall (57 meter) base sheathed with rolled, heat-treated glass over concrete.

The tower is planned as a symbol of New York's revitalization after the September 11 attacks in 2001, which claimed more than 2,700 lives at the World Trade Center.

Rebuilding has been dogged by almost five years of acrimony over designs, security, insurance and control of the 16-acre (6.5-hectare) site at Ground Zero.

Developer Larry Silverstein, who leased the World Trade Center shortly before September 11, told reporters that if everything now goes according to plan, "By 2012 we should have a completely rebuilt World Trade Center more magnificent, more spectacular than it ever was."
The new Freedom Tower design uses a high-tech laminated safety glass, which if attacked by a truck bomb would shatter into falling pebbles, not break into flying shards.

General Black Jack Pershing

2006-06-28T19:24:00.000-05:00

* In today's America we must prove we are above reproach when dealing with our sworn enemies. The above clipping reflects upon days when America knew how to fight a war to win.

GOP Fundraiser in August 10, 2006

2006-06-26T22:14:00.000-05:00

Susan Combs keynote speaker at GOP Fundraiser in August '06

Texas Ag Commissioner Susan Combs and candidate for State Comptroller has agreed to be our keynote speaker at this years GOP fundraiser August 10, 2006. Arrangements are being made and you will be updated as more information is confirmed.

Volunteers needed for the fundraiser. Please call me at 972-938-1415 to become part of this years event.

U of Colorado Boss: Fire Ward Churchill

2006-06-26T22:07:00.000-05:00

Monday, June 26, 2006 8:17 p.m. EDT

The top official at the University of Colorado's flagship campus on Monday recommended that the school fire the firebrand professor who compared some of the World Trade Center victims to a Nazi and later was accused of academic misconduct. Ward Churchill has displayed "a pattern of research misconduct committed over a period of time," Interim Chancellor Philip DiStefano said.

Churchill, who did not return telephone messages, has 10 days to appeal the recommendation to a faculty committee. A tenured professor of ethnic studies, he has denied allegations of plagiarism and other misconduct and has called the school's investigation a joke. NEWSMAX article

2006 Texas Republican Party Platform

2006-06-25T20:45:00.000-05:00

So, what does the RPT platform actually state? What do we (the Texas Republicans) say we stand for? Click on this link and see for yourself. This is the platform that our elected GOP members are supposed to adhere to; this is the base of our philosophical beliefs.... How does your elected official compare?

Cheney Goes on the Offensive

2006-06-25T20:03:00.000-05:00

WSJ - June 22, 2006

CHICAGO -- Across the country, Republicans are on the defensive in this year's battle for control of Congress. Vice President Dick Cheney came here Friday to enjoy a rare chance to play offense.

Mr. Cheney addressed a packed ballroom in an upscale downtown hotel on behalf of David McSweeney, an investment banker working to unseat one of the few Democratic incumbents seen as vulnerable in November: Rep. Melissa Bean, who hails from a traditionally Republican district outside the city.

The vice president used the occasion to ramp up the White House's increasingly aggressive campaign to portray Democrats as weak on national security. He said the call by some Democratic Party leaders to withdraw troops from Iraq would "simply validate the al Qaeda strategy and guarantee more terrorist attacks in the future."

First, the Dems are weak on national Security. They have yet to demostrate the ability to lead on the world stage which is demanded from the U.S. as the world superpower; a position so coveted that only God himself can bestow upon a country.

Secondly, the liberal WSJ continued talking about how Republicans and the conservative message in America are in jeopardy this fall. As in years past conservatives will continue to defy "the mainstream media" and show up to the polls on election day and continuing the persuit of liberty.

Warren Buffett Gives $30 Billion to Gates Foundation

2006-06-25T19:47:00.000-05:00

In a dramatic shift in his philanthropic plans that will create a colossus in the world of giving, Berkshire Hathaway Inc. Chairman Warren Buffett, the world's second richest man, plans to give away the bulk of his fortune to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, run by the world's richest man.
The gift, valued today at more than $30 billion, will create a philanthropic organization with potential to significantly shape social issues ranging from child mortality to disease control to education. The Gates Foundation, headed by Microsoft Corp. Chairman Bill Gates and his wife Melinda, already has assets valued at $30 billion, meaning it is on course to double in size.

When she can't tell you want she needs

2006-06-22T00:01:00.000-05:00

Tonight we shall diverge from our intellectual & carnal pusuits to those whom we depend upon; our canine & feline friends. We must occsionally acknowledge our best friends. Our furry friends that stick with us from time immemorial; our PETS. Let us take a moment to remember those kind souls that stay with us through thick & thin.

THANK YOU, RUBY!

A Million-Dollar Pool?!

2006-06-20T18:20:00.000-05:00

Redstate uncovers a choice cut of pork:

In the 2005 Transportation Appropriations bill, the conference report accompanying the legislation included $250,000.00 for construction and renovation of the city pool in Banning, California.

In 2006, the City of Banning, California received another $250,000.00 for city pool improvements. Again, the conference report connected to the Transportation Appropriations bill contained the language.

Now, with Congress set to consider the 2007 TTHUD Appropriations Bill (Transportation, Treasury, and Housing & Urban Development), the conference report again contains $500,000.00 for renovations to the city-owned pool in Banning, California.
Banning, California, is represented by Rep. Jerry Lewis, chairman of the Appropriations Committee.

A North Korean Missile Test: Implications for the U.S. and the Regionby

2006-06-20T18:13:00.000-05:00

Balbina Y. Hwang, Ph.D.
Senior Policy Analyst for Northeast Asia in the Asian Studies Center at The Heritage Foundation.

June 20, 2006

According to international intelligence reports, for the last five weeks, North Korea has been steadily moving towards a test launch of the Taepodong 2, an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) with a range up to 6,000 kilometers – enough to reach Alaska. Satellite intelligence reveals that Pyongyang has loaded booster rockets onto a launch pad in Musuduan-ri, in the North Hamkyong Province of northeastern North Korea, and moved fuel tanks in preparation for fueling. This action is in violation of North Korea’s international agreements and appears designed to goad the United States into direct bilateral talks. The U.S. must not take the bait. No good will come from rewarding North Korea for its belligerent behavior.

Click for Complete article

U.N. Once Again Trying To Usurp Our Second Amendment Rights

2006-06-20T14:40:00.000-05:00

With an absurdly lengthy title that tells you all you need to know, the “U.N. Conference to Review Progress Made in the Implementation of the Programme of Action to Prevent and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects,” will begin Monday, June 26. This meeting is a follow up to the “U.N. Conference on the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons” meeting that we reported on in the summer of 2001. At that time, we told you that the Bush Administration made it perfectly clear that the United States would not support any proposal that threatened our Right to Keep and Bear Arms. NRA article

Schwarzenegger Fund-Raises for Gay GOP Group

2006-06-19T23:13:00.000-05:00

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger plans to headline a fundraiser for gay Republicans in Hollywood next week in what would be his first appearance in front of a gay audience since he took office, according to the event's organizers. Click for rest of the article

The Real Culprit in the CIA Leak Case

2006-06-19T23:09:00.000-05:00

Ronald Kessler-Tuesday, June 20, 2006

WASHINGTON -- Now that Karl Rove has been told he won't be indicted in the CIA leak case, it's useful to recall who the real culprit was.

