Nevada Homeschoolers for Liberty

Greta Muirhead - District Court Judge, Family Division, Dept I

2008-10-29T09:17:00.001-07:00

Greta Muirhead recently left a comment on this blog stating;

I have several friends who homeschool their children. So long as they have the
necessary skill set, I think they should be free to do so.

I questioned her through email, asking the following;

Can you please explain what you mean by "necessary skill set"?

This was her reply;

1) Patience is the most important attribute, in my opinion.
2) Organization;
3) Discipline to ensure that the work gets done;
4) The ability to read and write;
5) The ability to teach their children about technology
6) Resourcefulness;
7) Actively looks for and encourages socialization opportunities for their
children
Thank you for letting me share my opinion.

When I questioned her further on these comments and whether she agrees that as Family Court Judge she has no jurisdiction on whether or not or how a family chooses to homeschool as described by the law, she had no response.

*IMO* I do not see her as understanding homeschooling, the law pertaining to it or her role as judge (to interpret that law). Please use this information in making your own choice for Dept I.

Why I Will Be "Wasting" My Vote

2008-09-26T15:53:00.000-07:00

I’ve heard it said too many times that voting for anyone other than a Republican or Democrat is a “wasted vote”. I cannot tell you how frustrating an idea I find that to be. I’ve heard all the reasons; a third-party candidate can’t win so why vote for them or if you don’t vote the lesser of two evils, the greater evil might win. Seriously people? Is this what it’s come to? Voting based not on preference but on popularity, like some high school contest? I think it was Jesse Ventura that said voting is not a horse race. We’re not betting on who we think will win. We’re telling others who best represents our views.

So for those that are curious, here are all the reasons I’ll be “wasting my vote” this year:

1. Voting for a candidate other than the best representative of your views has the exact opposite effect. Since the candidate already knows that your vote is in hand, he can then concentrate on moving the platform AWAY from your wishes, in order to court the votes of people with beliefs far from your own.

Many people who like Libertarian ideas always vote for Republicans. What does the party do to reward them? They make policies to win over moderate liberals. Similarly, many people who prefer Green Party ideas always vote for Democrats, and so the Democrats ignore them and make policies to win over moderate conservatives. Either way, the voters get the opposite of what they wanted, as the Democrats and Republicans both move toward the political center. Even Democrats and Republicans are getting screwed as their party plays politics as usual, instead of standing up for their ideals.

2. If the greater of two evils was to win it wouldn’t be my fault, because I didn’t vote for him. Nor would it be my fault that I didn’t vote for the lesser of two evils. The fault lies in the hands of anyone voting based either on popularity or fear, rather than policies, issues and ideals. Keep in mind that voting is suppose to be FOR something, not AGAINST something.

You personally have only one vote. Like it or not, you are powerless to turn the results of a democratic election. This being the case, your one vote counts for something only in the sense that it represents your approval of some set of principles. Voting is a means of conveying information about what you believe. If you ignore your principles then this information is lost, and your vote really is wasted.

3. I do not wish to take part in the status-quo. I believe in real change, not just change of hands. And real change will never come by supporting that which we do not agree with out of fear of who might win if we don’t. I think we’re on a slippery slope to fascism and both parties are to blame. My supporting the status-quo with my vote sends the message that I will tolerate what they are doing. (Click here to watch the documentary, America: Freedom to Fascism to fully understand my view.)

4. My vote may be extremely unlikely to affect the outcome of the election. But it can influence policy. A vote for one of the two main candidates will be lost in the mass of voters, while a vote for a minor candidate, especially if he gets enough to make the margin of difference between the other two, will have far more influence. It will impel the other two parties to appeal to the voters for that minor candidate, and that may come to be as important if not more important than their main positions. So my vote can be a drop in the ocean or a splash in the pool. I’ll go for the one that gets more attention.

5. Voting for the lesser of two evils, still results in evil in the White House and I refuse to take any part in that.

6. On a more personal note, Both McCain and Obama support this ridiculous “bailout” plan. I don’t find the solution to all our problems to be in the form of more government. And you don’t save a sinking ship by adding more water to the hull. Big Government got us into this mess, Bigger Government won’t get us out. Neither of the major candidates seem to understand this fully, therefore they do not share my utmost ideals. See #1.

So there ya have it. All my thought and research laid out for you. Call it a wasted vote or call it a protest vote. Either way I plan to send a message by supporting my third-party candidate this year. Whoever you choose to vote for, I simply hope it’s a vote for the right reasons; someone who best represents your views.

Update: Nevada Republican Delegation to the National Convention

2008-08-28T17:04:00.000-07:00

The following is an email from Robert Terhune, one of the many faces behind the Ron Paul movement.

Hi everyone,

Here is a rundown of everything that's been going on with the Nevada Delegation to the Republican National Convention. Thanks to all who have helped with and supported this process, and please be assured that the fight is not over. I included our Press Release below.

OK...

Due to the fact that the Nevada State Republican Convention was shut down abruptly and illegally in April (when Party leaders weren't getting their way), and because the State Party leadership never intended to (and never did) complete the convention, we decided to finish it ourselves. We reconvened on June 28, and legally elected a full delegation to represent Nevada at the National Convention.

The Party leadership of course never acknowledged the June 28th gathering, and submitted their own list of delegates, appointed by the leadership. Their list was comprised of party regulars and contributers. A Party official was heard boasting at a meeting that "not one of those Ron Paul people" were on the list.

The party's list was submitted to the RNC, while we submitted an appeal to the RNC to try and stop them. The RNC's initial decision was to reject both delegations as illegal, and to seat only the three automatic delegates. The state party appealed that, and the matter was sent to the RNC's Contest Committee.

The Contest Committee heard the appeal on Sunday, August 24, 2008. The Party was represented by high-powered Washington DC attorney Ben Ginsberg, and we were represented by Mike Weber, a long-time Republican activist (and McCain supporter) from Washoe County, Nevada. The hearing was set up like a Senate hearing, with the committee seated at a table at the front of the room, with the two parties facing them, seated at their own tables. Each side was allowed opening and closing statements, and in between the committee peppered both sides with questions. The committee was obviously very knowledgeable about the situation, and seemed very interested in getting to the truth and conducting a fair process. As the day wore on, it was apparent that the committee started to realize how poorly the state party had been conducting itself. In one instance, a committee member was trying to find out how people became state delegates. Between Sue Lowden (NV GOP Chair) and Ginsberg, the State party was unable to answer the question, to the frustration on the member. In another instance, another member was trying to learn if the party knew who the state delegates were. After receiving no firm answer to several questions, she exasperatedly asked, "You accepted money to register for the State Convention, right? So there must have been some bookkeeping of some kind!" She never got a satisfactory answer.

Mike Weber closed with a stirring closing statement that basically told the committee that they could chose righteousness or corruption, and that the country was watching. No final decision was reached that day, and several smaller meetings between Weber and Party attorneys took place over the next few days. The outcome clearly was not going to be good.

So here is where the process stands now: The Contest Committee released its report on Wednesday. The report strongly chastised the state GOP, calling the Nevada GOP’s handling of the delegate selection process “flawed, inadequate, and unacceptable,” and added that they were “deeply troubled by the ineptness of the State Party in conducting its process to elect delegates."
The National Party has confirmed that, in their opinion, BOTH delegations were selected illegally, and that they would not accept either. The only exceptions were the CD1 and CD3 delegates that were elected during the original convention in April-- they will seat them. Ron Paul is represented by four of those six delegates.

However, there is a little-known rule that allows the National Party to appoint delegates to fill open slots within ten days of the National Convention. So, in order to fill all of the now-open seats from Nevada, they decided to invoke this rule and fill the vacancies. They did so using names from the State Party's appointed delegation.

So, in summary, the Nevada state party did not like what was happening at the State Convention, so they took the ball and went home, cheating the delegates out of their vote. They tried to appoint delegates to the National Convention instead. We tried to stop them and ensure the voting rights of ordinary Nevada Republicans. The National Party sided with the State Party and, after slapping them on the wrist, accepted their appointed delegates.

From now on, there is little to stop any state's GOP from ignoring the voices of it's people, and instead appointing their own cronies to attend the National Convention-- where our next potential President is selected.

Here is our press release from this afternoon:

-------------------------------
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE
RELEASE

RNC Labels NV Party “Inept,” but Seats Most of
State-Appointed Delegation

MINNEAPOLIS, MN, 8/28/08 – The RNC’s
Committtee on Contests handed down a recommendation yesterday regarding the
ongoing Nevada delegate debacle. The Committee condemned the State Party’s
handling of the delegate selection process, and declined the State Party’s
ability to appoint delegates. However, the Committee then recommended seating
the majority of the State Party’s appointed slate, as well as six delegates
elected in CD 1 and CD 3 at the April 26th State
Convention.

“We definitely do not consider this a just resolution,”
said Wayne Terhune, a Nevada Republican activist who traveled to Minneapolis to
support the appeal. “Despite some strong language from the Committee,
their actions have backed up the illegal delegate appointment of the State
Party.”

The Committee on Contests held a hearing on Sunday,
August 24th when they heard statements from both sides. The
Committee’s statement released on Wednesday called the Nevada GOP’s handling of
the delegate selection process “flawed, inadequate, and unacceptable,” adding
that they were “deeply troubled by the ineptness of the State Party in
conducting its process to elect delegates […].”

“This game seems to
have been fixed from the start,” Terhune said. “It was obvious to
everyone at the Committee’s hearing that the State Party was inept, but the
Committtee decided to back them up anyway and seat the majority of their
slate. This is a miscarriage of justice, and smacks of
tyranny. All the Republican voters of Nevada have been
disenfranchised. ”

####
Thanks again to everyone who helped.
In Liberty,
Robert

Rally for the Republic

2008-07-22T12:20:00.000-07:00

If you haven't already gotten the email, please check out the Rally for the Republic!

"If they expected us to retire quietly from the scene, the political elite are
in for a surprise." - Dr. Ron Paul

It will be a 3 day event to send a strong message to our political establishment that we will not fade quietly from the scene. The Campaign for Liberty is planning music and entertainment, special guests and a speech promised to inspire.

Join the revolution from August 31-Sept 2 in Minneapolis, MN.

Homeschoolers for Liberty

2008-06-14T17:00:00.000-07:00

By now you probably have heard the heartbreaking news that Dr. Ron Paul has dropped out of the race. I think many of us saw it coming, but still it's hard for me to see.

My journey with his campaign started almost a year ago, when I first heard a few hardcore Libertarians talking him up. After doing some research, I was shocked upon finding a non-corrupt politician, as well as a Republican that still stood for the core principals of the party.

This past year has been a crazy ride; full of canvassing, marching, meeting great people (including my neighbors!) and learning so much. I was once a very apathetic and cynical person when it came to politics. But Ron Paul's campaign has awoken something in me that had laid dormant for too long.

After hearing the official end of the campaign comes the hard decision: Where to go from here. Ron Paul has officially launched the Campaign for Liberty, which will focus on the long road ahead. It's mission, as quoted on the site, states:

The mission of the Campaign for Liberty is to promote and defend the great
American principles of individual liberty, constitutional government, sound
money, free markets, and a noninterventionist foreign policy, by means of
educational and political activity.

I have joined the campaign and will continue to fight for Liberty-minded candidates on the local, State and National levels. I have changed the title (but not the web address) of this blog to reflect that. I encourage you to join the campaign if you have not already done so. I also encourage any delegates to the Nevada State Convention to continue their duties. This is not the time for us to back out. It is not about the man, but the message that has resonated within us.

In the November election, we have some serious choices to make. This is something I've been contemplating for a few months. I cannot and will not allow myself to become apathetic again. I will also not allow myself to grudgingly follow a path I do not agree with or blindly fall in step with "party loyalty".

I will no longer "hold my nose to vote" or "choose the lesser of two evils", but will continue to find the person who best represents me.

I still have some decisions to make in who I will throw my support behind, and when I further research my choices I will post my decision and what got me to it. I encourage you all to do one thing: Put aside any party loyalty, as well as party grudges and research ALL candidates carefully to decide who best represents your beliefs. I will do the same.

