GOVERNMENT & POLITICS

We appreciate you giving us the opportunity to meet your transportation needs. As you are shopping for a vehicle, please consider these facts about Toyota of Stuart that will help you make a well informed purchase decision:

New “MOVERS” voter mobilization plan targets 8 battleground states

WASHINGTON – American Crossroads, the new conservative political action organization, today announced plans to spend more than $10 million on an extensive get-out-the-vote (GOTV) plan called “MOVERS” – Mobilizing Our Voters to End Reckless Spending. The MOVERS program will be augmented by GOTV activities in these and other states by other independent groups that are working with American Crossroads.

American Crossroads will be targeting eight states, including Florida. In each of the eight target states, American Crossroads will use enhanced voter files and data on absentee ballot and early voting patterns to deliver absentee ballot mailers with chase calls, early voting notifications by mail and phone calls, and a 72-hour mail and phone call blitz prior to Election Day. Target universes for the program include high, medium and low propensity Republican voters, as well as high propensity independent voters.

“We have an unprecedented opportunity to restore balance and fiscal responsibility to Washington this fall,” said Steven Law, president and CEO of American Crossroads. “To do that, American Crossroads will conduct an intensive turnout effort and work closely with other independent partners on mobilizing our voters to end reckless spending.”

Targeted voters in Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Kentucky, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire and Washington State will receive multiple contacts and follow-ups through the American Crossroads “MOVERS” GOTV plan. View additional details and MOVERS graphics at www.americancrossroads.org.

American Crossroads is a non-profit 527 political organization dedicated to renewing America’s commitment to individual liberty, limited government, free enterprise and a strong national defense through informed and effective political action. American Crossroads seeks to educate and empower citizens to hold lawmakers and office-seekers accountable for where they stand. Paid for by American Crossroads. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee. www.americancrossroads.org

For more information or to arrange an interview, contact Jonathan Collegio at jacollegio@americancrossroads.org or (202) 559-6424.

Martin Memorial Health Systems based in Stuart, Florida, is comprised of two hospitals, three MediCenters, and numerous centers and clinics. The system is a not-for-profit, community-based health care organization that offers preventative, primary and acute hospital care, as well as cancer care, wellness and rehabilitation services, and much more.

Visit Martin Memorial Helth Systems on the Web

In photo: Chrlie Crist

Empty Crist Event Caught On Video

Miami, FL – After flipping and flopping on ObamaCare yesterday and now with six different positions on the health care law, Charlie Crist decided to duck the media after meeting with realtors last night. At 10:00 p.m., Orlando FOX was left wondering “what happened to the governor’s scheduled press availability.” Watch the report here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtsLoYeh5z0. However, Crist isn’t just avoiding Florida media. He’s also avoiding appearing at next Sunday’s debate on NBC’s “Meet the Press”.

With his six positions on ObamaCare, repeated contradictions and flip-flops on virtually every issue, and a long record of saying and doing anything to win an election, sitting across a table from David Gregory or answering questions from Orlando Fox are probably the last things Crist wants to do.

Out2 is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County

"Martin County's Photo Journal"

Visit photo archive

The Pelican Cafe sits directly on water next to the Roosevelt Bridge. The view is excellent and you can watch boats go by or walk out on the foot bridge. The Stuart shuttle will drop you off right at the Pelican Cafe and take you back to other downtown areas.

Cafe Hours Monday - Wednesday 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Thursday - Saturday 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Breakfast - Thursday to Saturday 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, Sunday 7:00 AM to Noon

Call 772-283-3133

Stuart, FL, August 10 – Martin County Commissioner Ed Ciampi joined the board of the Corridor Advocacy Group for the Martin Grade Scenic Highway in July. “This spectacular road is truly unique and I am very proud to be a part of helping the Martin Grade become designated as a scenic highway,” said Ciampi.

“We are very excited to have Commissioner Ciampi as a board member, he is so enthusiastic about this project and will be a great asset to our group,” said Mary Dawson, chairman of Sustaining Community Lands, the non-profit organization managing the Martin Grade scenic highway project.

The group has submitted the scenic highway eligibility application and is entering the second phase of the process, said Dawson. “In this phase, we will be writing a plan to protect the trees, bringing together a citizens’ group and setting up the plan for funding,” explained Dawson.

Information about the Martin Grade Scenic Highway project can be found at www.sclands.org.

We are part of the Molly Maid network, but we're also a small business with close ties to the neighborhoods we serve. We invite you to contact us today for a free in-home consultation and house cleaning estimate.

Contact Jeff & Caren Endriss at 772 – 463 – 1882

By MIKE SCHNEIDER and JEANNINE AVERSA Associated Press Writers

After easing for four months, the nation's economic stress worsened in June because more bankruptcies in the West and foreclosures outside the Sun Belt outweighed lower unemployment, according to The Associated Press' monthly analysis of conditions around the country.

The setback halted a drop in month-to-month stress readings that had begun in February. In May, economic stress had declined from the previous month in 33 states. And in April, stress fell in every state but two.

But in June, bankruptcy rates rose in Utah, California, Colorado and Idaho. Higher foreclosures spread to the Midwest, particularly Illinois. This occurred even as foreclosures eased in states that have suffered most from the housing bust, such as Arizona, California, Florida and Nevada.

More than two-thirds of the nation's 3,141 counties, and 37 of 50 states, endured more hardship in June than in May, the AP's Economic Stress Index shows.

The AP's index calculates a score for each county and state from 1 to 100 based on unemployment, foreclosure and bankruptcy rates. A higher score indicates more economic stress. Under a rough rule of thumb, a county is considered stressed when its score exceeds 11.

The AP's index found the average county's Stress score in June was 10.5, up from 10.3 in May. About 42 percent of the nation's counties were found to be stressed. That was slightly higher than May's reading of 40 percent.

The reversal of improvement reflects a slowing economy.

"The U.S. recovery has lost momentum as of midyear and is struggling to find its footing," said Lynn Reaser, chief economist at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego and president of the National Association for Business Economics.

Risks to the recovery are growing. Unemployment is stuck near double digits. The ailing housing market is pressuring home values. The stock market has been roiled by Europe's debt crisis and concerns about the U.S. recovery.

As consumer confidence has sunk, shoppers have cut back on borrowing and spending. Even though they're sitting on record piles of cash, businesses, too, are wary. They're not using their money to expand operations or increase work forces shrunk by the recession.

Unemployment rates fell in most states in June, but it was mainly because more people gave up searching for work and were no longer counted in the labor force.

The most economically stressed states became more so in June, the AP's analysis found. Nevada, with a score of 21.93, again led the nation as it has for more than a year. It was followed by Michigan (16.52), California (16.32), Florida (15.6) and Arizona (15.13).

The healthiest state was again North Dakota (4.83). Next came South Dakota (5.02), Nebraska (6.22), Vermont (6.5) and Wyoming (7.33).

All but six of the 56 counties along the Gulf Coast in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas endured higher economic stress in June. But since the BP oil spill, the economies in the region haven't fared the same, according to the AP's index.

All of coastal Louisiana's parishes have endured higher economic stress since April. So have all but one of the 17 coastal counties in Texas and two of the three in Mississippi. Higher unemployment is the main reason.

By contrast, Alabama's two coastal counties have seen declines in economic hardship, along with more than half the 23 Florida counties on the Gulf Coast. The improvements result mostly from lower unemployment and fewer foreclosures.

In the past several months, Nevada, Utah, Arizona and California in the West have joined Georgia, Tennessee and Alabama in the Southeast among the states with the highest rates of bankruptcy filings. The Southeastern states have perennial high rates of bankruptcy.

But among the Western states, the higher bankruptcy rates stem mainly from rising numbers of foreclosures and more people whose homes are now worth less than what they owe on their mortgage, said Samuel Gerdano, executive director of the American Bankruptcy Institute.

