AFP: What if the tax referendum falls through?

From what we hear, the July 29th tax & budget deal may be falling through. If it does, that won't necessarily be a bad thing, assuming:

1) no tax increases are enacted or referred to the ballot;

2) the state can't find more than $1 billion in one-time proceeds from asset sales and sale-leaseback schemes;

3) the state can't figure out how to legally or effectively bond; and,

4) the above three conditions result in the Legislature and Governor having to cut $1.5 billion out of the General Fund in the coming months.

Here is a tentative scoring rubric for that kind of no-deal scenario:

http://www.americansforprosperity.org/files/072909afparizonadealofftablerubric.pdf

Here was our tentative scoring rubric for the elements of the July 29th plan:

http://www.americansforprosperity.org/files/072909afparizonascoringrubric_0.pdf

CAP: How your legislators voted on 9 key family bills this year

OVERVIEW:

With the hundreds of bills that moved through the Arizona Legislature this past spring, it can be an overwhelming task to keep track of the key bills that have an impact on your family. That is where Center for Arizona Policy can help! We are excited to announce the release of our annual Family Issues Voting Records. This handy resource shows the Arizona State Legislature's final votes on nine key pro-family bills initiated and/or supported by CAP during the 2009 legislative session. Gov. Brewer signed all nine bills into law! We encourage you to take a few minutes to review your legislators' voting records and to contact them with a message of thanks if you agree with how they voted. You can view the 2009 Senate Family Issues Voting Record and2009 House Family Issues Voting Record online and simply click your legislator's name to send an e-mail. Your legislators' phone numbers are also listed if you prefer to call. If you are unsure of your legislative district, you can locate it using our district finder. A vote with CAP's position is marked "Y" and a vote against CAP's position is marked "N." "NV" indicates that the legislator was absent or chose not to vote on that bill. The publication includes a brief summary of each bill, but if you want to learn more, we have detailed fact sheets available online. ACTION NEEDED: Please take time to let your legislators know your thoughts about their voting record. It makes a difference when legislators hear from their constituents! Most importantly, if you agree with how your legislators voted, please take time to thank them personally by sending an e-mail or by calling their offices. Legislators often don't hear thanks for the many hours of effort they put in on behalf of Arizona families at the Capitol. Thank you for taking the time to be informed about the policies that impact your family and for being involved in the policy-making process.

The legislators who received 100% scores are:

SENATE: ALLEN (Sylvia), Burns, Gorman, Gould, Gray, Harper, Huppenthal-maybe (had two missed votes), Leff, Melvin, Nelson, Pearce, Pierce, Tibshraeny-maybe (missed a vote), Verschoor & Waring

HOUSE: Adams, Antenori, Ash, Barnes, Barto, Boone, Burgess, Court, Crandall-maybe (had a missed vote), Crump, Driggs, Goodale, Gowan, Hendrix, Kavanagh, Lesko, Mason-maybe (had two missed votes), McComish, McLain, Montenegro, Murphy, Nichols, Pratt, Quelland-maybe (had two missed votes), Seel, Stevens, Tobin, both Weiers, Williams & Yarbrough.

Illegal immigrant population in AZ falls by 1/3 - biggest decrease in nation

No doubt due to the tough on illegal immigration approach by leaders like Sheriff Arpaio, County Attorney Thomas, and Senator Russell Pearce.

The number of illegal immigrants living in Arizona has plunged by one-third in the past two years amid a dismal job market and stiffer enforcement of immigration laws, according to researchers who released a new report.

Arizona saw the largest decline of any state, according to researchers at the Center for Immigration Studies, whose report shows that the nation's undocumented population fell nearly 14 percent from the summer of 2007 to the first quarter of this year, following years of steady growth.

Read the rest of the article

More from the study -

There is also evidence that the number of illegal immigrants returning home has more than doubled in the last two years compared to earlier in this decade.

Our best estimate is that the illegal population declined 13.7 percent (1.7 million) from a peak of 12.5 million in the summer of 2007 to 10.8 million in the first quarter of 2009.

The fact that the legal immigrant population does not show the same decline is an indication that stepped up enforcement has played a role.

Another indication that enforcement has played a role in the decline is that the illegal immigrant population began falling before there was a significant rise in their unemployment rate.

Read the study from the Center for Immigration Studies

AZ Poll: Immigration trumps healthcare; Arpaio doing a good job addessing

Health-care reform might be at the forefront of the national political debate, but a new Rasmussen Report survey shows Arizonans are still more concerned with immigration, and most think Sheriff Joe Arpaio is doing a good job addressing the issue.

Most of the 500 Arizona voters who participated in the telephone survey last week said immigration reform (51 percent) was more important than overhauling the health-care system (45 percent).
The poll also shows that voters here think securing the borders (65 percent) is more important than legalizing illegal immigrants in the country (20 percent).

On the Arpaio front, 57 percent of voters thought the voluble sheriff had helped the state’s image.

Read rest of article

American Post-Gazette: upcoming tea parties

Washington is not listening to us

We need to speak louder until they do

To Arizona Taxpayers and Tea Partiers (from Americans for Prosperity:

The Arizona chapter of Americans for Prosperity is joining allied organizations on Saturday, August 8th to hold protests at the offices of members of Arizona’s Congressional delegation to tell them to keep their HANDS OFF OUR HEALTH CARE!

AFP Arizona activists will join Arizona Tea Party, 9-12 Project Arizona, Smart Girl Politics, Tea Party Patriots, and thousands of citizen activists in Code Blue protests around the state, beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 8th.

Code Blue is asking activists to attend protests at the offices of their Congresspersons and Senators and at the office of the AARP. For locations, see the Code Blue flyer.

AFP Arizona recommends that activists focus their efforts on the offices of U.S. Reps. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Pima County), Ann Kirkpatrick (D-Prescott/Flagstaff) and Harry Mitchell (D-Scottsdale/Tempe). Those three members have serious concerns about the initial versions of the Obama-Pelosi-Kennedy “reform” plans.

The current plans would result in massive new taxes, failure to control costs, and potentially a single-payer, Canadian-style system of government-directed health care (under which Washington bureaucrats would decide which doctors you can go to, and which medical procedures you can and can’t have).

Giffords, Kirkpatrick, and Mitchell are under intense pressure from President Obama, from their hard-left colleagues in Congress, and from radical activist groups that want to destroy what remains of America’s private health insurance system. We need to make sure that Giffords, Kirkpatrick and Mitchell hear loud and clear from grassroots supporters of health care freedom!

To sign up for a Health Care Tea Party, please take the following five steps:

1) Decide which Congressional office you wish to visit on August 8th. The offices are listed on the Code Blue flyer.

2) Reply to this email (or write to tjenney@afphq.org) to let AFP Arizona know which office you plan to visit.

3) Let your local Tea Party organizer know which office you’re going to, by signing up at www.arizonateaparty.com.

4) Get talking points, policy updates, and ideas for signs at: http://joinpatientsfirst.com/

5) Email and call your friends and family members, and urge them to join us on August 8th.

This is the fight of the decade for American liberty. Now is the time to take a stand.

President Obama and the leftists in Congress wanted to hurry up and complete the national government’s takeover of American health care--before the public got a chance to find out what was in the legislation. We are grateful to report that the legislation does not look like it will go to a final vote until after the August recess. That means we have a very limited window to act.

The same people who have taken over private banks and much of the auto industry now want to take over even more of the health care sector. The same people who make you wait in line at the Post Office want to create a system in which you will have to wait weeks, months, or even years for life-saving or life-improving medical services. The same kind of people who run America’s very expensive and very ineffective public schools claim that they will (somehow) maintain quality and control costs in the health care sector.

Some of the central planners in Washington want to give government the power to say which doctors you can go to, and which medical procedures you can and can’t have. President Obama is not sure whether the government should have allowed his own grandmother to get a hip replacement. Imagine how Washington bureaucrats will treat YOU!

We must take a stand NOW to protect elderly patients, to maintain the high quality of health services in America, and to preserve the essential doctor-patient relationship. Government has already distorted US health insurance markets by making private health insurance too expensive for many Americans, and by making American workers dependent upon on employer-provided insurance. But if you think things are bad now, wait until government completes its takeover of the medical sector. We must STOP the rapid march of socialist health care!

Tom Jenney

Arizona Director
Americans for Prosperity
(Arizona Federation of Taxpayers)
www.aztaxpayers.org
tjenney@afphq.org
(602) 478-0146

Sen. Pearce update on illegal immigration bills

I wanted to give you an update on all of the recent news concerning illegal immigration. Our efforts to enforce our laws, secure our border, and go after illegal employers, has gotten much tougher do to ICE, under the direction of Sec. Napolitano and the Obama administration, having decided to pull back and throw up additional obstacles to enforcement. We were also blocked in our own State Legislature when we attempted to pass legislation creating trespass laws for illegal aliens and prohibiting sanctuary city policies in Arizona.

Well enough is enough! Once again, it is time to allow the good citizens of this state to make it clear to Washington D.C., the local politicians and Police Chiefs that we are not going to take it anymore. We will no longer allow our political leaders to handcuff our law enforcement officers and allow the Rule of Law to be ignored, and our citizens killed, maimed, or raped.

As we have in the past, when the politicians have lacked the courage to do the right thing, we are now looking at putting together a citizen’s initiative effort that will create a state trespass law and that will eliminate sanctuary city policies here in Arizona. I have meetings scheduled with the Sheriff Joe, Sheriff Babeu, County Attorney Thomas, Phoenix Law Enforcement Association, Border Patrol Association, Maricopa County Deputies Association, Pachyderms and the Maricopa County Republican Party and we will start to work on the initial paperwork and see if we can get enough support to put it on the ballot.

I believe we will be successful. Our legislative efforts had the support of the Arizona State Republican Party and the Maricopa County Republican Party (both of which passed Resolutions in support), the Phoenix Law Enforcement Association (P.L.E.A.), Border Patrol Officers, Maricopa County Deputies Association, Arizona FOP, Arizona Highway Patrol Association, Sheriff Arpaio, County Attorney Andrew Thomas, Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu, Pachyderm Coalition, Arizona Republican Assembly, Minutemen Civil Defense Corporation, American Citizens United, many other patriotic groups and, according to the polls, over 75% of Arizona’s citizens.

As always, I will keep you apprised of our progress and you can look forward to a call to action from me in the near future. In the meantime, continue to stand strong.

Let’s Roll!

Senator Russell Pearce, R-18, Mesa, Arizona.

AFP: Scoring the Proposed July 29 Budget and Tax Deal

Pasted below is a link to an updated scoring rubric, showing how AFP Arizona's 2009 Legislative Scorecard would likely grade the tax and budget deal that appears to be in play today. In the table, Legislators A and B vote for the tax trade-off (referring the Brewer sales tax to the ballot, in exchange for permanent repeal of the state equalization property tax and future reductions in the personal and corporate income taxes to 4.24 adn 4.86 percent, respectively). Legislators C and D vote against the tax trade-off.

The biggest factor is not the tax tradeoff, but rather, the votes (or lack thereof) on referring to the 2010 ballot a reduction in the state's existing constitutional spending limit. SCR1006 at least made it to the Senate floor, but all members of the House stand to lose points for the failure of some version of the reform to make it to a vote on the House floor.

Scores are also substantially diminished by the failure of the legislative majority and governor to achieve much in the way of baseline budget reductions off the FY2009 peak.

http://www.americansforprosperity.org/files/073009afparizonascoringrubric_0.pdf

Rep. Trent Franks: Obama Science Advisor's Views are Extreme and Inhumane

July 28, 2009 - In light of President Obama's recent appointment of John Holdren as Director of Science and Technology Policy, the White House's top science advisor, Congressman Trent Franks (R - AZ) today released the following statement:

"President Obama's selection for this post confirms what many in the pro-life community have warned all along -- not only is President Obama pro-abortion, but he is, by far, the single most pro-abortion President in our nation's history. Not only has he filled his administration with those who favor abortion, but he has seemingly gone out of his way to recruit the most radical abortion proponents imaginable, as he has once again done in appointing Mr. Holdren as his science advisor.

To call this appointment radical is by no means mere hyperbole, as the views expressed by Mr. Holdren are inhumane and are exceedingly unrepresentative of the views held by the American people. Mr. Holdren's views align perfectly only with the most extreme proponents of abortion and eugenics.

Furthermore, it is beyond peculiar for the President to choose as his top science advisor a man who doesn't even seem to fully grasp one of the most elementary biological concepts -- that conception forms a genetically unique human being."

In a text book he co-authored in 1973, Holdren wrote, "The fetus, given the opportunity to develop properly before birth, and given the essential early socializing experiences and sufficient nourishing food during the crucial early years after birth, will ultimately develop into a human being."

Holdren's textbook also included the following comments on the need to halt population growth: “Human values and institutions have set mankind on a collision course with the laws of nature. Human beings cling jealously to their prerogative to reproduce as they please—and they please to make each new generation larger than the last—yet endless multiplication on a finite planet is impossible. Most humans aspire to greater material prosperity, but the number of people that can be supported on Earth if everyone is rich is even smaller than if everyone is poor.”

Rep. Franks Implores Senate to Consider Sotomayor's Questionable Constitutional Record

July 28, 2009 - Congressman Trent Franks (R - AZ) today released the following statement on the Senate Judiciary Committee's vote in support of the confirmation of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the United States Supreme Court:

"Every American who loves the United States Constitution should be deeply concerned over the Senate Judiciary Committee's 13-6 vote in favor of Judge Sonia Sotomayor. She was consistently evasive throughout her hearings when asked about her view on a wide variety of Constitutional issues, and often her rhetoric clearly contradicted her judicial record.

"Judge Sotomayor spent twelve years working for the controversial, radically left-wing Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund (PRLDF). As such, her pretense of ignorance regarding the PRLDF’s radical stance on abortion while she served in a leadership capacity - equating the denial of public funding of abortion with slavery – stretches the bounds of credulity.

"Judge Sotomayor twice has ruled that the Second Amendment is not a 'fundamental right,' and thus does not apply to state and local governments.

"She has also stated that American courts should rely more on foreign law, lest we "lose influence in the world."

"When the Supreme Court recently reviewed Judge Sotomayor's decision to deny firefighters a promotion based solely on their race, all nine justices rejected her reasoning. Indeed, the flawed nature of her reasoning was one of the few points upon which all nine justices could agree.

