Crystal Coast Tea Party

MINUTES OF CRYSTAL COAST TEA PARTY PATRIOTS

DECEMBER 14, 2010

Meeting held at Golden Corral, Morehead City, NC

Meeting called to order at 6:03 PM by BOB CAVANAUGH

Pledge of Allegiance led by NANCY BOCK

Invocation by ROY MUSSER

Discussed the flyer that HOWARD GARNER brought to pass out. “The First 100 Days” …. Eleven Action Items for the 2011 Legislative Session. These items represent straightforward actions that will greatly enhance the liberty and prosperity of North Carolina’s citizens. They encompass education, economic development, property rights, energy and the environment, health care, the budget and transparency. Howard requested that attendees please read so we can discuss at our next meeting. He asked if we had ever heard of Art Pope. He is the owner of Variety Wholesalers (i.e. Roses, Maxway, etc). He puts a tremendous amount of money into conservative causes. Just think he could put all that money into a big fancy yacht.

New attendee, ANDREW ONORIO, spoke on the dire situation our county is in and the liberties we are losing. He feels that we should be bombarding our representatives with letters, emails, faxes and phone calls. We need to tell them not to compromise. Demand an up or down vote, (no earmarks). We need to be as vocal as possible. Our rights are being destroyed.

Another new attendee, DAVID ALLEN JONES, attended with his grandmother, JENNIFER HUDSON.

It was moved and seconded that ERIC BROYLES be elected Vice President. Vote was unanimous. Our new officers for 2011 are BOB CAVANAUGH, President; ERIC BROYLES, Vice President, NANCY BOCK, Treasurer, and PEGGY GARNER, Secretary.

BOB reported the bad news that he had lost his shed by fire today. He said he had attempted to thaw out a frozen pipe on the exterior of the shed with a small propane torch. He had then put the torch (which he thought was out) into a box in the shed and left to run errands. Mrs. Cavanaugh said she heard an explosion, looked out and saw nothing wrong. Then she heard another explosion and when she looked again she saw smoke coming from the shed and called 911. Bad news for the TEA Party too. All the items belonging to the CCTPP were in the shed – our flags, buntings, posters, some shirts, etc – all gone. Nancy said she still had a box of shirts, so we are not totally out. Guess we need to be thinking about a fund raiser to replenish our supplies.

TOM AUSTIN asked if we all got a copy of the email on the ‘A Citizens’s Constitutional Workshop in Morehead City’. What the Founders and the State Ratification Conventions Can Teach Us Today. It will be held at Joslyn Hall Carteret Community College, 3505 Arendell Street, Morehead City, NC, Saturday, January 15, 2011 from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm. The price is $5.00 per person, and there will be a one hour break for lunch. Pre-registration is strongly suggested. More information is available at www.johnlocke.org/events/event.html and if you have questions or comments, email USConstitution2010@hotmail.com or http://www.crystalcoastteaparty.com. Tom wanted to know what we thought about getting an ad or information in the Wind Sock in Havelock and our local paper also. He said he would be glad to look into getting something into the Wind Sock and Nancy said she would take care of getting the info into the local paper. Eric said he would be glad to go on Lockwood’s radio program to discuss the workshop. It was also recommended that we call it in to the Swap Shop on the radio also. Nancy recommended we contact Andrew Bunting at the College and request that he get the information out there. Bob said he would see him and ask for his help.

Discussed picketing Rep. Walter B. Jones office in Greenville. Several other TEA Parties have shown an interest in being involved. Bob recommended that we do so some time between Christmas and New Year. Tom will find out when Jones will be back in Greenville from Washington. The Dream Act was supposed to come up this week, but since Reid doesn’t think he has the votes he needs, he has postponed it until next week. There are two very important bills we need to watch – ‘extending the Bush Tax Cuts’ and the ‘Omnibus Bill with all the exorbitant pork (ear marks). Be sure and let our representatives know how we feel on these bills. It is very important that our reps vote right.

KEN LANG said he is getting very discouraged with Senator Burr. Everything we had told Burr we do not want, he has voted for. We need to be thinking about a viable candidate to run against Burr next time.

Discussed Ethanol. We would not have to be concerned about ethanol and corn if not for the Federal subsidy. Some say if we do away with ethanol the farmers will lose from $3.00 to $5.00 per bushel. Disagree – we’d rather eat that corn rather than burn it. Not using all that corn for ethanol, we could bring the cost of feed for cattle and hogs down. Also many products are made with corn (sweeteners, etc.). The price for many food products should also decrease with the elimination of ethanol.

Pay close attention to the voting on the Dream Act. If this act passes it will be the final blow to our country.

RUTH PARKER asked Bob if he was on the phone last night with the other TEA Party leaders.