On July 14, 2003, columnist Robert Novak named Valerie Plame, the wife of former Ambassador Joseph C. Wilson IV, as an "agency operative" as a way of explaining why the CIA chose to send Wilson to Niger to look into claims that Saddam Hussein was seeking to buy uranium from that country. Click for article.....

Attorney General Abbott Obtains Felony Indictment Against Corpus Christi Woman For Voter Fraud

2006-06-16T13:43:00.000-05:00

BLOG NOTE: It's nice to see the Texas Attorney General getting serious about prosecuting those who commit voter fraud. For years violations have occurred but never followed up. See the below story about General Abbott getting tough on voter fraud.

Thursday, June 15, 2006

Maria Dora Flores indicted for marking other persons’ ballots

CORPUS CHRISTI - Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott today announced his administration’s first felony indictment for voter fraud. MORE

GIULIANI'S TEXAS CONNECTIONS

2006-06-16T11:01:00.000-05:00

Blog Note: While an honorable man, if Giuliani and McCain are the best (and most conservative) the GOP has to offer then 2008 is going to be a very rough year for conservatives.

DallasBlog- If (as expected) Rudy Giuliani decides to run for the Republican nomination for President in 2008, he won't be starting from zero here in Texas. The former Mayor of New York has some prominent Texas Republicans already on his team. His chief of staff is former Dallas insurance executive Rudi GiulianiRoy Bailey who also served as Finance Chairman for the Texas Republican Party in the mid-90s. Bailey knows who the "heavy hitters" are in terms of big Texas givers to Republicans. The rest of the story......

Immigration Influences Apportionment

2006-06-15T16:34:00.000-05:00

BLOG: Here are stats from 1998 on how illegal immigration effects redistricting. Unfortunately, we had to wait another 8 years for the topic to become an issue.

A new report from the Center for Immigration Studies points out a peculiar effect illegal immigration is having on congressional apportionment. Although illegals can't vote, their tendency to settle in cluster areas raises population counts in certain congressional districts. When those districts are reapportioned every 10 years, they gain in political power -- even though they contain fewer bona fide voters or legal residents. READ ARTICLE FROM NCPA

Parents Owe it to Kids to be Tech Savvy

2006-06-14T16:47:00.000-05:00

Posted by Bobby Eberle June 14, 2006 at 7:06 am

Technologies such as the Internet and the World Wide Web are no longer novelties, but mainstream means of communication, advertising, commerce, and social interaction. Children are growing up around this technology, and parents need to make sure they know what their children are doing and what sites they are visiting on the Internet. If parents are not watching their children, they should know that others out there on the Internet are… and that’s the danger. Click for the complete article

To All Interested Republicans:

2006-06-14T16:42:00.000-05:00

You are invited to an informal breakfast at Carolines in Midlothian at 8:30am on Saturday the 17th. We have these breakfasts the third Saturday of each month. This provides an opportunity to get to know each other better and discuss important issues.

If you have any questions just let us know.

Come join us!

Republican Party Breakfast Committee

Paula Baucum, Ron Clark, Charlie Morton, Anne Grant, Jay Benton, JoAnn & Al Thompson & Rusty Ballard, Chairman Ellis Co. Republican Party

H.R. 5252, the Communications Opportunity, Promotion and Enhancement (COPE) Act

2006-06-14T16:40:00.000-05:00

Net neutrality is generally defined as providing for an Internet that allows innovation in technology and free speech in content. I support this goal, as long as it is done through limited regulation, allowing market forces to provide services and technologies that consumers demand.

I introduced H.R. 5252, the Communications Opportunity, Promotion and Enhancement (COPE) Act, which passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 321-101. One of the provisions in this bill addresses net neutrality, authorizing the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to review complaints of content discrimination on a case-by-case basis and enabling them to penalize a company up to $500,000 per violation. These reviews, based around the FCC principles to protect access to broadband services, will support the protection of free speech on the Internet as well as encourage business innovation in an important industry.

The primary purpose of the COPE Act is to streamline cable franchising, the process available for a video provider to enter a new market. Today there are thousands of local franchising authorities, and each may impose different restrictions on the provision of cable services in a locality. This current procedure is hindering the deployment of advanced broadband networks. Streamlining franchising will increase competition, giving consumers more options in video, voice, and data services.

H.R. 5252 strikes a balance between national standards and local oversight. It continues to allow negotiation of local franchises but also makes available an alternative national franchise process. The national franchise preserves local franchise fees, municipal control over local infrastructure, and support for public, educational and governmental channels. Most importantly, it allows for greater competition and better prices for consumers.

Again, thank you for contacting me. Please continue to keep me informed of the issues that are of importance to you.

Sincerely,

Joe Barton
Member of Congress

The Texas Young Republican State Convention

2006-06-13T16:52:00.000-05:00

The Texas Young Republican State Convention is going to be in Dallas this August, and it's not too late to register for the early-bird special...

Please visit http://www.tyrf.org/2006tyrfconv.htm today, and register for this outstanding event!

The Heart of Texas Young Republicans is a group of young professionals between the ages of 18 and 40 interested in the working of politics. We are brought together by a common belief in Republican philosophy and a desire to take part in the political process. Our club also provides the opportunity for young men and women who are interested in conservative and efficient government and who want to become better informed and involved citizens to get more involved. Anyone between the ages of 18 and 40 is eligible and encouraged to be a Young Republican. The best way to organize is on the local level because the foundation of the Young Republicans is built from the grassroots level on up.

Mr. Bush goes to Iraq: Spreading support & Democracy

2006-06-13T09:54:00.000-05:00

Iraq- Prez Bush showed up in Iraq this morning in a suprise move. I see this as an excellent move on Bush's part. He must demonstrate continued US support in the fight for Iraq's freedom. Additionally, the president's move will hopefully rally his base and improve his supporters morale for the war on terror.

For more of the story:
President Bush is greeted by Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki during his surprise visit to the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad.
President Bush made a surprise visit to Iraq on Tuesday to meet newly named Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and discuss the next steps in the troubled three-year-old war.

Words from other blogs: Thoughts On the Texas GOP Convention

2006-06-06T20:50:00.000-05:00

The Convention delegates selected their first black Vice Chairman of the Republican Party of Texas in Dr. Robin Armstrong. The new leader is the first African-American to serve in his position since Reconstruction. I believe Armstrong will be an effective leader having been involved in grass-roots Conservative movement for the past eight years in Galveston. This flies in the fact face of the words of DNC leader Howard Dean when he said the only blacks at a GOP Convention were the cleaning crews. Shows what he knows. MORE: The Right State

Ellis County Delegates & Alternates at State

2006-06-06T20:34:00.000-05:00

I want to thank everyone who took the time to come to the State Convention this past weekend. For those whose that did not show I wish you'd made more of an effort (Of course, a number of your had good reasons to miss. And for that reason we have alternates). For too long delegates & alternates in Ells County have failed to attend such a vital part of our party's tradition.