"Her hostility to the United States Constitution; her undermining of Second Amendment rights; her support of radical racial preferences like the one exhibited in the Ricci case; her opposition to parental notification laws for abortions for minors; and her work for PRLDF all suggest that she would only worsen the national trend of judicial activism and use her post to promote her own political ideology.

"Judge Sotomayor has stated multiple times that her gender and ethnicity would make her a "better" judge than a white man; she has disagreed with Justice O'Conner's famous statement that a wise man and a wise woman could reach the same conclusion; and she has publicly stated that the 'courts are where policy is made.'

"All of these things signify an adherence to a form of "identity politics" that flies in the face of the principles of equal justice and the separation of powers so meticulously outlined in the Constitution. We should all shudder to envision Judge Sotomayor's ideology being granted the nearly carte blanch power of the highest court in America.

"I commend those Senators who opposed Judge Sotomayor's nomination; and I hope all of my colleagues in the Senate will give serious consideration to the many gravely concerning revelations that have come out in the past weeks and have cast serious doubt on whether Judge Sotomayor meets the standard of Constitutional jurisprudence that should be required of a Supreme Court Justice."

Councilman Bill Gates fundraiser - September 8th

Stan Barnes

and the team at

Copper State Consulting Group

invite you to a fundraiser for

City Councilman

BILL GATES

Phoenix City Council

District 3

September 8, 2009

5:00 – 7:00 pm

Copper State

3033 North Central Avenue

Ninth Floor

Phoenix, AZ 85012

[SE Corner Central and Earll]

Please RSVP to Crystal Caballero at 602-339-0813 or

friendsofbillgates@gmail.com

Please make checks payable to:

Friends of Bill Gates

P.O. Box 82485

Phoenix, AZ 85071

www.gatesforphoenix.com

Maximum contributions are $410 per individual or $820 per couple.

Please see attached contribution form.

Paid for by Friends of Bill Gates

AIA: $347 Million Court Tower Boondoggle Drama Continues

$347 Million Court Tower Boondoggle Drama Continues

Friends, We emailed you on Tuesday about the Maricopa County $347 Million Court Tower Boondoggle and the scheduled meeting that was to take place on Wednesday. Well, we want to give you a bit of an update on what actually went down (or better yet, what didn't go down) at the meeting. Just prior to the meeting and responding to grassroot reactions, the agenda item on the $347 Million Court Tower Boondoggle was removed from discussion. From what my sources tell me, it was because of the pressure we put on the Board of Supervisors. But what does this mean for the future of this extravagant expenditure? At this point, the budget-busting project is still moving forward so we must do whatever it takes to pressure the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors from allowing this project to continue. We have stated before, Maricopa County has a HUGE budget shortfall even after laying off employees at the Superior Court and cutting law enforcement budgets by 15%. Sheriff Arpaio is even having difficulties finding deputies to transport inmates to the courthouse. This is a critical moment for Maricopa County and the taxpayers. We need to stand up to the Board of Supervisors and remind them that they are accountable to us, not to the contractors making political contributions. BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE... Maricopa County Board of Supervisors In Their Own Words We also wanted to let you know about some research we conducted that we find very interesting in light of this excessive spending. We told you about the political contributions that may be influencing the obstinacy of the Board of Supervisors but we thought you might be interested in what some of the Supervisors have said in the past about the satellite court houses throughout Maricopa County. Let's take a look at the Special Meeting Minutes from July 19, 2002 from the Dedication Ceremony of the Superior Court NW Regional Center in Surprise: "Chairman Stapley stated that he was pleased to see this facility, serving the northwest valley, become a reality. The goal of regional services is to meet the needs of the outlying areas, and he predicted that this center would become the heart of judicial services for this community." "Having formally represented the area, Supervisor Wilcox stated that the City of Surprise had worked for many years toward obtaining a regional center, and she was happy to have been a part of the initial planning as well as completion of the project." Now, we should take a look at the BOS "Summary of Key Accomplishments from the 2001-2005 Maricopa County Strategic Plan": "Completed planning and have begun building five new regional court centers to expand access to the Court system in localized areas throughout the County. This eliminated a 10-day delay for preliminary hearings and arraignments....Two additional RCCs are planned for the Northwest and Southeast regions, to be operational before the end of 2001." The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors continued to comment. In 2002, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors submitted the "Regional Court Centers for Felony Case Processing" for a NACM 2002 Justice Achievement Award. Here is the description they submitted for consideration of the award: "Benefits include tangible cost savings, such as jail housing and transportation costs." Finally, we have yet another quote that we would like to draw your attention to coming from the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors in the "Maricopa County Justice System Annual Activities Report - Fiscal Year 2000-2001": "The Justice Courts and Superior Court greatly streamlined front-end felony processing, by coordinating early court proceedings at Regional Court Centers which expedite case processing, and reduce jail overcrowding and inmate transports." We are left with confusion about the Board of Supervisors - do we believe the words and evidence from recent times, their comments of today, or the political contributions from contractors involved with this lavish and unnecessary spending. Our take is to listen to their words of the past and then follow the money. AIA ACTION ITEM: Will you please do two things for us today? 1. Contact all of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors today and demand that this project be stopped immediately. Tell them that you are forced to reevaluate your personal spending and that they have a responsibility to the taxpayers not to be engaged in excessive and frivolous spending. Fix the courts that we have already in place! 2. Please forward this message on to your friends and family and ask them do to the same. Thank you for your help. Please forward any responses that you receive to us!

#dontgo/American Liberty Alliance: Tea Party protests on Aug. 22 outside House District offices

This morning the American Liberty Alliance announced the launch of a nationwide "Recess Rally" happening across each and every House district office on August 22nd, 2009.

We've joined with Michelle Malkin, RedState.com, American Majority, Smart Girl Politics, Americans for Limited Government, Freedom Works, Sam Adams Alliance and several other groups to help push the national effort.

The purpose of this effort is to oppose Government run healthcare and make sure our Representatives know how we feel. You can view details of the effort athttp://recessrally.com

Please spread the word and make sure everyone you know is a part of this. We're looking to duplicate the success of the Tax Day Tea Party and we can't do it without you!

Also, if you haven't yet joined the American Liberty Alliance, please do so athttp://americanlibertyalliance.com/get-involved

For Liberty,

-Eric Odom

Visit DontGo Movement at: http://dontgo.ning.com

ADF: Your job vs. your rights

A New York Nurse is forced to do the unthinkable. Learn more.

New York City’s Mount Sinai Hospital considers itself to be “nationally recognized as providing the gold standard of patient care.” They pledge a “spirit of professionalism, clinical excellence and compassion.”

Those promises drew Cathy Cenzon-DeCarlo – a Christian nurse with a passion for patient care. However, Mount Sinai does not get a “gold standard” for how it handled her sincerely held religious beliefs.

When Cathy objected to assisting with a late-term abortion, she learned a tough lesson – the “right to choose” movement doesn’t apply to her.

Learn more about Cathy’s story and how – with your support – this case could set the precedent for the right of Christians to freely live out their faith in the workplace.

---

In California, A Federal Court Backhands Another Assault On Marriage - July 28, 2009 A same-sex couple in California double-faulted this month in their continuing effort to serve up marriage in that state as a same-sex proposition. Indeed, a crucial federal court ruling said their suit fell outside Constitutional bounds – scoring match point for marriage as the union of one man and one woman. In Europe, a Chance to Decide Roe v. Wade the Right Way - July 21, 2009 Texas Town Can’t Bar Religious Freedoms for Ex-Cons - July 14, 2009 Rabbi Daniel Lapin, known world-wide as America's Rabbi, is a noted rabbinic scholar, best-selling author and friend of the Alliance Defense Fund. For a limited time, fellow ADF friends, like you, can receive a 20% discount on his best-selling books and CD series. Enter the code "SUN" when checking out at www.rabbidaniellapin.com.

ADF is a legal alliance defending the right to hear and speak the Truth through strategy training funding and litigation.

Right Online conference - Aug. 14-15 in Pittsburgh

Take Control of the Internet

Join the nation’s foremost new media experts, leading voices of the conservative movement, and hundreds of citizen activists from across the country, to take back the internet.

Americans for Prosperity Foundation is proud to announce our second annual RightOnline Conference on August 14 & 15 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This two day conference will feature an impressive lineup of speakers and a solid agenda of workshops and training seminars focused on cutting edge strategies and techniques in online activism.

Last year in Austin, Texas we became the first major event to compete head-on with the NetRoots Nation Convention (formerly known as YearlyKos), an annual gathering of several thousand left-wing activists. We return this year delivering the same powerful message: average Americans will no longer sit and watch as our very freedom and prosperity is threatened by the radical left.

The time has come for conservatives to stand up and fight back. We invite you to join us on August 14th and 15th, at the Sheraton Station Square in Pittsburgh, PA for our second annual RightOnline Conference. Together, we can continue the hard, but important job of taking back the Internet and our country.

Speakers

Michelle Malkin Conservative Columnist & Best-Selling Author Pat Toomey Former Congressman Steve Moore The Wall Street Journal Erick Erickson RedState.com John Fund The Wall Street Journal Jim Pinkerton Fox News Contributor R.J. Harris Talk Radio Host Erik Telford Executive Director, RightOnline Steve Lonegan Americans for Prosperity Foundation

Ed Morrissey HotAir.com Joe the Plumber Conservative Activist Matt Lewis Politics Daily Ronald Kessler Newsmax.com Grover Norquist Americans for Tax Reform John Peterson Former Congressman Tim Phillips President, AFP Foundation Phil Kerpen Fox Forum & AFP Foundation

David Schweikert: How Much is a Trillion?‏

$1,000,000,000,000!

Quick, how much is that number above?

It’s 1 trillion dollars

How much is a trillion?

A trillion barrels of oil would be enough to fuel the entire world – for 33 years

A trillion dollars would be enough to buy every man, woman and child a 1000 boxes of Girl Scout cookies.
It would take over 31,000 years to count to a trillion.
A trillion dollars is what experts say the Democrats’ plan to nationalize healthcare is going to cost the American taxpayers – and that is just the upfront costs.

And the Democrats’ plan for nationalized healthcare doesn’t stop with higher taxes.

The Democrats plan for nationalized healthcare will leave the majority of Americans with no choice but to turn over their healthcare decisions to a massive government bureaucracy that will have final say in what kind of medical care you and your family can receive.

Government control of your healthcare and a trillion dollars in NEW spending and the taxes to pay for it
Sound scary?. That’s because it is.

But that’s what we’ve come to expect from the monopoly that the Democrats have on our federal government.

You can help us break that monopoly today with a donation to the Schweikert for Congress campaign.

With your support we can send one of Nancy Pelosi’s strongest allies packing in 2010.

That’s Congressman Harry Mitchell and he’s a key part of that monopoly which the Democrats have on on power in Washington.

He’s one of the reasons why the Democrats control Congress and one of the reasons why they are able to push their radical agenda which threatens to completely restructure our government in ways that you and I could have never imagined.

We can beat Harry Mitchell in 2010 with your help.

We can send a message to the Democrats in Washington that we don’t want nationalized healthcare and the job killing higher taxes that come with it.

If you are fed up with the Democrat monopoly on power, then I need you to join me in the fight to win back Congress with a donation today!

We raised over $1.6 million in 2008 from supporters like you. What happened?

We saw the Democrats in Washington and their liberal union allies spend nearly $5 million to defeat us.

That won’t happen again with your support! Please join the over 3000 supporters from our last campaign with a donation today!

Together we can do it!

P.S. Please join us this Friday night for a poignant story of what can happen in a society where the freedoms we cherish do not exist. Recommended by conservative talk show host Hugh Hewiit.

The Stoning of Soraya M. at Camelview Cinema at 6:15 p.m.

CAP Opposes Racetracks' Bailout Campaign

Despite state legislators giving a resounding NO to gambling expansion during the regular session, proponents of expanded gambling have launched a new and more aggressive (and expensive!) public relations campaign to try to convince legislators, the Governor, and the public that casino-style gambling should be allowed off-reservation at racetracks. Because their revenues are down, the racetracks are asking the Legislature to bail them out with a proposal that would "help any racetrack in the country stay in business." Gambling proponents promise a quick, easy way for the state to rake in hundreds of millions of dollars - but there's much of the story they're not telling. First, allowing off-reservation gambling will trigger the "poison pill" of the gambling compacts the state has with the tribes, which means the current limits on the number of casinos and games on Indian reservations will be blown open. Arizona could look like the next Las Vegas with very few real limits on casino gambling. Already we see signs that other entertainment establishments will press for casino-style gambling if the caps are off and the tracks get casinos. Second, gambling revenues nationally are spiraling downward, yet the racetracks allege they could produce $500 million and up in state revenue if legislators only would let them have slot machines and table games. Gambling is not recession proof! Lotteries and commercial gambling are declining, with casino owners filing for bankruptcy or selling casinos. People needing jobs don't have discretionary income to waste on gambling. Next, studies repeatedly show that gambling's economic and social effects are negative, not positive. Gambling leads to increased rates of crime, divorce, domestic violence, and a host of other social ills! Professor John Kindt of the University of Illinois estimates that for every $1 in gambling revenue, the state must spend an additional $3 in social services and law enforcement. Lastly, don't be fooled! Gambling expansion is not inevitable. In fact, the national trends show a decrease in gambling revenue, a decrease in popularity, and a decrease in gambling expansion. Desperate state budget woes do not call for desperate action based on questionable promises of increased gambling revenue. In the CAP 2008 Voter's Guide, fifteen senators and thirty-five representatives stated they would oppose allowing slots and table games off reservations. We have every expectation these members will keep their word and defeat any gambling expansion proposals. Additionally, while running for Secretary of State, Gov. Brewer answered a similar survey question in our2006 Voter's Guide stating that she opposed allowing slots and table games off reservations. We are continuing to work to ensure that those commitments to you, the voters, are kept and that gambling expansion is not included in any budget agreement. For more information on gambling, visit our resource page Gambling Expansion in Arizona.

A Call to Action!

I've spent this week in Washington hearing the same call to action over and over again: absent the American people, nationalized health care, including taxpayer dollars for abortions, will pass. Repeatedly, President Obama and proponents of the national health care takeover refuse to rule out the possibility that your taxpayer dollars will fund abortions and that medical professionals could be forced to participate in abortion, even if doing so would violate their moral or religious beliefs. Now is the time for the pro-life community to mobilize fully to oppose this health care takeover. Now is the time especially to let Arizona's congressional delegation hear your concerns by responding to CAP's Action Alert. If you missed last night's national webcast by pro-life leaders, you can listen to the recorded version at StopTheAbortionMandate.com.