Chuck Hoskin for Clark County Family Court Judge

2008-05-30T08:22:00.000-07:00

In light of recent Family Court Judge's decisions in regards to homeschooling, I thought it would be important to evaluate what potential judge's thought on the matter. I started with Chuck Hoskin, as recommended by a friend of our family.

I (anonymously) asked him whether or not he supports parental choice in regards to education. His first clarification - that this issue does not fall in his realm of practice - is a good sign! Here is his full answer:

...As for your question concerning a parent’s right to choose how their
children are educated, let me first state that such issues are not decided, nor
is the existing law interpreted, by a Family Court Judge.

As a result, I can tell you that I believe a parent has the ultimate right in
deciding how their children are educated, whether that be by utilizing public
schools, choosing private schools, or home schooling. I have several
friends who home school their children and I see that their children are at, or
above, the education level of other children their age.

For more information on Chuck Hoskin, you can visit his website http://hoskin4judge.com/

If you know other candidates you would like me to highlight, please let me know via comment!

Chris Dyer on Homeschooling

2008-05-29T20:17:00.000-07:00

Chris Dyer, candidate in District 1, has responded below:

1. To what extent do you support parental choice in regards to education?

I know what's best for my children. I should have every option available to educate my children.

2. Do you support the annual registration of homeschoolers in Nevada?

I would support one time registration. As long as the child remains in the same school, there's no need to re-register.

3. Do you believe homeschoolers should be subject to standardized testing?

That's one for Nevada voters. I actually enjoyed taking the standardized tests when I was in school. They're was no preparation and it didn't affect our grades. I have heard the schools now just teach kids how to pass the test and not much else. If that's what standardized testing gets us then we can do without it.

4. Do you support a tax credit/rebate to homeschooling families?

Sure. Public schools are overburdened and in some instances broken. Public schools should have to compete with private schools, charter schools, and home schoolers. I don't see why we shouldn't be allowed to invest our tax money in the best education for our children.

5. Anything else to add or could you provide a short overview of your stance on education:

I believe the federal government needs to get out of the education business. Let the voters of the states decide.

Carl Bunce on Homeschooling

2008-05-28T20:27:00.000-07:00

Carl Bunce, candidate for Congressional District 3, is our next responder:

Hello, Thank you for your interest in my campaign. My answers are below.

I have worked in Education for 10 years, at all levels K-12 and University. I worked for Educational Testing Services (ETS) for the past 5 years, now I currently work for Clark County School District as an Administration. So I have seen the bad and good of public education. I have seen how standardized testing has destroyed the learning environment. Education is one of my main concerns in my campaign, because everything else we do in life depends on the education we receive.

1. To what extent do you support parental choice in regards to education?

I strongly support a parent's choice in the Education of their Children. I believe there are various educational opportunities for students in this country; I do not believe that any form of government can offer them all. Most of the time, governments try to push a single form of education on the population. This helps with costs! That is what government is concerned about. The students and parents are seldom considered.

2. Do you support the annual registration of homeschoolers in Nevada?

There should be no registration of homeschoolers, period.

3. Do you believe homeschoolers should be subject to standardized testing?

I do not believe any students should be subjected to standardized testing. I think the memorize and recall education environment that has been created over the past couple decades is a terrible learning environment. I have seen first hand across the country, most teachers and students only worry about how they will do on the next "TEST". I want students asking, "What can we learn next" not "This again!" just so the students are sure to pass their tests.

4. Do you support a tax credit/rebate to homeschooling families?

I support Tax Credits and Rebates, whatever it takes to get the money back where it needs to be, until the current system of federal taxation is removed and people get to keep all their income.

5. Anything else to add or could you provide a short overview of your stance on education:

I want to eliminate the Federal Department of Education, they spend $70 Billion + a year, and our education system is still falling short in the world. I want all that tax money to stay at home with the people that earn it. I want to see an education system where students can be free to choose a path they desire and not have to worry about financial restrictions or federal regulations that could prevent it.
--
Carl Bunce

Bunce for Congress CD 3 Nevada
www.carlbunce.com

James Smack on Homeschooling

2008-05-27T20:54:00.001-07:00

James Smack, candidate for Congressional District 2, is my first responder to the homeschooling questions I sent out. Here is his response:

Tara,

Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to answer some questions in regard to how I feel about Homeschooling and my positions on Education. I salute all parents like yourself that take educating their children seriously enough to accept the challenge of homeschooling. I will take them in the order received:

1. To what extent do you support parental choice in regards to education?

I believe that the parent has every right to determine how their child is to be
educated, whether that be in the public school system, in private or parochial
school, or whether by schooling their child at home with the parent as the
instructor.

2. Do you support the annual registration of homeschoolers in Nevada?

I do not believe that this is necessary. The superintendent of the school
district or other authorized person may need to be informed of a homeschooled
child to allow for participation in extracurricular activities within the public
school district as provided by Nevada Law. I firmly believe that there does not
need to be any regulated registration of the parents who decide that
homeschooling is their best option, nor any necessity for said parents to meet
state mandated teaching guidelines.

3. Do you believe homeschoolers should be subject to standardized testing?

No, subjecting homeschooled students to standardized testing is entirely
unnecessary. It is an infringement on the spirit of what homeschooling is trying
to accomplish, which is parental control over their child's education. Home
schooled students should be allowed access to all college entrance exams through
the local school district as allowed by Nevada State Law, such as the SAT and
ACT.

4. Do you support a tax credit/rebate to homeschooling families?

I most certainly support a tax credit for homeschooling families.

5. Anything else to add or could you provide a short overview of your stance on education:

As Congressman, I would be in favor of the elimination of the Federal Department
of Education and elimination of No Child Left Behind, to be replaced by local
and state level control of Education. I believe that returning authority to the
schools at a local level will improve schooling for all students being educated
in the public system. Let the parents in the community have the input on how
their children should be educated. Federal and State Government should mandate
as little regulation as possible on parents who wish to homeschool their
children.

It is my feeling that homeschooled children are more likely to
succeed, get much more individualized teaching, and are more prepared to meet
the challenges of college and adult life. I look forward to continuing this
conversation, and please do not hesitate to contact me with any other questions
you may have!!

Most Sincerely,

James Smack
Republican Candidate for Congress
Nevada Congressional District 2
http://www.jamessmack.com/

Pro-Liberty Nevada Candidates

2008-05-27T20:00:00.000-07:00

I've recently received a list of pro-liberty candidates and wanted to share them with you. Please pass thislist along to others. I've emailed those who's emails I could locate (minus those who's websites are not up) with questions about their stance on education in regards to homeschooling and will post those answers as I receive them.

To check your district numbers, refer to your voter registration card or click here for voter registration lookup.

Congressional District 1:
Chris Dyer - http://www.chrisdyer.com/

Congressional District 2:
James Smack - http://www.jamessmack.com/

Congressional District 3:
Carl Bunce - http://www.carlbunce.com/

Assembly District 6:
Lisa Marie Johnson - vegasamerican.com

Assembly District 13:
Michael Kurback (website not up yet)

Assembly District 14:
Andrew Brownson (website not up yet)

Assembly District 17:
David Isbell - http://isbellfornevada.com/

Please do what you can to support those running for State Assembly and Congressional seats. These candidates need contributions and volunteers.

What's next for the Ron Paul revolution?

2008-05-18T20:13:00.000-07:00

Just popping my head in to share a great article on Dr. Paul.

More to come from me in the future.

My recap on the Nevada State Convention

2008-04-27T20:55:00.000-07:00

I just returned home to Las Vegas from the Nevada Republican Party Convention in Reno, NV. The weekend was a whirlwind of drama, chaos and adrenaline. The following is my recap of what happened, based solely on my perception of things I witnessed and heard.

Our convention was scheduled for Saturday, April 26th. After a surprisingly short wait we were signed in as delegates and seated. We were called into order with 1,347 delegates shortly after 9am.

That’s about where it started going wrong. The first two and a half hours of our day were spent listening to teary speeches and patriotic poetry, while watching black and white movie clips that were quite frankly offensive to my friends, family members and neighbors who consider themselves Democrats. I wasn’t the only person in attendance to find them divisive, immature and unnecessary. I also wasn’t the only person ready to get down to business rather than waste our time socializing.

One highlight of the morning was one of the best speeches I've heard Ron Paul give, earning him a standing ovation by most of the room, including McCain supporters.

However much the majority didn’t complain about the morning’s “entertainment”, they sure did complain when actual business was being conducted and taking longer than presumed necessary. I can’t remember the number of times I heard the phrase “in the interest of time” being uttered by party leaders and other delegates. The fact that many of us had driven over 400 miles to come to a convention to work, and were instead made to suffer through pointless banter and being rushed through the actual business at hand was frustrating.

Our chairperson, Senator Bob Beers was another frustration. Many of us support Bob Beers but his smugness and apparent inability to conduct business or understand the rules of order was unacceptable. Many times a delegate more rehearsed in parliamentarian law, Mike Weber, had to go to the microphone to (thankfully) correct Senator Beers’ procedures. This was at one point not very appreciated by Senator Beers, as he attempted to have this gentleman unduly removed by the Sergeant at Arms, which the entire room objected to having done. (This gentleman, although not with the Ron Paul camp, has received much respect and support of his fairness.)

And the frustrations continued. Apparently the reason we wasted so much time in the morning was because the party assumed we were simply there to rubber stamp their agenda - their rules, their by-laws, their platforms and their delegates. That’s right, they had already selected the delegates they would allow us to vote on after hand-picking from the nominations that were required to be sent into the Nominations Committee prior to the convention. Luckily this was voted down by both McCain and Paul supporters.

To comply with state rules, we were required to vote for 3 delegates from each of the three congressional districts in Nevada, aside from an additional 22 delegates to bring the total to 31. Their second solution - after we voted down their rubber stamp idea - was to have each one of us only pick 5 delegates and the top 31 vote getters would be placed. This also was unacceptable to both sides and we managed to vote it down as well, enabling us to allow nominations from the floor and bringing fairness to those who had not received the nominations packet via mail and who therefore could not nominate themselves by the predetermined deadline.

Little did they tell us that these changes to the rules would throw us into overtime. Apparently long gone are the days when political conventions take more than their desired afternoon. Our convention hall was only booked until 5pm that evening, with no contingent plans for a run-over.

Shortly after we had taken our first vote to secure our 9 congressional district delegates (but before we had voted on the other 22 delegates-at-large), it started becoming apparent to vote counters and party leaders that the Ron Paul campaign had secured at least 6 and possibly 7 of the first 9 delegate spots up for grabs. This has been confirmed by vote counters of both sides - McCain’s and Paul’s.

However, in the middle of voting and before one district had finished, Beers swung the gavel, ending the convention without discussion or debate (against the rules of the convention) and notifying us that it was our fault because we had changed the previous rules that would have apparently safe-guarded us from running out of time (with no mention to the over 2 hours of wasted time that morning). He stated the party would inform us of when we would reconvene within the week. Senator Beers and other party officials quickly shut off the microphones, turned off most of the lights and left the building.

As you can imagine, mayhem ensued. Beers stated that our contract was up on the room, disallowing any discussion for alternatives, despite the fact the hotel managers came in shortly after and informed us we could extend the contract. Most delegates were even willing to help cover the added cost of the convention hall, in order to save themselves the expense of additional travel in the future and waved their cash in the air to prove it.

During this time, our fair and friendly McCain delegate, Mike Weber (mentioned above) called for a quorum, essentially allowing us to continue the convention and giving us the possibility to vote in a new chairperson should Senator Beers choose not to return. Unfortunately to have any of our conducted business count, a quorum requires one half the delegates from the original delegate count. 674 delegates must have remained which we narrowly missed with only 590 delegates willing to continue.

Although many McCain supporters were equally outraged and stayed in attempts to conduct a continuation via quorum, many others strategically waited in the hall to ensure we didn’t have the numbers to conduct business (but staying close by to reenter, just in case we did). Because of this and because of the many Ron Paul supporters who left too quickly (despite the fact that we’d been counseled time and time again to remain past the end of the convention for just this reason), we were not able to continue working.

I almost forgot to mention the angry protesters, the near fist-fights by outraged delegates on both sides, and the McCain supporters saying we had "bought out" the chair person, Congressman Beers in order to win the delegates. At least it’s not only Ron Paul’s supporters who are uttering the word “conspiracy”.