I wish to thank County Judge Chad Adams for making Saturday's events. While he missed Friday he was the only elected official to show up. Thanks Judge Adams!

Editors' Notes on The Texas Republican State Convention

2006-06-06T20:19:00.000-05:00

This past weekend the Republicans held their state convention in San Antonio. By now everyone has heard about what little internal fighting there may have been. Honestly, this is no different from any other convention the GOP has held. If you have more than two people in a room there will be disagreements.

The interesting thing I noticed was the lack of energy at this convention. I've been to more than state conventions than I can remember in Texas and this was by far the most boring. While I agree that democracy (and politics) can't always be exciting; I was alarmed by the lack of enthusiasm in and around the convention.

I attribute this mostly to the fact that illegal immigration was the conventions primary focus. Unfortunately, President Bush's primary focus has been amnesty for illegal aliens. The delegation was at odds with itself.

On a positive note, delegates had a choice of two great candidates for State Vice Chair; Bobby Eberle & Robin Armstrong. The RPT and our grassroots were certain to win either way. The delegates elected Dr. Robin Armstrong whom definitely holds the conservative credentials to be the number two person at State HQ. Good Luck Dr. Armstrong!

On a personal note, while I did not win SREC man for SD22 our district definitely won. All 3 candidates would have made an excellent SREC man. Chris DeCluitt will not only make us proud but will also carry forth our conservative beliefs.

Top Party Power Players Wield Clout as State Convention Gets Under Way

2006-06-06T14:58:00.000-05:00

June 2, 2006
Top Party Power Players Wield Clout as State Convention Gets Under Way
By Mike Hailey Capitol Inside Editor
SAN ANTONIO, Texas - As the GOP's biennial State Convention gets under way, the major players in today's Texas Republican Party are a mix of veteran party stalwarts and leaders who are relatively new to the big leagues of political activism.
The Republicans with the most sway in state party politics are not necessarily the top elected officials in Texas. Republicans such as Governor Rick Perry, Lieutenant Governor David Dewhurst and House Speaker Tom Craddick might wield as much or more overall power individually as the top 13 state party players do as a group. But the Republicans who hold statewide offices or legislative leadership posts have been keeping a measure of distance between themselves and a state party organization that's veered sharply to the right in a state where bipartisan cooperation is still required to make the machinery of government run.
While the state's top elected officials benefit substantially from the vast infrastructure and ever-growing grassroots base that the Republican Party of Texas has developed and nurtured over the past 20 years, the RPT's most prominent movers and shakers in Capitol Inside's view are people who run the state and local party organizations, who have the biggest grassroots followings and who put up the money that fuels the machine. The top 13 GOP players in Texas include the state party chairwoman and her executive director. Three conservative activists from the Houston area and one longtime grassroots leader from Dallas are on the list. Three Republican county chairs have made the list as well.
The most prominent players in Texas Republican politics in 2006 include a member of the Republican National Committee and a Central Texas activist who came close in two state chair's races and is now being mentioned as having national leadership potential. Five of the activists on our list have been elected to the party positions they hold by other activists while one is an elected county official. Last but certainly not least, the final two members of the 13 most influential and high-profile Republican Party players list in Texas are the two biggest contributors to GOP politics in the state over the past decade. Here's who they are:
TOP 10 TEXAS REPUBLICAN PARTY PLAYERS IN 2006
State Party Brass
Tina Benkiser - Barring a surprise challenge at the state convention this weekend, the Houston attorney and former State Republican Executive Committee member will win her third straight state chair's race and be more firmly in control of the state party organization than ever.
Jeff Fisher - Former Van Zandt County judge who's been viewed as an unofficial Jim Leininger disciple has given the state party organization a measure of stability as its executive director for more than a year after bringing a revolving door to a halt despite initial skepticism within the state GOP ranks.
Local Party Officials
Hollis Rutledge - The president of the Texas Republican County Chairmen's Association is leaving no stones unturned in an uphill battle in the trenches as the Hidalgo County Republican chairman. He's stood up to local Democratic officials in a vigorous push for election reform and raised a significant amount of money for GOP candidates at the state and local levels.
Kenn George - A former GOP state finance chairman who served as an assistant secretary of commerce in the Reagan administration, the ex-Texas House member who made a competitive bid for land commissioner is now the Dallas County Republican chairman and tailor made for the job.
Jared Woodfill - The Harris County Republican chairman brought stability to a local party organization that had been in turmoil and quickly transformed it into a voter registration and turnout machine. He's done so well at the wheel of the local organization in the state's largest county that most Houston Republicans have found it easy to forgive him for being a trial lawyer.
National Liaison
Denise McNamara - Dallas court reporter worked her way up from the ground floor of activism with stints on the SREC and Texas Federation of Republican Women board before winning one of the state's two RNC posts in 2000 and defending it successfully in the face of stiff opposition two years ago. She's still more of a grassroots activist than an establishment insider despite the high station.
Grassroots Activists
Cathie Adams - Longtime leader of the Texas Eagle Forum has provided an army of troops who are passionate, vocal and second to none in rapid response. After losing a bid for the RNC as a member of the Benkiser slate two years ago, she bounced back with a key role on the national platform committee and may run again for the national governing board.
Gina Parker - Waco attorney and entrepreneur had strong grassroots support in two fairly close races against the current state chair and has continued to shore up her base of support despite the setbacks in bids to be the state party leader. She decided against another rematch this year and now could be in line for a leadership position in one of the nation's most prominent grassroots groups.
Steve Hotze - Physician who founded the Conservative Republicans of Harris County is the most established member of a regional power triad that is revered in local GOP quarters and scorned by some party regulars in other parts of the state. He did more than anyone to give the GOP a lock on the local judiciary, helped elect a statehouse majority and put up a spirited fight against this year's special session tax plan when the odds of winning were slim at best.
Dan Patrick - Texas Senate nominee who crushed a highly competitive field of primary rivals with more than two out of every three votes has the world's biggest megaphone as a popular Houston talk show to lead cheers for conservative causes even though his magic didn't work for others in runoffs. Some Senate members expect him to have make a splash like a Malatoff cocktail when he shows up for work next year.
Paul Bettencourt - As the tax assessor-collector in the state's largest county, the third member of Houston's grassroots GOP triad has an armory of facts and figures to support the claims that rise from the conservative causes he champions such as property appraisal caps. He's a pretty good speaker when making the case.
Contributors
James Leininger - San Antonio doctor and hospital bed magnate put money behind conservative principles while helping mold the state's highest court into an all-Republican bench, paving the path to success for Governor Rick Perry and others and pouring millions of dollars into a campaign this year to oust moderate legislators who strayed from the party line on school vouchers and other hot topics. Democrats have portrayed him as a right-wing fanatic with a controlling interest in the state GOP, but he's seemed more interested lately in internal party purity than partisan warfare.
Bob Perry - Contributions in recent years to moderately conservative Democrats who've backed tort reform are proof that the Houston homebuilder is not a Republican Party purist. But when you're the number one contributor to GOP politics in the state and nation as well, who cares?
SPECIAL MENTION
Texas Republican Who Could Be on Next Power Player List
Pete Sessions - Dallas congressman has a chance to be the chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee - a post that could give him clout on par with that former U.S. Rep. Martin Frost enjoyed as the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee boss and House Democratic Caucus chair before Sessions beat him in 2004.
Bill Crocker - Newest RNC member from Texas is still relatively unknown but has prized connection as the official treasurer of Jim Leininger's incumbent elimination PAC in this year's primary competition.
Blast from the Past Who Could be Part of State GOP Future
Tom Pauken - Former state GOP chairman who wasn't afraid to criticize George W. Bush when he was still popular has been back in the spotlight as a vigorous defender of the special session tax plan approved by the Republican majority at the Texas Capitol this spring. Rumors about a last-minute state chair bid aren't expected to come true but conventioneers have had fun with them nonetheless.
Texas Republicans Who Could Have Been on Recent Power Player Lists
Mike Toomey - Former Texas House member and chief of staff to Governors Bill Clements and Rick Perry had pivotal role as designer of GOP takeover strategy at Capitol before resuming career as a lobbyist.
David Barton - Key figure in religious right as Wallbuilders founder is being forced out of job as state GOP vice-chair by term limits after wielding significant clout in party operations for the past eight years.
Bill Hammond - Texas Association of Business leader who was instrumental in strategy that put Republicans in control of the state House four years ago took a beating in 2002 elections investigation but keeps on ticking while delivering coveted endorsements on campaign and policy issues.
Tim Lambert - Lubbock activist and leading home school advocate had big grassroots base of support before being knocked out of job as RNC member by term limits two years ago.