Washington Meetings

Read more about my week in Washington on CAP's blog

Truth Project Training

CAP is bringing you another opportunity for Truth Projecttraining August 1 at Christ Life Church in Tempe. This is thelast opportunity to be trained so that you can start a Truth Project small group this fall! Register and find more information online.

NetworkingPhoenix.com events this week

Trust me, you just never know when that next opportunity is going to knock on your door. Especially when it comes to your job. That's where HireFlyer.com comes in. If you haven’t had a chance to check it out, now is the time to give it a go. It’s a discreet, easy-to-use service that allows you to create an anonymous profile and then the system pro-actively seeks out the jobs that are right for you. This advanced search technology will send an email or text notification as soon as an opportunity matching your profile becomes available. Let HireFlyer.com do the research for you, and find the right job, without all the work!

Special Note from Gelie:

After staying up for over 48 hours, not showering for way too long and drinking way too much coffee…the NEW site has finally launched!! I'm so pleased with it and can't wait to hear your feedback. We will be adding more features to it and will gladly take your input. Have fun exploring it and make sure to play with all the new filtering and search options. You can now also rate and review events, organizations and venues - I know many of you have been waiting for this feature :)

Also, check out our exclusive Member Deal for the Phoenix Business Journal. If you're not a subscriber yet...now's a good time to becom one.

Our BIG Signature Event is less than a month away!! Event festivities include professional headshots, a Face-to-Face networking class, LIVE broadcast of The John Adam Show and more!

There are still spots available for table sponsors. Please contact Mitra@NetworkingPhoenix.com today to get your space reserved!

Below are this week's featured events. Happy networking and see you soon!

Monday The Four Elements of Success is a fun personality workshop that will change the way to see your relationships: home, work & family. Ignite your relationships with understanding and inspiration! Phoenix CEO-CFO Group - We host are an ideal forum for connected executives to network with others in the Phoenix financial community. Tuesday ASBA Fast & Curious™ - This is a fun, fast paced speed networking meeting, so brush up on your 30- second commercial and get ready to quick connect! Young Professionals Networking Mixer - This is a great opportunity to introduce yourself to other young professionals and network, both professionally and socially. Wednesday Arizona Business Circle - Bring plenty of business cards when you have lunch with this strategic business building referral group and let them exceed your expectations. Crash Course: Surviving Today’s Housing Market - What are the viable options as a home-owner in today’s economy? This comprehensive class taught by an Attorney and a Real Estate Broker will give you the foremost information available. APRO Evening Mixer - If it's the last Wednesday of the month, it must be time for “Scottsdale's Most Talked About Mixer.” This hosted by Farrelli’s Cinema Supper Club. Thursday Business Improvement Group - Meet with this unique networking group for this free “Memory Dynamics” event and NEVER forget another name again! Social Media Seminar for Non-Prfits - Join the National Bank of Arizona to learn how your non profit organization can benefit from using the digital space including social media in this rapidly changing world. BizMix - The Phoenix Business Journal and Four Points Sheraton bring mixing, mingling and networking to Valley business professionals, all in the name of Christmas in July! Friday Members of the Tribe 2 - Develop "power partners" that will create even more leads and enable our business endeavors to grow among individuals of the Jewish faith. LeTip Camelback Corridor - As the world’s largest, privately owned, business leads organization, LeTip has a proven track record for business building referrals. Saturday In the Flow Marketing - Meet with this diverse group of women who are seeking authentic marketing opportunities in a setting of support and encouragement. Facebook: How to Effectively Engage Others on Social Networks - Learn all the essentials plus leave with some of the more complex nuisances of these essential marketing channels when you attend this seminar onAugust 11th! UPCOMING EVENTS NetworkingPhoenix.com Signature Event - It’s that time again! We are inviting you to join us for one of the biggest networking events in Phoenix with are over 500 professionals in attendance. Our Signature event takes place only 4 times a year, so mark your calendars for August 20th now!

Operation COURTROOM CHAOS: 3,600 Photo Radar Tickets Set for One Court Day!

From camerafraud.com

Mon 7:30 AM

Location

West McDowell Justice Court

620 West Jackson
Phoenix, AZ 85003

Who’s coming?

17 Yes / 4 Maybe

Who's organizing?
Andrea Garcia, DT, Kandaris, Matt Sharp, Stacey, Susan, and Walter

SIGN WAVE / SIGNATURE GATHERING / MEDIA CIRCUS extravaganza!

Over 3,600 photo radar tickets have been set to a court date on Monday, July 27th, according to an email sent out to county employees. CameraFRAUD will be there in full force to gather signatures and wave signs in support of camera-free roadways.

YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS THIS ONE!

Just bring yourself, water, and a camera...

Court starts at 8:30, so we will be there an hour early.

RSVP here

Follow-up notice from JP Gerald Williams -

The actual number is 3,680. I had several consecutive Wednesdays with 500 scheduled into my court; but nothing this bad. If you are one of the people set for Monday, please remember two things: (1) this is an arraignment date, not the date for a civil traffic hearing; and (2) yelling at the court ... Read Moreclerks is both unfair and counterproductive. If you are upset with the current highway photo enforcement ticket system, call your state legislator. Believe me, this was not the court system’s idea.

Shadegg: President Opts for Rhetoric and Deceit Rather Than Candor and Thoughtfulness

Shadegg: “Regrettably, the President gave a political stump speech, designed to ratchet-up the pressure on the issue, notable for its hyperbole, absolutely false claims and promises sure to be left unfulfilled.”

WASHINGTON , D.C. – Congressman John Shadegg (AZ-03) issued the following statement in response to the President’s primetime speech addressing health care reform.

“I had hoped the President would acknowledge the importance of health care reform, agree to slow down and give this issue the consideration it deserves. I had also hoped he would move away from political rhetoric and address the substantive concerns of the American people. Sadly, he did not.

“Regrettably, the President gave a political stump speech, designed to ratchet-up the pressure on the issue, notable for its hyperbole, absolutely false claims and promises sure to be left unfulfilled.

“For example, the President's assertions that the reform he and Congressional Democrats propose, ‘will keep government out of health care decisions,’ and that you will have ‘the option [under their legislation] to keep your insurance if you are happy with it,’ are just plain false.

“Let me repeat that. Those claims are simply not true. The House Bill inserts the federal government and federal bureaucrats in virtually every health care decision in America . And, under the clear terms of the bill you will not be able to keep your current plan, whether you like it or not.

“Without candor, truthfulness and time, the Nation cannot have a productive discussion on these issues. The President’s political speech, regrettably, did not help.”

Prosecuting Attorneys Ass. seeking new leader

APAAC Staff Attorney Job Announcement

The Arizona Prosecuting Attorneys’ Advisory Council is seeking a Staff Attorney. Primary responsibilities include planning/coordinating 15-18 CLE programs per year, updating and revising prosecution practice manuals, being an on-call resource for Arizona prosecutors and drafting/negotiating/reviewing contracts, grants and invoices. Preferred qualifications include five years Arizona prosecution experience. Salary up to $110,000, depending on experience. Interested applicants must submit resume, cover letter, writing sample and at least three references no later than August 17, 2009, to: Paul W. Ahler, Executive Director, APAAC, 3001 W. Indian School Rd., #307, Phoenix, AZ 85017

Goldwater Institute: Meeting Growing Energy Needs Requires Improved Electricity System

New report shows how Arizona can restructure electricity system to meet future needs Phoenix--Consumer demand for electricity is projected to increase by 50 percent in the next 20 years and Arizona's existing power infrastructure cannot meet those demands. A new report from the Goldwater Institute, "Opening the Grid: How to Recharge Arizona's Electricity System for the 21st Century," lays out a clear path for meeting increased energy needs. "If Arizona doesn't restructure its electricity system, it will have lasting consequences on the economy. Having access to relatively inexpensive energy to power businesses and homes is a key component to future economic growth," said Nick Dranias, constitutional policy analyst with the Goldwater Institute. "Fortunately, there are no constitutional impediments to restructuring Arizona's electricity market for free and open competition." "Opening the Grid" was written by Stanley S. Reynolds, professor of economics and the SRP Professor of Technology, Public Policy and Markets at the University of Arizona and Andrew N. Kleit, professor of energy and environmental economics at Pennsylvania State University. The report explains how electricity restructuring has worked in Britain, Texas and Pennsylvania and how it can work in Arizona. As a result of restructuring, Texas increased generation capacity by 35 percent between 1998 and 2006 with much of that increased capacity coming from renewable sources that consumers are choosing to purchase. In Britain, restructuring lowered utility rates by 30 percent. The report also explains how to avoid the pitfalls of failed restructuring efforts that have taken place around the country. California's experience in particular raised questions about the viability of competitive electricity markets. The primary cause of the California's failed effort at restructuring can be avoided in Arizona. California's effort failed because long-term contracts between power generators, suppliers, and consumers were prohibited or discouraged, allowing for vast changes in prices. To restructure Arizona's power system, this report recommends: · Eliminating the monopolies on retail electricity where consumers are assigned an electricity company based on their address and opening up the market to competition. This would allow consumers to choose their utility company. · Breaking electricity bills out into separate charges for transmission, generation, distribution and system operations. This would provide consumers with the information they need to make an informed decision about how they buy and consume electricity. · Lifting price controls on wholesale electricity and stopping cost guarantees to generating companies. Instead generating companies should operate like other non-monopoly companies and keep the profits they make and be responsible for losses they incur. The paper also recommends lifting price controls on retail electricity after a transition period. The report details the interim steps that would have to be taken to protect consumers while the transition away from an electricity monopoly is occurring. "Restructuring isn't something that will happen overnight, but it must happen if Arizona's electricity industry intends to meet the demands of the 21st-century consumer," said Mr. Dranias. "Opening the Grid" is available online or by calling (602) 462-5000. The Goldwater Institute is a nonprofit public policy research and litigation organization whose work is made possible by the generosity of its supporters.

Goldwater Institute: Judge Orders Glendale to Produce Public Records in Coyotes Sale Negotiations

Goldwater Institute Says Ruling Sheds Sunlight on Government Secrecy

Phoenix--A Maricopa County Superior Court judge has ruled that the City of Glendale must produce public records related to the negotiations of the sale of the Phoenix Coyotes. The Goldwater Institute requested the records several weeks ago, and when Glendale refused to turn them over, the Institute sued to get them.

"The court tore down the wall Glendale tried to build around the Coyotes negotiations," said Goldwater Institute attorney Carrie Ann Sitren. "This ruling lets taxpayers finally see what incentives their elected officials are offering to a potential buyer of the team. And since taxpayers will pick up the tab, that's only fair."

Judge Edward Burke's ruling orders the City of Glendale to:

* Immediately produce all the records that are not confidential.

* Produce records of negotiations with everyone who submits a bid to buy the team and keep it in Glendale, "including but not limited to, any such documentation which evidences concessions made and incentives proposed to be given by the City to a proposed new owner of the Team." The City must produce records of negotiations with Jerry Reinsdorf, the only bidder who has come forward to keep the team here, by Friday, July 24.

* Produce to the judge any records it believes are confidential so the judge can decide whether those records must be made public.

* Make the requested records available on an ongoing basis as new records are created.

Goldwater Institute v. City of Glendale was filed by the Goldwater Institute Scharf-Norton Center for Constitutional Litigation. For more information about this or any other Goldwater Institute lawsuit to protect individual rights and keep government within its constitutional limits, please visit http://goldwaterinstitute.org/litigation. The Goldwater Institute is a nonprofit public policy research and litigation organization whose work is made possible by the generosity of its supporters.

Court Upholds Charges against Former Waterworld Supervisor

Prosecution in Employer Sanctions-Related Case Moves Forward

County Attorney Andrew Thomas announced today that a Superior Court judge has refused to dismiss the criminal case against Lessie Serrano (DOB 2/1/58). She was the first manager charged criminally as the result of an investigation related to the Legal Arizona Workers Act.

Serrano is accused of one count of Aggravated Taking the Identity of Another, a class 3 felony, and one count of Hindering Prosecution in the First Degree, a class 5 felony, for allegedly knowingly accepting documents containing false Social Security Numbers from employees and for warning about the service of a search warrant. She was indicted in December, 2008.

Serrano, the former food services manager for Waterworld, is accused of repeatedly hiring workers who used multiple SSNs, names, and birthdates at the park and warning these same workers of the presence of sheriff’s deputies searching the water park. Multiple workers have pled guilty and admitted that they were working illegally with stolen identities.

Since the indictment, Serrano’s legal team has filed a number of motions seeking to make the case go away. On July 16, 2009 Judge Paul McMurdie denied these motions seeking dismissal and remand to the grand jury. Deputy County Attorneys Vicki Kratovil and AnnieLaurie Van Wie are prosecuting the case.

Thomas stated, “This office will continue to prosecute individuals who violate our laws by hiring illegal immigrants. We will also follow through on other employer-sanctions investigations and pursue suspension of business licenses when appropriate.”

Prop. 13: Use your $13. federal income tax cut to get a REAL tax cut

Click to enlarge

Fundraiser for Bill Gates, District 3, Phoenix City Council

City Council’s Newest Member,

Bill Gates

Wednesday, August 12, 2009 at 8:30 a.m.

4800 N. Scottsdale Road #6000

Scottsdale, AZ 85251

Bill Gates is running for re-election as District 3 Representative. Recently, he edged out some top contenders to replace Councilwoman Maria Baier as the representative for District 3, a widely-diverse district stretching from the Black Canyon Highway to 64th Street, and Bell Road to Northern Avenue. While committed to providing District 3 residents the best constituent service from the City of Phoenix, Bill’s primary goals for representing District 3 are economic development, fighting blight and improved public safety. "I believe, on the council, I could build on that already strong relationship [that the City] has built with state government, and take that to the next level." Gates is dedicated to the broader community and in touch with District 3, where he has lived for the last 13 years.

Individuals may contribute $410, and couples may contribute $820. However, any generous amount would be greatly appreciated. Please make checks payable to “Friends of Bill Gates.” Corporate contributions are prohibited. Contributions are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal tax purposes.

R.S.V.P. Mary 480.429.3115 or mcastro@beusgilbert.com

CAP: Action Alert - Stop the Abortion Mandate!