The current bankruptcy filings are a product of the earlier collapse of home prices in those areas, Gerdano said.

"Before the bursting of the housing bubble, Nevada wasn't in the top five" among states with the most bankruptcy filings per capita, Gerdano said. "If you've been to Las Vegas, they're hurting."

Month-over-month, the biggest improvements in June were in the Pacific Northwest and New England, primarily due to jumps in seasonal employment.

Counties of at least 25,000 residents with the highest stress levels were Imperial County, Calif. (31.68); Yuma County, Ariz. (28.37); Lyon County, Nev. (26.81); Nye County, Nev. (24.78); and Merced County, Calif. (24.3).

On the other hand, stress declined in counties whose work forces are heavily involved in farming, mining, manufacturing and hospitality, according to the AP's analysis. Many are in the Dakotas and Kansas. The healthiest in June were Ward County, N.D. (3.85); Brown County, S.D. (3.89); Ellis County, Kan. (4.13); Ford County, Kan. (4.32); and Burleigh County, N.D. (4.35).

Read more: http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/08/02/1757251/ap-analysis-us-economic-stress.html#ixzz0vSqtyqvV

In photo: County Commission Candidates in upcoming August 24th primary election

Palm City – The Palm City Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Council of Martin County sponsored a lively forum on the issues that voters considered to be relevant in the election next month.

Issues from Amendment 4 to Martin County Fast growth/slow growth including the proposed water park were touched on.

Winterling Lighting has been celebrated for their unique approach to lighting design for 26 years. From bali and Indonesia to England and Italy and throughout America and The Caribbean, they have turned darkness into dreamscapes for an elite private and commercial clientele.

Visit Winterling Lighting on the Web

Palm City – The Palm City Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Council of Martin County sponsored a lively forum on the issues that voters considered to be relevant in the election next month.

Issues from Amendment 4 to Martin County Fast growth/slow growth including the proposed water park were touched on.

We are very proud to introduce our UltraLuster Waterless Car Wash and Polish to The Treasure Coast as the finest waterless product in the market place today. Our product has the ability to be applied in direct sunlight, on wet surfaces, and leave no "over-spray" of white dots on all of the black plastic surfaces on your vehicle. We are confident that UltraLuster will be your choice in waterless technology.

We are proud supporters of the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society Golf Tournament and Wine Tasting August 20th - Contact Ken Coe For more information at 772-220–7980

Contact James Snyder - 772-285-7528

Palm City – The Palm City Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Council of Martin County sponsored a lively forum on the issues that voters considered to be relevant in the election next month.

Issues from Amendment 4 to Martin County Fast growth/slow growth including the proposed water park were touched on.

Forget black or brown. Brightly colored picture frames are all the rage. Moulding manufacturers are releasing all kinds of non-traditional hues, so consumers can add a little pizzazz to their homes. “Large, vibrant poster art displayed in a colored frame can create a stunning focal point in a room,” says Charlie Shannon owner of the Pal City Fastframe showcase. “It can take the overall design of a space from something nice to something truly unique and special.”

Palm City – The Palm City Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Council of Martin County sponsored a lively forum on the issues that voters considered to be relevant in the election next month.

Issues from Amendment 4 to Martin County Fast growth/slow growth including the proposed water park were touched on.

Out2MartinCounty always gets the story correct because YOU WRITE THE STORY.

Contact the Out2 staff for details at 772-219-9700 for more information.

Palm City – The Palm City Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Council of Martin County sponsored a lively forum on the issues that voters considered to be relevant in the election next month.

Issues from Amendment 4 to Martin County Fast growth/slow growth including the proposed water park were touched on.

Palm City – The Palm City Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Council of Martin County sponsored a lively forum on the issues that voters considered to be relevant in the election next month.

Issues from Amendment 4 to Martin County Fast growth/slow growth including the proposed water park were touched on.

Palm City – The Palm City Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Council of Martin County sponsored a lively forum on the issues that voters considered to be relevant in the election next month.

Issues from Amendment 4 to Martin County Fast growth/slow growth including the proposed water park were touched on.

Palm City – The Palm City Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Council of Martin County sponsored a lively forum on the issues that voters considered to be relevant in the election next month.

Issues from Amendment 4 to Martin County Fast growth/slow growth including the proposed water park were touched on.

Palm City – The Palm City Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Council of Martin County sponsored a lively forum on the issues that voters considered to be relevant in the election next month.

Issues from Amendment 4 to Martin County Fast growth/slow growth including the proposed water park were touched on.

“Next year when I start presenting some very difficult choices to the country, I hope some of these folks who are hollering about deficits step up. Because I’m calling their bluff.” – President Obama, June 27, 2010

For a devoted Chicago White Sox fan, President Obama has sure sounded like more of a Cubs fan lately when talking about America’s debt crisis – it’s all about “next year.” In doing so, he has encapsulated the fundamental problem with Washington and our political system today – it’s always about “next year.” Or “after the election.” Or “when the time is right.”

This is precisely how once manageable problems grow into full-blown crises – because Washington has too many politicians who won’t tackle the hard issues today. Instead, they postpone them so that others have to deal with them at a future date. Those other people, in turn, repeat the vicious cycle, which has brought us to this critical juncture in American history with regards to our debt.

Today, the Congressional Budget Office says the “federal budget is on an unsustainable path.” European countries are scolding and mocking us about our out-of-control spending. It may be a laughing matter for those who resent America’s strength or, worse, for our enemies who wish for a full-blown American debt crisis as much as they do about another September 11th. But a $13 trillion debt is no laughing matter – not for me and not for my childrens’ generation.

If ever there was a crisis requiring presidential leadership acting with “the fierce urgency of now,” tackling our debt is it. Instead of waiting until next year, President Obama and Congress should do some very specific things today to reduce the debt, restore fiscal discipline in Washington and create an environment of certainty that encourages job creation.

This includes freezing non-defense and non-veterans discretionary spending at pre-Obama levels; mandating that all discretionary spending programs end every 10 years after the U.S. Census unless Congress specifically votes to continue them; banning earmarks; instituting a civilian hiring freeze across the federal government; cutting the budgets of Congress and the White House by 10 percent; giving the president the line-item veto pen; and ending the TARP bailout and stimulus programs, while using those savings to pay down the debt.

My children – Amanda, 10; Daniella, 8; Anthony, 5; and Dominic, 2 – are too young to understand what Washington politicians are doing to them and their generation. But I do, and it’s what motivates me each day in my effort to get to Washington to do something about it.

The decisions we make today and in the coming years will determine what kind of country they live in. Every day we postpone acting decisively on the debt, we pile on even more on the backs of millions of young Americans. Every day we fail to act brings us closer to a day of reckoning when my children’s generation face bleak job prospects, because high debt forces Washington to raise taxes, or makes business-lending for growth more expensive, or puts inflationary pressures on the dollar. This is unacceptable. Every child deserves to inherit a stronger, more secure and more prosperous America from their parents.

The problem with Washington is that it always reactive – problems tend to fester and get kicked down the road. Then, once they reach a critical point, the powers that be tell us we have to swallow bitter pills like job-crippling taxes (particularly the value-added tax) to pay for their largesse and recklessness.

We need leaders in Washington who are proactive – who tackle immediate problems like putting people back to work, but also have the courage and convictions to lead with the next generation in mind, not the next election.

Former Speaker of the Florida House Marco Rubio is the leading Rupublican candidate for U.S. Senate.

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

Out2martincounty.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A. (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998)

"Martin County's Photo Journal"

Says Lifting Travel Ban Would Bail out Castro with Regime on the Ropes

Washington, D.C. –U.S. Rep. Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) today said that approval by the House Agriculture Committee of a bill to lift the travel ban on Cuba “sends send mixed messages about our commitment to the brave pro-democracy movement in Cuba.”

“I’m very disappointed that the Agriculture Committee approved a bill to lift the travel ban on Cuba and prop up the Castro regime without any human rights concessions,” Rooney said. “Lifting the travel ban would inject millions of dollars into the Cuban government at a time when the Castro regime is on the ropes.”