TFRW "Tribute to Women" to honor Ellis County Ladies

2006-05-25T14:35:00.000-05:00

Special congratulations go out to Sue Turner, Judge Linda Sibley and Marjorie MIller, our special honoree's at the Texas Federation of Republican Women "Tribute to Women" Luncheon. We are honored to have each of you represent us!

Warm Regards,

Paula Baucum, President
Ellis County Republican Women

Party Leader Royal Masset Offers First-Ever Endorsement to Eberle

2006-05-25T14:27:00.000-05:00

Editor: Endorsements in politics can come a dime-a-dozen. However, when a political legend like Royal Masset endorses a candidate it's worth noting.

Royal Masset, long-time consultant and former Political Director for the Republican Party of Texas, has endorsed Dr. Bobby Eberle to be the State Party's next Vice Chairman.
"I have never endorsed a candidate at a State Convention because I believed as a long time party staffer and consultant that I served the party best by remaining neutral," Royal Masset said. "Until now." MORE.......

Meeting called for TONIGHT, May 25, 2006, Thursday, at 7:00pm.

2006-05-25T08:56:00.000-05:00

NOTICE OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING & DELEGATES AND ALTERNATES SPECIAL MEETING

* If you are a delegate or alternate to this Years State Republican Convention you need to attend this meeting.The Executive Committee for the Republican Party of Ellis County an executive meeting this week to discuss the upcoming Republican Party of Texas State Convention. All Delegates & Alternates are requested to attend.This meeting of the Ellis County Republican Executive Committee has been called for May 25, 2006, Thursday, at 7:00pm. The location is the Party HQ at 204 S. Elm Street, Waxahachie, Texas. More information call 972-938-1415Items to be discussed:- Details & concerns regarding the Republican State Convention in San Antonio.- Vote to appoint acting-precinct chairs to fill vacancies.This will be an extremely important meeting. Please be sure to mark this event on your calendar.Rusty BallardRusty Ballard, ChairmanEllis County Republican Party 972-938-1415

"This will be a test for voters: Are Republicans capable of governing?"

2006-05-25T08:54:00.000-05:00

An Immigration Vote Today,
Then the Real Fight Begins
By JOSEPH SCHUMAN
THE WALL STREET JOURNAL ONLINE

The Senate today is finally set to vote on an overhaul of U.S. immigration law that combines tighter border security with a new guest-worker program and a route to citizenship for millions of immigrants who have lived in the country illegally. But the bipartisan support it enjoyed so far belies a rocky legislative road ahead.

The Senate voted 73-25 yesterday to head off what the Washington Post describes as "endless debate" on the bill, though today's margin may not be as wide since some of its Republican opponents also backed the cloture, saying they'd had a fair amount of time to air their concerns. Yesterday's backers nonetheless included 31 Republicans, 41 Democrats and one independent. Since the bill was revived a few weeks ago, conservatives managed to add fencing along the U.S.-Mexican border and a reduction in the number of annual guest-worker permits, among other measures aimed at appeasing some Republican opponents, The Wall Street Journal notes. But the underlying plan remains intact. And hostility to this multifront approach to immigration has only increased in the House, where the immigration bill in play is one passed last fall that makes it a felony to be in the U.S. illegally and holds no prospect for changing the status of the estimated 12 million such immigrants in the country now.

President Bush continues to back the Senate bill, but House Republicans made clear in a meeting yesterday with White House political czar Karl Rove that they will fight it. The experience of Republican Rep. Mark Souder helps illustrate where that antagonism comes from. Mr. Souder, hammered by constituents for taking a moderate stand on immigration, recently got 7,100 fewer votes in the GOP primary than in 2004, when he had the same challenger, the Los Angeles Times reports. And he represents the far-from-the-border state of Indiana. "The mood is so angry, we can't hold the House with any bill" like the one in the Senate, Mr. Souder said. "The Senate bill would be worse than nothing." Other Republicans worry the larger national risk to the party would come from producing nothing after such a long, emotional debate on the subject. "At the end of the day, 'no deal' doesn't work," Rep. Thomas M. Davis III tells the Times. "This will be a test for voters: Are Republicans capable of governing?"
The larger turmoil among Republicans in Washington isn't helping the immigration issue. One lawmaker the White House must court is Rep. James Sensenbrenner, a fierce opponent of the Senate's compromise but whose influence on the matter -- as chairman of the House Judiciary Committee -- is key for any deal. Yet he is also among the lawmakers who have shown the most pique over the FBI's weekend raid at the Capitol Hill offices of Democrat William Jefferson. Yesterday, Speaker J. Dennis Hastert and Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi issued a joint demand that the Justice Department return the papers of Mr. Jefferson, who is accused of accepting bribes. And Mr. Sensenbrenner, the New York Times reports, scheduled a hearing on the subject for next week that he has titled "Reckless Justice: Did the Saturday Night Raid of Congress Trample the Constitution?"