OVERVIEW:

We face one of the most critical battles ever faced by the pro-life movement: whether our federal government will nationalize health care and whether that health care takeover will mandate abortion coverage and end-of-life "options" paid for by your taxpayer dollars. It's time to pay attention and take action! Proposals being heard in Congress right now could mandate that every American - you and your family - be forced into a nationalized health plan that includes taxpayer-funded abortion. Additionally, health care professionals - doctors, nurses, pharmacists - may well be required to provide abortion "services" or risk losing their jobs. Leading proponents of the nationalized health care plans, including President Obama and congressional proponents, have refused to rule out the possibility that federal tax money would be used to pay for abortions. Last week, one of the Senate committees considering health care legislation defeated amendments to exempt abortion from coverage. These proposed measures could lead to the largest abortion expansion sinceRoe v. Wade. ACTION: Join a national, one-time LIVE webcast at 6:00 p.m. Arizona time this Thursday, July 23. Gather your family around to learn what's at stake and how YOU can make a difference from pro-family leaders including Gov. Mike Huckabee, James Dobson, Father Frank Pavone, Tony Perkins, and other national leaders on the front lines fighting for the pro-life cause in our nation's capital. The webcast will last about an hour. There's no charge to participate. Register for the webcast at www.StopTheAbortionMandate.com. Contact Arizona Senators John McCain and Jon Kyl, your U.S. Representative, and President Obama today! Politely let them know that you oppose the abortion mandate and the national health care takeover. Use this link to send an e-mail to all four officials. OR Call Senator John McCain at 202-224-2235 Call Senator Jon Kyl at 202-224-4521 Call President Obama at 202-456-1111 Find the phone number for your U.S. Representative here. Forward this alert to at least five of your friends. Pray!

AIA: $347 Million Court Tower Boondoggle Hurts Taxpayers

The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors is spending $347 million to construct what they refer to as a “state of the art” brand-new court tower. Yet, many taxpayers are unaware of the details behind this project and the reason why this project continues may be found in the money.

Maricopa County is facing a $138.2 million budget shortfall. In response, numerous county employees have been laid off in recent months, including 40 Superior Court employees that would staff some of these offices to be featured in the court tower. Also, county law enforcement has been cut by 15% and Sheriff Arpaio is having difficulty finding sufficient deputies to transport inmates to and from court. All in all, we are talking about budget shortfalls and staff reduction, yet it appears that the Maricopa County Supervisors have their minds set on this budget breaking project.

The court tower, to be constructed of marble, travertine, porcelain and wood floors, is the most expensive venture the county has ever undertaken. As if the overindulgence and sheer nonsensical relocation of all court business in Maricopa County weren’t enough to question, the timing for this massive construction project is extraordinarily misguided at best considering the current recession and projected economic forecast.

In the past, satellite courthouses were gradually built up around the Valley to accommodate the growing population, as is being done in other counties around the nation. Superior Court Presiding Judge Barbara Mundell told the Supervisors at a public meeting on October 4, 2006, that co-location of the regional court facilities has “helped tremendously,” “made economic sense,” and provided “improved customer service.” Maricopa County is the second fastest growing large county in the nation. Bringing those satellite court locations back downtown into one consolidated building only increases the cost to taxpayers due to the time increase for law enforcement and the greater usage of fuel by their transport vehicles to drive further into the city. Just for a reference, the Mesa courthouse location is 19 miles away from downtown.

Since this projected plan was in the works, the Maricopa County Supervisors were told several times during public meetings by their budget analysts last year that they could back off on building such an expensive building. The reason given by their analysts was simple… it’s that the tax revenues aren’t coming in as high as we expected or hoped. Yet, the Maricopa County Supervisors have ignored this advice and refused to budge on the centralization of the county courts or its extravagance. The Board of Supervisors also discovered recently that even with cutting all other areas of county government, they still don’t have enough cash for the project. Now, why are they digging in their heels on this project?

There may be a reason for their obstinacy. We discovered some very interesting data when we looked into the campaign finance reports of the Maricopa County Supervisors. The contractors who won the bids for the court tower project have ties to the County Supervisors. The owner of Goodman Schwartz, the consulting firm which represents DMJM, the interior design company for the court tower, contributed $150 to Supervisor Don Stapley last year. A Project Manager at HDR Inc., the architectural, engineering and consulting firm for the court tower, contributed $50 to Supervisor Wilson last year. A law partner of Tom Irvine, who has been paid over $800,000 over the past three years for legal help with the tower, contributed $390 to Supervisor Mary Rose Wilcox last year. This makes this construction project all the more interesting considering the political contributions and does force us to beg the question if there is an appearance of impropriety going on here.

However, the cause is not lost. The Maricopa County Supervisors will meet on July 22, 2009 at 9am at the Supervisors Auditorium at 205 W. Jefferson, Phoenix, AZ, (details here)to vote on changing the funding to bonding - a move that will cost taxpayers even more money by spreading it out over the years. We strongly encourage you to attend this meeting and demand that the Supervisors halt this unaffordable patronage and stick to improving our existing courthouses.

If you are unable to attend, please contact the Maricopa County Supervisors today and tell them that you want this project to stop immediately.

Arizonans In Action | 3655 W Anthem Way | Suite A-109, PMB 412 | Phoenix | AZ | 85086
Join our mailing list

AZ Tea Parties this Saturday protesting socialized healthcare

Arizona Tea Party Saturday July 25th-pls RSVP‏

PLEASE pass this on to your AZ Political Activist lists! We can't afford to give up or give in...the price for this will beyond anything you can ever imagine! The government can't even keep Medicare/Medicade/Social Security afloat what do you think they will do with a socialized health care system, with everyone on it? Remember if you are going, RSVP below, with Patty Meyer or at the arizona tea party website. Come with a written statement of your objections to this healthcare take over, to leave with the Congressman! I think if the Congressmen/aids see real people attached to the letters, it will make an impact. Bob and I went to the last protest on Friday. We will be in Tucson for a retreat this weekend and won't be attending this one, but will be at the next one, for sure! blessings..cmp


Please check out http://www.arizonateaparty.com/ for more information regarding a possible Arizona Tea Party protest this Saturday July 25th from 9-11am. We need to convince our leaders that we DO NOT want Government Run Health Care-

We need Americans who support:

HEALTH CARE REFORM ~~~NOT~~~GOVERNMENT RUN HEALTH CARE

Our choice of doctors
Our control of our health insurance options
Timely access to quality health care
Our money instead of paying for a government takeover

If you can make it to one of these offices on Saturday, please let me know.
Ann Kirkpatrick - Prescott Office
Ed Pastor - Phoenix Office
Harry Mitchell - Scottsdale Office
Raul Grijalva - Yuma & Tucson Offices
Gabrielle Giffords - Sierra Vista & Tucson Offices

We the People----Can make the difference!!
--
Patty M. Meyer
meyer.patty@gmail.com

Hundreds Of Millions In Budget Relief For AZ Could Be On Way; Key Polling Info Released

Two Polls/Pollsters Show Dramatic Attitude Shift on Gaming at Horse, Greyhound Tracks; Policy Option for State Government

To tax or not to tax? To cut or not to cut? To spend or not to spend?
Whether or not to allow additional gaming at Arizona ’s existing horse and greyhound tracks to aid state funding needs is a question for Governor Brewer and the Arizona State Legislature. However, there is a plan that could deliver hundreds of millions of new revenue to starved Arizona coffers this fiscal year. “Racinos,” as the combined operations are known, currently operate in 12 states.
Arizona voters have greatly improved their confidence in the concept, according to two surveys by two different, well-respected pollsters.
Polls conducted in May, 2008, by Public Opinion Strategies, and February, 2009 by Tucson-based Arizona Opinion and Margaret Kenski show Arizona voters solidly support the notion of gaming at the tracks -- where games of chance are already enjoyed by Arizonans and tourists alike. The level of support has increased over the past year. Both polls tested 600 likely voters throughout Arizona .
The Kenski poll also tested the idea (over-sampled) in a number of legislative districts. Interestingly, those who live within such a district with a horse and greyhound track support the policy proposal margin by greater margins than those who do not.
The Public Opinion Strategies poll by Glen Bolger included the following questions:
“As you may know, Arizona is facing budget deficits. In general, which of the following options do you support most to eliminate the deficit…”
10% - Raise taxes
43% - Decrease spending …or…
37% - Find a new source of revenue for state government?
“As you may know, Arizona will have a budget deficit of two billion dollars or more next year. State economists are forecasting additional deficits in succeeding years too. Rather than raise taxes or cut existing programs, some people suggest that part of the solution would include allowing casinos at the six existing horse and greyhound tracks in Arizona . This is projected to raise between $500 million to one billion dollars in tax revenue annually for the state and help close the state’s budget deficit and allow for tax cuts or spending for key state programs in future years. In general, would you say you support or oppose allowing casinos at six existing horse and greyhound racing tracks in Arizona to address the budget deficit?”
The levels of support were 61% in favor, 36% opposed and 3% undecided.
The Arizona Opinion poll by Dr. Margaret Kenski included the following questions:
“In general, which of the following options do you support most to help eliminate the deficit?” (1. Raise taxes, 2. Decrease spending; or 3. Find a new source of revenue for State government.)
15.3% - Raise taxes
33.3% - Decrease spending
30.3% - Find new source of revenue
21.0% - Other, Don’t Know, Refused
“There is another proposal that is intended to help fix the State budget deficit rather than raising taxes or cutting important programs. Allowing casino gaming at the six existing horse and greyhound racetracks in Arizona would raise between $300 million and $500 million in tax revenue each year for the State. This money could be dedicated to closing the State’s $3 billion budget deficit, cutting taxes or providing additional funding for state programs. In general, would you say that you support or oppose allowing casino gaming at Arizona ’s six existing horse and greyhound racetracks to help Arizona taxpayers solve the State budget deficit?”
38.8% - Definitely support
24% - Probably support
8.7% - Probably oppose
24.3% - Definitely oppose
4.2% - Don’t know/undecided/refused
The levels of support were 62.8% in favor, 33% opposed and 4.2% undecided.
Both polls tested arguments for and against the concept, using language both proponents and opponents would likely use. After hearing all sides of the issue, the levels of support and opposition varied only slightly. Of all the arguments tested pro and con, the one people most agreed with was the following:
“One of the Indian tribes plans to spend $550 million to build Arizona ’s largest casino in Glendale right next to the University of Phoenix football stadium and 200 miles from its main reservation. If a tribe can build casinos away from their main reservation, it seems only fair to allow the horse and greyhound racetracks to have casino gaming at their six locations, making the playing field a bit more level and helping both the racing industry and state revenues.”
Recently, existing gaming operations on Native American lands have also proposed expanded gaming. But those revenues would provide a fraction of the amount that could potentially be collected by the state at horse and greyhound track due to their willingness to share far more revenues with the state. Even if the poison pill in the state gaming compact is exercised and Native American tribes are no longer required to share as much revenue with the state of Arizona, revenues from horse and greyhound tracks would dwarf that currently being received by state government due to the willingness of the tracks to share 45 percent of their revenue with taxpayers rather than the approximate 3.25 percentage the tribes now share.
For more information please contact Jason Rose or Gibson McKay.

Contact:
Jason Rose
Rose & Allyn Public Relations
Office: 480.423.1414
Mobile: 602.791.4488
jrose@roseandallynpr.com

Gibson McKay
Veridus
Office: 602.229.1129
Mobile: 602.616.9964
gib@veridusaz.com

ARIZONA PRO-LIFE ACTION ALERT!

Powerful abortion industry lobbyists and Washington, D.C. bureaucrats have just launched a MASSIVE effort to mandate taxpayer-funded abortions as part of their proposed trillion-dollar healthcare takeover.

This abortion industry power-grab is attempting to:

* Impose one of the cornerstones of the "Freedom of Choice Act" (FOCA) by stealth

* Force taxpayers to fund a huge abortion industry bailout -- something the majority of Americans oppose, and certainly cannot afford in these tough economic times

* Mandate that virtually every American be forced into a health plan that includes abortion coverage

* Require honorable medical providers to violate their consciences and perform abortions -- or risk losing their jobs

This morning's New York Times features a prominent story confirming that an "administration official refused Sunday to rule out the possibility that federal tax money might be used to pay for abortions under proposed health care legislation."

Put bluntly, these proposed measures could lead to the largest abortion expansion since Roe v. Wade.

State Deputy Herb Maddock issued the following statement and urges all Knights and pro-life supporters to make their voices heard, "This effort to fund abortions is a way to disenfranchise the majority of the American public who are decidedly pro-life, Those individuals that continue to push their pro-abortion agenda through these backdoor methods, know they are loosing the battle to protect the sanctity of life and are grasping at any straw they might find. We must not let them fool our legislators into thinking any attempt to cheapen human life is acceptable."

This abortion mandate must be STOPPED!

You can learn what's at stake -- and discover how YOU can help stop this abortion mandate by joining the one -time-only URGENT webcast this Thursday, July 23, at 9 PM Eastern (8 PM Central, 7 PM Mountain, 6 PM Pacific.)

If you have access to the Internet -- even with a dial-up connection -- you can listen in on the live webcast audio and submit questions at: http://www.StopTheAbortionMandate.com

During the event you will discover:

* The shocking facts about the sweeping legislation that the political power brokers are trying to ram through before Congress goes on summer recess...

* The devastating implications of the proposed mandates -- facts the abortion industry doesn't want Americans to hear...

* Why respected leaders, national organizations, and pro-life people are joining together in record numbers to challenge this attempted power-grab...

* The exact action steps YOU can take to make a difference at this crucial moment...

For instance you can send a message to your representatives in Congress.

Click here http://www.capwiz.com/nrlc/issues/alert/?alertid=13157881&type=CO and read more about this and then fill out the form at the bottom to send a message to your representatives in Congress.

Or, you can call the offices of your Representative and two Senators at 202-224-3121 and tell them that you want abortion to be explicitly excluded in any health care reform bill.

Or, you can email Priests for Life at mail@priestsforlife.org to tell us that you have done this so that when we speak to members of Congress in the coming days, we can tell them how many of our people have made this request.

Register for the webcast at: http://www.StopTheAbortionMandate.com

Dozens of leading pro-life and pro-family groups are joining together for the Stop The Abortion Mandate Webcast (and you'll surely be hearing from many of them over the next few days about this event.)