The following morning it was brought to our attention by hotel personnel that the Republican Party had booked the same room for half the morning. Because of this, many of us (quickly calling and text messaging as many as we could) waited in hopes of reconvening. Unfortunately our hopes were unfounded, as by 10am it became apparent that all our efforts and expenses in coming to the State Convention had been a near waste and we would instead have to foot another bill for another convention at a later date.

There were many rumors flying. One was that phone conversations were overheard that implied the National Convention leaders had been watching Nevada closely and would rather cut us off than allow us to get a majority of delegates for Ron Paul and had therefore ordered the meeting shut down until they could formulate a plan to lock us and our delegates out. This however was hearsay and although possible, not easily provable.

Another rumor was that the reconvening was to be held at another convention center in town, which turned out to be untrue. Yet another rumor was that “the McCain people” were hiding in the wings of the hotel waiting for us all to leave the Peppermill so they could reconvene without us. This was unlikely but even if it were true, they would require the same quorum of 674 delegates and would not be able to meet the requirement, just as we had not been able to the previous night.

What do I personally think of all this?

I believe most of this is a result of poorly orchestrated and incompetent plans. Had we not wasted several hours with out-of-order and meaningless activities, fundraising or divisive joking that morning, we could have done the job we came to do. Instead convention planners assumed this new wing of the party would simply play along as the old guard has for decades.

Also, had the party leaders been happy with the results they were seeing, I do not believe they would have been so quick to walk out and would instead have sought solutions, such as meeting at a local high school or passing a collection plate to pay for the extended contract on the hall. Where was the consideration to those who had traveled long distances at their own expense and have to now do so again?

Do I believe this is a top-down conspiracy? Not exactly. However I do believe the favoritism and goal to squelch our efforts was apparent in their actions. Not because of a "vast motive to take over the world", but simply because they’ve become accustomed to the relative ease and comfort of the herd mentality and have given away all independent thought that does not fall in line with party loyalty.

It is my opinion that for too many Republicans, it’s become about sticking their heads in the sand and refusing to admit the fault of losing their conservative way. Let’s have our banquets, wear our lapel pins, wave our flags on our lawns and trust someone else to sort out the decisions. At this convention it become apparent to me that many (no, not all) of them cared more about their frivolous socializing and the label of “conservative”, than the true meaning behind that label or the meaning of why we were there at all.

What did Caesar say when asked what to do about citizen dissent? “Give them bread and circuses.” We now have proof that Caesars formula works well for most Republicans. All but those pesky and highly organized Ron Paul Republicans, of course.

[For anyone worrying about the Clark County platform that supported more regulations on homeschooling, I can assure you the State platform was very acceptable. The exact platform read as follows: 8. We support a parent's right to choice in education including vouchers, charter school, and home schooling. We also support the elimination of the U.S. Dept. of Education. We further oppose requiring licensure for parents who choose to home school. We support the elimination of the No Child Left Behind law and require the State of Nevada to replace the No Child Left Behind concept.]

Update: Here are some preliminary videos from the State Convention.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=5iKzVTl-eHI
http://youtube.com/watch?v=XUMjySV72p8&feature=user

State Convention coming soon

2008-04-17T18:07:00.000-07:00

The campaign has slowed down but the foot soldiers are still working. The issue in the last post has been taken care of and the homeschooling delegates are getting ready for the Nevada Repubican State Convention in just over a week.

Anyone in need of transportation, lodging or anything else need only contact briank@ronpaul2008.com.

I'll let you know how it goes!

Update on County Convention

2008-03-08T19:04:00.001-08:00

Today was a long, arduous day at the Clark County Republican Convention. I was proud to see homeschoolers in full force there as well as many homeschooling supporters.

One particular concern has come of this. The Republican party is currently attempting to adopt into their state platform a change to homeschooling laws. Yes you heard me right. They understand fully our current law stating a one-time notification of intent to homeschool and wish to change this to an annual notice.

Don't worry! I've been talking to Kime who was one of the instrumental (although less public, more behind-the-scenes) people who helped passed our current laws. She is also a member of the CCRCC, as well as the Active Republican Women's group and has assured me she is working on this. Because she is already involved in the very organization that wishes to make these changes, she has much clout over the situation. She is planning to meet with the Platform Committee before the next CCRCC meeting and explain to them the expense which the public school system would incur in establishing a yearly notification.

We are working on this and will let you all know if there is anything you may need to do to help (which my include joining the Clark County Republican Central Committee o assist us in voting this down at the next meeting). Stay tuned for more details on that.

Other than that hiccup and a very confusing process, the county convention went well. We had many, many Ron Paul supporters in attendance and all who applied to go to the State Convention will be going (including me!).

We were also able to make some great changes to the platform and resolutions, and although we still have some to make, we are heading in a great direction!

P.S. If any of our homeschooling supporters in Washoe County can host a few homeschooling families for the State Convention in late April, please email me at taraewagner att yahoo dott com.

California State Law

2008-03-08T19:00:00.000-08:00

For those concerned about the recent ruling in California regarding homeschooling, I wanted to do a quick update to let everyone know

a) Do not put on your picketing boots just yet. They have several competent organizations on the case and when they need our activism, they will let us know. Until then our petitions, letters, calls or complints could hinder rather than help the cause.

b) At least we have The Governators support:
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/03/08/MNCHVG0SD.DTL

Huckabee Drops Out of Race

2008-03-04T20:56:00.000-08:00

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080305/ap_on_el_pr/huckabee_14

But don't expect the MSM (mainstream media) to admit that there is still another candidate up against McCain.

So with Romney and Huckabee out, do you really think all their delegates will support McCain? Nope. I already know many who are backing Ron Paul.

Our Clark County convention is this Saturday. We will be narrowing down our hundreds (thousands?) of Clark County delegates and alternates down to a smaller number who will proceed to the State Convention next month. The State Convention will further narrow things down to 37 who will go on to the National Convention in September.

It's not over folks. Far from it. It *is* still possible to win this thing but it will take all our prayers, energy and efforts. Keep donating what you can, keep doing what you can. We can take this thing. We may be a long shot but long shots do win!

Update:

2008-03-01T12:35:00.000-08:00

All has been pretty quiet on the Ron Paul homefront in Nevada.

Our County Convention is next Saturday. If you are a delegate, make sure you pay prior to the convention. If you are an alternate, be sure to show up! They have made all alternates into delegates! For more info, go here.

Other than that, I'm still keeping an eye on things while focusing on some personal stuff. The Democratic race is mildly amusing and I'll be interested in its outcome.

Did you hear Nader entered the race as in Independent? This one is a bit worrisome if John McCain gets the nomination and Ron Paul doesn't go independent. On one hand he will pull votes from the Democratic race which could swing it for the Republicans. On the other hand, having John "One-Hundred Year War" in office is a frightening thought.

I'm not giving up on the fact that Ron Paul does still have a chance, albeit a small one since most of his supporters no longer believe it. But the delegates are still there, we could still swing the convention not to mention we have more and more Romney delegates joining our ranks.

Also with John McCain's fundraising debacle being called into question, as well as his "alleged" consorting with an "alleged" woman who "allegedly" was a lobbyist who "allegedly" got McCain to do favors for her "alleged" friends, who knows if he'll be a viable option come September. It is still 6 months away folks and anything can happen!

If for some reason it doesn't, (my 8 year old son is convinced of voting fraud - I swear he didn't hear it from me!) I just don't know who I'll vote for.

Big government Republican or big government Democrat - they are both heading toward the same destination, just taking a different route to get there. I'm so tired of choosing the lesser of many evils.

Oh and for anyone concerned about the economy, send them to these two links:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=0EZeNulOz9E
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnijgIbm1qc

Finally some good interviews!

Ron Paul: Going the Distance

2008-02-12T00:06:00.000-08:00

Please be sure to watch this to the end; important info.

Is McCain electable?

2008-02-11T20:45:00.000-08:00

Along the lines of my previous post, comes this:

Does no one else in the Republican party see how easily we are handing over the elections?

Catching Wild Pigs

2008-02-10T15:41:00.000-08:00

There was a Chemistry professor in a large college that had some Exchange Students in the class. One day while the class was in the lab the Prof noticed one young man (exchange student) who kept rubbing his back and stretching as if his back hurt.
The professor asked the young man what was the matter. The student told him he had a bullet lodged in his back. He had been shot while fighting communists in his native country who were trying to overthrow his country's government and install a new communist government.

In the midst of his story he looked at the professor and asked a strange question. He asked, "Do you know how to catch wild pigs?"

The professor thought it was a joke and asked for the punch line.
The young man said this was no joke. "You catch wild pigs by finding a suitable place in the woods and putting corn on the ground. The pigs find it and begin to come everyday to eat the free corn. When they are used to coming every day, you put a Fence down one side of the place where they are used to coming. When they get used to the fence, they begin to eat the corn again and you put up another side of the fence. They get used to that and start to eat again. You continue until you have all four sides of the fence up with a gate in the last side. The pigs, who are used to the free corn, start to come through the gate to eat, you slam the gate on them and catch the whole herd.

Suddenly the wild pigs have lost their freedom. They run around and around inside the fence, but they are caught. Soon they go back to eating the free corn. They are so used to it that they have forgotten how to forage in the woods for themselves, so they accept their captivity."

The young man then told the professor that is exactly what he sees
happening to America. The government keeps pushing us toward
Communism/socialism and keeps spreading the free corn out in the form of programs such as supplemental income, tax credit for unearned income, tobacco subsidies, dairy subsidies, payments not to plant crops (CRP), welfare, medicine, drugs, etc. While we continually lose our freedoms - just a little at a time.

One should always remember, "There is no such thing as a free lunch!" Also, "You can never hire someone to provide a service for you cheaper than you can do it yourself.

Also, I hope you can see that all of this wonderful government "help" is a problem confronting the future of democracy in America. If you think the free ride is essential to your way of life then you will probably ignore this message, but God help you when the gate slams shut!

HSLDA Pushes Constitutional Amendment

2008-02-09T14:11:00.000-08:00

Mike Farris, of the HSLDA, is now pushing for a Constitutional Amendment to protect parental rights. This is a wolf in sheep's clothing and I'd like to briefly explain to you why we should NOT support this act.

1. Our constitution already protects our parental rights. Why the need to spell it out? Yes, our rights have come under attack but the real problem is not the Constitution but the myriad of politicians ignoring the Constitution. What our first goal should be is to protect our rights by protecting our Constitution.

2. When you demand an amendment, any amendment, you are inviting government into your homes, giving them too much information and too much say. Then you have to fight to force them out again. Our constitution states that while not all rights are not listed in the Constitution that does not negate them. But by allowing government to come in and rule on such a matter, gives them the right to turn the amendment down, which forces us all to acknowledge that the federal government has jurisdiction over our children.

3. Approximately 30 states have already called for a Constitution Convention (Con Con). Once such a convention is called, the Constitution is wide open for debate and changes, in every area. This is a very real and very scary possibility that can lead to some serious problems. It is important that we understand the possible implications of any amendment.

Please remind other homeschoolers and parents that our parental rights are already protected and that we do not need to invite the government into our personal lives to tell us so!

Do you want a Republican in office?

2008-02-09T00:03:00.000-08:00

Of everyone I've spoken to, I can say that the majority of us want a Republican in office. In fact, most people's primary goal is to get a Republican in office, even if the chosen nominee wasn't their first choice. Now with three Republicans left, I think it's time we start putting serious thought into our strategy.

According to The Pew Research Center(1), The Republican party has decreased in size, shrinking from 43% in 2002 to a low 35% in 2007. The Democratic party which was similar in size to "The Grand Ol' Party" in 2002 has increased to 50% of the population. Long story short: We're outnumbered, folks!

And now for the strategy: Out of the remaining Republican candidates - Huckabee, McCain and Paul - who is going to best represent the majority of the nation to win enough votes in November to secure the White House?

To understand this, we have to look to the key issues. Besides what the Onion News Network(2) comically refers to as the most important issue, I think it's obvious to say that for most Americans, their primary concerns are the Iraq war and the economy.

According to numerous polls(3), 57% of the nation say that going into Iraq was a mistake, while 64% currently oppose the war in Iraq, and 63% say that we should withdraw within a year or less. Will such a large disapproving majority of the nation vote for a candidate that supports the war in Iraq?