“At this juncture, lifting the ban would amount to yet another bailout – only this time, we’d be bailing out a brutal dictatorship on the brink of collapsing.”

Rooney noted that Cuba’s foreign trade declined by a third in the last year, the country is several billion dollars in debt to sovereign lenders, and its economic crisis is putting Castro’s rule in jeopardy.

Rooney said he was “very disappointed” that Committee Democrats blocked consideration of his amendment to strike the provision of the bill that lifts the travel ban. Democrats also refused to consider his amendment to require that Castro restore property rights before the travel ban could be lifted.

“How can anyone honestly say now is the time to ignore all that has happened in Cuba?” Rooney asked. “We should keep the travel ban and trade embargo in place, and send a message to the next generation of Cuban leaders after the Castros: they can continue a defeated evil regime, or be welcomed as a free nation with the United States as partner.”

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) yesterday joined as an original cosponsor of the Water Assistance from International Vessels for Emergency Response (WAIVER) Act, which would temporarily waive the Jones Act and allow foreign vessels to help respond to the Gulf Oil spill.

“We need all hands on deck to stop the spill and clean up the mess,” Rooney said. “Unfortunately, the Obama Administration’s refusal to waive the Jones Act has allowed red tape and bureaucratic barriers to stand in the way of those who want to help.

“If the Administration will not waive the Jones Act on its own, I hope that Congress will pass the WAIVER Act and send a message to our friends around the world that we need and want their help.”

The Jones Act prohibits foreign vessels from transporting goods between U.S. ports. Under the Jones Act, the foreign skimmers are prohibited from skimming within three miles of the U.S. coast.

According to a report released by the U.S. Department of State as of June 14, the U.S. had received offers of assistance from 17 governments. As of June 18, the Coast Guard has only accepted the assistance of 15 foreign skimmers.

In 2005, President Bush waived the Jones Act three days after Hurricane Katrina so that foreign-flagged ships could help with disaster relief efforts. That waiver eased the transportation of fuel in the aftermath of the hurricanes.

Need All Hands on Deck for Oil Spill Cleanup

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) yesterday joined fellow Gulf Coast Representatives to send a letter to the President urging him to waive the Jones Act and allow foreign vessels to assist in the Gulf oil spill cleanup.

“We need all hands on deck to stop the spill and clean up the mess,” Rooney said. “We cannot allow red tape and bureaucratic barriers to stand in the way of those who want to help. President Obama should waive the Jones Act today to improve the speed and efficiency of our oil spill response.”

The Jones Act prohibits foreign vessels from transporting goods between U.S. ports. The President can waive the Jones Act to allow foreign ships to assist with emergency responses. For example, President Bush waived the Jones Act following Hurricane Katrina.

By: Jim McGovern

Democrats Reject Winning YouCut Proposal

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) issued the following statement after Democrats voted down the latest winning YouCut proposal, an initiative to save $30 billion by reforming Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

“Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have become the poster children for massive taxpayer bailouts – $145 billion so far, with no end in sight. Yet the President and Democrats in Congress stubbornly refuse to include Fannie and Freddie in their so-called financial reform bills.

“The American people are tired of bailing out Fannie and Freddie. How can the President and Democrats in Congress continue to ignore the American people as they demand reforms to these broken institutions?

Description of the winning YouCut proposal: Reform Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Savings estimated at $30 billion.

Since taking over Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the two government sponsored mortgage-backing companies, taxpayers have injected over $145 billion into the two companies. Yet Congress still has not considered proposals to reform these companies and recoup taxpayer funds. The Congressional Budget Office has estimated that absent reform, costs to taxpayer will continue to grow. Taking action to reform these companies now (as opposed to delaying action as some have proposed) by ending their government conservatorship, shrinking their portfolios, establishing minimum capital standards, and bringing transparency to taxpayer exposure could generate savings of up to an estimated $30 billion.

Americans have cast more than 700,000 votes on YouCut.

Stuart -- Up-and-coming U.S. Senate candidate Marco Rubio has become the hottest ticket on Florida's tea-party circuit. The movement of disaffected, disillusioned and generally fed-up independent and conservative voters has helped fuel his increasingly competitive campaign against the politics as usual crowd in Washington.

That hot ticket last evening gave you entre to Dennis and Gloria Fano’s home in Palm City where Mr. Rubio had the opportunity to mingle with the voters of the Treasure Coast.

The impact of tea party voters on the 2010 election is as unpredictable as the political climate in the nation's largest swing state. That uncertainty keeps Rubio straddling two worlds: the traditional Republican establishment and the unconventional grass-roots movement. When asked by Out2News if he would at least read any bills before the Senate, before he votes on them he responded; “he would be able to keep that promise”.

He also anticipated another question and he preempted by saying; he will support a repeal of Obama Healthcare.

View additional photos from this event in the “Government and Politics” section

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

Out2martincounty.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A. (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998)

"Martin County's Photo Journal"

Stuart -- Up-and-coming U.S. Senate candidate Marco Rubio has become the hottest ticket on Florida's tea-party circuit. The movement of disaffected, disillusioned and generally fed-up independent and conservative voters has helped fuel his increasingly competitive campaign against the politics as usual crowd in Washington.

That hot ticket last evening gave you entre to Dennis and Gloria Fano’s home in Palm City where Mr. Rubio had the opportunity to mingle with the voters of the Treasure Coast.

The impact of tea party voters on the 2010 election is as unpredictable as the political climate in the nation's largest swing state. That uncertainty keeps Rubio straddling two worlds: the traditional Republican establishment and the unconventional grass-roots movement. When asked by Out2News if he would at least read any bills before the Senate, before he votes on them he responded; “he would be able to keep that promise”.

He also anticipated another question and he preempted by saying; he will support a repeal of Obama Healthcare.

View additional photos from this event in the “Government and Politics” section

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

Out2martincounty.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A. (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998)

"Martin County's Photo Journal"

Stuart -- Up-and-coming U.S. Senate candidate Marco Rubio has become the hottest ticket on Florida's tea-party circuit. The movement of disaffected, disillusioned and generally fed-up independent and conservative voters has helped fuel his increasingly competitive campaign against the politics as usual crowd in Washington.

That hot ticket last evening gave you entre to Dennis and Gloria Fano’s home in Palm City where Mr. Rubio had the opportunity to mingle with the voters of the Treasure Coast.

The impact of tea party voters on the 2010 election is as unpredictable as the political climate in the nation's largest swing state. That uncertainty keeps Rubio straddling two worlds: the traditional Republican establishment and the unconventional grass-roots movement. When asked by Out2News if he would at least read any bills before the Senate, before he votes on them he responded; “he would be able to keep that promise”.

He also anticipated another question and he preempted by saying; he will support a repeal of Obama Healthcare.

View additional photos from this event in the “Government and Politics” section

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

Out2martincounty.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A. (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998)

"Martin County's Photo Journal"

Stuart -- Up-and-coming U.S. Senate candidate Marco Rubio has become the hottest ticket on Florida's tea-party circuit. The movement of disaffected, disillusioned and generally fed-up independent and conservative voters has helped fuel his increasingly competitive campaign against the politics as usual crowd in Washington.

That hot ticket last evening gave you entre to Dennis and Gloria Fano’s home in Palm City where Mr. Rubio had the opportunity to mingle with the voters of the Treasure Coast.

The impact of tea party voters on the 2010 election is as unpredictable as the political climate in the nation's largest swing state. That uncertainty keeps Rubio straddling two worlds: the traditional Republican establishment and the unconventional grass-roots movement. When asked by Out2News if he would at least read any bills before the Senate, before he votes on them he responded; “he would be able to keep that promise”.

He also anticipated another question and he preempted by saying; he will support a repeal of Obama Healthcare.