During the webcast, you will hear from nationally known and respected leaders including:

* TONY PERKINS, Family Research Council
* DR. CHARMAINE YOEST, Americans United for Life
* FR. FRANK PAVONE, Priests for Life
* MARJORIE DANNENFELSER, Susan B. Anthony List
* DOUGLAS JOHNSON, National Right to Life Committee
* TOM MINNERY, Focus on the Family
* WENDY WRIGHT, Concerned Women for America
* CONGRESSMAN CHRIS SMITH, U.S. House of Representatives
* KRISTIN HAWKINS, Students for Life of America
* DR. RICHARD LAND, Southern Baptist Convention Ethics and Religious Liberties Commission
* CONGRESSMAN JOE PITTS, U.S. House of Representatives
* CARMEN PATE, Point of View Radio Show
* ...And others yet to be announced!

The announcement of this important webcast is being sent out to hundreds of thousands of pro-lifers across America, and there is limited space available for the live event -- so you are strongly encouraged to register now!

To get on the webcast, go to: http://www.StopTheAbortionMandate.com

P.S.- Even if you can't participate in the live webcast, go ahead and register anyhow, because the
entire event will be recorded. Our system will automatically allocate your spot to someone else, and
as soon as your recording is ready (probably shortly after the end of the webcast) we'll notify you.

P.P.S- Please SPREAD THE WORD to every pro-lifer you know! We have a NARROW window of time to stop this abortion mandate, so let's pull out all the stops to get every pro-life American on this webcast! Forward this e-mail and encourage them to visit: http://www.StopTheAbortionMandate.com

Maricopa County Republican Forum on budget crisis this Wednesday

Maricopa County Republican Forum

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

7:00p.m. to 8:30p.m.

at the

Madison School District Main Office Boardroom

5601 North 16th Street

Phoenix, Arizona 85016

John Corderman will moderate a panel discussion with the following guests:

Mr. Clint Bolick

Director of the Center for Constitutional Litigation

Goldwater Institute

Mr. Tom Horne

Arizona State Superintendent of Public Instruction

Mr. Alan Korwin

Owner of Bloomfield Press and Gunlaws.com

Advocate for, and protector of, 2nd Amendment Rights

Mr. Andrew Kunasek

Maricopa County Supervisor – District 3

Mr. Tom Jenney

Arizona Director for Americans for Prosperity

We will be discussing various issues, focusing primarily on the Arizona Budget Crisis,

Maricopa Country Budget Crisis, Tax Issues, several bills and items relating to 2nd Amendment rights, and the state of Arizona Public Education.

Due to the fact that we have limited seating, please RSVP as soon as possible to John Corderman at jcorderman@cox.net. Those people who have RSVP’d will have priority on seating. We look forward to you joining us.

Treasurer Martin On No-Fly List - political payback from Napolitano?

“My staff used to joke after my disagreements with the previous governor that I wouldn't be able to fly once she got back in D.C.," Martin said. "I didn't believe them, but it's actually happening."The reference was to Janet Napolitano, now the secretary otch list until just now," he saf the Department of Homeland Security.So did Napolitano pull a power prank or is this all a big mix up?“I don’t know, we'll find out but I do find it really interesting that I haven't been on the terrorist waid.

Read the article at KPHO

NetworkingPhoenix.com events this week

Have you had a chance to visit HireFlyer.com yet? You might not be looking for a job...but you probably know someone that is. This site is unique for several reasons:

• Easily create an account and multiple search profiles in seconds. No Resume Required.
• Remain completely anonymous. No personal identifying info collected.
• Search, save and receive relevant jobs via email or text message, or both.
• Use of social media outlets such Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn and other outlets to reach potential employers.

Find the Right Job Without All the Work! Sign up now, and you'll be entered to win a trip to 9Beaches Resort in Bermuda. Refer others for more chances!

LinkedIn Seminar by Gelie this Tuesday: Back by popular demand! Join me for this informational seminar where I'll share my personal strategy and keys to successfully connecting on LinkedIn! More info here.

Also, this Thursday I'll be speaking at the Arizona Business & Professional Women SE Valley Chapter. If you're in the area...stop by!

On the Radar. Off the Cuff. Check out this radio interview that I did with host Eric Brandt, CEO of Defero. Feel free to leave your comments and feedback!

There is still time to get a table at our Signature Event on August 20^th! Please contact Mitra@networkingphoenix.com for details. Here is the CH 15 video recap of the previous event.

Below are this week's featured events. Happy networking and see you soon!

Monday Women I Should Know - Introduce yourself and your business to the ladies of WISK at this networking luncheon. Tuesday LinkedIn Seminar by Gelie - Back by popular demand! Join Gelie for this informational seminar where she'll share her personal strategy and her keys to connecting on LinkedIn! AZJBA - If you've never tried it now is your chance to discover the value of Speed Networking at this quick paced event open to all professionals. Wednesday Arizona Business Circle - Join this exceptional group for an active lunch of networking, and leads sharing, and find quality referrals to build your business. North Scottsdale Chamber presents their bi-monthly luncheon. This event is designed to create MORE exposure for your individual business. Shakers and Stirrers - Get in touch with the valley's top professionals at this popular mixer. Make sure to sign up in advance to receive a list of the attendees!! Thursday Biz Connect is a unique B2B networking group with a proven record of successful connections. We welcome Kevin Mogavero of Six Degrees as our speaker this evening. The PinkedIn Party is a casual evening event that brings together job seekers, employers, recruiters, and industry experts in an effort to connect people to jobs. Meet people with both the attitude and the resources to help you at aloft in Tempe. Showcase Your Business! - Join KFNN Radio for this LIVE Broadcast from Roka Akor and get a chance to showcase your business on air for up to 6 minutes! Bowling for Business - Join the Scottsdale Chamber and ASBA for this unique joint mixer at the AMF Scottsdale Lanes and get a chance to mingle with 200+ professionals. Friday North Phoenix Chamber - The Friday Power Network leads group puts the punch in lunch with some great networking. Join us for this ‘only' industry specific meeting. Raven's Event - Experience a dynamic evening of social networking as we celebrate the 3-year anniversary of a Scottsdale landmark, Trader Vic's. Saturday Spirituality in Business - The Law of Attraction Redefined - Everything in nature grows from the inside out - so does your business! Learn how to work with co-workers in harmony and inclusiveness to achieve better and higher results at this unique workshop.

CAP: How Arizona's prolife bills got passed

July 17, 2009 The Horse and the Snail My favorite hymn rings out how great is God's faithfulness! As I reflect on the victories this week, I am humbled and encouraged. Our prayer is that God be glorified by our work. Two themes come to mind. The first is the Proverb that I quote often - the horse is prepared for the day of battle, but victory belongs to the Lord. After at least thirteen years of legislative battles, the victorious passage of the Abortion Consent Act (HB 2564) into law indeed belongs to the Lord. The second is a reminder of the importance to not give up - through persistence the snail made it to the ark. This week a friend emailed me, "Thirteen years says it all in some ways. Too many do not understand what it takes to accomplish even fairly basic things." It takes prayer, persistence, and never giving up! Here's a sampling of the preparation and effort leading to this victory: Post-abortive women who courageously came forward to share their abortion experiences. To share how they were not told about the harms of abortions or the available alternatives. Doctors and nurses whose expertise and experience showed the legislation was necessary to protect the well-being of women and preborn children. A mom and dad's public testimony about their daughter who got an abortion at a local abortion clinic with a falsified, emailed parental consent form. Pharmacists and pharmacy owners asking for their right of conscience to be protected so they would not have to dispense abortion-inducing medication. Attorneys who vetted each bill carefully to check for constitutionality. Thousands who prayed and supported CAP's work. Thousands who voted their values, called legislators and Governors. Len Munsil's vision to follow God's lead in building Center for Arizona Policy as an effective advocate for families at our State Capitol. A team at CAP who never gave up. The leadership and support from Arizona Catholic Conference and Arizona Right to Life. Pro-life legislators who persisted even in the midst of defeat after defeat. 36 state representatives and 17 state senators and one Governor who said yes to HB 2564, never wavering and keeping their word to defend and protect the sanctity of human life. Rep. Nancy Barto and Sen. Linda Gray who led the final charge to pass this legislation. Gov. Jan Brewer who signed the bill. I encourage you to take a moment to send a thank you email to these three elected officials by simply clicking on their names. Rep. Nancy Barto Sen. Linda Gray Gov. Jan Brewer Thank you for being co-laborers with us! To God be the glory! Truth Project Training in Tempe! Looking for a Bible study for fall? Interested in Truth Project but haven't had a chance yet to attend a CAP training? On August 1st, CAP will be hosting another Truth Project training at Christ Life Church in Tempe. Just in time for fall, this half day training will equip you to be a small group leader for a Truth Projectsmall group. Register online today for this event! Live from Washington, D.C. I'm off to Washington, D.C. I'll be meeting with members of Arizona's congressional delegation to voice our concerns about national health care and Judge Sonia Sotomayor. Look for my updates on CAP's blog next week.

Maricopa County Attorney's Office is on facebook and twitter

Be sure to follow the Maricopa County Attorney's Office on twitter and join them on facebook for the latest news on crime, illegal immigration, and relevant issues facing our county.

Gov. Brewer Signs Two Remaining CAP-Supported Bills

Monday night, Gov. Brewer signed two more CAP-supported bills of critical importance to Arizona families.

The CAP-supported bills are:

1. HB 2288 - Scholarship Tax Credits. Allows the corporate scholarship tax credit program that provides scholarships for children to attend private schools to continue beyond 2011.
2. HB 2287 - Withholding Tax Reduction. Enables employees to donate to the public school, school tuition, and charitable tax credit programs by having their withholding tax reduced.

Praise God! Gov. Brewer's action brings the number of CAP-supported bills passed this legislative session to ten, making it the most significant in CAP's history.

Read more about these bills on our Legislative Agenda.

Will Tim LaSota be the new Scottsdale City Attorney?

Origin of Opinion ...

July 13, 2009

The Game of Picking a New City Attorney

Now that the Scottsdale City Council has given the city attorney her walking papers, rumors are running rampant about who will be her replacement. Actually, Deborah Robberson had barely left the building with her unabridged edition of Robert's Rules of Order before the speculation started.

The scuttlebutt ranges from the realistic to the ridiculous. Nevertheless, it all makes captivating conversation -- especially around city hall, an incubator for political opinion.

Before she was given her pink slip last week, Robberson's four-plus-year tenure as city attorney was a tale of two councils: the one chaired by former Mayor Mary Manross and the current one ruled by recently elected Mayor Jim Lane. Her first tour of duty went relatively well. The second stint -- which was cut short by a council vote of 6-1 to dismiss her -- lasted less than six months.

Anyone who read Lane's campaign literature last fall could have predicted Robberson's departure. It was her legal opinions that eventually led to the city losing tens of millions of dollars in two high-profile court cases, both of which were pet peeves for the Lane campaign. All that had to happen to hasten her exit was to align several elements that included a petition signed by 36 citizens requesting her resignation or firing ... sewing the seeds of doubt about her professionalism so her dismissal was advocated by the Scottsdale Republic ... and the council meeting in executive session to discuss her unique interpretations of the law and the wisdom of her legal advice.

In truth, Robberson didn't help her own cause. Public speaking wasn't one her strong suits. The term stage fright comes to mind - something she was unable to overcome, even when she tried the old trick during public meetings of picturing the mayor and council sitting in their underwear.

Musical Chairs

For the time being the three deputy city attorneys will share the responsibilities of the vacated position. Like other departments already squeezed to provide the same services with less employees as part of the city's austerity program, the city attorney's office will function just fine. But the city attorney is a charter officer of the city, so the position must eventually be filled. Unless the charter is changed.

Meanwhile, the council is contemplating the process they'll use to hire the new city attorney. And that's giving the gadflies plenty of time to cluster around water coolers and copy machines to toss out possible names for the next city attorney - and also the political scenarios that accompany each one.

There's a consensus that the council would normally give serious consideration to promoting someone from the city attorney's office who knows the nuances of Scottsdale government. But that's the path Deborah Robberson took to become city attorney. So candidates from within the ranks are automatically being checked off the list by the prognosticators.

Understandably, the council doesn't want to be burned again. Besides, according to city hall conspiracy theorists, Mayor Lane may have something up his sleeve. That possibility quickly shifts the focus of their speculation to the mayor's chief of staff, Tim LaSota.

What's My Line?

Tim LaSota is an attorney who is deft at practicing in the public sector. But that's not why Mayor Lane created a six-figure job for him, a position that never existed until Lane became mayor.

Before becoming the mayor's right-hand man in January, LaSota was county attorney Andrew Thomas' special assistant deputy for four years. As the county prosecutor's go-to guy, LaSota practiced more politics than law. His primary job was as a lobbyist who was paid to look out for the county attorney's political interests.

The Sonoran Alliance calls him the "Karl Rove of Arizona Politics."

The water cooler wags say LaSota wasn't lured from his job at Maricopa County only to become the mayor's chief of staff. They contend that isn't the kind of political career move the son of a former Arizona attorney general makes. He was raised to know better.

LaSota's father is Jack, who also served as chief of staff to former Governor Bruce Babbit. Now he's a lobbyist. The elder LaSota's most recent political venture was on behalf of one of his law firm's biggest clients, the pay day loan industry. His client invested $12 million in a fiasco called the "Pay Day Reform Act" that went down in flames at the polls last November. When he wasn't recording automated telephone calls for the pay day campaign, he counseled another campaign ... the Lane For Scottsdale Committee.

Tim LaSota isn't exactly a favorite around city hall -- he is, however, thought by many to be the frontrunner for city attorney.

A Political-Free Zone

For the record, the mayor and several council members say the next city attorney shouldn't be "political." In fact, they want the person selected to be "apolitical." Mayor Lane says he'll be trying to find a person who is "competent, conscientious and independent."

But independence is in the eye of the beholder.

That's why plenty of pundits wouldn't be surprised if the new city attorney is a barrister with ties to the Goldwater Institute -- the controversial organization that keeps popping up all over the Valley. Including Scottsdale, where it's eager to begin shaping government. Even though it's an ultra-conservative confederation of lawyers, the Institute attempts to sell itself as independent of politics. Sometimes it works, other times not so much.

Not withstanding the independence issue, according to quite a few forecasters, the odds are almost even that the Goldwater Institute may be successful in getting one of its operatives hired at city hall.