And considering the enormous cost of the war, I can unequivocally say a candidate's stance on the war is directly tied to a candidates stance on the economy. How can a person be strong on economic issues yet support the war when our nation is 9 trillion dollars in debt(11), our dollar's value is free-falling(12) and we are virtually bankrupt? Will the majority of the nation support a candidate who doesn't see we are falling into the trap of Bin Laden(4)?

So if getting a Republican in office is truly our first goal, shouldn't we look at who is most likely to receive the votes of the majority of American people, not just the Republicans (because remember, we're outnumbered)?

Huckabee and McCain both state their support for the war; McCain even going so far as to state he would stay there for "one hundred years or one million years" if he thought it necessary. Now whether or not we agree with this, it's obvious that the majority of the nation does not. So when these two candidates are put up against a Democrat that promises to bring the troops home, which of these do you think the majority of the nation is going to vote for?

Which leaves Paul. He voted against the war in Iraq, something that even anti-war/anti-Republican Clinton can't claim(5) and something that the inexperienced Obama admits to not being sure(6) of how he would have voted as he shared the same political views as Bush at the time.

Paul wants to bring the troops home in the fastest and safest way possible, something that both Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama have stated they can't promise to do for several years(7) and possibly not within their first term(8), a full five years from now. Again, we may not agree with this stance, but the overwhelming majority of the nation does.

So when placed against either inconsistent Democrats, Paul starts to look really good to voters in all parties. He represents true economic conservatism, the core beliefs of the Republican party and a foreign policy that resonates with the majority of the nation. There are no issues that he has flip-flopped on that can be drudged up, like with the other candidates. There is no dirty laundry that can be paraded through public. Just a solid, consistent and constitutional voting record and a message that can reach across party lines and secure us a shot at putting a Republican in office in 2009.

So ask yourself what is most important; nominating your favorite candidate at the risk of losing in November, or nominating a Republican that stands a good chance of siphoning votes from all parties?

You owe it to your party to think these things over. And you owe it to yourself to open-mindedly educate yourself on Ron Paul. Here's a great and easy way to start: Ron Paul Intro(9) and for those with some uncertainties, check out The Spins(10) page on that site.

For the future of the Republican party and ultimately our nation, I ask you to consider Ron Paul.

Please continue to send this forward to other Republicans. Information is golden and we deserve all of it before we make an educated opinion.

Links:

1 http://www.pollingreport.com/iraq.htm
2 http://youtube.com/watch?v=_9AH-ufAkCU
3 http://www.pollingreport.com/iraq.htm
4 http://www.cnn.com/2004/WORLD/meast/11/01/binladen.tape/index.html
5 http://harpers.org/archive/2007/05/hbi-90000033
6 http://www.cnn.com/POLITICS/blogs/politicalticker/2007/03/clinton-obama-aides-spar-over-iraq.html
7 http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/12/15/519023.aspx
8 http://www.factcheck.org/elections-2008/stuck_in_iraq.html
9 http://ronpaulintro.com
10 http://ronpaulintro.com/thespins.phtml
11 http://brillig.com/debt_clock/
12 http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0001519.html

"If you are lucky enough to find a way of live you love, you have to find the courage to live it." - John Irving

"Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom must, like men, undergo the fatigue of supporting it." - Thomas Paine

"The liberties of our country, the freedoms of our civil constitution, are worth defending at all hazards; it is our duty to defend them against all attacks." - Samuel Adams

"Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it Almighty God! I know not wht course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!" - Patrick Henry

"History convinces me that most bad government is the result of too much government." - Thomas Jefferson

"Liberty, when it begins to take root, its a plant of rapid growth." - George Washington

Romney to drop out!!

2008-02-07T10:51:00.000-08:00

Romney to drop out of race today!

Now the question remains, will Romney supporters support the true Constitutionalist or will they swallow their grudge against liberal McCain or liberal Huckabee and jump on the front-runner bandwagon?

Time will tell!

Paul Beats McCain in Maine and rakes in 35% of delegates!

2008-02-04T20:59:00.000-08:00

In the race for delegates, Ron Paul appears to closely trail Romney for first place.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 4, 2008

ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA – While most reports about this past weekend’s Maine Caucus focused on the purely symbolic presidential preference poll, in the meaningful race to secure delegates to the state convention Ron Paul is primed to finish second with likely 35 percent of the total delegates.

Delegates to the Republican National Convention in Minneapolis are elected by the state delegates. Internal results from 10 of 16 counties, including the largest cities of Portland, South Portland, Lewiston, Auburn, Augusta, Waterville, Bangor, and Brewer, show Ron Paul picking up 215 of 608 State Convention delegates so far reported, or 35%.

“Ron Paul’s strong second place finish in Maine, in which he beat John McCain, is proof that this race is far from over,” said Ron Paul campaign manager Lew Moore. “We’ll continue to battle for every delegate in this wide-open race for the Republican nomination.”

In the presidential preference poll, with 70 percent reporting, Ron Paul is in third place just two percentage points behind John McCain. However, the Maine preference poll is purely a beauty contest, and in the actual election of state delegates the so-called “frontrunner” McCain is far behind Ron Paul.

Clinton health plan may mean tapping pay

2008-02-03T10:55:00.000-08:00

WASHINGTON - Democrat Hillary Rodham Clinton said Sunday she might be willing to have workers' wages garnisheed if they refuse to buy health insurance to achieve coverage for all Americans.

The New York senator has criticized presidential rival Barack Obama for pushing a health plan that would not require universal coverage. Clinton has not always specified the enforcement measures she would embrace, but when pressed during a television interview, she said: "I think there are a number of mechanisms" that are possible, including "going after people's wages, automatic enrollment."

Read more here:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080203/ap_on_el_pr/campaign_rdp

How can you waste your voice?

2008-02-03T08:43:00.000-08:00

I'd like to take a moment to speak to all parties here - not just Paul supporters, not just Republicans. This is a message we all need to hear and absord and truly understand.

I've heard so much lately about "electibility".

"I like this person or that person, but I just don't think they are electible."

"I really agree with so-and-so but I don't think they stand a chance at winning so I'm going to vote for this other candidate."

I'm here to tell you that is the most errant believe pervasive in our nation today. Millions of people, dating back to the conception of our nation, have faught and died to give you your vote. Your vote is your voice and it is your vote that tells Washington what you believe and what you want. Your vote is not suppose to tell anyone what they think but what you think.

There is no such thing as a wasted vote. Let me repeat that, there is no such thing as a wasted vote.

Too many of this nation's citizens will look to the top-tier candidates and assume that any other vote is not worth being cast. But who decides who the top-tier candidates are? The mainstream media. That's right. At the beginning of this political process, bets were cast on who would be most liked. They guessed who might win! And we followed suit but voting for their guess.

This is not a beauty contest; we are not voting on who "looks like a president". This is not a popularity contest; the question on the ballot is not "Who do you think most other people will vote for?".

The question is "Who best represents your beliefs?" and that should be the only question you consider before marking that ballot.

We vote how we perceive our neighbors or the rest of the nation votes, while our neighbors and the rest of the nation are voting based on what they believe we think. Truly the blind leading the blind. If we are choosing how we think others will choose, we have already lost our voice in Washington. The mainstream media and the political powers-that-be have already won.

Here's a question: If the other candidate is "going to win anyway", why feel the need to jump on the bandwagon? Just so you can say you were part of the winning team?

It doesn't matter who you support, the idea is that you should support them. Not because they may or may not win. But because regardless of who does win, your opinion will show that person where the rest of the nation stands. Your opinion, saying this other person best represents me, will help to influence everyone who should be listening.

You think you'll waste your vote? You think they won't be listening? Then you might as well not vote at all, because it seems as if your neighbor already has it covered for you.

IMPORTANT: Help call CO supporters!

2008-02-02T13:32:00.000-08:00

If you would like to help call Colorado supporters, please email robert@ronpaul2008.com for details on how to help.

There is a website set up that gives you one person at a time, a personalized script and an easy way to confirm their support. All it requires is your computer (with internet obviously, a cell phone with free long distance and a nice speaking voice.

Email Robert now!

Prayer Bomb February 3-5th

2008-02-02T12:44:00.000-08:00

Grassroots activists are asking for a "Prayer Bomb" February 3-5 (Sunday thru Tuesday).

I don't usually Fwd stuff of a spiritual or religious nature, mainly because so many of my friends and acquaintances are so diverse in their beliefs. But I do believe that whether you believe in the Law of Attraction or the bible, whether your an athiest or a Christian or a Buddhist, everyone believes to some extent the power of prayer, meditation, or positive thought.

"Prayer" may not apply directly to your beliefs but the message certainly does. I for one believe it's time for us to start doing more of these kinda things, instead of focusing on the negativity we perceive to be given RP in the media and the debates. Negativity begets negativity. Let's stay on track with the positive!

Please spend time in prayer, meditation and positive thought this February 3-5th for Ron Paul's success, as well as his health, energy, motivation, determination and hope.

Bin Laden: Goal is to bankrupt U.S.

2008-02-02T12:42:00.000-08:00

http://edition.cnn.com/2004/WORLD/meast/11/01/binladen.tape/index.html

Al-Jazeera releases full transcript of al Qaeda leader's tape

Tuesday, November 2, 2004 Posted: 0107 GMT (0907 HKT)

(CNN) -- The Arabic-language network Al-Jazeera released a full transcript Monday of the most recent videotape from Osama bin Laden in which the head of al Qaeda said his group's goal is to force America into bankruptcy.

Al-Jazeera aired portions of the videotape Friday but released the full transcript of the entire tape on its Web site Monday.

"We are continuing this policy in bleeding America to the point of bankruptcy. Allah willing, and nothing is too great for Allah," bin Laden said in the transcript.

He said the mujahedeen fighters did the same thing to the Soviet Union in Afghanistan in the 1980s, "using guerrilla warfare and the war of attrition to fight tyrannical superpowers."
"We, alongside the mujahedeen, bled Russia for 10 years until it went bankrupt and was forced to withdraw in defeat," bin Laden said.

He also said al Qaeda has found it "easy for us to provoke and bait this administration."
"All that we have to do is to send two mujahedeen to the furthest point east to raise a piece of cloth on which is written al Qaeda, in order to make generals race there to cause America to suffer human, economic and political losses without their achieving anything of note other than some benefits for their private corporations," bin Laden said.

Al-Jazeera executives said they decided to post the entire speech because rumors were circulating that the network omitted parts that "had direct threats toward specific states, which was totally untrue."

"We chose the most newsworthy parts of the address and aired them. The rest was used in lower thirds in graphics format," said one official.

U.S. intelligence officials Monday confirmed that the transcript made public Monday by Al-Jazeera was a complete one.

As part of the "bleed-until-bankruptcy plan," bin Laden cited a British estimate that it cost al Qaeda about $500,000 to carry out the attacks of September 11, 2001, an amount that he said paled in comparison with the costs incurred by the United States.

"Every dollar of al Qaeda defeated a million dollars, by the permission of Allah, besides the loss of a huge number of jobs," he said. "As for the economic deficit, it has reached record astronomical numbers estimated to total more than a trillion dollars.

The total U.S. national debt is more than $7 trillion. The U.S. federal deficit was $413 billion in 2004, according to the Treasury Department.

"It is true that this shows that al Qaeda has gained, but on the other hand it shows that the Bush administration has also gained, something that anyone who looks at the size of the contracts acquired by the shady Bush administration-linked mega-corporations, like Halliburton and its kind, will be convinced.

"And it all shows that the real loser is you," he said. "It is the American people and their economy."

As for President Bush's Iraq policy, Bin Laden said, "the darkness of black gold blurred his vision and insight, and he gave priority to private interests over the public interests of America.
"So the war went ahead, the death toll rose, the American economy bled, and Bush became embroiled in the swamps of Iraq that threaten his future," bin Laden said.

U.S. government officials said Friday that the tape appeared to be authentic and recently made. It was the first videotaped message from the al Qaeda leader in nearly three years.

Romneyfacts.com

2008-02-01T13:01:00.000-08:00

Need some Romney facts? Good luck.

http://romneyfacts.com/

Get his quotes on many issues and see why it's not where he stands that bothers people, but how many places he seems to stand at once or how quickly he seems to jump from one side to the next, depending on who he is speaking with or to.