Cornyn, Kyl Comprehensive Border Security, Immigration Reform Bill

2006-05-23T09:07:00.000-05:00

Strengthens border, interior enforcement and comprehensively reforms immigration system
Short Summary [PDF]
Section-by-section [PDF]
Bill Text [PDF]

WASHINGTON—U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), Chairman of the Immigration, Border Security and Citizenship subcommittee, and U.S. Sen. Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.), Chairman of the Terrorism, Technology and Homeland Security subcommittee, have introduced comprehensive border security and immigration reform legislation. MORE

Meeting called for May 25, 2006, Thursday, at 7:00pm.

2006-05-18T15:22:00.000-05:00

NOTICE OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING & DELEGATES AND ALTERNATES SPECIAL MEETING

* If you are a delegate or alternate to this Years State Republican Convention you need to attend this meeting.

The Executive Committee for the Republican Party of Ellis County an executive meeting this week to discuss the upcoming Republican Party of Texas State Convention. All Delegates & Alternates are requested to attend.

This meeting of the Ellis County Republican Executive Committee has been called for May 25, 2006, Thursday, at 7:00pm. The location is the Party HQ at 204 S. Elm Street, Waxahachie, Texas. More information call 972-938-1415

Items to be discussed:

- Details & concerns regarding the Republican State Convention in San Antonio.
- Vote to appoint acting-precinct chairs to fill vacancies.

This will be an extremely important meeting. Please be sure to mark this event on your calendar.

Rusty Ballard

Rusty Ballard, Chairman
Ellis County Republican Party

Informal Midlothian Republican Breakfast this Saturday

2006-05-18T15:04:00.000-05:00

Subject: Informal Midlothian Republican Breakfast this Saturday
To: Interested Midlothian Republicans

From: Republican Party Breakfast Committee

What: Midlothian Area Republican Breakfast

Where: Carolines Cafe

When: Saturday, May 20th, 8:30am

The Ellis County Republican Party in an effort to encourage additional participation has established an informal breakfast on the third Saturday of each month in Midlothian. The plans are to establish similar locations in Waxahachie, Ennis, Red Oak/Ovilla and Italy in the near future. A quarterly County-wide Breakfast with formal speakers is TBA for July. Please join us for breakfast (cost on your own) and great conversation.

Committee Members: Paula Baucum, Ron Clark, Charlie Morton, Anne Grant, Jay Benton, JoAnn & Al Thompson

National Petition and Billboard CampaignCitizens say, "Stop The Invasion!"

2006-05-18T15:01:00.000-05:00

About the Petition:
SPECIAL AUDIO REPORTClick here.
The Senate will vote on its Amnesty bill before Memorial Day -- a bill that will grant amnesty to 10-20 million illegal aliens. Grassroots citizens across the nation are responding by signing Grassfire’s “Stop The Invasion” petition and sponsoring billboards across the country. Your help is needed.Step #1 -- Sign the Petition: First and foremost, please sign Grassfire’s “Stop The Invasion” petition and then rally your friends. Grassfire wants to present 500,000 petitions to the Senate before the Amnesty vote!

U.S. Normalizes Ties With Libya

2006-05-16T08:57:00.000-05:00

WSJ: 05/16/06

The U.S. announced the full re-establishment of diplomatic ties with Libya and plans to re-open a U.S. Embassy in Tripoli, capping a two-and-a-half year process in which Moammar Gadhafi's government has demonstrated in the Bush administration's view that it has abandoned efforts to build unconventional weapons and signed on to American counterterrorism efforts. The decision ends more than 25 years of hostility, and was promoted by Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice as a strong signal to Iran and North Korea that they should follow suit, as the New York Times notes. The move, though, was seen as more cynical to Arab and exiled Libyan observers, the Washington Post reports. They saw it as "a natural marriage of an American administration desperate for friends and oil in the Middle East and a government that needs to open its economy to the outside world," the Post says. "The announcement was called proof that promotion of democracy is no longer a top priority of the Bush administration, which is grappling to hold Iraq together and has turned attention toward building alliances against a hostile Iran over its nuclear program."

BLOG NOTE: Whether the liberal media "spins" this development or not. This is proof that the war on terror, when fought correctly, will work.

"A Free-Trade Counterattack"

2006-05-12T18:23:00.000-05:00

Just when a citizen despairs of Congress ever doing anything sane again, it surprises. A few weeks ago, America’s representatives and senators frightened all with the protectionist Schumer-Graham bill [Charles Schumer (D-NY) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC)]. Now Congress has turned away from such dangerous legislation to a more welcome, bipartisan, pro-trade reform bill. Titled the United States Trade Enhancement Act of 2006 and co-sponsored by the Republican chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, Chuck Grassley of Iowa, and the committee’s ranking Democrat, Senator Max Baucus of Montana, this bill would work with the World Trade Organization (WTO) and seek reform at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to correct the kinds of trade abuses of which the United States accuses China of committing. This change in Washington - combined with signs of a softening in Beijing’s trade posture - should do much to reduce trade tensions with China, though among the issues at stake sudden currency adjustments are unlikely and the huge trade imbalance will likely persist for the foreseeable future. In this week’s column, “A Free-Trade Counterattack,” Milton Ezrati writes about the positive developments in Sino-American trade relations. His observations include:- The Grassley-Baucus bill seeks to reform the IMF by strengthening its stance on currency manipulation.- China’s full ascension into the WTO in 2007 will force it to make major changes in the way it conducts policy decisions, including currency intervention.- China is moving toward reform, although admittedly slowly. Progress, however, is underway: Recently, the leaders of China developed a Five-Year Plan that aims to channel domestic growth in the direction of consumption. FULL ARTICLE

On the way to the Governors desk...

2006-05-12T18:13:00.000-05:00

Today, by an extraordinary vote of 136-8, the Texas House of Representatives passed the $15.5 billion property tax cut called I called for during this special session of the Texas Legislature. The Senate passed the same plan 2 days ago by the unanimous vote of 31-0.
Speaker Craddick, Lt. Gov. Dewhurst and the members of the House and Senate are to be congratulated for this remarkable achievement.
This plan will result in a 33% reduction in property taxes for homeowners and employers by next year. This single piece of legislation will make homeownership more affordable for millions of Texans. But it doesn't stop there. Taken as a package, the entire plan will reduce the net tax burden on Texans by more than $6 billion. It will take many school districts out of Robin Hood, and allow districts to keep about $800 million in local property taxes that would have otherwise been exported somewhere else had the legislature not acted.
This bill contains taxpayer protections that will lower the tax rollback rate, limit school districts' ability to raise rates without a vote of the people and dedicate excess revenue raised by the business tax to additional property tax reductions in the future.
Texas teachers are going to be receiving a $2,000 across-the-board pay raise while Texas will become the first state to implement a well-funded, statewide merit pay plan for outstanding teachers. Also, the bill will hold schools accountable for unacceptable performance by providing consequences and intervention to ensure our children are learning. We are establishing an electronic student records system to allow for the quick transfer of records among public schools, colleges and universities. We are also requiring school districts to provide local taxpayers with easy online access to the district's financial data and proposed budget.
In short, this is the substantial tax relief that Texas property owners have been calling for a decade. It is an extraordinary victory for Texas taxpayers.
Rick PerryGovernor of Texas

And thanks to the Justice for this submission......