View additional photos from this event in the “Government and Politics” section

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

Out2martincounty.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A. (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998)

"Martin County's Photo Journal"

Stuart -- Up-and-coming U.S. Senate candidate Marco Rubio has become the hottest ticket on Florida's tea-party circuit. The movement of disaffected, disillusioned and generally fed-up independent and conservative voters has helped fuel his increasingly competitive campaign against the politics as usual crowd in Washington.

That hot ticket last evening gave you entre to Dennis and Gloria Fano’s home in Palm City where Mr. Rubio had the opportunity to mingle with the voters of the Treasure Coast.

The impact of tea party voters on the 2010 election is as unpredictable as the political climate in the nation's largest swing state. That uncertainty keeps Rubio straddling two worlds: the traditional Republican establishment and the unconventional grass-roots movement. When asked by Out2News if he would at least read any bills before the Senate, before he votes on them he responded; “he would be able to keep that promise”.

He also anticipated another question and he preempted by saying; he will support a repeal of Obama Healthcare.

View additional photos from this event in the “Government and Politics” section

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

Out2martincounty.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A. (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998)

"Martin County's Photo Journal"

Stuart -- Up-and-coming U.S. Senate candidate Marco Rubio has become the hottest ticket on Florida's tea-party circuit. The movement of disaffected, disillusioned and generally fed-up independent and conservative voters has helped fuel his increasingly competitive campaign against the politics as usual crowd in Washington.

That hot ticket last evening gave you entre to Dennis and Gloria Fano’s home in Palm City where Mr. Rubio had the opportunity to mingle with the voters of the Treasure Coast.

The impact of tea party voters on the 2010 election is as unpredictable as the political climate in the nation's largest swing state. That uncertainty keeps Rubio straddling two worlds: the traditional Republican establishment and the unconventional grass-roots movement. When asked by Out2News if he would at least read any bills before the Senate, before he votes on them he responded; “he would be able to keep that promise”.

He also anticipated another question and he preempted by saying; he will support a repeal of Obama Healthcare.

View additional photos from this event in the “Government and Politics” section

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

Out2martincounty.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A. (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998)

"Martin County's Photo Journal"

Stuart -- Up-and-coming U.S. Senate candidate Marco Rubio has become the hottest ticket on Florida's tea-party circuit. The movement of disaffected, disillusioned and generally fed-up independent and conservative voters has helped fuel his increasingly competitive campaign against the politics as usual crowd in Washington.

That hot ticket last evening gave you entre to Dennis and Gloria Fano’s home in Palm City where Mr. Rubio had the opportunity to mingle with the voters of the Treasure Coast.

The impact of tea party voters on the 2010 election is as unpredictable as the political climate in the nation's largest swing state. That uncertainty keeps Rubio straddling two worlds: the traditional Republican establishment and the unconventional grass-roots movement. When asked by Out2News if he would at least read any bills before the Senate, before he votes on them he responded; “he would be able to keep that promise”.

He also anticipated another question and he preempted by saying; he will support a repeal of Obama Healthcare.

View additional photos from this event in the “Government and Politics” section

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

Out2martincounty.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A. (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998)

"Martin County's Photo Journal"

Stuart -- Up-and-coming U.S. Senate candidate Marco Rubio has become the hottest ticket on Florida's tea-party circuit. The movement of disaffected, disillusioned and generally fed-up independent and conservative voters has helped fuel his increasingly competitive campaign against the politics as usual crowd in Washington.

That hot ticket last evening gave you entre to Dennis and Gloria Fano’s home in Palm City where Mr. Rubio had the opportunity to mingle with the voters of the Treasure Coast.

The impact of tea party voters on the 2010 election is as unpredictable as the political climate in the nation's largest swing state. That uncertainty keeps Rubio straddling two worlds: the traditional Republican establishment and the unconventional grass-roots movement. When asked by Out2News if he would at least read any bills before the Senate, before he votes on them he responded; “he would be able to keep that promise”.

He also anticipated another question and he preempted by saying; he will support a repeal of Obama Healthcare.

View additional photos from this event in the “Government and Politics” section

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

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Stuart -- Up-and-coming U.S. Senate candidate Marco Rubio has become the hottest ticket on Florida's tea-party circuit. The movement of disaffected, disillusioned and generally fed-up independent and conservative voters has helped fuel his increasingly competitive campaign against the politics as usual crowd in Washington.

That hot ticket last evening gave you entre to Dennis and Gloria Fano’s home in Palm City where Mr. Rubio had the opportunity to mingle with the voters of the Treasure Coast.

The impact of tea party voters on the 2010 election is as unpredictable as the political climate in the nation's largest swing state. That uncertainty keeps Rubio straddling two worlds: the traditional Republican establishment and the unconventional grass-roots movement. When asked by Out2News if he would at least read any bills before the Senate, before he votes on them he responded; “he would be able to keep that promise”.

He also anticipated another question and he preempted by saying; he will support a repeal of Obama Healthcare.

View additional photos from this event in the “Government and Politics” section

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

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Calls on Congress to Stimulate Private Sector Job Growth

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) issued the following statement regarding the May unemployment numbers released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics today. The economy as a whole gained 431,000 jobs, but hiring for short-term Census work accounted for 411,000 new jobs. The private sector added just 41,000 jobs.

“The weak job growth in the private sector is more evidence that we cannot tax, borrow and spend our way to economic recovery and job creation.

“Small businesses, not federal agencies, are the engines of our economy. My jobs bill will help small businesses grow and create jobs by permanently cutting job-killing taxes and incentivizing banks to start lending again.

“In the Obama-Pelosi economy, even a temporary job is something to celebrate if you’re lucky enough to get one. Unfortunately, unless Congress makes a u-turn away from the failed policies of bigger government and higher taxes, when these Census jobs disappear in a few months there will not be private sector jobs available to replace them. Congress must act now to stimulate job growth in the private sector.”

Rooney’s Economic Freedom Act, H.R. 5029, would:

In photo: Frederik W. van Vonno

West Palm Beach -- Frederik W. van Vonno, a partner at Fox, Wackeen, Dungey et. al. law firm has been appointed by the Board of County Commissioners as a Special Magistrate for Palm Beach County Code Enforcement Division. Special Magistrate Openings occurred in Palm Beach County resignations. Van Vonno's appointment became effective March 9, 2010 and lasts through March 8, 2011.

It's an honor to have received this appointment,” said Van Vonno. "As a expert in City, County and Local Government law, I can bring the people of the county experience, dedication and the right skills."

Mr. van Vonno, a Stuart resident, has been practicing law for over twenty years. He practices in the areas of Local Government Law, Eminent Domain, Land Development and Real Estate and is partner at the law firm of Fox, Wackeen, Dungey, Beard, Sobel, Bush & McCluskey, located in the Tower Building at Willoughby Commons in Stuart. Mr. van Vonno has been a Florida Board Certified attorney since 2002, specializing in City, County & Local Government Law.

For more information on this topic or many other legal issues, please call 772.287.4444 or visit www.FoxWackeen.com.

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

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By: Marisol Guntkowski

Port St Lucie -- The Republican Executive Committee of Saint Lucie County held a “Lincoln Day Celebration Dinner” on Sunday, May 16th featuring Key Note Speaker: Attorney General Bill McCollum. The Attorney General spoke about national issues and his candidacy for Governor of the State of Florida.

Many officials and candidates were in attendance including Congressman Tom Rooney, State Senator Joe Negron, Representatives Debbie Mayfield and William Snyder.

Hopefuls in attendance included Gayle Harrell for Florida House and Al Rivett for Saint Lucie County Commissioner.

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Marisol Guntkowski Out2/Martin County.com

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Washington, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) today expressed disappointment after Democrats in the House of Representatives voted against the spending cut demanded by the American people through a vote on YouCut. Ignoring the more than 280,000 Americans who cast their votes in favor of spending cuts, Democrats rejected a proposal to repeal a $2.5 billion per year program that gutted the bipartisan welfare reforms of the mid-1990s.