Want a sample?

Desire To Serve in Vietnam

Boston Herald, 5/2/94 in running for U.S. Senate in liberal Massachusetts:
"I was not planning on signing up for the military. It was not my desire to go off and serve in Vietnam..."

Boston Globe, 6/24/07 in running for Republican Presidential nominee:
"I longed in many respects to actually be in Vietnam and be representing our country there and in some ways it was frustrating not to feel like I was there as part of the troops that were fighting in Vietnam."

Check out more here: http://romneyfacts.com/

5 Million Dollar Boost

2008-01-31T11:56:00.000-08:00

Dr. Paul is asking for a 5 Million Dollar boost ASAP to be able to have a good showing on Super Tuesday (February 5th).

Many of us are giving on February 1st in honor of Dr. Paul and his wife, Carol's 51st anniversary.

Please do what you can to help spread this message to the two dozen states that vote next Tuesday.

Know Before You Vote

2008-01-30T17:27:00.000-08:00

One of the best voting guides I've seen:

http://knowbeforeyouvote.com/

And then there were four!

2008-01-30T16:52:00.000-08:00

Giuliani has backed out of the race and has endorsed McCain...no shocker there.

Huckabee is expected to drop out soon, but many commentators are saying he will not do it until after Super Tuesday to avoid his rival, Romney, getting his votes.

But the kicker is how all the news broadcasts keep repeating that it will soon be a two-man race.

Even now, after seven candidates have dropped out, after Ron Paul has broken record after record for fundraising and won nearly all straw polls, he still is getting ignored and labeled as the long shot?

Wasn't Giuliani given the title of front-runner not long ago? Maybe people should stop listening to the mainstream media for their political information. They obviously don't have their facts straight.

Ron Paul is one step closer to the national convention but remember, he can't do it without our continued support. And as much a we loathe the idea that campaigns revolve around money...well, until we can effectively change the game, we need to play by their rules.

The best thing we can do for Ron Paul now is to donate and donate regularly. It doesn't matter if all you can commit to is $20 a paycheck. That $20 (or whatever amount it is that you're comfortable with) is the best thing we can do to help propel him nationally.

Need something else to do? Encourage supporters in other states to canvass - it's a tried and true method that has shown to work. Also, if you hear a newscast or radio show that censors Ron Pul, call in or email and remind them he's not out of the race yet!

Our job in Nevada may be done for now but their is still a long way to go until we can breath easy.

Go Ron Paul!

HQ Update

2008-01-29T16:05:00.001-08:00

Call 4 Paul, Can you chip in?

2008-01-28T16:19:00.000-08:00

AL Republican Assembly Endorses Ron Paul

2008-01-27T15:08:00.001-08:00

The Alabama Republican Assembly endorsed Ron Paul at their state convention today in Birmingham.

The endorsement required a 2/3rds majority of registered delegates. Ron Paul received the 2/3rds on the first ballot! Mike Huckabee came in second.

Convention chair Elaine Little noted that, with the crowded field, it was unusual that an endorsement would be won on the first ballot.

The group also held a straw poll that was open to the public. The winner of the straw poll was Ron Paul, with 81%.

Liberty Tax - Spread the Word

2008-01-26T10:16:00.001-08:00

Well, here we are, about 12 days until Super Tuesday...

We just performed a medium moneybomb on the 21st of January and
produced 1.8 million dollars for the campaign.

Mitt Romney is buying the Presidency with his own money.
McCain just raised $7 Million over the last month.
Giuliani is broke.
Huckabee is broke.

McCain is surging in the polls and appears to be doing better in
the primaries.

We need to do something. If we sit and wait, we lose. If we
generate momentum we win.

We need to demoralize the other campaigns. We need to drive fear
into the hearts of the establishment and show that Ron Paul and his
supporters are fully committed are are ready to go the distance.

So here is the plan and we all need to participate:

On February 3rd (2 days before Super Tuesday) we will fund Ron
Pauls General Election. We will show our forward thinking and our
massive support for the freedom message. We need to attract the
previous Thompson voters, the previous Gravel voters, and now the
Kusinich voters to take a stand and not waiver.

The MoneyBomb(s) have been the most effective tool we have toward
showing support and driving a wedge into the minds of
the other campaigns. We are fighting a battle of ideologies, true
but on the ground, we are fighting a battle of wills.

Everyone wants to be on a winning team. This is why we must show
the other campaigns, and the undecided voters who is determined,
who has the loudest voice, who has the greatest backing, and who is
more determined to win.

On February 3rd. We need 20,000 (as many as possible) people to
donate $500 each. This mass donation event has been in stealth mode
so as not to attract the media who can then warp it to their
message. The intent is to "out of nowhere" produce a ridiculous
amount of support for Ron Paul. The "out of nowhere" is vital.

http://www.libertytax08.com is the website for the event.

This will take a small amount of work on your (our) part. If we
commit to at least 30 minutes of time each within the next two
days we can make this massive event happen.

Here is what is needed from each of us.

1. Set aside 30 minutes during the next two days to be in front of
your computer.

2. Start the clock on the half hour and proceed to visit as many
blogs, meetup group websites, message boards, comment sections as
possible. Visit politics oriented websites, conservative oriented
websites, Fred Thompson websites, Kucinich websites, Diggs,
MySpaces, Facebooks, etc.

3. Then send an email to a minimum of 10 other people. These people
should be friends of Ron Paul or emails gotten from freedom
movement websites. Could even be webmasters, or admin@something.com
addresses. Tell the folks you send an email to who you are and that
we are doing up a sneak moneybomb for Ron Paul. If they want to do
away with the IRS, now is the time to prove it. Paste the content
of this email to your own. - Bottom line is get the word out.

4. If you own a website, there are banners available on the
http://www.libertytax08.com site to use.

That is all that is required to pull in $10,000,000.00. (30 minutes
each).

I have sent this email to 800 of you, so collectively 800 folks
spending 30 minutes to get the word out this weekend creates 24,000
hours spent advertising the event

Maybe you do not want to partake in the event, maybe you don't have
$500 dollars, this is completely understandable. Please help
donating 30 minutes toward spreading the word.

Paul Claims Boondoggle on the Bayou

2008-01-24T20:45:00.000-08:00

ABC News' Z. Byron Wolf: Not too many people paid too much attention to the Louisiana Caucus on Wednesday. John McCain won and Ron Paul logged his second second place finish of the primarycaucus season after his showing at the Nevada caucus last Saturday.

For Paul, R-Tex., Louisiana is really more of a third place finish since finishing ahead of the winner, John McCain, was "uncommitted pro-life."

But the Paul campaign says they got second place and maybe should have gotten first.

In a statement this afternoon, they allege that Paul supporters were forced to file provisional ballots even when they were pre-registered as delegates for Paul and they accuse the Louisiana Republican party of changing the rules at the last minute.

Paul campaign statement:

The failure of the Louisiana GOP to properly determine who was and wasn't eligible to vote threw this entire process into disarray," said Ron Paul campaign manager Lew Moore. "The party needs to correct this mistake by counting all the votes immediately, and releasing the results."

Due to mistakes by the Louisiana GOP, hundreds of voters were forced to file provisional ballots, including nearly 500 that could change the outcome of the election. According to party officials, caucus locations relied on a voter list from November 1, 2007 despite the fact that under caucus rules, voters must have registered Republican by November 30, 2007.

In multiple instances, state-certified Ron Paul delegates that were on the ballot were forced to file a provisional ballot despite the fact they were pre-approved as delegates.

The Louisiana State GOP also changed the rules at the last minute to allow other candidates to file more delegates. At the time of the original January 10 deadline, Ron Paul had the largest number of delegates pledged to him. The party then changed the rules to give other candidates until January 12 to file more delegates.

It's a confusing process in Louisiana and a trip to the Louisiana Republican Party does not clear things up. They don't even assign numerical totals to show how big the gap between places one and two and three were. In fact, at the website, a statement from party chairman Roger Villere Jr. only says Paul "appear to have captured the next highest number of delegate positions."

But Villere did praise Paul's supporters for having dash.

"I applaud the supporters of Congressman Paul for their enthusiasm and superior organizational ability. Our Party needs the infusion of new activists who have both political skill and a passion for protecting the freedoms guaranteed to us by the Constitution," he said. "I left the caucus with a renewed commitment to promote our core Republican principles of limited government and individual freedom, thanks to the zeal displayed by Congressman Paul's Louisiana supporters," Villere says on the website.

According to the website, more than 10,000 Louisana Republicans met yesterday to elect delegates to their state convention. Those delegates, led by those currently lobbying for uncommitted, will ultimately award delegates to candidates for the Republican National Convention.

ABC News tried to speak to an official representative of the Louisiana Republican party, but the phone number listed on the website http://www.lagop.com rings busy.

Message from Campaign (with newest Endorsements)

2008-01-23T07:55:00.000-08:00

January 22, 2008

Yesterday, you raised over $1.85 million for Ron Paul. Congratulations, and thank you so much!

It's been a great few days to be a supporter of Ron Paul, and not only because of the successful fundraising day or our great second-place showing in Nevada.

On the endorsement front, Ron Paul has won the support of three significant public figures in the last two days.

Yesterday, former New Mexico Governor Gary "Veto" Johnson announced that he is supporting Dr. Paul for president. Governor Johnson is an icon to small-government conservatives and libertarians for his long-standing commitment to the principles of the Founders. You can read our press release here.

This morning, Ron Paul also received the glowing endorsement of Donald L. Luskin, a prominent financial commentator on CNBC and Chief Investment Officer for Trend Macrolytics LLC. You can read Don's editorial in National Review about why Ron Paul is right for America here.

Finally, Dr. Paul hosted a press conference this morning with well-known pro-life activist Norma McCorvey, better known as 'Jane Roe' from the infamous Supreme Court decision, Roe v. Wade.

Much more good news about the campaign is coming soon, and all of it is made possible by your support. Here are some ways that you can immediately help to keep building our momentum:

1. Become a Precinct Leader: We really need to fill spots for precinct leaders around the country. Outside of donating, this is the most critical thing you can do to get Dr. Paul elected. Help us by signing up in your area.

2. Spread the Word: We've created a great tool to help you get the word out to your friends about why Ron Paul should be our next president. Check it out here.

3. Donate: Keep in mind that we need financial contributions from our loyal supporters every day - and more so now than ever. Remember, there are an astounding 22 primaries and caucuses coming up on Super Tuesday. If you didn't get a chance to give yesterday, you still can help us compete in all of the upcoming primaries and caucuses by donating today: https://www.ronpaul2008.com/donate

Thanks again!

Jonathan Bydlak
Fundraising Director
Ron Paul 2008

P.S. For those of you who haven't heard, Mike Huckabee's campaign is broke and like Guilini is asking staff to go without pay. Don't let the same thing happen to Ron Paul. After all, where else would Mike Huckabee get all of his ideas? Contribute today!

And then there were five...

2008-01-23T07:25:00.000-08:00

Fred Thompson Quits Presidential Race
Jan 22 03:31 PM US/Eastern

NAPLES, Fla. (AP) - Former Tennessee Sen. Fred Thompson quit the Republican presidential race on Tuesday, after a string of poor finishes in early primary and caucus states.

"Today, I have withdrawn my candidacy for president of the United States. I hope that my country and my party have benefited from our having made this effort," Thompson said in a statement.

Thompson's fate was sealed last Saturday in the South Carolina primary, when he finished third in a state that he had said he needed to win.

In the statement, Thompson did not say whether he would endorse any of his former rivals. He was one of a handful of members of Congress who supported Arizona Sen. John McCain in 2000 in his unsuccessful race against George W. Bush for the party nomination.

The actor-politician best known as the gruff district attorney on NBC's "Law & Order" placed third in Iowa and South Carolina, two states seemingly in line with his right-leaning pitch and laid-back style, and fared even worse in the four other states that have held contests thus far. Money already tight, he ran out of it altogether as the losses piled up.

Thompson departs the most wide open Republican race in half a century; three candidates each having won in the six states that have voted.

In Florida, McCain, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney and former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani are battling for the lead ahead of its Jan. 29 primary, while former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee evaluates his next steps amid money troubles of his own.