All the subjective qualifications aside, "hiring" the next city attorney is the same as an "appointment." It's a fact. Make no mistake, the new city attorney will, indeed, be appointed -- it only takes four votes from the council.

And, like it or not, any appointment process is never apolitical.

The article is from this website (http://rolocreative.com/origin_of_opinion/origin_of_opinion.html)

"The Five Thousand Year Leap" and lunch seminar

What is the real freedom formula?

You've been wondering if everything you're hearing in the news is the real answer to the problems that plague our nation. The answer is here...

The founders of our country formulated the perfect plan for Liberty. You may be surprised to learn that they had virtually every answer to today's complex problems.

You're invited to attend an important seminar, which will follow the text of "The 5000 Year Leap" written by author and master teacher Dr. W. Cleon Skousen. This book has sold over 200,000 copies in 2009 and is recommended reading by Glenn Beck of Fox News.

This positive, exciting message will give you a lasting understanding of the Principles of Liberty. Thousands of people have enjoyed this seminar all over the country.

Date: Saturday, July 18th Time: 8:00am - 4:30 pm Place: Mesquite High School 500 S. McQueen Rd., Gilbert Cost: $25 per person (not recommended for children under 12) $40 per couple Tuition includes the book "The Five Thousand Year Leap" and lunch. Register online today. Seating is limited.

AFP: FRIDAY-- Health Care Tea Party Protests in Scottsdale, Tucson, and Prescott

The Arizona chapter of Americans for Prosperity is joining the National Tea Party Protest Day this Friday (July 17th) with protests at the offices of key members of Arizona’s Congressional delegation.

The leftists in Congress are twisting arms right now, trying to complete the national government’s takeover of American health care. The same folks who have taken over private banks and the auto industry now want to take over even more of the health care sector. The same folks who make you wait in line at the Post Office want to create a system in which you will have to wait weeks, months, or even years for life-saving or life-improving medical services.

Some of the central planners in Washington want to give government the power to determine which doctors you can go to, and which medical procedures you can and can’t have. President Obama is not sure whether the government should have allowed his own grandmother to get a hip replacement. Imagine how Washington bureaucrats will treat OUR grandmothers!

We must take a stand NOW to protect elderly patients, to maintain the high quality of health services in America, and to preserve the essential doctor-patient relationship. Government has already distorted US health insurance markets by making private health insurance too expensive for many Americans, and by making American workers dependent upon on employer-provided insurance. But if you think things are bad now, wait until government completes its takeover of the medical sector. We must STOP the relentless march of socialist medicine!

Here in Arizona, it appears that U.S. Reps. Gabrielle Giffords ( D-Pima County), Ann Kirkpatrick (D-Prescott/Flagstaff) and Harry Mitchell (D-Scottsdale/Tempe) are not hell-bent on creating a single-payer, Canadian-style system of government-directed health care. But they are under intense pressure from President Obama and their hard-left colleagues in Congress. We need to give them some grassroots pressure in the direction of freedom!

In MARICOPA COUNTY , protesters will meet at the office of U.S. Rep. Harry Mitchell, at 7201 East Camelback Road, Suite 335, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 (on the SE corner of Scottsdale Road and Camelback) from 9 to 10 a.m. Please bring protest signs and water. AFP Arizona will bring literature, as well as iced coffee and doughnuts. For more info about the Harry Mitchell event, contact Tom Jenney at tjenney@afphq.org.

In TUCSON, the members of the Tucson Tea Party will protest outside of the office of U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, on the southwest corner of Swan and Pima, from 4 to 6 p.m. The Tucson Tea Party suggests that everyone wear red. For more info on the Tucson event, contact Trent Humphries at tucsonteaparty@yahoo.com.

In PRESCOTT, members of the Prescott Tea Party will gather at the office of U.S. Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick, at 240 South Montezuma, beginning at noon. They will walk over to the office of Sen. John McCain, at 122 North Cortez Street. The Prescott Tea Party suggests that protesters wear hospital gowns, nurses, scrubs, and/or lab coats (or just wear blue). For more info on the Prescott event, contact Mona Patton at prescottteaparty@gmail.com.

IMMEDIATE ACTION: If you haven't already done so, please go to JoinPatientsFirst.com and sign our Hands Off My Healthcare petition.

Also: This week, be sure to check out a new TV ad from Patients United Now, entitled “Shona.” It will air on a number of national cable news outlets, including Fox News, CNN, Headline News, MSNBC, and others. Shona Holmes, the subject of the commercial, is a Canadian citizen who was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Under the Canadian government-run health care system, Shona was told she would have to wait six months to see a specialist, but her condition needed immediate treatment. She and her husband mortgaged their home and came to the United States to get the care she needed, which saved her life. Unfortunately, her story is one of so many in Canada and Great Britain in which those who are sick are not getting the care they need. You can watch the TV commercial online at www.patientsunitednow.org.

Tom Jenney
Arizona Director
Americans for Prosperity
( Arizona Federation of Taxpayers)
www.aztaxpayers.org
tjenney@afphq.org
(602) 478-0146

AFP: NE Valley Town Hall on Health Care and Tax Issues--Thursday, July 23

Calling All Northeast Valley Taxpayers and Tea Partiers!

(Please forward this to your friends in the NE Phoenix-Scottsdale-Anthem-Cave Creek-Carefree areas and in Legislative Districts 6, 7, and 8!)

Will the national government complete its takeover of American health care? What will bureaucratic decisions made in Washington mean for elderly patients? What will happen to the quality of health services in the US? What will happen to doctor-patient relationships? Is there any way to stop the march of socialized medicine?

Closer to home, will Gov. Brewer succeed in getting the Legislature to put a billion-dollar sales tax increase on the Arizona ballot? What would that mean for taxpayers? What would that mean for recipients of government services? What will that mean for education reform? How will Arizona taxpayers respond?

You have lots of questions for your state legislators and for policy experts. And we’ve got some answers. Thursday night, July 23, from 7:00 to 9:00 pm, the Arizona Chapter of Americans for Prosperity Foundation is sponsoring a Taxpayer Town Hall meeting in the Fairway House at the Grayhawk Golf Club, near Hayden Road and Thompson Peak Parkway, north of 101 and east of Scottsdale Road.

Map and directions for Grayhawk: http://www.grayhawkgolf.com/locationmap/

Confirmed speakers will include AFPF Arizona director Tom Jenney and medical policy expert Dr. Byron Schlomach of the Goldwater Institute. We have made room in the schedule for more than an hour of Q&A from the public.

All legislators from Legislative Districts 6, 7, and 8 have been invited to participate in this nonpartisan event: Senators Pamela Gorman, Jim Waring, and Carolyn Allen, and Representatives Sam Crump, Carl Seel, Ray Barnes, Nancy Barto, John Kavanagh, and Michele Reagan.

If you have not done so already, RSVP to infoAZ@afphq.org, and let us know you’re coming. The room at Grayhawk seats about 100 people, so we need to know as soon as possible if we will need to make accommodations for more persons. There is no charge for this event.

It is very important for Tea Partiers and other Northeast Valley taxpayers to come to this event. Much is at stake in the national health care policy battle, and in the budget battles down at the Arizona state Capitol.

Tom Jenney

Arizona Director

Americans for Prosperity Foundation

(Arizona Federation of Taxpayers)

www.aztaxpayers.org

tjenney@afphq.org

(602) 478-0146

Congressman Trent Franks: Lack of Progress Since Removal of Offshore Drilling Ban is Inexcusable

For Immediate Release	Contact: Bethany Haley or Ben Carnes 202-225-4576

Congressman Trent Franks: Lack of Progress Since Removal of Offshore Drilling Ban is Inexcusable

July 14, 2009 - Congressman Trent Franks (R - AZ), noting the one-year anniversary of President Bush's elimination of the executive ban on domestic offshore drilling for oil, today issued the following statement:

"After energy prices skyrocketed last summer, President Bush lifted the 18 year-old moratorium on offshore drilling, and yet today, one year later, Americans do not have a single drop of oil to show for it.

"As we continue to become increasingly dependent on potentially dangerous foreign sources of oil, the Obama Administration has inexplicably chosen to impose bureaucratic roadblocks to prevent American companies from tapping into these vast American resources, which would create much-needed jobs in our ailing economy and begin to set America on track to energy independence.

"As energy prices begin to climb once again, it is critical that the Administration move immediately to unlock the reserves that Congress has authorized and the American people have demanded."

Congressman Franks Endorses Free-Market Alternative to Democrats' Health Care Proposal

For Immediate Release	Contact: Bethany Haley or Ben Carnes 202-225-4576

Franks Endorses Free-Market Alternative to Democrats'Health Care Proposal

July 14, 2009 - At a press conference today, Congressman Trent Franks (R - AZ) joined several of his Republican colleagues in endorsing Congressman John Shadegg's Improving Health Care for All Americans Act. Congressman Franks issued the following statement:

“Ultimately, Republicans are not opposed to fixing the health care problem, regardless of what those who favor the Democrats' plan would have you believe. The issue is that Republicans want to do just that -- fix the problem -- and the Democrats' plan would only exacerbate Americans' current economic woes.

“Democrats are traveling a well-worn path, espousing ideas that have been proven ineffective. The highway of history is littered with the wreckage of failed socialist ideas. Those who think health care is expensive now do not realize what it will cost when it's "free."

“Every American, regardless of health or financial status, should have access to affordable health care coverage of their choice, but people should own and control their health care plan, and it should be personal and portable. Individuals should have the ability to change their plan if they don't like it and keep it if it fits their needs.

“The Improving Health Care for All Americans Act serves as a true alternative to a disastrous government takeover of the health care system."

Analysts have estimated that as many as 120 million Americans could lose their current insurance plans under the Democrats' proposed government takeover of health care.

In contrast, the Improving Health Care for All Americans Act seeks to use free-market principles to fix America's health caresystem. The bill would allow civil groups to create insurance pools, thereby providing additional choices for employees and allowing competition to force insurance prices down.

Rep. Shadegg: Republicans Introduce - The Improving Health Care for All Americans Act

Legislation Controls Costs and Gives Americans Real Choice on Quality Health Care

Congressman John Shadegg (AZ-03):

“Until now, health care reform proposals have centered on giving more control to government at the expense of patients and their physicians. Government doesn’t belong in the doctor’s office should not decide what kind of health care you can get. If you’re happy with what you have, my bill ensures you can keep it – and if you aren’t there are options available to you.”

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman John Shadegg (AZ-03) joined with several Republican Members of Congress including: Congressman Rob Bishop (UT-01), Congresswoman Marsha Blackburn (TN-07), Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (TX-26), Congressman Phil Gingrey, M.D. (GA-11) and Congressman Pete Hoekstra (MI-02) to introduce The Improving Health Care for All Americans Actwhich will reform America’s health care system making health care services more personal, more affordable and ensure that all Americans receive the care they need.

The bill includes:

• IF YOU LIKE IT YOU CAN KEEP IT.
  Approximately 83% of Americans are satisfied with the health care they currently receive through their employer. Under this plan, Americans with employer-provided care can keep it without any change. Unlike other proposals, this bill will NOT tax your employer-sponsored plan to pay for a government takeover of health care. And, unlike the Democrats plan, it will not force you to give up the health care coverage you currently have if you choose to keep it!

• ALL AMERICANS GET CHOICE AND COVERAGE.
  The bill allows Americans who don’t have employer-sponsored care or those not satisfied with their employer-sponsored plan to buy their own plan on the same tax-advantaged basis their employer enjoys. Americans who pay income taxes get a dollar for dollar reduction in their tax bill up to $2500 for individuals and $5000 per family. Americans who don’t pay income taxes get the same amount from the government to buy a policy of their choice; $2500 for individuals and $5000 per family.
• PROVIDES POOLING MECHANISMS AND GROUP PLAN CHOICES FOR EVERYONE.
  This legislation creates expanded options for the purchase of low-cost health care from new pooling mechanisms. Today, the only health insurance pool available to Americans is their employer’s pool. Americans not in an employer-sponsored pool buy in what is called the

“individual market.” The Improving Health Care for All Americans Act dramatically expands the insurance pools Americans can select to join by allowing churches, alumni associations, trade associations and other civic groups to set up new insurance pools and offeraffordable health care packages to their members. Instead of having only one group policy to choose from, under this bill, every American will be able to choose from a number of “group plans.” This will make health care more affordable and portable while not locking individuals into staying at a job simply to keep their health coverage. Families should not be forced to choose between leaving their employer and having health care.

• PRE-EXISTING AND CHRONIC CONDITIONS COVERED AT AFFORDABLE RATES.
  Our fragmented health care system makes it difficult for Americans with pre-existing conditions and chronic illnesses to find affordable coverage. No American should go bankrupt because they get sick. The Improving Health Care for All Americans Act strengthens, expands and creates new avenues for affordable health care for the sickest Americans through high-risk pools and reinsurance mechanisms. The sick and those with chronic conditions will be able to buy coverage at competitive rates.

• CONTROLS COST AND PROVIDES COVERAGE FROM THE BOTTOM UP, NOT THE TOP (GOVT.) DOWN.
  The Improving Health Care for All Americans Act takes a radically different approach in contrast to what has been discussed by President Obama as well as Democrats in both chambers. It gives people choice and places American families back in control of their plans and their health care. This legislation will reduce the cost and improve the quality of health care while expanding access and portability.
  

Congressman Trent Franks Expresses Grave Concern Over Judge Sotomayor's Remarks

For Immediate Release	Contact: Bethany Barker or Ben Carnes 202-225-4576

Congressman Trent Franks Expresses Grave ConcernOver Judge Sotomayor's Remarks

July 14, 2009 - Congressman Trent Franks (AZ-02) made the following statement today in response to comments made by JudgeSonia Sotomayor during her Senate confirmation hearing:

"Judge Sotomayor stated today during her confirmation hearing that she considers the right to abortion to be 'settled law.' I would remind Judge Sotomayor that the right to own a slave was once considered 'settled law.' The Dred Scottdecision by the Supreme Court said that the black man was property and not a person under the Constitution, and therefore that blacks 'had no rights that the white man was bound to respect.'

"Such reasoning resulted in the enslavement of millions of African Americans and was made evident again in the Roe v. Wade decision, resulting to date in the death of nearly 50 million unborn children."