2006-05-12T10:31:00.000-05:00

CORNYN WANTS TAX FUNDED RESEARCH AVAILABLE TO PUBLIC

2006-05-04T18:21:00.000-05:00

In an effort to increase taxpayers' access to federally funded research, U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) on Tuesday introduced the bipartisan Federal Research Public Access Act of 2006. The legislation is co-sponsored by U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman (D-Conn.). MORE.....

Blogs tend to be bastion for liberals?

2006-05-04T18:15:00.000-05:00

I am shocked to have read that Blogs tend to lean to the left. As many know, conservatives have been pioneers of AM talk shows and other alternative forms of media. Well it appears that the right wing has lagged behind in the world of blogs... Maybe it's just me but I believe Blogs are not a fad and conservatives need to move forward to gain back ground.

Dallas Blog reports:

BLOG WARS: LIBERALS ARE WINNING
Blogs aren't votes but if they were this would be a banner year for Texas Democrats. The Texas Progressive Political Blog Directory lists nearly 100 self-styled, Democratic, progressive, liberal or left Blogs. No similar list exists on the Right or for Republican leaning Blogs but there appear to be only a dozen or so such Blogs. At the upcoming Democratic State Convention in Fort Worth their will be a Bloggers Caucus at the Flying Saucer Bar and Restaurant. No such event has been advertised for the GOP. Several of the Left Blogs like the Burnt Orange Report, Capitol Annex, and Grits for Breakfast are plugged in and well written. They also seem to have a pretty decent readership. It will be interesting to see what the impact is of the Democratic Bloggesphere come November. MORE......

Surplus Offers Big, Prudent Tax Relief

2006-04-17T14:38:00.000-05:00

New spending should not be considered as legislators meet

AUSTIN, Texas –The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts today announced the estimated surplus for the state has grown to $8.2 billion – up from previous surplus estimates of $4.3 billion.

The president of the Texas Public Policy Foundation, Brooke Rollins, said the funds should be used exclusively for tax relief.

“The Foundation has long urged lawmakers to look first to the Texas economy to provide a way out of the school finance morass,” said Rollins. “The $8.2 billion surplus would provide approximately 35 cents in property tax rate cuts for Texans for two years – taking the school property tax rate from $1.50 to $1.15. This could be done without any new taxes, representing a sound win for all Texans. Surpluses will obviously continue, as they have been a long-standing feature in Texas’ economy, and should be dedicated into the future to reducing tax burdens. Future surpluses could be used to further reduce school property taxes, eliminate burdensome taxes like the franchise tax, or even reduce the sales tax rate.”

Rollins continued: “This is a fiscally prudent solution. It respects the strength of Texas’ economy, and doesn’t weigh us down with new taxes. By using the surplus to reduce property taxes, today’s lawmakers are signaling their desire to protect taxpayers. Future legislators will simply have to decide whether or not to keep taxpayer protection is a high priority.”

Rollins said spending the surplus should not be an option.

“New spending commits future legislatures to seek even more future spending, and the taxpayer will simply get lost in the shuffle.”

REMINDER - NOTICE OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

2006-04-17T10:01:00.000-05:00

The Executive Committee for the Republican Party of Ellis County an executive meeting this week to canvass the RUN-OFF Primary election ballots.

This meeting of the Ellis County Republican Executive Committee has been called for April 20, 2006, Thursday, at 7:00pm. The location is the Party HQ at 204 S. Elm Street, Waxahachie, Texas. 972-938-9383

Items to be discussed:

- Canvass of primary election ballots.
- Precinct Chair Appointments.

This will be an extremely important meeting. Please be sure to mark this event on your calendar.

Rusty Ballard, Chairman
Ellis County Republican Party

Republican Women PAC

2006-04-17T09:52:00.000-05:00

Affiliate of Texas & National Federations of Republican Women

PRESS RELEASE
April 17, 2006

Contact: Paula Baucum
Phone: 972.723.2080

The Ellis County Republican Women PAC is sponsoring our annual 2006 Spring Style Show and Dinner on Tuesday April 25th at 7:00pm, featuring Luanna’s Boutique at the Waxahachie Civic Center. This important event raises the necessary funds for the ECRW literacy programs, scholarships and County-wide dictionary project (we proudly give a dictionary to every third grader in each school district). Come join us for an evening of fun and fellowship. Tickets are now on sale contact Paula Baucum at 972.723.2080 for ticket information.

"Human Rights Watch" Says U.S. Abstinence Programs Violate 'Human Rights'

2006-04-05T18:45:00.000-05:00

Robert H. Knight
No endorsement implied.

More specious ideas from self-professing protectors of human rights.
'Human Rights Watch' Report Part of Broader Assault on Abstinence Programs

The United States is a human rights violator because it promotes abstinence programs, according to Human Rights Watch (HRW), a $20-million, New York-based organization devoted to "protecting the human rights of people around the world."

A September 18 report, "Ignorance Only: HIV/AIDS, Human Rights and Federally Funded Abstinence-Only Programs in the United States -- Texas: A Case Study," also says that virginity pledges put teens "at increased risk of HIV/AIDS infection," and recommends a slate of pro-homosexual political proposals. MORE..........

2006-04-05T18:44:00.000-05:00

Attention Election Judges for the April 11, 2006 run-off

Training for Election Judges
All Judges working the Primary Run Off Election need to attend this training.

When: April 8, 2006, Time: 11:00 a.m.
Place: Voter's Registration office
216 S. Rogers, Waxahachie. 972-923-5195.

After the training you can pick up your election supplies at Headquarters 204 S. Elm from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. or Monday from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

If you have any questions please call Debbie at 972-938-9383.

Trans-Texas Corridor-35 (TTC-35)

2006-04-04T17:33:00.000-05:00

A multi-use transportation alternative to the heavily congested Interstate 35 corridor was approved today, according to a 4,000-page draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) signed by the Texas Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration on the Trans-Texas Corridor-35 (TTC-35). The report reveals that the narrowed study area lies slightly to the east of and incorporates the southern half of Interstate 35.
The area identified runs from Gainesville to Laredo . It will be generally 10 miles wide and within close proximity to I-35 and metropolitan centers, except where it is centered on I-35 south of San Antonio to Laredo.
The narrowed study area was identified as the preferred option because it best supports the purpose and need for TTC-35 and incorporates the most miles of existing highways and rail, 195 and 214 miles respectively

- an important factor according to public comments received.
More than 50 public hearings will be held this summer throughout the study area. Dates, times and locations of the hearings will be released in the near future.

A map of the narrowed study area and additional information on the DEIS are available at http://www.keeptexasmoving.com/projects/ttc35/deis_overview.aspx .