“I am deeply disappointed that the Majority in Congress has refused to answer the American people’s call to cut wasteful spending,” Rooney said. “Last week, more than a quarter-million Americans cast their votes and told Congress they are fed up with the culture of spending in Washington. People in my district in Florida and across the country made it clear that they want Congress to get serious about cutting the deficit. Unfortunately, Democrats in Congress were not up to the task today.

“With more than 81,000 votes, the winning spending cut for this week was a proposal to eliminate a $2.5 billion annual welfare program created by the so-called stimulus bill. This new program incentivizes states to increase their welfare caseloads without requiring able-bodied recipients to work, get job training, or make other efforts to move off of taxpayer assistance. The program is not only duplicative and costly, but it also undermines the bipartisan welfare reforms of the 1990s that saved billions of taxpayer dollars.

“As we look to trim record-breaking deficits, cutting this wasteful program would have been a good place to start.”

American People Vote to Cut $2.5 Billion Non-reformed Welfare Program

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S Congressman Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) today announced that after more than 280,000 Americans cast their votes on YouCut, participants have chosen to have the House of Representatives vote on repealing a $2.5 billion per year program that gutted the bipartisan welfare reforms of the mid-1990s.

“Over the last week, more than a quarter-million Americans have cast their votes and told Congress they are fed up with the culture of spending in Washington,” Rooney said. “People from my district in Florida and across the country have made it clear: they want Congress to get serious about cutting the deficit, and they are tired of being ignored.

“With more than 81,000 votes, the winning spending cut for this week is a proposal to eliminate a $2.5 billion annual welfare program created by the so-called stimulus bill. This new program incentivizes states to increase their welfare caseloads without requiring able-bodied recipients to work, get job training, or make other efforts to move off of taxpayer assistance. The program is not only duplicative and costly, but it also undermines the bipartisan welfare reforms of the 1990s that saved billions of taxpayer dollars.

“On Thursday we will bring this spending cut proposal to the House floor for a vote, and I hope that my colleagues will listen to the American people and eliminate this wasteful program.”

Rooney said that of the more than 280,000 YouCut votes cast, less than one percent came from inside the beltway. Americans have submitted more than 15,000 spending cut ideas.

Final Results:

17.45% for 1 – Presidential Election Fund

27.06% for 2 – Taxpayer Subsidized Union Activities

11.89% for 3 – HUD Program for Doctoral Dissertations

29.07% for 4 – New Non-Reformed Welfare Program

16.53% for 5 – Eliminate Wealthier Communities from CDBG

BACKGROUND ON WINNING SPENDING CUT: In 1996 Congress and the President joined together to implement a bipartisan reform of our nation’s welfare system. Since then welfare caseloads dropped by an unprecedented 60% as work and earnings by low-income parents rose by record levels. Despite the bipartisan support for the 1996 reforms, Congress included several provisions in the 2009 stimulus law to undermine the successful welfare reforms – including a new “welfare emergency fund” designed to promote welfare dependence.

The welfare emergency fund provided States with up to $5 billion in new Federal funds in 2009 and 2010 if they increase welfare caseloads, among other outcomes.

Here is just one example of how States spent this money on “non-recurrent short-term assistance.” Last summer New York State used welfare emergency funds to make one-time $200 per child “back to school” payments to welfare and food stamp recipients. But many recipients didn’t use the money for back to school supplies. As CBS News reported, the funds were used in many cases to purchase “flat screen TVs, iPods and video gaming systems;" and convenience stores in certain areas “noted marked increases in beer, lotto and cigarette sales.”

Despite the documented waste of taxpayer funds, the majority in Congress is proposing to continue the program for another year and add another $2.5 billion in new money.

West Palm Beach, FL — In recognition of the 25th anniversary of the federal designation of the Loxahatchee River as a Wild and Scenic River, the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) Governing Board has declared May 17, 2010, to be Wild and Scenic Loxahatchee River Day.

A public celebration of the 25th anniversary of the national designation is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 15, at Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Hobe Sound.

“The Loxahatchee River is among the great natural places in Florida,” said SFWMD Governing Board member Kevin Powers, who represents a portion of the Loxahatchee Watershed. “Its designation as a national Wild and Scenic River is celebrated as much today as it was 25 years ago.”

On May 17, 1985, 7.6 miles of the Northwest Fork of the Loxahatchee River was designated as a national Wild and Scenic River through the National Wild and Scenic River Act of 1968. Under the Act, free-flowing rivers with outstanding scenic, recreational, fish and wildlife, historic and cultural values are designated for preservation for the enjoyment and benefit of present and future generations.

The Northwest Fork of the Loxahatchee River — from Riverbend Park in Jupiter downstream to Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Martin County — was the first river in the State of Florida to receive such a designation.

“The story of the Loxahatchee River is unique in that a diverse partnership of our citizens, legislative delegation and local government partners has long given enthusiastic support for the river,” said SFWMD Governing Board member Patrick Rooney Jr., who also represents part of the Loxahatchee Watershed. “Together, they have worked tirelessly for the protection and restoration of the river.”

Since 1985, the SFWMD has acquired more than 20,000 acres of land in the river corridor and tributary watersheds for preservation and restoration. Through the Loxahatchee River Preservation Initiative — administered by the SFWMD — numerous agencies and local governments have worked together on 65 habitat and water quality restoration projects, most of which have been completed. Nearly $18 million in legislative appropriations have been matched by more than $23 million in local funding partners to accomplish this work.

“We’re fortunate to have the Loxahatchee River, a national treasure, as a central feature in our community,” said Loxahatchee River District Executive Director Albrey Arrington, who also serves as the Chair of the Loxahatchee River Preservation Initiative. “As a fourth generation Floridian and a Jupiter native, it is an absolute pleasure to work collaboratively with partner agencies to preserve, protect, and restore the Loxahatchee River.”

The District proclamation, and others issued by local government and agency partners involved in the protection and restoration of the Loxahatchee River, will be on display during the 25th anniversary celebration at Jonathan Dickinson State Park.

South Florida Water Management District Hold Public Forum at Blake Library In photo: Retiring Army Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District Commander Col. Alfred Pantano presents to Board

Stuart -- Following consecutive years of water shortage conditions, the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) is entering the 2010 rainy season with above-average rainfall and elevated water levels in Lake Okeechobee.

As part of its continual preparation for Florida’s weather extremes, the SFWMD presented a half-day briefing to Governing Board members and the public about the Central and Southern Florida Flood Control Project system and wet season preparation.

Issues discussed included:

Stuart -- Following consecutive years of water shortage conditions, the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) is entering the 2010 rainy season with above-average rainfall and elevated water levels in Lake Okeechobee.

As part of its continual preparation for Florida’s weather extremes, the SFWMD presented a half-day briefing to Governing Board members and the public about the Central and Southern Florida Flood Control Project system and wet season preparation.

Issues discussed included:

Stuart -- Following consecutive years of water shortage conditions, the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) is entering the 2010 rainy season with above-average rainfall and elevated water levels in Lake Okeechobee.

As part of its continual preparation for Florida’s weather extremes, the SFWMD presented a half-day briefing to Governing Board members and the public about the Central and Southern Florida Flood Control Project system and wet season preparation.

Issues discussed included:

Stuart -- Following consecutive years of water shortage conditions, the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) is entering the 2010 rainy season with above-average rainfall and elevated water levels in Lake Okeechobee.

As part of its continual preparation for Florida’s weather extremes, the SFWMD presented a half-day briefing to Governing Board members and the public about the Central and Southern Florida Flood Control Project system and wet season preparation.

Issues discussed included:

Port Salerno-- Congressman Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) today met with 16th district residents to discuss current status national security and view “Protecting America" in a Global Age, a film produced by the Heritage Foundation.

“Keeping America safe is my top priority,” Rooney said. “This event was a chance to discuss national security issues and the global threats America faces on a daily basis.”