"Thankfully, opponents of slavery did not share Judge Sotomayor's view that settled law must always prevail even at the expense of the most basic foundational truth of all: the fundamental right of every man, woman, and child-- even the unborn child-- to live. This right must necessarily come before every other Constitutional right, because without the right to live, every other right becomes meaningless. When a Judicial precedent allegedly grounded in Constitutional moorings violates that clear, inviolable principle, it is the precedent, not the Constitutional principle that must be vacated.

"It astounds me and should cause my colleagues in the Senate deep concern that Judge Sotomayor is unable to find the basic right to life within the Constitution, and yet believes that abortion-on-demand is settled Constitutional law.

Conservative AZ bloggers get together Aug. 1

From the Exurban boys - The next installment of the Arizona Blogger Get-Together is scheduled for August 1st at The Yardhouse, 4pm 'til whenever. The last couple were great times of food, fun, and fermented beverages, and we hope to see you out for this one, too.

Congressman Trent Franks: Justice Ginsburg's Comments Highlight True Nature of Pro-Abortion Movement

"In yesterday's issue of New York Times Magazine, Justice Ginsburg decries what she believes to be a shortage of abortion access amongst low-income women. Justice Ginsburg states that she 'thought that at the time Roe was decided, there was concern about population growth and particularly growth in populations that we don’t want to have too many of.'

Justice Ginsburg's statement is appalling, but should be unsurprising to those who are familiar with the roots of the pro-abortion movement, largely organized by eugenicists who wanted to limit population growth amongst peoples they considered to be 'undesirables.'

The recently released film, MAAFA 21, does an excellent job of documenting the prominent role racism played in bringing about abortion-on-demand in the United States, as former slave owners and elites turned to eugenics as a means of keeping minorities underfoot.

I introduced the Prenatal Non-Discrimination Act, or PreNDA, in 2008 and again in 2009 specifically to address the disturbing undercurrent of racial discrimination in abortion policy. Abortion policy is not and has never been neutral. Instead, it targets specific populations, just as Justice Ginsburg surmised. A minority woman is five times more likely to abort her child than a white woman, and far more likely to have a government subsidized abortion clinic in her neighborhood. According to abortion providers, a shocking 50 percent of African-American pregnancies end in abortion. As we reflect upon the ugly racial divisions at the heart of abortion-on-demand, I urge my colleagues in Congress to support this legislation."

H.R. 1822, the Prenatal Non-Discrimination Act (PreNDA), prohibits discrimination against the unborn on the basis of sex or race, making it illegal to knowingly perform or to solicit or accept funding for either race- or sex-selection abortions.

Congressman Franks is serving his fourth term in the U.S. House of Representatives, and is a member of the Committee on Armed Services, Strategic Forces Subcommittee, Oversight & Investigations Subcommittee, Military Readiness Subcommittee, Committee on the Judiciary, Constitution Subcommittee, and is Ranking Member on the Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law.

CAP: Governor Brewer signs prolife bills

Today, Gov. Brewer signed four more bills of critical importance to Arizona families, including the most significant pro-life legislation in many, many years.

The CAP-supported bills are:

1. HB 2400 - State Ban on Partial-Birth Abortion. Prohibits the brutal and inhumane partial-birth abortion procedure.
2. HB 2564 - Abortion Consent Act. Updates and clarifies Arizona's abortion statutes to protect women, children, parents, and the civil rights of healthcare workers.
3. SB 1175 - State Ban on Non-Doctors Performing Abortions. Clarifies that Arizona law does not permit an individual who is not a licensed physician to perform a surgical abortion.
4. HB 2616 - Jesse's Law, Part 2. Protects patients who are unable to communicate their wishes by modifying Arizona's laws governing when food and fluid can be withdrawn.

Praise God! Gov. Brewer's action brings to eight the number of CAP-supported bills this legislative session, making it the most significant in CAP's history. The other four bills: HB 2357 Student Religious Liberties Act; HB 2286 Charitable Tax Credit Simplification; HB 2123 License Plates Modification; and Lexie's Law. Lexie's Law established a corporate tax credit scholarship program for disabled and displaced students.

Tonight, we're still waiting for word on the Governor's action on two other bills: HB 2288 Corporate Scholarship Tax Credit and HB 2287 Withholding Tax Reduction.

For the last thirteen years, CAP has advocated for a woman's right to know abortion law to be passed. Today, that legislation became a reality. The Abortion Consent Act gives women considering an abortion the right to receive information about the risks and alternatives to abortion, facts of fetal development, and a reflection period of 24 hours to consider her critical life decision. This new law also makes needed changes to Arizona's parental consent and rights of conscience laws.

For more information and detailed fact sheets for each bill, visitwww.azpolicy.org.

Rep. Frank Antenori update

Dear Friends

Join me this Friday, July 17th, as I guest host all three hours of the Jim Parisi radio show on KNST, 790 AM, from 6:00 am to 9:00 am. Listen or call in with your questions as we discuss what happened during the 2009 regular session of the Arizona Legislature and talk about the latest developments with the current special session. You can tune the radio dial to 790 AM or listen online at KNST.com.

This Wednesday, July 15th, I will be speaking to the Eastside Republican Club. They will be meeting at the Kirk-Bear Canyon Library, 8959 E. Tanque Verde from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Contact Lori at 749-3472 or Parralee at 749-0312 with any questions. Come join and bring a friend.

The regular session was dominated by budget issues. We had to make adjustments to last year's budget as well as work on this year's budget while tax revenues were continually declining due to the weak economy. One of my main priorities is to get the economy in Arizona rolling again so we will have ample revenue to fund needed programs. Providing relief for Arizona's small businesses, which have been hit hardest by the recession, is essential. Creating a business friendly environment in Arizona will not only preserve current jobs, it will also help create new jobs. Let's face it, the only real way to solve our economic problems is to get Arizona back to work and that's exactly what I am trying to accomplish.

I was also able to accomplish a few important items for District 30. I worked closely with the Tohono O’odham Nation, Federal agencies, city officials and residents of Sahuarita to get the proposed detention facility relocated to a less populated area. I will continue to work with tribal authorities to ensure the relocation goes smoothly.

As the Vice-Chairman of the Transportation Committee I was able to get the Arizona Dept of Transportation to dramatically improve the priority of the Marsh Station Road/Interstate 10 project. The residents of Cochise, Pima and Santa Cruz Counties have had to deal with large, oversized trucks that had to detour around the low and narrow railroad bridge underpass at that exit. These detours created traffic delays and safety issues along SR-90, SR-82, and SR-83. After waiting for over 12 years the residents living along these routes will finally get that problem solved. Construction begins this October.

I was able to mediate an agreement between the Green Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Metropolitan Tucson Convention and Visitor's Bureau which will bring hundreds of thousands of dollars into the Green Valley area to help promote business and tourism opportunities in the region.

I also worked closely with the Director of the Arizona Department of Veteran's Affairs and the House and Senate Appropriations Chairmen to protect funding for the Tucson Veteran's Home and prevented the reduction of the number of State Veteran's Benefit Counselors who help thousands of our state's veterans.

Please pass this along to your friends and family and ask them to listen to the show on Friday!

It is an honor to serve the residents of District 30, and as always, thank you for your support,

Paid for by Antenori 2010.

Gov. Brewer Signs Three CAP-Supported Bills

Late Friday afternoon, Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer signed three CAP supported bills:

Students' Religious Liberties Act (HB 2357). This bill codifies court rulings into state law, clarifying that students have constitutional rights to express their religious beliefs. A win-win for schools, parents, and students, this new law eliminates confusion and uncertainty about whether religious expression is allowed in Arizona's public schools.

Charitable Tax Credit Simplification (HB 2286). This bill simplifies the state tax credit for donations to qualifying charities serving the working poor. This new law will encourage Arizona taxpayers to donate to charities providing critical services to people in need, while at the same time balancing the need to hold qualifying charities accountable. Qualifying charities include several pregnancy resource centers and faith-based non-profits like Neighborhood Ministries and St. Vincent de Paul.

License Plate Commission Repeal (HB 2123). This bill Includes a provision that should allow Arizonans to purchase Choose Life license plates through the ServiceArizona.com website. To find out more about Choose Life plates, go to www.arizonalifecoalition.org.
CAP thanks Gov. Brewer and Arizona legislators for their leadership and support in making these three measures a reality for Arizona families.

Gov. Brewer has until Monday to take action on the remaining pro-life, pro-school choice family friendly bills on her desk.

CAP: The collapse of marriage

To quote Time magazine's cover story this week: "No other single force is causing as much measurable hardship in this country as the collapse of marriage." Many times when we see marriage discussed in the media, the reports are disheartening and discouraging. Even this week, we have yet another attack on the federal Defense of Marriage Act launched by the state of Massachusetts. However, for once it's nice to have a positive article to share from this week's TIME. The article is titled "Is There Hope for the American Marriage?" and explains how we as a society have devalued marriage by making it all about fulfilling our own selfish desires and needs instead of about sacrificial love and raising the next generation. As a result, we have a what-have-you-done-for-me-lately mentality that causes so many marriages to end in heartbreaking divorce - with absolutely devastating costs to our children. As Time states: "The fundamental question we must ask ourselves at the beginning of the century is this: What is the purpose of marriage? Is it...simply an institution that has the capacity to increase the pleasure of the adults who enter into it?...Or is marriage an institution that still holds to its old intention and function - to raise the next generation, to protect and teach it, to instill in it the habits of conduct and character that will ensure the generation's own safe passage into adulthood?"...What we teach about the true meaning of marriage will determine a great deal about our fate." I encourage you to take a few minutes and read this article's assessment of the state of marriage in our country.


Standing for Marriage

Consider how you are standing for marriage today in your own household, church, and community. One way to learn more about strengthening marriages and protecting our children's future is by attending an upcoming marriage conference hosted by our friends at Association of Marriage and Family Ministries. Make a difference for marriage by attending the AMFM National Marriage and Family Ministry Training Conference, August 3-7 in Phoenix. The conference is offering a special rate for Arizona churches through July 22.

Decision Day on Monday

Governor Brewer has until Monday to decide on the pro-life, pro-family bills on her desk. If you haven't already, please take time to respond to CAP's Action Alerts on the pro-life and school choice measures here, and please pray for Gov. Brewer to sign these bills into law. We'll do our best to let you know Gov. Brewer's decisions as soon as we find out.

Truth Project Stories Needed

If you've participated in a Truth Project small group, you know the difference this incredible program can make. Well, we want to hear from you about how Truth Project has impacted you and others. Your testimonies will motivate and inspire others to get involved. Please send us your stories to truthproject@azpolicy.org.


Eyes on Washington, D.C.

On Monday, the Senate Judiciary Committee begins hearings on the nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the U.S. Supreme Court. Pay attention! Court decisions impact virtually every issue of critical importance to our families. Much attention has been given to whether a woman makes a difference as a judge or not. These arguments lack any merit and do not deserve consideration. Now, current Supreme Court Justice Ruth Ginsburg once again has revealed just how far-reaching her views in general and in particular her pro-abortion views are in this New York Times interview.

NetworkingPhoenix.com events this week

You have insurance for your car, home and life, but do you have it for your job? I'd like to introduce you toHireFlyer.com, a new and unique online job distribution site, which is quickly becoming the #1 choice among Job Seekers. HireFlyer.com allows you to create an anonymous profile, no resume required. Then when a job is loaded from an employer's end that matches your specifications, you will receive notification, whether you're actively looking for a position, or not! Pro-active job searching that is effortless! Brilliant!

LinkedIn Seminar by Gelie: You have a profile on LinkedIn and you get invites from others to connect...but are you really leveraging this powerful tool to grow your business or find that next job? Join me for this informational LinkedIn seminar where I'll share my personal strategy that has helped NetworkingPhoenix.com grow from 350 members to nearly 4,000 in the last 9 months and much more!

Tonight! Second Sundays Charity Wine & Music Series - Rally for this charity event to benefit Kidstar Radio Network! Kidstar Radio Network's mission is to advance not only education, but character building and the instilment of values & goals for today's youth.

Save the Date: Our next BIG Signature event is August 20^th! More info and RSVP here. Please contact Mitra@networkingphoenix.com for a media kit if you'd like to showcase your company. Don't wait till the last minute...they sell out quickly!

A BIG thank you to the Arizona Business and Professional Women group, Kim Yeatts' chapter, for having me as a guest speaker on Friday for lunch. Great crowd and great group of women!

Below are this week's featured events. Happy networking and see you soon!

Monday North Phoenix Chamber - Grab your spot and get to know this industry specific group when you join us for lunch at Rock Bottom Brewery. Southwest Job Network - Heard of speed networking? We have a better approach! SLOW networking - go slow to go fast. Invest the time and you'll really see how others can help you in your job search, and how you can help them. Tuesday Social Media & Cause Marketing - Make the Difference Network brings you this educational workshop highlighting the use, trends, and benefits of social media and cause marketing for nonprofits. AZIMA - Learn about marketing through Internet radio and Podcasting when you attend this inaugural meeting of the Arizona Interactive Marketing Association. Wednesday Arizona Business Circle - Let this networking group exceed your expectations! Enjoy lunch with us and increase your business through quality referrals. Meet & Mingle - Don't miss this amazing networking opportunity to connect with the valley's professionals, hosted by the North Scottsdale Chamber and ASBA. Christmas in July - Spend this evening with a group of energetic supporters to renew the war on cancer! Great food, music, networking & conversation, plus wonderful auction items and an exciting raffle! Thursday Champion's Breakfast - Join the Scottsdale Chamber for our wide-open, no rules networking event and connect with 100 plus business professionals over breakfast. The Arizona Technology Council hosts the Partnering Conference to give you access to an extraordinary concentration of emerging and established companies and the tools you need to create a successful partnership of your own. North Scottsdale Chamber - For the ultimate multi-tasker! Perfect your golf swing with this training session and then squeeze in some networking at this energetic mixer. Friday United Networking Group - Meet with 14 businesses and social networking groups, and hundreds of professionals for "Happy Hour with a Purpose" to benefit Girls on the Run. Executives Network - Take control of your job search when you attend and connect with experienced executives like you who will help you land the job you're looking for faster! Saturday Understanding Loan Modifications & Foreclosures - Loan Modification, short sales, foreclosure, deed in lieu of foreclosure... What do they mean? We'll review these processes and your options at this informative class.