[This article, of course, makes no mention of Ron Paul's successful fundraising and his gaining success. But we all know who the frontrunners are! I'm taking bets on who is next to leave the race - Guiliani and Huckabee. I'm going with the Mayor!]

Moving Forward!

2008-01-22T09:08:00.000-08:00

The Nevada caucus is over and despite Dr. Paul impressive showing, he still isn't getting the media coverage he deserves.

We're not done yet!

Louisiana holds in caucus on January 22nd (it's primary on Feb 9) with Hawaii, Florida and California following closely behind.

How can you help?

First commit to donating, even a small amount, every payday between now and Super Tuesday (Feb 5th). You can follow this link to signup:

Then check back here soon to read some others ways to help out these earlier primary/caucus states! (Don't forget to sread the word about Ron Paul's PayDay!)

Please Read

2008-01-21T09:56:00.000-08:00

My name is Vijay Boyapati, I'm Director of Operation Live Free or Die ( http://operationlivefreeordie.com/).

Some of you may remember me from the interview with Dr Paul at Google (skip to 42:31 in the interview - that's me).

I'm writing to you because we're at a turning point in Ron's campaign. In the short history of this Revolution we're in the best position we've ever been in. I don't mean to sound hyperbolic and nor am I exaggerating. Consider these facts:

- Two Republican Presidential candidates (Tancredo and Hunter) have dropped out of the race for want of both money and support. Along with Ron, Tancredo and Hunter were the only candidates truly strong on fixing illegal immigration. Illegal immigration is a huge issue for many voters, and Ron is now the only candidate left with a sterling record on the issue.

- Fred Thompson has had no successes in any states and finished a distant third in South Carolina where he needed a strong result. He has little money and no grassroots support. It's very likely that he'll drop out of the race in the near future.

- While both Huckabee and McCain have won some states, neither has established a clear lead. Neither has significant financial resources, and both will struggle to advertise in the super Tuesday states.

- Rudy Giuliani has chosen a very risky strategy of focusing his efforts on Florida, and has done abysmally in every other state. If he doesn't post a victory in Florida his campaign will essentially be dead.

All the while, Dr Paul has has built an enormous war-chest that will allow him to be among the very few candidates who can afford to advertise in a significant way in the huge super Tuesday states (California, Illinois, New York etc).

http://news.yahoo.com/s/thenation/20080120/cm_thenation/45272954

Further, only a small fraction of the total delegates necessary for the party nomination have been decided. The Republican race is still wide open. We still have a terrific opportunity to shock the media and the country with a strong showing.

This is not the time for despair. It is not the time for complacency. It not the time to abandon the American Revolution. Now is the time for our greatest effort in the glorious cause of human freedom.

So I ask each of you to help us deliver a third huge fund-raising day for Dr Paul on January 21st (this Monday) by promoting this effort as much as possible in your meetup group:http://freeatlast2008.com

The money we raise will allow Dr Paul to dominate the air-waves in the days leading up to super-Tuesday.

I also ask that you participate in a march in your city and contact your local press to let them know this is part of a national movement. Even if you're only able to march with 5 or 10 fellow supporters, you should do so. Together we'll show that ours is a national movement. That freedom is not forgotten in our beloved Republic. And that we will not stop the fight until our Government acknowledges our urgent entreaty: we demand liberty and justice for all Americans.

Sincerely,
Vijay Boyapati
Director of Operation Live Free or Die

[The Las Vegas MeetUp group is orchestrating a rally today at 3pm in front of the NYNY.]

Watch Caucus Results

2008-01-19T13:00:00.000-08:00

These sites are reporting the Nevada Caucus results and are updating as soon as the votes come in.

State Results:

http://www.nvgopcaucus.com/results

County Results:

http://www.nvgopcaucus.com/county

Something for all Ron Paul supporters to remember: Dr. Paul may not be coming in first but he has an overwhelming number of delegates; more than any other candidate. Finishing in the top three is great to ensure enthusiasm but delegates are the make-or-break.

Go Ron Paul!

McCain's Reckless "100 years in Iraq" Comment Endangers Americans

2008-01-18T15:25:00.000-08:00

In response to John McCain's comment at a recent town hall event that he would be fine with keeping American troops in Iraq for 100 - or even 1 million years - Republican presidential candidate Ron Paul issued the following statement:

"John McCain's statement in favor of keeping troops in Iraq for 100 years
or longer puts him out of sync with the majority of Americans, who want our
troops to come home. Further, his comments recklessly put America at risk as
such a statement will likely serve as a recruiting tool for Bin Laden and Al
Qaeda, who appeal to radicals and incite violence against Americans by claiming
that the US desires to occupy the Middle East indefinitely.

It is time to act in the true national security interest of the United
States and begin withdrawal from Iraq and the rest of the Middle East
immediately. Americans will be far safer under a pro-America foreign policy that
seeks to end the dangerous idea that the US should be the policeman of the
world.

Further, the financial costs of keeping troops in Iraq for a century would
be massive - in addition to the steep price in American lives. If John
McCain really wants such a long term presence, he needs to level with the
American people and tell them that his policy means we will not be able to
fulfill our obligations here at home."

According to quarterly FEC reports, Dr. Ron Paul is supported by more active duty and retired military retirees than any other candidate to be the next commander in chief. An investigation by the Houston Chronicle revealed that Congressman Paul received "more donations from current military and retired military than any other candidate."

Meet Ron Paul TODAY!

2008-01-15T11:24:00.000-08:00

Ron Paul will meet and greet local supporters at:

LOCATION:
Peter Piper Pizza
560 South Decatur (next to Arizona Charlie's)
Las Vegas, NV

TIME:
6:00pm - 6:45pm

The pizza place has been nice enough to allow us to meet Dr. Paul at their location for free so please help them out and make us look good by patronizing their establishment. Have fun, eat some pizza, meet Ron Paul and then ALL THOSE THAT ARE CENTRAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS can go next door to the meeting at Arizona Charlie's and support our candidate Robert Holloway for Chairman of the CCRCC!

Caucus and Primary Results

2008-01-13T18:11:00.000-08:00

Iowa: Ron Paul came in with 10% of the votes and 2 committed delegates. He ranked 5th place above Mayor Rudy Giuliani.

Wyoming: 2nd place! However he got zero delegates (that we know of). This is a great example of why you should become a delegate in NV! (Info on becoming a delegate in Clark County on this blog.)

New Hampshire: Ranked 5th place with 8% of the votes and an uncertain number of delegates. However, the Boston Globe is reporting a recount is to be done when several hundred people called the GOP and stated they voted for Ron Paul but their counties came back showing no votes for him. I'll update this recount info when I have substantiated details. (They are also recounting the Democratic side stating there are major discrepancies on both sides when it comes to machine counts vs hand counts, as well as missing votes completely.)

Important!

Our caucus is this Saturday, the 19th! You can go to http://locator.nvgopcaucus.com/ to find your precinct location. Please be sure to show up for this as some info I received prior stated that only delegates could vote for Ron Paul, when in fact the preference poll is open to all attendees. We need you there! Better yet, we need you to become a delegate so we don't have a repeat of what happened in Wyoming.

Need quick info about canvasing or the caucus? Check out this page for Clark County residents: http://ronpaullv.com/

Call the Clark County Ron Paul Headquarters at (702) 430-1407 for more info or to help the campaign in any way. Even a small amount of help is huge and much needed right now.

Dr. Paul coming to Nevada this week!

2008-01-13T09:19:00.000-08:00

Ron Paul will be visiting Nevada beginning today, January 13th. His trip through the Silver State will begin in Pahrump. Dr. Paul will visit with Nye County Republicans at the Bob Ruud Community Center in Pahrump, Nevada. The Community Center is located at 150 North Highway 160. The event will begin at 7 pm and end at 8:30 pm.

Dr. Paul will then head north to Reno for media events on the morning of Monday, January 14th. He will meet with supporters and undecided voters at a local restaurant. Then he will head south to Carson City to hold a rally at Comma Coffee at 312 South Carson Street. The media and the general public are invited to attend.

The next stop for the Texas Congressman will be in Las Vegas on Tuesday the 15th. He will meet with various media outlets in the morning. At 12:30 pm, Dr. Paul will attend the Third Tuesday Coalition Luncheon hosted by the Nevada Policy Research Institute, which will be attended by Clark County Republicans.

Later in the afternoon, Dr. Paul will meet with Nevada voters concerned about border security as well as some citizens' group leaders concerned about border security from Nevada and other western states at the Memphis Championship Barbecue in Las Vegas.

For additional details about Dr. Paul's trip to Nevada, please contact Jennifer Terhune, Ron Paul 2008 Nevada Communications Coordinator, in Reno at 775-741-9163 or Jeff Greenspan, Ron Paul 2008 Regional Campaign Coordinator, in Las Vegas at 602-690-4288.

A Great Resource

2008-01-08T21:33:00.001-08:00

This is a great resource for introducing freinds and family to Ron Paul's message:

http://www.ronpauldvdproject.com/themovie.php

It's a bit long but is truly eye-opening, informative and really fantastic! Despite the length I couldn't peel myself away from it.

Huckabee Not the Best for Homeschoolers

2008-01-08T20:46:00.000-08:00

Mary Pride, the publisher of Practical Homeschooling, recently published an article worth the time to read. I find it important to know our competition to be able to intelligibly stand up for our candidate, Ron Paul.

Read her article here: Huckabee Not the Best for Homeschoolers

Follow the link on the bottom of the article (or here) for a very good candidate comparison.

Send Your Endorsement!

2008-01-07T10:31:00.000-08:00

Message from Shana Kluck, National Coordinator of Homeschoolers for Ron Paul:

Let's show the world how many homeschoolers support Dr. Paul!

The campaign is going to add a "Homeschoolers Endorse Ron Paul" page to
their site. It would be great if every single one of you would send me a
short endorsement statement about why you, as a homeschooler, choose to support
Ron Paul. Include a short bio- names, state, how long you've homeschooled,
etc. If you know other homeschooling supporters that are not on this list,
please forward this info to them.

Please send your endorsement to [my email] with "Endorse" in the subject
line. I'm collecting them all and sending them to Jonathan Bydlak in a
single email. He's overwhelmed with the number of emails coming in from
other sources and we felt that this would make it easier for him.

Thank you!
Shana
shana@ronpaul2008.com

Important Info on the Issues

2008-01-07T09:01:00.000-08:00

Here are some links to Ron Paul's stance on the important issues that matter most to homeschoolers:

Parents must have control of education

Congratulating Home Educators and Homeschooled Students

Statement of Faith

[I thought this had posted several weeks ago but apparently did not. Sorry for the delay n the resources!]

Write the HSLDA!

2008-01-06T14:43:00.000-08:00

The HSLDA (Home School Legal Defense Association) has openly endorsed Mike Huckabee for the 2008 Presidential Election. I'm not going to mud-sling and i'm sure Huckabee always has the best intentions, but as Ron Paul says "The reality, though, is that parents - not "well-meaning" politicians - know what options are best for their kids' education."

Write the HSLDA about the beautiful glory that is Ron Paul!

Send your respectful thoughts to:

William A. Estrada

Director of Federal Relations

One Patrick Henry Circle

Purcellville, VA 20132

Phone: (540) 338-5600

Fax: (540) 338-8606

E-mail: federalrelations@hslda.org or if that doesn't work, Jim@hslda.org

For a sample letter visit the campaign website here.

Put On Your Walking Shoes!

2008-01-05T09:08:00.000-08:00

Ron Paul volunteers around Clark County are organizing a canvassing blitz and need your help! Canvassing is the tried and true way to reach voters and impact Clark County for Ron Paul. Canvassing entails knocking on the doors of your Republican neighbors and asking them for your (or someone else's) help in becoming a delegate.

I recently canvassed my precinct and was pleasantly surprised at the response. Even those who are not Ron Paul supporters are still friendly. And aside from those who have committed to supporting Ron Paul, I met some great neighbors!

If you have yet to walk your precinct, there are volunteers who can help tackle the job. Can you help others in return? In groups a precinct can easily be canvassed in just a few hours, several precincts in a weekend.

I will be heading out to help others canvas next weekend, January 12 and 13. I, and others, are willing to help you canvas your precinct, or if you're finished, welcome you to help others canvas theirs. Don't be afraid to ask!