Congressman Rooney also fielded questions from the audience and Press.

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

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In photo: Congressman Tom Rooney speaks to National Security Forum

Port Salerno-- Congressman Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) today met with 16th district residents to discuss current status national security and view “Protecting America" in a Global Age, a film produced by the Heritage Foundation.

“Keeping America safe is my top priority,” Rooney said. “This event was a chance to discuss national security issues and the global threats America faces on a daily basis.”

Congressman Rooney also fielded questions from the audience and Press.

Port Salerno-- Congressman Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) today met with 16th district residents to discuss current status national security and view “Protecting America" in a Global Age, a film produced by the Heritage Foundation.

“Keeping America safe is my top priority,” Rooney said. “This event was a chance to discuss national security issues and the global threats America faces on a daily basis.”

Congressman Rooney also fielded questions from the audience and Press.

Port Salerno-- Congressman Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) today met with 16th district residents to discuss current status national security and view “Protecting America" in a Global Age, a film produced by the Heritage Foundation.

“Keeping America safe is my top priority,” Rooney said. “This event was a chance to discuss national security issues and the global threats America faces on a daily basis.”

Congressman Rooney also fielded questions from the audience and Press.

Port Salerno-- Congressman Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) today met with 16th district residents to discuss current status national security and view “Protecting America" in a Global Age, a film produced by the Heritage Foundation.

“Keeping America safe is my top priority,” Rooney said. “This event was a chance to discuss national security issues and the global threats America faces on a daily basis.”

Congressman Rooney also fielded questions from the audience and Press.

Port Salerno-- Congressman Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) today met with 16th district residents to discuss current status national security and view “Protecting America" in a Global Age, a film produced by the Heritage Foundation.

“Keeping America safe is my top priority,” Rooney said. “This event was a chance to discuss national security issues and the global threats America faces on a daily basis.”

Congressman Rooney also fielded questions from the audience and Press.

Port Salerno-- Congressman Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) today met with 16th district residents to discuss current status national security and view “Protecting America" in a Global Age, a film produced by the Heritage Foundation.

“Keeping America safe is my top priority,” Rooney said. “This event was a chance to discuss national security issues and the global threats America faces on a daily basis.”

Congressman Rooney also fielded questions from the audience and Press.

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Legislature today passed Senate Bill (SB) 808 by Senator Steve Oelrich and sponsored in the House by Representative William Snyder (R-Stuart). The legislation, if signed into law by the Governor, will allow the state to prosecute a death resulting from the illegal distribution of methadone as a capital felony.

Methadone is a synthetic drug that is most commonly used for the treatment of opioid dependence such as addiction to heroin. Unfortunately, methadone has become one of the most lethal of abused drugs in the state. According to a Florida Medical Examiners Report, methadone is one of the leading causes of overdose deaths in Florida with 693 reported fatalities in 2008.

“With hundreds of Floridians dying annually from methadone abuse, this law will hopefully save lives,” stated Representative Snyder.

A recent ruling by the Fourth District Court of Appeal dismissed first degree murder charges against a defendant who sold methadone to a victim who overdosed on the drug on the grounds that methadone cannot scientifically be classified as a derivative of opium. This law fixes the loophole and adds methadone to the list of opium and opium derivatives in the first degree murder statute.

Mr. Tom Bakkedahl, Chief Assistant State Attorney of the Nineteenth Judicial District, was instrumental in the drafting of this bill and passionately advocated for its passage.

The legislation now goes before Governor Charlie Crist for his signature.

“Congress should not get an automatic pay raise, especially when hard-working American families are suffering,”

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) today voted to block Members of Congress from receiving an automatic pay raise in fiscal year 2011. The House of Representatives approved the bill, H.R. 5146, passed by a 402-15 vote.

“Seniors didn’t get a cost of living adjustment in their social security payments this year, and Members of Congress should not get one either,” Rooney said. “Congress should not get an automatic pay raise, especially when hard-working American families are suffering.”

“As a freshman in Congress, I was appalled to learn that Congress gets an automatic pay raise each year. We should not even consider a pay raise until we’re out of this recession, unemployment is down and the federal deficit is addressed.”

Under the Ethics Reform Act of 1989, Members of Congress receive an automatic pay increase each year. According to the Congressional Research Service, Members would have received a 0.9 percent pay raise at the beginning of 2011.

Rooney was also an original cosponsor of the Stop the Congressional Pay-Raise Act, H.R. 156.

Hobe Sound -- Thousands of American citizens including Treasure Coasters rallied on street corners and at statehouses across the nation Thursday April 15th IRS day, to criticize a tax system they deem out of control and a Congress they say has allowed socialism to creep into American life.

The true spirit of the New Mellinium Tea Party is that we send representatives to Washington to represent the citizens, making an informed vote on pieces of legislation. Those who voted for the “Bail-Out” did not read the legislation, those who voted for the stimulus bill did not read that bill either, and finally those who voted for the Health-care bill did not read that bill. We as citizens would have read the bill before voting for it and that is what representative government is all about. The Tea Party participants are not asking for much just do the minimum when doing your job. In this case nobody in Congress did their job. As Donald Trump would say; “Your Fired”.

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

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Hobe Sound -- Thousands of American citizens including Treasure Coasters rallied on street corners and at statehouses across the nation Thursday April 15th IRS day, to criticize a tax system they deem out of control and a Congress they say has allowed socialism to creep into American life.

The true spirit of the New Mellinium Tea Party is that we send representatives to Washington to represent the citizens, making an informed vote on pieces of legislation. Those who voted for the “Bail-Out” did not read the legislation, those who voted for the stimulus bill did not read that bill either, and finally those who voted for the Health-care bill did not read that bill. We as citizens would have read the bill before voting for it and that is what representative government is all about. The Tea Party participants are not asking for much just do the minimum when doing your job. In this case nobody in Congress did their job. As Donald Trump would say; “Your Fired”.

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

Out2martincounty.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A. (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998)

"Martin County's Photo Journal"

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Hobe Sound -- Thousands of American citizens including Treasure Coasters rallied on street corners and at statehouses across the nation Thursday April 15th IRS day, to criticize a tax system they deem out of control and a Congress they say has allowed socialism to creep into American life.

The true spirit of the New Mellinium Tea Party is that we send representatives to Washington to represent the citizens, making an informed vote on pieces of legislation. Those who voted for the “Bail-Out” did not read the legislation, those who voted for the stimulus bill did not read that bill either, and finally those who voted for the Health-care bill did not read that bill. We as citizens would have read the bill before voting for it and that is what representative government is all about. The Tea Party participants are not asking for much just do the minimum when doing your job. In this case nobody in Congress did their job. As Donald Trump would say; “Your Fired”.

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

Out2martincounty.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A. (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998)

"Martin County's Photo Journal"

Visit photo archive

Hobe Sound -- Thousands of American citizens including Treasure Coasters rallied on street corners and at statehouses across the nation Thursday April 15th IRS day, to criticize a tax system they deem out of control and a Congress they say has allowed socialism to creep into American life.

The true spirit of the New Mellinium Tea Party is that we send representatives to Washington to represent the citizens, making an informed vote on pieces of legislation. Those who voted for the “Bail-Out” did not read the legislation, those who voted for the stimulus bill did not read that bill either, and finally those who voted for the Health-care bill did not read that bill. We as citizens would have read the bill before voting for it and that is what representative government is all about. The Tea Party participants are not asking for much just do the minimum when doing your job. In this case nobody in Congress did their job. As Donald Trump would say; “Your Fired”.

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

Out2martincounty.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A. (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998)

"Martin County's Photo Journal"

Visit photo archive

Hobe Sound -- Thousands of American citizens including Treasure Coasters rallied on street corners and at statehouses across the nation Thursday April 15th IRS day, to criticize a tax system they deem out of control and a Congress they say has allowed socialism to creep into American life.