Plan Ahead Showcase Your Business!- Join KFNN Radio onJuly 23rd for this LIVE Broadcast from Roka Akor! Get a chance to showcase your business on air for up to 6 minutes! The PinkedIn Party is a casual evening event that brings together job seekers, employers, recruiters, and industry experts in an effort to connect people to jobs. Meet people with both the attitude and the resources to help you at this event on July 23rd! Spirituality in Business - The Law of Attraction Redefined - Everything in nature grows from the inside out - so does your business! Learn how to work with co-workers in harmony and inclusiveness to achieve better and higher results at this workshop on July 25th! The Four Elements of Success - Discover how YOUR Element of Success can transform your interaction with others during this interactive and entertaining workshop onJuly 27th! The One Community Networking Forum is dedicated to bringing gay, lesbian and allied business professionals together to celebrate diversity, build new business networking opportunities and create stronger business and personal relationships. Connect with us onAugust 10th!

Special Announcements

Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) leads off their yearly "Comfort Bear" toy drive June 25th through July 26th to help console kids impacted by tragedy. AHPA is urging those willing to help by donating any stuffed animal, as the level is significantly lower from years past. More info here.

Twice-Deported Illegal Immigrant Sentenced to 15.75 Years for Kidnapping

Prosecutors and law enforcement team up to combat coyotes

County Attorney Andrew Thomas announced today that Carlos Estrada-Marroquin (DOB 2/18/58) has been sentenced to 15.75 years in prison after being found guilty of kidnapping and extortion charges.

On October 20, 2008, a woman contacted the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Human Smuggling Unit and said her ex-boyfriend was being held hostage by coyotes demanding $1,200. The caller said he knew where the woman lived and if the ransom was not paid the woman’s daughter would be kidnapped.

Sheriff’s detectives set up a sting and as a result Estrada-Marroquin was arrested. In April 2009 a jury convicted him. He was sentenced on July 10. Deputy County Attorney Michael Anderson prosecuted the case. Estrada-Marroquin has been deported at least twice to Guatemala and he has two prior felony convictions for DUI.

Thomas stated, “Violent human smugglers threaten both citizens and illegal immigrants. The entire community is endangered by the actions of those involved in the human smuggling trade.”

Business Owner Indicted Following Employer Sanctions Investigation

Another Historic First Shows Commitment to Prosecuting Owners and Employers

County Attorney Andrew Thomas announced today that Raphael Libardi (DOB 3/9/61) has been indicted on identity theft, fraud, and theft charges following a joint employer sanctions investigation by the Sheriff’s Office and County Attorney’s Office. He is the first business owner to be criminally prosecuted as the result of an employer sanctions investigation.

According to the probable cause statement filed by the Sheriff’s Office, deputies received an anonymous tip that Libardi, who owns a granite business, is in the United States illegally. Libardi, a citizen of Brazil, started using a the social security number of an elderly man as early as 2002 to establish his business, buy a $500,000 home in Anthem, and to buy two vehicles, one of them an Escalade.

Sheriff’s detectives learned the victim had passed away in December, 2008. The victim’s daughter says she is willing to assist in the investigation. On June 30, 2009, sheriff’s deputies arrested Libardi. He is being held without bond.

On July 7, 2009 a grand jury indicted Libardi on the following charges:

• Taking the Identity of Another, a class 4 felony
• Two counts of Fraudulent Schemes, class 2 felonies
• Two counts of Theft of Means of Transportation, class 3 felonies
• Five counts of Forgery, class 4 felonies

This case represents the most serious charges leveled against a business owner as a result of an employer sanctions raid in Arizona. The County Attorney’s Office also has obtained indictments of a supervisor at Waterworld and a supervisor at Management Cleaning Controls. There have been 21 employer sanctions investigations since the law took effect last year. Those investigations are ongoing as the County Attorney’s Office continues its efforts to bring criminal charges where appropriate against managers and business owners, and working towards possible civil actions to suspend or revoke a business license.

Thomas stated, “This case shows my continued commitment to prosecuting employers who hire illegal immigrants or violate immigration-related laws. I will prosecute owners, employers, managers, and employees who commit criminal offenses that foster illegal immigration into Arizona. The Legal Arizona Workers Act sets a very high legal standard that must be met to suspend or revoke a business license, and as a result it’s been tough to build a civil case against an employer. However, we are making steady progress and stand ready to bring such a case when appropriate.”

ATR: Arizona Senate President Bob Burns Ousts Taxpayer Champions From Key Positions

By Patrick Gleason

Last night Arizona Senate President Bob Burns, in what is viewed by many as a legislative temper tantrum, booted two colleagues in leadership from key posts. Senator Thayer Verschoor (R-Gilbert) was ousted from his position as Senate President Pro Tem and Senate Majority Whip Pamela Gorman (R-Anthem) was removed from the Rules Committee.

Their crime: Defending taxpayers from a massive tax increase pushed by an unelected governor in the middle of a recession.

It has been a sad state of affairs for Republicans in Arizona this year. There was hope among many that years of fiscal irresponsibility would end with Governor Janet Napolitano being replaced by Republican Jan Brewer. Yet in a move that left many puzzled, Brewer came out of the gate early this year with a proposal for the aforementioned multi-billion dollar sales tax increase. Now true conservatives such as Gorman and Verschoor are being punished for not supporting the Governor's tax hike.

Verschoor will be replaced by Senator Steve Pierce (R-Prescott). Gorman's replacement on the rules committee has yet to be named.

Americans for Tax Reform condemns Burns' actions. ATR urges Arizona taxpayers to contact their representative in the legislature and urge them to join Verschoor and Gorman in standing up against the chocolate soldiers who are pushing to the Brewer-Coughlin tax hike. CLICK HERE to take action!


Adam Radman

Programs and Communications Manager

Americans for Tax Reform

202-785-0266 (office)

202-785-0261 (fax)



ATR's Twitter Account: http://twitter.com/taxreformer

Grover's Twitter Account: http://twitter.com/grovernorquist

My Twitter Account: http://twitter.com/adamradman

Goldwater Institute: In Defense of Supermajority Rule

By Nick Dranias There was a time when conservatives stood for smaller government. They fought taxes and believed in spending only on core government functions. Then we saw the era of "read my lips" and "compassionate conservatism." Politicians of all stripes decided that voters wanted carefree spending--and they delivered. That's what generated the spectacle unfolding in California. And during Arizona's go-go real estate boom, it empowered a Democratic Governor and a Republican Legislature to surrender the state's fiscal health to reckless spending. That's why Arizonans should be grateful that our state's Constitution requires two-thirds of the Legislature to approve a tax increase--a "supermajority" rather than a simple majority. So far the supermajority rule has helped some legislators resist the ridiculous notion of raising taxes in a depressed economy. But more deeply, the provision illustrates the crucial importance of restraining simple majority rule. The problem with simple majority rule is not just the threat of mob action violating individual rights, but also the fact that the 2-point difference between 51 percent and 49 percent can shift in the blink of an eye. A simple majority is just not a good enough measure of consensus, much less the consent of the people. For this reason, especially when it comes to fundamental public policy, something more substantial than majority rule is required. Taxes are among our most fundamental and critical public policies. Our nation was born of revolution because of taxes imposed without the consent of the people. Let's hope the Arizona Constitution's supermajority rule helps to restrain Arizona from continuing to engage in reckless spending. Nick Dranias holds the Goldwater Institute Clarence J. and Katherine P. Duncan chair for constitutional government and is the director of the Institute's Dorothy D. and Joseph A. Moller Center for Constitutional Government.

Learn more: Arizona Constitution: Vote required to increase state revenues Tax Policy Center: States with Legislative Supermajority Requirements to Increase Taxes

Support Bill Gates for Phoenix City Council

Dear Friends,

On June 30, 2009, I was honored to be appointed as the new Phoenix City Councilman for District 3 when Councilmember Maria Baier left the City Council to become the Arizona State Land Commissioner. I wish Commissioner Baier the best in her new position. I have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support that I have received from my friends and constituents. I write to you now to announce that I will be running in the November 3, 2009 special election to retain my City Council seat. This leaves a very short time to mount an effective election campaign. I am writing to ask you for your immediate assistance on two fronts:

1) We need to collect 200 signatures before July 31st. I am asking you to help me walk the district, work our signature table at the library, and ask your friends and neighbors in District 3 to sign petitions. Please contact me directly at wgates2002@cox.net and I will get the petitions to you.

2) Our campaign will need to start raising money. This will ensure that we will get our message out to the voters of District 3 right away. All donations are welcome, but please keep in mind the individual limits are $410 and the couple limit is $820. These limits are important to know when you are asking your friends and neighbors to support us. I really appreciate your willingness to donate and help raise money. We are more than happy to pick up donations or you can send all checks to:

Friends of Bill Gates
P.O. Box 82485
Phoenix, AZ 85071

Thank you for your help in achieving the goals we have set out in this email. The work of getting signatures and raising money will not come easy, but it will ensure that we can carry our message of outstanding constituent service, improved public safety, economic development, and an accurate 2010 census which will bring more resources and better services to every voter of District 3.

Best regards,

Bill Gates

Goldwater Institute: Budget blown wide open by political wrangling

by Byron Schlomach, Ph.D. Last week Governor Brewer line-item vetoed pieces of the budget sent to her by the legislature. With that she blew the budget wide open. Even by the lax standards of state government accounting, the budget is nowhere close to being balanced, a direct violation of the spirit, if not the letter, of the state constitution. But there's more. The legislature's late-day actions on Monday did nothing to close the $2 billion gap the governor's vetoes created. In fact, in order to get a veto-proof majority to keep the schools open and restore Department of Economic Security spending, more money had to be spent than was called for in the original plan. The hole the governor has created is far larger than the half-billion dollars her disastrous sales tax plan would raise. But there's even more. The legislature took a shortcut in the budget they passed that has come back to bite them, and the taxpayer. Rather than identifying the amount of money each state agency is allowed to spend, the legislature delivered an appropriations bill that had negative numbers. In other words, the appropriations bill didn't just appropriate funds; parts of it identified the amount of spending each agency would need to cut relative to last year. So, effectively, with her line item vetoes, Brewer was able to increase government spending with a stroke of a pen. It's important to note that the legislature's budget that Governor Brewer said was "fatally flawed" and embraced cuts she called "excessive," still kept the state on track for 4 percent growth in annual spending since 2000 and that doesn't account for the state spending bubble in recent years. Governor Brewer's tax increase proposal would grow current General Fund revenues by yet another 10 percent. All of these budget increases are on the table despite the fact that we are facing the largest per-capita deficit in the country. After this ugly episode, it's clear that the legislature should stop drafting appropriations bills with negative numbers. They should plainly state how much money they want each agency to spend and avoid putting the state in even tougher circumstances come next year. Byron Schlomach, Ph.D, is director of economic policy at the Goldwater Institute.

Learn more: Goldwater Institute: Saving with Systemic Change Goldwater Institute: A Fresh Start for Arizona: Proposals for Closing a Billion-Dollar Budget Gap Goldwater Institute: Taxes Devastate, Cuts Improve

Goldwater Institute: What are Glendale officials cooking up for Coyotes?

by Carrie Ann Sitren At a restaurant, you expect to see a menu before you order--after all, you're the one paying the bill. The City of Glendale, however, doesn't care to follow that logic. Instead, City officials are refusing to disclose what deals they're cooking up during closed negotiations for the sale of the Phoenix Coyotes, or what will ultimately be put on the table for Glendale residents to eat--and pay for. Rumors have been circulating for weeks that Glendale officials are discussing offering concessions and annual subsidies of up to $20 million to potential buyers of the Phoenix Coyotes hockey team who would be willing to keep the team in Glendale. They need the team to stay because of the 30-year lease the Coyotes hold to play in Jobing.com arena, a venue built with $180 million provided by Glendale taxpayers. But since the team's owner filed for bankruptcy and potential buyers have discussed moving the team to Canada, taxpayers could be left with an expensive, vacant hockey arena, and no team. This is why the Goldwater Institute filed a public records request for documents showing what Glendale officials are offering potential buyers of the Coyotes. Surprisingly, the City denied the request. The Goldwater Institute promptly filed a lawsuit demanding that the City release the records. When taxpayers are footing the bill, they have a right to know where the money is going and what their elected officials are doing. At a time when families are pinching pennies, Glendale officials cannot be allowed to give away millions in secrecy. The judge is expected to decide within two weeks what records the City must disclose. At the very least, Glendale's taxpayers have a right to see what's on the menu before they pay the bill. Carrie Ann Sitren is an attorney with the Goldwater Institute.

Learn more: Goldwater Institute: Goldwater Institute v. City of Glendale Goldwater Institute: Glendale Sued for Denying Public Records Request Goldwater Institute: Coyotes score ultimate hat trick on taxpayers

CAP: Ask the Governor to sign school choice bills

SUMMARY:

Governor Brewer has two important bills on her desk to benefit students and parents through Arizona's school choice programs. HB 2288 allows the corporate scholarship tax credit program to continue beyond 2011. Absent new legislation, the corporate scholarship tax credit program will expire in 2011. HB 2288 also corrects an oversight in the original program by allowing insurance companies to participate. HB 2287 allows employers to voluntarily offer employees the opportunity to participate in the public school, school tuition organization, and charitable tax credit programs by having their withholding tax reduced throughout the year. Arizona has been a national leader in school choice, and these bills will continue to offer parents meaningful choice for their children's education. Governor Brewer has expressed support for school choice programs, but opponents of school choice have been persistently claiming that the programs should be eliminated as part of the budget negotiations. The Governor needs to hear from supporters of school choice like you TODAY. Gov. Brewer will make her decision on these bills as soon as today or as late as next Monday, July 13th! ACTION REQUESTED: Let the Governor know that school choice is important to you. Call Governor Brewer's office at (602) 542-4331 or (800) 253-0883 or click here now to send an email. Politely ask the Governor to sign HB 2287 and HB 2288 and to maintain Arizona's school choice programs. Craft your personalized message based on the talking points below. Stay up-to-date on these bills on CAP's website and our blog. Forward this email to like-minded friends and family. Pray for the passage of these school choice bills and for the protection of school choice programs throughout the budget process. TALKING POINTS: School choice programs save the state money. The average scholarship per student is about $2400, while the average cost for public education per student is about $9700. The ability to receive a quality education should not be contingent on income. School choice programs allow parents, regardless of income, to choose the education that best fits their children's needs. Allowing the corporate scholarship tax credit program to continue ensures that children do not have the rug pulled out from under them after next school year.