If you would like to participate in the canvassing blitz, please contact me (via my email on my blog profile) or email local campaign staff and canvassing guru, Ted Keithly at ted@ronpaul2008.com for more details.

Added bonus! Get some cardio and fresh air!

Donate Today!

2007-12-31T09:36:00.000-08:00

Anyone that can afford $10, $20, $50, $100, (more?) scoot over to http://RonPaul2008.com/donate and help push Dr. Paul over the $20 million mark today!! Today is the last day of the fourth quarter, so donate before 9pm PST (midnight EST) to have your donation count for his 4th quarter contributions.

FYI: His 3rd quarter contributions hit just above $5 million. His goal for the 4th quarter was $12 million and many, many thought he wouldn't come close to meeting that goal.

LOL!

P.S. Copy and paste this and pass it forward.

Ron Paul Excluded - And What You Can Do About It

2007-12-30T14:16:00.000-08:00

December 28, 2007 10:39 pm EST
(http://www.ronpaul2008.com/press-releases/94/has-fox-news-excluded-ron-paul)

ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA – According to the New Hampshire State Republican Party and an Associated Press report, Republican presidential candidate and Texas
Congressman Ron Paul will be excluded from an upcoming forum of Republican
candidates to be broadcast by Fox News on January 6, 2008.

“Given Ron Paul’s support in New Hampshire and his recent historic
fundraising success, it is outrageous that Dr. Paul would be excluded,” said Ron
Paul 2008 campaign chairman Kent Snyder. “Dr. Paul has consistently polled
higher in New Hampshire than some of the other candidates who have been
invited.”

Snyder continued, “Paul supporters should know that we are continuing
to make inquiries with Fox News as to why they have apparently excluded Dr. Paul
from this event.”

Would you like to share your opinion of this decision with Fox News?

Here ya go:

yourcomments@foxnews.com, americasnewsroom@foxnews.com, beltway@foxnews.com, Myword@foxnews.com, yourwordlive@foxnews.com, bullsandbears@foxnews.com, cash@foxnews.com , Cavuto@foxnews.com, Fncimag@foxnews.com, Forbes@foxnews.com, Friends@foxnews.com, Feedback@foxnews.com, Jamie@foxnews.com, Fncspecials@foxnews.com, FNS@foxnews.com, Newswatch@foxnews.com, Foxreport@foxnews.com, Atlarge@foxnews.com, Hannity@foxnews.com, Heartland@foxnews.com, JER@foxnews.com, Lineup@foxnews.com, Martha@foxnews.com, Ontherecord@foxnews.com, Oreilly@foxnews.com, Redeye@foxnews.com, Special@foxnews.com, Studiob@foxnews.com, Comments@foxnews.com, Cavuto@foxnews.com, fergus@nhgop.org, marty.ryan@foxnews.com

Oh, advertisers too? Sure, here they are:

info@sepracor.com,
laurie@cosmo-pr.com,
investorrelations@lowes.com,
cfsa@multistate.com,
cbriscoe@archermalmo.com,
investorrelations@hertz.com,
customerservice@1800petmeds.com
• Crest Whitestrips & Dawn (both Proctor & Gamble) 513-983-1100
• Delphi (Driving Products) 1.888.809.9800
• Mercedes Benz 1-800-367-6372
• Comcast 1-800-COMCAST
• Subaru 1-800-782-2783
• GMC Suv's 1-800-551-4123
• Best Buy 1-888-237-8289
• Travelocity 1 888.872.8356
• Capzasin 1 (423) 822-5020
• New Phase
• Orbitz 1-888-656-4546
• Ditech.com 1-800-DITECH-3
• eloan.com (415) 786-3317 Laurie Azzano laurie@cosmo-pr.com
• Toyota 1 800-331-4331
• Centrum (Wyeth) 1-800-322-3129
• Nextel (aka Sprint)1-800-639-6111
• Vehix.com 1.866.698.3449
• Gold Bond (Chattum) 423-821-4571
• Aspercreme
• webmd.com via email or webmd.com via other (212) 624-3700
• American Express 1-877-877-0987, 1-800-525-3355
• Holiday Inn Express 1 800-315-2621
• M Professional unk
• priceline.com 1-800-774-2354
• L. L. Bean 1-800-441-7513
• Jet Dry (Dishwasher Products) 1-800-820-8939 Chemistry (Matchmaking Web Site)
• Bankrate.com (Mortgages)
• Cars Direct.com

Remember: Keep your opinions civil and well-written. Share how you feel and invite them to correct their "oversight". Let's get RP in the forum.

Crash Course in Politics

2007-12-25T19:46:00.000-08:00

If you're like me you are strong in your convictions for supporting Dr. Paul but are being asked questions that are very new to you. As I and many others have said, Paul has cured my apathy. Before him I had no clue and no desire to know any of the info being asked of me by non-Paulites. This video has not only educated me and enabled me to answer the tougher questions, but succeeded in further cementing my feet in the Paulite camp.

Check out this great video, http://www.ronpauldvdproject.com/themovie.php

Fantastic information that covers the bases. You can order the DVD to give to others or just use it for those conversations that may otherwise go over your head.

TIME notices Dr. Paul

2007-12-25T19:27:00.000-08:00

TIME magazine recently recognized Dr. Ron Paul as one of their Person of the Year: People Who Mattered in 2007.

Booed by Republicans for his isolationist foreign policy views and anathema to
Democrats for his anti-government philosophy, the Texas congressman was proudly out of step with both political parties. But marching to his own drummer, the grandfatherly libertarian found himself leading an online parade. Millions of
dollars poured into his quixotic presidential campaign, raising an inevitable
question: What's next for this free-thinking and strangely compelling grassroots
crusader?

Who next to sit up and notice the good doc?

Have you registered to vote?

2007-12-18T10:37:00.000-08:00

The deadline to register to vote is tomorrow, Wednesday December 19th!

Remember: To vote for Ron Paul in NV you must be registered Republican!

Let's turn Congressman Ron Paul's record-breaking fundraiser day (over $6 million in one day!!) into a record-breaking number of votes!

To see what else you can do for Ron Paul, read this.

Happy Ron Paul Tea Party Day!

2007-12-16T12:13:00.000-08:00

I hope you are all enjoying the Ron Paul Tea Party as much as I am! To view graphs and specifics for the donations that are pouring in, visit http://ronpaulgraphs.com or you can watch the numbers climb on the campaign's homepage.

To take part of the history-making event, donate at http://RonPaul2008.com/donate. Be sure to have your camera ready so you can click a pic of your name on the home page!

If you are in Las Vegas, join us for the Las Vegas Tea Party, http://lasvegasteaparty07.com

If you're in Reno, join their rally at Dreamers, 17 S. Virginia St Reno , NV 89501

Have fun today!!

An Open Letter to Homeschoolers

2007-12-15T12:31:00.000-08:00

Wonderful letter for all to read: http://www.lewrockwell.com/fisk/fisk32.html

[Excerpt]

Like me, you probably view any government involvement in your children's
education with a jaundiced eye. We've seen the literacy and graduation rates
plummet year after year in our nation's public schools while special interest
groups constantly pass blame for this onto parents, taxpayers and a lack of
enough centralized control.

HSDLA has for over two decades been a great help to homeschoolers and
has advocated against those who have stood in opposition to our goals. Their
staff members advised my family when local Child Protective Services personnel
wanted to investigate a mother who we'd taken in. Their advice was invaluable
and saved us from a potentially perilous situation. But the advice they are
providing with regard to the Presidential election is a poor example of
scholarly research and appears to run counter to the ideals they've promoted for
so many years.

[End Excerpt]

Please read this letter and pass it on to others, including the HSLDA.

Four Steps for Homeschoolers

2007-12-13T21:03:00.000-08:00

We as homeschoolers have a unique ability and motivation to help this campaign. Let's let everyone know that homeschoolers helped take Nevada for Ron Paul!

1) Register Republican and commit to becoming a delegate. If you are not comfortable with the idea of switching political parties, remember the switch can be a temporary one but being a Republican delegate is the only way you can vote for Ron Paul. The deadline to change party affiliations is December 19th, so hurry!

2) Canvass your precinct (neighborhood) for Ron Paul. This is the single most important thing you can do. Visit RonPaulLV.com for info on the best was to do this (or visit your local MeetUp group for tips for your hometown). This will also help ensure your spot as a delegate.

3) Write the HSLDA. Respectfully tell them how you feel about Huckabee, his NEA endorsement, and his HSLDA endorsement. Speak of the glorious wonder of Ron Paul. Keep it brief, informative with sources (links are provided in this blog) and respectful. The HSLDA can be reached here:

William A. Estrada
Director of Federal Relations
One Patrick Henry Circle
Purcellville, VA 20132
Phone: (540) 338-5600
Fax: (540) 338-8606
E-mail: federalrelations@hslda.org AND info@hslda.org

4) How many people do you know of that don't know who Ron Paul is? Not sure? Find out! Send your local support groups a personal endorsement for Ron Paul (read my personal endorsement here for info and inspiration - feel free to use any or all of it in your own). While you're at it, email friends and family asking them to support your homeschooling rights by supporting Ron Paul.

Set yourself a goal to accomplish these four steps within the next month. If every RP homeschooler in NV did these four steps we could bring hundreds more to this message of liberty. Statistically, each one of us has the potential to bring a minimum of ten more into the grassroots campaign. But each of them can bring ten more, and so on!

Let's make our presence known in this campaign!

Message from Headquarters

2007-12-13T20:30:00.000-08:00

Dear Las Vegas Ron Paul Meetup Members:

Thank you so much for all you've done to build excitement for Ron Paul in Las Vegas. Your efforts are much appreciated, however...

WE ARE NOT DONE WITH YOU YET!

As a matter of fact, now is the time when we need your time and energy more than ever! All our efforts will be to no avail if we do not get Ron Paul the republican nomination! To do this, we need reliable, committed volunteers to keep the Head Quarters on Sahara buzzing from now until January 19th!

So please, if you want to have Ron Paul as your next President - THE TIME TO ACT IS NOW!!!!

1) Email Arden Osborne : arden@ardenguy.com

2) Put in subject line: HQ Volunteer

3) Give us your name and phone number and how manyhours we can count on you to help with phone banking, canvassing or data entry.

It's that easy. We will contact you to schedule a time that fits you best.

Thank you again for all you've done so far and LET'SDO IT! TODAY!!!

[If you are not a part of the Las Vegas Meetup group, I encourage you to check them out here.]

Conflict of Interest?

2007-12-11T10:41:00.001-08:00

Everyone should know by now that the HSLDA (Homeschool Legal Defense Assoc) has endorsed Huckabee for the 2008 Presidential Election despite his unsteady record for homeschoolers.

Now Huckabee has a new endorsement: The NEA.

Yup, that's right. The same NEA that calls homeschoolers "wannabe teachers" and "gullible" and then goes on to conclude"They would be wise to help their children and themselves by leaving the responsibility of teaching math, science, art, writing, history, geography and other subjects to those who are knowledgeable, trained and motivated to do the best job possible." [Source:http://www.nea.org/espcolumns/dv040220.html]

Doesn't it seem a bit like a conflict of interest that Huckabee be endorsed by two opposing forces? Where does his true allegiance lie?

I'd say with the NEA. Huckabee opposes school vouchers, supports nationalization of education and was the first governor to pass restrictions on homeschoolers in Arkansas. Not exactly homeschool friendly.[Source:http://www.hslda.org/courtreport/v15n3/V15N3AR.asp?PrinterFriendly=True]

Here's what you can do to help:

Write the HSLDA with this information and your opinions. Keep it friendly and informational but encourage them to reevaluate their candidate. And encourage them to evaluate Dr. Ron Paul - "The Homeschoolers Best Friend".

You can contact the HSLDA by these means:

William A. Estrada
Director of Federal Relations
One Patrick Henry Circle
Purcellville, VA 20132
Phone: (540) 338-5600
Fax: (540) 338-8606
E-mail: federalrelations@hslda.org

Ron Paul Las Vegas HQ Open House

2007-12-07T23:21:00.001-08:00

Ron Paul 2008 Nevada Headquarters Is Open For Business!