If you have any further questions or wish to be removed from the TTC-35 Project mailing list, please call toll free at 1.877.872.6789 or send an email to corridor@dot.state.tx.us .

UTA scientist advocates death of 90% of world population

2006-04-04T17:17:00.000-05:00

Dr. Eric R. Pianka from the University of Texas at Arlington gave a recent speech before the Texas Academy of Science in which Pianka endorsed airborne Ebola as an efficient means for eliminating 90 percent of the world's population. Pianka received an enthusiastic and prolonged standing ovation. Later he received more applause from a banquet hall filled with more than 400 people when the president of the Texas Academy of Science presented him with a plaque naming him 2006 Distinguished Texas Scientist. MORE

DeLay Withdraws From House Race

2006-04-03T22:38:00.000-05:00

By BRODY MULLINSApril 3, 2006 11:16 p.m.

WASHINGTON -- Rep. Tom DeLay (R., Texas) once one of the most powerful Republicans on Capitol Hill, will not seek another term in Congress, Republican sources said last night.
Mr. DeLay announced earlier this year that he would not try to run for another term in the Republican leadership after he became the center of two separate investigations. It is unclear when he will step down.
A judge in Texas indicted Mr. DeLay last fall for his role in allegedly illegally routing campaign contributions into Texas during the 2002 elections. MORE....

Attention Election Judges for the April 11, 2006 run-off

2006-04-03T15:39:00.000-05:00

Training for Election Judges
All Judges working the Primary Run Off Election need to attend this training.

When: April 8, 2006, Time: 11:00 a.m.
Place: Voter's Registration office
216 S. Rogers, Waxahachie. 972-923-5195.

After the training you can pick up your election supplies at Headquarters 204 S. Elm from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. or Monday from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

If you have any questions please call Debbie at 972-938-9383.

PERRYMAN GROUP HIGHLIGHTS ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF SHARP TAX PROPOSAL

2006-03-30T23:37:00.000-06:00

Dr. Ray Perryman

An analysis by The Perryman Group (TPG), an economic research firm based in Waco, reveals that a proposed tax reform measure could bring substantial benefits to the Texas economy. The plan put forth by the Texas Tax Reform Commission, chaired by former Comptroller of Public Accounts John Sharp, represents a substantial overhaul and modernization of the tax system in Texas. The plan would reduce school property taxes significantly, eliminate the current corporate franchise tax, and enact an "alternative margins tax" designed to offer a fair and equitable distribution of the business tax burden (as well as a few other items).
According to Dr. M. Ray Perryman, the President of the firm which conducted the analysis, "In addition to its role in helping to meet court-imposed mandates regarding the financing of public education, this proposal has considerable merit. By reducing property taxes and eliminating the current capital stock component of the franchise tax, it removes much of the penalty presently imposed on large, capital-intensive enterprises. As a result, it will serve as a stimulus to investment and economic development. Moreover, it spreads the burden of taxation more equitably across various sectors of the state’s business complex, thus making the system more responsive to future expansion in overall state performance and fiscal needs. The reductions in property taxes also serve as a catalyst to future real estate development. In essence, this measure, if enacted, would represent a notable milestone in moving the Texas tax structure away from an ‘industrial revolution’ model and more toward one suited for an information and technology society." More....

Sensenbrenner on Immigration Reform Battle

2006-03-30T23:28:00.000-06:00

Thursday , March 30, 2006

OAS_AD('Frame1');

This is a partial transcript from "Hannity & Colmes," March 29, 2006, that has been edited for clarity.

SEAN HANNITY, CO-HOST: Thousands of demonstrators who hit the streets this week to protest immigration reform, have they actually hurt their own cause with their anti-American signs? Well, one sign even featured doctored photographs of the chairman of the House Judiciary Committee. And that would be Congressman James Sensenbrenner. And they put him dressed in a Nazi uniform.

Barton Supports Data Security Legislation, Protections from ID Theft

2006-03-30T21:40:00.000-06:00

WASHINGTON – The House Energy and Commerce Committee, chaired by U.S. Rep. Joe Barton (R-Ennis), unanimously approved new data security laws Wednesday that will ensure consumers' personal information is closely guarded and consumers are notified when they are at risk.

"Nobody needs to be left in the dark when their data has been compromised by a crook," said Barton. "Financial information has benefited from security protections for many years. But criminals can cause harm with other sensitive personal information that many companies have and it is time for a federal standard which protects that information." more

Delegates & Alternates to County and State

2006-03-20T14:03:00.000-06:00

To all County Convention Delegates & Alternates,

If you are needing information regarding how the will work County Convention go to http://www.texasgop.org/site/PageServer?pagename=Candidates_Convention06 . The County Convention will be held this Saturday, March 25, 2006 from 10am - 2:00pm at The Cowboy Church in Waxahachie. It is located about one mile west of Ovilla Road on Highway 287.
Please remember coming from Waxahachie you'll need to exit the I-35E exit and continue on the service road going west (past Thornhill Auto dealership) until you reach the church next to the Ellis County Youth Expo Center.

We will try to start the convention at 10am so please arrive at least 45 minutes early to get your credentials.

Also, if you are planning (or would like to consider going) on going to the Republican State Convention in San Antonio please be sure to get your name on nominations while there.
Again, go to http://www.texasgop.org/ for information concerning the upcoming state convention.

Rusty Ballard, Chairman
Ellis County GOP

Ellis County Republican Convention

2006-03-16T16:35:00.000-06:00

When: March 25, 2006

Time : Starts at 10:00am until approximately 2:00pm

Location: The Cowboy Church of Ellis County, off the highway 287 service road just west of Ovilla road. Next to the Ellis County Youth Expo in Waxahachie.

Contact numbers:

Rusty cell: 214-394-4961

Debbie Garvin cell: 214-448-7324

Secretary of State Roger Williams Coming to Waxahachie March 6th.

2006-03-02T17:03:00.000-06:00

Secretary of State Roger Williams recently kicked off VOTEXAS, an educational initiative developed to encourage every Texan to get involved and vote in the upcoming primaries. Over the course of 2006, Secretary Williams will travel around the state to support VOTEXAS and one of his next stops is Waxahachie.

You are cordially invited to join the Secretary for this event at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, March 6, 2006 in parking lot to the right of Navarro College’s Waxahachie campus located at 1900 John Arden Drive, Waxahachie, Texas.

Secretary Williams will explain the efforts taken by Texas to utilize technology and create a secure and easy voting environment for all. The event will also feature the VOTEXAS mobile exhibit, a 33-foot bus carrying educational materials. In addition to the press conference, electronic voting machines will be set up so that attendees can try electronic voting before Election Day.

You can also visit our Web site, www.votexas.org.

Rick Perry Event: No campaigning allowed at polling locations

2006-03-02T09:55:00.000-06:00

Candidates for office in the March 7th Primary cannot wear, handout or display campaign materials at the Midlothian Conference Center today. The Highway 287 Bypass Dedication is today at 3:00pm. with Governor Rick Perry as Special Guest Speaker.