The true spirit of the New Mellinium Tea Party is that we send representatives to Washington to represent the citizens, making an informed vote on pieces of legislation. Those who voted for the “Bail-Out” did not read the legislation, those who voted for the stimulus bill did not read that bill either, and finally those who voted for the Health-care bill did not read that bill. We as citizens would have read the bill before voting for it and that is what representative government is all about. The Tea Party participants are not asking for much just do the minimum when doing your job. In this case nobody in Congress did their job. As Donald Trump would say; “Your Fired”.

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

Out2martincounty.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A. (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998)

"Martin County's Photo Journal"

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In photo: Congressman Rooney Speaks To Republicans at Finz Waterfront Restaurant

Port Salerno -- Congressman Tom Rooney speaking to Martin County Republicans, today advised struggling homeowners in South Florida to take advantage of an opportunity this month for free counseling and guidance to help reduce their monthly mortgage payments. The event, hosted by the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (NACA), will take place in Miami from April 15-19.

“South Florida has been hit hard by the weak economy, and as a result it has some of the highest foreclosure rates in the country,” Rooney said. “I hope homeowners in the area who are struggling to pay their mortgages will take advantage of this chance to negotiate more affordable monthly payments.”

Homeowners can sign up at www.NACA.com or call 888-499-6222. In the weeks leading up to the event, NACA is offering workshops across South Florida to provide information and resources to assist at-risk homeowners who will seek a lower mortgage payment at NACA’s 24 hour Save-A-Thon in Miami. The next step for homeowners who attend these workshops will be to see a NACA counselor at the event in Miami.

The following workshops are scheduled for Palm Beach and St. Lucie Counties:

Friday April 9th, 2010

Palm Beach County Governmental Center, 301 North Olive Street, 6th Floor West Palm Beach, Florida - 11am to 1pm, 3pm to 5pm and 7pm to 9pm

Saturday April 10th, 2010

The Havert L Fenn Center, 2000 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce, Florida - 1pm to 3pm

Sunday April 11th, 2010, Palm Beach County Governmental Center, 301 North Olive Street, 6th Floor, West Palm Beach, Florida -11am to 1pm, 3pm to 5pm and 7pm to 9pm

He also announced a $1 million federal grant for Witham Field in Stuart for construction projects to enhance the airport’s infrastructure and prevent storm damage.

“I’m pleased that the hardworking taxpayers of Martin County are seeing a return on their federal tax dollars with this competitive grant,” Rooney said. “This $1 million in federal funding will provide critical infrastructure improvements to the airport that will help prevent the sort of storm damage that Tropical Storm Fay caused in 2008. The construction project will create approximately 100 jobs and boost the local economy while encouraging the expansion of our regional aviation industry.”

The Economic Development Administration at the Department of Commerce will distribute the grant, which was awarded competitively.

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

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Stuart -- Everyone should show up at the Sustainable Summit to voice their opposition to the abrogation of property rights and the brazen takeover of local government functions by agents of the United nations. ICLEI IS” THE INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL FOR LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES “ WHICH HAS OFFICES AROUND THE WORLD. Please read about this at www.freedomadvocates.org Do we want the UN telling us what to do in our local government. Read the bios of all the speakers. The Collins Institute is studying the off shore drilling issue. They will report back to the state legislature. Does our Florida state legislature agree with Sustainable Florida? Ray LaHood transportation secretary said they will be moving away from motorized transportation (CARS) and going forward with policies like bike paths ,walking, trains and such. This is part of Smart Growth, Livability project which Obama supports. He said that sun rail which our state senator voted for is part of the livability project.

Also read the republican platforms of Texas Oklahoma and other states where they reject Un Agenda 21 and Sustainable American policy. Read at www.platformyes.com This is where our Country is going. Google your county and see if they support Sustainable development. Jeb bush is a promoter of these policies. It is against all property rights. The EPA will be at this event. Wake up folks this is where we are going!! Ocala Tea party and others are out there interviewing candidates about these policies. Educate yourself and pass it on. These policies are supported by both parties do not be fooled into thinking it only about Obama.

Reminder! Meeting and sign making Saturday April 10 11:00 REC 1111 SE US 1 the towers building Stuart. Please bring poster board and markers for sign making for the April 15 Tax Day Protest.

ALERT!!!! The Ed Lynch campaign is looking for volunteers down south for Saturday to help walk precincts for district 19 April 13 election. Please contact Shona at 772-342-0448 We can share rides. We need to win this seat in congress to send a message to DC.

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) today announced federal grants of $10 million for Witham Field in Stuart and $1.6 million for Okeechobee County Airport. The federal funding will cover construction projects to enhance safety at the airports.

“I’m glad the taxpayers of Martin and Okeechobee Counties are finally seeing a return on their federal tax dollars with these grants,” Rooney said. “This federal funding will go a long way to help protect passengers and ensure their safety.

“Unlike the failed stimulus bill, which was filled with wasteful spending and political earmarks, these competitive grants will provide timely, targeted funding that will help create jobs and grow the local economy.”

The $10,116,773.00 grant for Witham Field will be used for construction projects to improve the airport’s runway safety area, including the installation of an Engineered Materials Arresting System, which is designed to stop or greatly slow an aircraft that overruns the runway. The $1,635,344.00 grant to Okeechobee County Airport will provide federal funding for improvements to the airport’s taxiway.

“I encourage all counties and local governments in the 16th district seeking to compete for federal grants to contact my office for guidance and support.”

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Rooney (R-Fla.), joined by ten other Republicans from Florida’s Congressional delegation, wrote Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum today to support his suit against the newly enacted health care overhaul.

“We share your assertion that portions of this law violate the 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and financially encumber the state with an unfunded Medicaid expansion requirement,” the Congressmen wrote. “As stated in your lawsuit, the individual mandate is an unprecedented infringement on personal liberty afforded to every American under the Constitution. This mandate extends Congress’ power under the Commerce Clause well beyond the Founders’ intent and seeks to punish individuals for economic inactivity. Additionally, we are concerned with the massive expansion of Medicaid mandated in this law, particularly at a time when Florida is struggling to cover its current Medicaid population.”

Martin County, FL. -- Once again, the Martin County Parks and Recreation Department (MCPRD), under the leadership of director Richard Blankenship, has achieved the highest degree of national recognition among parks and recreation agencies across the Country. The Department, which recently celebrated its’ 20th anniversary in February, was notified on Friday by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) that is has been awarded accreditation for the third time. As a part of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), CAPRA recognizes park and recreation agencies for excellence in operation and service.

CAPRA provides efficient and credible guidelines and standards for agencies. Upon meeting these standards, agencies will achieve the ultimate goal of providing high quality services and experiences to the citizens they serve. It provides assurance to the public that the agency stamped with the CAPRA logo, and recognized as accredited, meets national standards of best practices.

“This accreditation is directly attributed to the dedication of the employees of the Martin County Parks and Recreation Department. Without the dedicated employees we would not have retained this honor,” said director Richard Blankenship. The Martin County Parks and Recreation Department is 1 of 90 agencies in the nation (out of 12,000) that has met the standards established by the NRPA. The Visitation Chair and the head of CAPRA, who was on the first team in 2000, expressed glowing remarks in regards to the MCPRD’s quality of service and operational practices. MCPRD is 1 of 14 agencies accredited in the State of Florida. Please contact the Martin County Parks and Recreation Department at 221-1418 for more information or to learn more about services, events and programs available to community members.

In photo: Gayle Harrell and Kenneth Marisol Guntkowski

Port Saint Lucie -- Florida Orthopaedic Specialists hosted a fundraiser get-together on Tuesday evening to give prospective voters and donors an opportunity to meet Gayle Harrell and get to know her positions on the many different challenges facing Florida today.

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

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"Martin County's Photo Journal"

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TALLAHASSEE – The House Policy Council today passed House Bill (HB) 7069 by Representative William Snyder (R-Stuart). The legislation will close loopholes in the background screening process to help keep criminals and predators away from Florida’s most vulnerable citizens.