We invite you to attend a working open house on Saturday, December 8th from 6 PM to 10 PM to come down to the headquarters and learn EXACTLY how we can achieve our goal of getting Congressman Paul the Republican Nomination in Nevada!

Address:
438 E Sahara Ave 89104 (just East of Paradise)
Google Map

It is important to note that this is not going to be a social gathering, but an opportunity to familiarize yourself with the mechanisms in place to most efficiently and effectively become a delegate in your precinct and find other like-minded supporters of Ron Paul to bring them on board!

Help us restore HOPE FOR AMERICA!

Hope to see you there! Call, Arden Osborne: 702.808.1163 with any questions!

(The HQ is looking for donated supplies and services. If you have supplies you can donate or office services that may be of assistance, please contact the HQ for details.)

Tea Anyone?

2007-12-06T16:44:00.000-08:00

Las Vegas will be holding a Ron Paul Tea Party on December 16th from 3:00 to 6:00 pm. This is to commemorate the Boston Tea Party and the massive fundraiser efforts at http://teaparty07.com/.

It is still in the initial planning stages but is already looking BIG! Costumes, readings of the Declaration of Independence, flag and sign wavings and a march from the Fremont Street Experience's Neonopolis to the downtown IRS building for a mock "tea dumping". We'll be carrying tea bags and boxes decorated to look like crates of tea!

A web page has been created just today and will be expanded on soon, http://www.lasvegasteaparty07.com/

I'll be sure to update you all on progress as soon as I know more! To be a part of the planning, join the Las Vegas MeetUp Group and jump right into the action!

Cancelling a Straw Poll?

2007-12-05T18:04:00.000-08:00

San Franscisco cancelled their Straw Poll due to "to many Ron Paul supporters". What?!

Here's the video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_GADQv3vKs

Did you hear her at the end saying she "didn't expect that many"? What?!

Share your thoughts (outrage, disbelief) on the matter by mail, fax, phone or email:

San Francisco Republican Party
PO Box 475520,
San Francisco, CA 94147
Phone: (415) 989-1259
FAX: 415-989-1259
Email: contact@sfgop.org

Spread this around to other Ron Paul supporters, ask for their help in protesting the decision made.

Five for Freedom

2007-12-04T15:09:00.000-08:00

As most of you know, New Hampshire is one of the first state to hold its primary, January 8th.

Their goal is to canvass the state, spreading Dr. Paul's message and gaining support.

Here's an exerpt from http://www.fiveforfreedom.com/

Today we face a matter of utmost urgency in our campaign to get Dr Paul
elected as President of the United States.

We are just weeks away from the New Hampshire primary, which is the first and most important primary in the election. The New Hampshire primary is extremely important in the Presidential election because it sends a message to the other states about who the leading candidate is. We cannot afford anything but a super strong result in that first primary, or all may be lost. So I ask for your help.

We need volunteers to come to New Hampshire in the days and weeks before the primary to assist in canvassing the entire state.. Together we raised 4.2 million dollars in 24 hours on November 5th, in a money bomb that shocked the media and the country. Now we need to shock the country with a volunteer bomb.

If you are able to come to New Hampshire, I urge you to sign up to volunteer: http://www.operationlivefreeordie.com/volunteer.html

If you are unable to come, I ask that you pledge $5 for freedom on December 5th, to help the grassroots movement in New Hampshire house volunteerswho will be flocking to the state from all over our Republic. The number of volunteers we can bring to New Hampshire will be directly related to how much we can raise to house those volunteers. http://www.operationlivefreeordie.com/donate.html

With your help, we can bring enough volunteers so that we can reach out to every single citizen in New Hampshire and share with them why Dr Paul's message is most compatible with the principles of their state - the Live Free or Die state.

sincerely,

Vijay Boyapati, Director of Operation Live Free or Die.

Commit to donating $5.00 on December 5th! Remember, you are not donating this
$5.00 to the campign but at http://www.operationlivefreeordie.com/donate.html

The Single Most Important Move

2007-12-03T15:10:00.000-08:00

All the grassroots campaigning is crucial; waving or posting signs, talking to friends, family, neighbors, and donating money are all important to the Ron Paul campiagn.

But there is one thing, that can easily be identified as the single most important thing to do for Ron Paul.

Ron Paul needs delegates in Nevada.

Don't know what a delegate is? A delegate is the only person that can vote for Ron Paul. And in your voting precinct there will only be a select number of delegates.

Can you become a delegate for Ron Paul or support a delegate in your precinct? It only requires a small amount of time and the possibility of a small fee but will be the only thing that matters in getting Ron Paul the Republican nomination.

If you'd like information on becoming a delegate for Ron Paul or would like help in doing so, contact me via email.

Again, it does not matter what we do for Ron Paul if we do not get him delegates.

Dear Homeschooling Friends

2007-12-01T20:48:00.000-08:00

Hello! My name is Tara Wagner and I'm a homeschooling mom in Las Vegas, NV. I am enthusiastically supporting Congressman Ron Paul in the 2008 Presidential Election and I want you to know why.

I believe Dr. Paul is the strongest supporter of homeschooling freedom in the race for President. His record of fighting for individual liberty in all arenas is the best of any of the candidates now seeking the presidency, and I know he would make the finest President homeschoolers could hope for.

He has been a powerful advocate of homeschooling and educational freedom, speaking on numerous occasions on his support and respect of homeschooling families - http://youtube.com/watch?v=nQP5KVM5tB8 - and having introduced the Family Education Freedom Act which would return to parents the freedom to teach their children at home and in the manner they think best by providing a tax credit of up to $3,000 for homeschoolers and other parents to assist in making homeschooling an affordable choice. [Source: http://www.house.gov/paul/congrec/congrec2000/cr092600.htm]

As the "Champion of the Constitution", he has never voted to raise taxes, never voted to raise congressional salary, and never cast an unconstitutional vote. In 20 years in congress, his consistency and integrity have been unmatched and unwavering, as he remains steadfast in his stance on important issues, returns a portion of his congressional budget back to the U.S. Treasury every year and refuses to take part in his congressional pension plan.

For those who already know and love Dr. Paul, I'd like to invite you to subscribe to my blog, http://www.NVHSforRonPaul.blogspot.com . I'm doing my best to keep it updated with new info, as well as anything that needs support or action by homeschoolers or others on a national or local level. On the left side of the website is a box where you can subscribe via email so that you are notified of new posts. This is the easiest way to keep updated as to new information, rallies, articles, etc.

If you would like more information regarding Congressman Ron Paul's stance on other important issues, please visit the links below my signature or you may call or email me personally with your questions. You may feel free to forward this information on to any other group(s) or person(s) that you believe may be interested or I would be happy to speak at any group meeting or supply you with personalized packets regarding Ron Paul.

Important steps are needed to ensure his success and your participation is crucial! I urge you to join me in supporting Congressman Ron Paul, "The Homeschooler Best Friend", in the 2008 Presidential Campaign.

Tara Wagner, Mother and LMT(702) 785-2735taraewagner@yahoo.com
"The reality though is that parents - not well-meaning politicians - know what options are best for the kids education." - Dr. Ron Paul

Links to Learn More:

Statement of Faith- http://www.ronpaullibrary.org/document.php?id=916
Paul Praises Homeschoolers-http://www.house.gov/paul/press/press2000/pr092700.htm
Intro to Family Education Freedom Act- http://www.ronpaullibrary.org/document.php?id=654
Statement on No Child Left Behind-http://www.ronpaullibrary.org/document.php?id=781
Homeschoolers Lose Ground with Huckabee-http://www.hslda.org/courtreport/v15n3/V15N3AR.asp?PrinterFriendly=True

If you would like to know where Dr. Ron Paul's stands on other important issues, please visit: http://www.ronpaul2008.com/issues/

Join other local Ron Paul supporters: http://RonPaul.MeetUp.com/

Ron Paul on The View!

2007-11-30T17:55:00.000-08:00

I'm very excited about this! ABC's "The View" has been very supportive of Ron Paul on past episodes and many people, including myself, have emailed them to request his presence on the show. They listened!

Ron Paul will be on ABC's "The View" on Tuesday December 4th, 2007.

In Reno this will air on KOLO channel 8 at 3pm.

In Las Vegas, it will air on KTNV channel 13 at 10am.

Be sure to tune in and show support for Ron Paul! (If you're not from Nevada, go here to find your local air times.)

Oh and here's a very interesting clip of Rosie, Joy and the other hosts discussing Ron Paul:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=D6SfmXigHpE

Rudy's Reading List

2007-11-30T14:36:00.000-08:00

November 30th (today!) is the grassroots fundraising effort for Dr. Ron Paul: http://RudysReadingList.com/

The goal is to get the point across that Guiliani has a lot to learn about foreign policy. ;-) The media has been informed and will be watching. Let's not let them down!

They are asking for $100.00 donations, but give all you can ($5.00, 20.00, 200.00). On November 5th a similar fundraising effort was made, raising Ron Paul $4.3 million dollars and earning us twice that in free publicity!

The next big donation day (a.k.a. "Money Bomb") is December 16th to commemorate the Boston Tea Party. Check it out here: http://TeaParty08.com

Pass this on to other pro-liberty friends and family!

GQ's "Dark Horse of the Year"

2007-11-27T16:18:00.000-08:00

In the most recent issue of GQ (Gentlemen's Quarterly Magazine) which hit newsstands today (11/27/07), Ron Paul has been honored as one of it's men of the year. Distinguished as “Dark Horse of the Year” among a small and select group of 38 entertainers, athletes, politicians, and other icons, Congressman Paul is the sole 2008 presidential candidate to have been selected.

“Dr. Paul is humbled and honored to be chosen as a ‘man of the year,’” said Paul campaign spokesman Jesse Benton. “According to GQ, Dr. Paul is the dark horse to win the presidency, and with support steadily rising each day, we are moving closer to winning the Republican Party nomination.”

Dr. Paul Has Cured My Apathy!

2007-11-27T14:52:00.000-08:00

My knowledge or experience in politics is, to be kind, minimal. I'm not stupid, I've just surrendered to a willing ignorance under the guise of "There's no point". I've identified myself as a Republican Libertarian (or a Libertarian Republican, depending on which one resonates best with you) and sufficed myself with voting on the issues. I didn't want to vote for the people, because I personally don't like choosing "the better of two evils".

I heard of Ron Paul in June of 2007 on a Libertarian forum. Hmm, Libertarians like a man that's not Libertarian? That piqued my curiousity enough to delve in further and I was surprised to find what I did.

A politician, in congress for 20 years with the consistency to never cast an unconstitutional vote and the integrity and ethics to turn down his pension plan, never vote for a congressional pay raise and give part of his salary back to the U.S. Treasury every year. What?! How did I not know such a man existed?

From that moment on, I was sold on Ron Paul. Yes, it helped that I agreed with him on the hot button issues, but the fact that I could trust him with those issues was key in convincing me. I hear people say "The message, not the man". But I have to say it's just as much the trustworthiness of the man carrying the message, as it is the message itself.

Now I'm not anyone special. I'm a woman who suffered through public education for 10 years before unschooling through high school. I'm a mom who unschools her 8 year old son and wants him to grow up in a free country. I'm a self-employed individual and wife to a hard working man who wants to be able to keep what we earn. I'm ignorant in the ways of politics and our governmental systems. But I'm a life-long learner who is dedicated to making an impact.

If you had told me a year ago that I would be involved with a political campaign in any way, I would not have believed it. But since latching on to his name, I've joined the Las Vegas MeetUp group, participated in rallies, donated money, talked the ears off of friends and family (and store clerks and strangers on the street and mild acquaintances) and now I'm taking it a step further.

I've become the official Nevada State Coordinator of Homeschoolers for Ron Paul. Wow. That's so cool, I'm stunned into solemnity. I'm even going to have my name on the campaigns website. Now that is freakin' sweet. I'm told my job will be to gather contact information for homeschool organizations (and the like) and win them over for Ron Paul. I can do that. Not because I'm a public speaker or well-versed in this arena. But because I love the message and the man who carries it.

I'm doing my part. And this blog will be my voice and my way of updating other Nevadan Homeschoolers and Unschoolers as to information regarding the campaign, the grassroots efforts and ways to help.

If you have questions, advice or wish to help, please let me know!

Tara Wagner
Nevada State Coordinator
Homeschoolers for Ron Paul