Early Voting is taking place at the Conference Center at the opposite end of the building. The candidates must adhere to the election policies regarding their vehicles and signage outside the building as well.

Notice of Executive Committee meeting

2006-03-01T18:42:00.000-06:00

Notice of Executive Committee meeting

The Republican Party of Ellis County will hold an executive commitee meeting on March 16, 2005 at it's local headquarters (204 South Elm Street, Waxahachie, Texas). This is an extremely important meeting as the committee must canvas primary election results to be turned into the state party.

We will also have guest speaker, Brooke Rollins, president, of Texas Public Policy Foundation.

The Foundation's mission is to improve Texas government by generating academically sound research and data on state issues, and by recommending the findings to opinion leaders, policy makers, the media and general public. The work of the Foundation is conducted by academics across Texas and is funded by hundreds of individuals, foundations and corporations.
The public is demanding a different direction for their government and the Texas Public Policy Foundation is providing the research that enables policy makers to chart that new course.
You can learn more about the TPPF by going to http://www.texaspolicy.com

Rusty Ballard, Chairman,
Ellis County GOP
972-938-9383 - Headquarters

Republican Judges & Clerks needed:

2006-03-01T16:51:00.000-06:00

Republican Judges & Clerks needed:

We have lost two polling judges and need replacements ASAP. If you know of anyone available to work precincts 121 and 129 please let me know immediately. Also, we need a few clerks as well.

Please call Debbie Garvin at 972-938-9383 (HQ) or 214-448-7324

Election Watch: Tuesday, February 28th, 2006:

2006-02-28T17:46:00.000-06:00

Election Watch: Tuesday, February 28th, 2006:
* Early Voting
* 7 days until Primary Election Day

Supreme Court Deals VictoryTo Abortion-Clinic Protesters

2006-02-28T10:35:00.000-06:00

A WALL STREET JOURNAL ONLINE NEWS ROUND UP February 28, 2006 11:03 a.m.

The Supreme Court ruled federal extortion and racketeering laws can't be used to ban antiabortion demonstrations in front of abortion clinics. Justices also backed the ability of two large oil companies to set uniform prices without violating federal antitrust laws. MORE

Emails no longer FREE?

2006-02-28T10:31:00.000-06:00

Interest Groups Fight Fees for Bulk Email
Associated Press February 28, 2006 9:58 a.m.

WASHINGTON -- A variety of interest groups have joined forces to fight a proposed bulk emailing fee they claim strikes at the heart of online communication -- a level playing field for rich and poor.

Time Warner Inc.'s America Online plans to introduce a service that would charge businesses and other bulk emailers a fee to route their email directly to a user's mailbox without first passing through junk mail filters. Yahoo Inc. has announced similar plans.
"The creativity and ingenuity that have driven the Internet have always relied on an open platform where the haves and have-nots get treated equally," said Eli Pariser, executive director of MoveOn.org Civic Action. "This email tax system is a big step toward dismantling that system."

The alliance protesting the move includes liberal activist group MoveOn, the conservative activist group RightMarch.com, the U.S. Humane Society, labor and environmental groups and online medical communities.

AOL spokesman Nicholas Graham replied: "No matter what the political rhetoric is, AOL will remain resolute in our pursuit of improving email safety and security in doing what is right for our members. That simply is not going to change.

Gilles Frydman of the Association of Cancer Online Resources said bulk email charges will cause problems for organizations like his. "We cannot pay for the service, we don't have the money," Mr. Frydman said. "We have been doing this for 11 years based on the standards of Internet communication. Those standards do not include paying for service. This one company is trying to transform unilaterally how the Internet works."

Mr. Frydman said some patients with rare forms of cancer may have trouble receiving updated information on a timely basis. The campaign is focused more on AOL than Yahoo because AOL "is going full speed ahead" with its plans, while Yahoo has been more tentative, said MoveOn spokesman Adam Green.
Email senders that pay the fee will be guaranteed their messages won't be filtered and will bear a seal alerting recipients they're legitimate. The plan, while it's optional and would apply to only a fraction of people sending email, amounts to a reversal in the economics of the Internet because it would charge message senders rather than those receiving them.

The current model has led to the proliferation of spam because the people sending it can turn a profit even when only a minority of recipients respond, analysts say.

Opponents of the plan complain that those who pay a fee will have guaranteed email delivery, while those who don't are likely to run into increasing problems with timely delivery -- because AOL would naturally spend more time and effort looking after its paying customers.

"We're a grassroots organization," said William Green, president of RightMarch.com. "We're not funded by big donors. If we're sending two to three million emails a week, paying a penny per email will price us out."
Copyright © 2006 Associated Press

Signs on highways pulled

2006-02-28T08:58:00.000-06:00

It looks like the highway department came through Waxahachie and cleared out all signs in the wrong place. As you know, many of the main thorougfares are state highways in Waxahachie. If you're looking for lost signs I'd call the local highway office.

The government junkets you fund

2006-02-24T14:44:00.000-06:00

Feb 8, 2006 by Michelle Malkin

$1,401,104,263.

That's how much of our hard-earned money has gone to subsidize the spring break-style trips and conferences of the federal government over the last five years. Spending on bureaucracy boondoggles has increased some 70 percent in that time period.

We wouldn't know anything about this binge if Sen. Tom Coburn, R-Okla., hadn't asked. Last summer, the pork-busting chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Subcommittee on Federal Financial Management, Government Information and International Security surveyed all federal departments and agencies and directed them to document their conference, meetings and travel expenses since 2000. At a hearing on Tuesday, Sen. Coburn unveiled his findings.

You'll be happy to know that the government junkets your tax dollars have funded include:

CLICK

Texas Republican PrimaryEarly Voting through March 3rd

2006-02-24T09:08:00.000-06:00

Even though the Primary is Tuesday, March 7th and the General Election is not until November...I'm asking for your vote TODAY! Early voting for the Primary is already underway, and you can vote today!

Will you be out of town on March 7th?
Do your kids have a soccer game or dance recital that night?
Are the lines at your local polling place always out the door in the morning?

Whatever the reason, don't chance missing this election. Cast your vote during early voting which runs through Friday, March 3rd. Remember that Texas law allows any registered voter to take advantage of early voting in your home county. Early Voting in person is open to everyone, not just senior citizens or students.

You can find locations and times for early voting in your county by calling your local elections office.
Click here to find contact information for your local elections office

Thanks again for your continued support! I'm counting on you and other friends to turn out for this Republican Primary.

Sincerely,
David DewhurstLieutenant Governor

CANCELLED - February25th Meeting of The Republican Breakfast Club

2006-02-21T17:42:00.000-06:00

RE: February Meeting of The Republican Breakfast Club

This month's Republican Breakfast Club's speaker must reschedule. As such, this Saturday's event is cancelled. Given this and the number of political events already scheduled for everyone to attend I am cancelling the meeting for this Saturday, February 25th. I apologize for any inconvenience this cancellation may cause.