“The main role of government is to protect the most vulnerable among us. Floridians recognize this fact and expect that their loved ones will be safe and treated with dignity, respect and compassion,” said Representative Snyder. “This legislation represents a significant step in enhancing protections for populations that are easily victimized.”

HB 7069 increases protections for vulnerable Floridians. The protections included in the legislation provide that no one can begin work with children, disabled adults or adults over 65 years of age until after a background screening is completed and the applicant is found to be qualified. Any exemptions for prior offenses cannot be made for at least three years following all sentencing sanctions, and any exemptions that are made can only be approved by the agency head. More importantly, the legislation provides that sexual predators will never receive an exemption to work with vulnerable populations.

The legislation now moves to the Full Appropriations Council on Education & Economic Development.

TIME SPENT WATCHING COMMISSION MEETINGS

We sent an email questionnaire to a random sampling of 1,000 subscribers out of a total of roughly 5,000 DEFENDER subscribers. Its purpose was to learn how much time readers spent following Commission meetings on MartinCounty’s MCTV. 98 responses were received and compiled below. Note that these findings do not represent the viewing activities of the general population since DEFENDER subscribers are much more involved, more interested and better informed on public issues than most residents – as well as being smarter and better looking (;-)

An impressive 37.8% of respondents had attended at least one Commission meeting in person during the previous year.

An equally impressive 65.3% of respondents watched Commission meetings on MCTV during the previous year, as follows:

32.8% of those who viewed Commission meetings watched 10 or more meetings per year..

26.6% of those who viewed Commission meetings watched 5 to 9 meetings per year.

40.6% of those who viewed Commission meetings watched 1 to 4 meetings per year.

Of those who viewed, this is how much of the meetings they watched:

17.2% of meeting watchers stayed tuned in for the entire meeting.

34.4% of meeting watchers stayed tuned in for about half of the meeting.

48.4% of meeting watchers stayed tuned in for about a quarter or less of the meeting.

Get the rest of the story at Martin County Defender on the web

TALLAHASSEE, FL – The Criminal and Civil Justice Policy Council, chaired by Representative William Snyder (R-Stuart), today passed legislation to close loopholes in the background screening process to help keep criminals and predators away from Florida’s most vulnerable citizens.

“Floridians expect that their vulnerable loved ones will be treated with the care and respect they deserve,” said Chairman Snyder. “A large part of that expectation is that the people hired as caregivers will not be criminals looking to prey on their family members.”

This legislation (PCB CCJP 10-04) increases protections for vulnerable Floridians. The protections included in this proposal provide that no one can begin work with children, disabled adults or adults over 65 years of age until after a background screening is completed and the applicant is found to be qualified. Any exemptions that are made for prior offenses cannot be made for at least three years following all sentencing sanctions, and any exemptions that are made can only be approved by the agency head. More importantly, the legislation provides that sexual predators will never receive an exemption to work with vulnerable populations.

“Protecting Florida’s most vulnerable citizens is at the very heart of why government exists, and this legislation represents an important part of attaining that goal,” concluded Snyder.

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) released the following statement regarding the federal disaster declaration announced last week by Agriculture Secretary Vilsack:

“Florida growers were hit extremely hard by the freeze last month and I am glad to see to see Secretary Vilsack declare a federal disaster so growers can receive much needed assistance. All eight counties in the 16th Congressional district were included in this declaration. I have seen the damage caused by the freeze first hand and spoken with several growers who need help and I can tell you this is welcome relief for Florida’s farmers.

“Growers in counties included in the declaration are now eligible to apply for Farm Service Agency (FSA) Emergency Loans (EM) and the Supplemental Revenue Assistance Program (SURE). These programs will help farmers recover and get back up and running as soon as possible.”

Click here for Information on these programs

The Weatherization Assistance Program’s funding targets homeowners 60-years-old and older, the physically disabled, families with children under 12 and households with a high energy burden (repeatedly high utility bills). Income limits apply, a family of four earning $44,100 or less is eligible. Services include home sealing, insulation, solar screens, smart thermostat installation, appliance repair and/or replacement.

INPHI is accepting applications from homeowners for the program from throughout the four-county area. Single family detached homes occupied by owners with 2009 income of $21,660 for a single person to $59,060 for a family of six are eligible for the program. Currently, the program has three months of work already scheduled.

The Weatherization Assistance Program is funded annually through the Department of Energy and receives supplemental funding from the Department of Human Services. The federal government’s stimulus program provided additional funding for this three-year grant.

“Properly weatherizing a home can reduce energy costs by almost a third,” said Carman. “By helping people reduce their energy expenditures, we are both helping the environment and reducing monthly expenses for low income seniors and families – truly a win-win,” she said.

Weatherization assistance repairs can include sealing, insulation, solar window screens, smart thermostats, compact fluorescents, replacement of inefficient appliances and cooling systems.

For additional information and an application for assistance, visit www.inphi.org, call 877-212-0309 (toll-free) or stop by the INPHI offices at 15516 SW Osceola St., Indiantown.

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

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In photo: Resident, John Patteson stated, “ Martin County should begin to live within their means, much as all of her residents have learned to do.”

By Jeannie Ferarra

STUART, FL – On Tuesday, September 15, 2009, hundreds of Martin County residents filled the Martin County Commission meeting room, lobby, and over-flow viewing in the Blake Library to have the opportunity to share their thoughts and feelings about the controversial Agenda Item 6:D; Public Hearing to adopt the final Assessment resolution for FY09/10 Stormwater Service Assessment and certification of Special Assessment roll to the Tax Collector. As stated in the Agenda, the Division 3 of Chapter 159 of the Martin County Code sets forth a two-step process for creating and imposing stormwater assessments. The Board completed the first step by adopting Initial Assessment Resolution No. 09-7.33 on July 21, 2009. The second and final step of the process is the adoption of a Final Assessment Resolution which sets the FY09/10 Stormwater Assessment rates and certifies the special assessment roll to the Tax Collector. [Agenda item: 804c85ca. Source: Final Agenda 09/15/09 provided by the Martin County Commissioners’ Office. www.martinfl.us].

As dozens upon dozens of residents from Hobe Sound to Indiantown, to Jensen Beach lined up to pick up there “Request” to speak, it was undoubtedly going to be a very long morning for the Martin County Commissioners. Whether the member of the public that was addressing the audience was well-informed, or had heard rumors about the Assessment, each had something to say. Members of the public that waited in the lobby for their opportunity to address the County Commissioners all had similar reasons for opposing the adoption of the final resolution. Some were patiently waiting their turn, others held signs that said, “We are not an ATM!” while still more filed in as the meeting progressed as long as they could find a place to park. Most that spoke had never been to a Martin County Commission meeting before, and still others, had not been present for a very long time.

As was the case with our former County Commissioner from District 5, Michael Diterlizzi. Diterlizzi shared with this reporter, “I have not been to a meeting since November 2008, but this one was too important, and needs to go down. I have voted against it twice, and in these tough economic times, the County needs to really look hard at cutting spending, not additional taxing.”

Many other residents shared similar sentiments, some were very articulate, and well prepared, others were emotional, yet all had valid opinions. The Stuart West HOA was very well prepared, and presented convincing evidence why their community (and others like it) should be granted exemptions from this Assessment when they have paid and purchased for their own stormwater management.

Yet, the consensus with most was that the County Commissioners needed to look elsewhere for funding. Despite several of the members having traveled to Washington last week, residents were not convinced that they had learned much from their experience. Resident, John Patteson stated, “ Martin County should begin to live within their means, much as all of her residents have learned to do.”

How will it all turn out? Stay tuned and keep reading, this is the First Amendment at its finest, with the public playing an active role in local politics …….

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

Out2martincounty.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A. (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998)

"Martin County's Photo Journal"

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