He said yes and the subject was brought up about how the Judge in Virginia had found in favor of the state and the people over ObamaCare, citing parts of it as unconstitutional. We need to keep the pressure on for the Republicans to do a full repeal or at the minimum defund it. The subject of state compacts was brought forth and the TEA Party on a national level is working to form a State Health Care Compact. Discussion on what is a compact? ‘An interstate compact is an agreement between 2 or more states. When individuals or corporations reach an agreement, they create a contract. When states reach agreement on something, they create a compact. When an interstate compact is approved by Congress, it becomes federal law, and supersedes previous federal law. They are very powerful tools for states to collaborate. It is kind of like the individual states agree to something and tell Congress they want it and Congress agrees. Check out: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Health-Care-Compact/166165180090883?v=wall There are over 200 interstate compacts, 90 of which have been approved by Congress. Over time, the Supreme Court has interpreted that states are free to form compacts so long as they do not infringe upon the supremacy of Congress. If they do, they must get Congressional approval. This condition is not a problem for the Health Care Compact, because we are going to insist upon Congressional approval. We believe that the Constitution is the best guide for state-federal interaction. We do not believe in nullification; rather, we will demand that Congress explicitly comply with the demands of the states. The Health Care Compact is an interstate compact that returns responsibility and authority for the healthcare system to the states. It gets Congress and lobbyists out of the business of controlling the healthcare industry, and empowers states to create their own healthcare system. It keeps the tax money currently collected by the Federal Government and used to pay for healthcare in the state, creating greater accountability and more flexibility for each state government. One way in which this structure can be implemented is by re-directing federal income and payroll taxes collected within each state to a trust account for that state. This structure protects Medicare and Medicaid funding by allowing member states to access federal tax revenues directly and without strings attached.

The question was raised: Do we want to form a common letter from all the TEA Party groups to send to their individual State Legislatures? And a letter sent by the state TEA Party Patriot leadership to the governor? It would be the end of January before it could be completed and ready to send out.

E-Mail list: Are we sending out too many emails? If a person thinks they are getting too many emails, they can request to be taken off the email list. If it is from the information@crystalcoastteaparty.com, just look at the bottom and find the “unsubscribe” button. If it is from an individual, then just email back that you are getting doubles and duplicates and please remove from the list.

It is requested that everyone go to the webpage and check for the updates and new links to helpful areas. There are also links to the contact pages for Sen. Burr and Sen. Hagan as well as Rep. Jones. Information on the county commissioners meetings can be found there also.

The next meeting will be JANUARY 4, 2011, at the Golden Corral, Morehead City, unless something happens and action needs to be taken.

Merry Christmas and a Very Happy New Year

Submitted by Peggy Garner

MINUTES OF CRYSTAL COAST TEA PARTY PATRIOTS
NOVEMBER 30, 2010

Meeting held at Golden Corral, Morehead City, NC
Meeting called to order at 6:04 by BOB CAVANAUGH
Pledge of Allegiance let by ROY MUSSER
Invocation by CATIE MIDGETT
Number in attendance – 28

Bob reminded us that next week’s meeting will be held in the Commissioner’s Board Room in the Court House in Beaufort, Monday December 6, 2010.  Meeting begins at 6:00 PM.  There will be no meeting on Tuesday here at the Golden Corral.  A copy of the agenda for the Monday Commissioner’s meeting was passed out to those interested.  Note:  The fourth item on the agenda will be the swearing-in of Commissioner-Elect BILL SMITH; the TEA party’s backed candidate.  Clerk of Court-Elect PAM HANSON’s swearing-in will be at a later date to be announced.

ERIC BROYLES requested feed back on the CD’s/DVD’s he had passed out to some of the members a couple of weeks ago.  Do we want more copies to hand out?   The discs are $1.00 each and DVD $2.50, if buy a minimum of 10.  The company that makes them is sort of like the John Locke Society – they come out and give seminars.  The CD contains lessons that can help increase our knowledge of the constitution.  Bob said he thought it might be nice for the new members, but would recommend we put the information on the web site as to how to order them.  We could possibly have them available at our rallies and sell them for maybe $5.00.  Tom Austin said he thought it might be a good idea to put them in the schools for the students to check out.  The DVD is like a skit/play/reenactment on the constitution.  NANCY BOCK said we keep talking about educating the public on the TEA Party Patriots’ Core Values.  Maybe this might be a good thing.  Also she thinks we should get more organized and thereby establish a closer relationship with the other TEA parties.  MICHAEL and MANDY ANDERSON, new attendees from Jacksonville, said they used to hear from the Jacksonville TEA Party but had not recently.  They didn’t know if it was still in operation.  They used to live in Carteret County and are on the Crystal Coast TEA Party mailing list.  That is how they knew about us and when and where we meet.  They would like to see the Jacksonville TEA Party reactivated, but would need assistance and names of those to contact.  Bob said he would get them introduced to those in the know.

Further comments were made on the submissions of ERIC, KEN and CATIE’s submission of missions and goals of the TEA Party.  Still no finalization.

DENNIS TOMASO said we are missing a golden opportunity.  We need to put articles in the paper (or letters to the editor since they are free and do get read) about more of the items we are interested in and try to get the rest of the public interested also.  Example:  Bill S510 -  which passed with minor adjustments even after all our emails, letters and phone calls to our senators.  Maybe if more people were made aware of the shenanigans going on, they might start to listen.  KEN LANG said he still did not like the ‘catch all’ phrases still in the bill.  If they are not removed the Secretary of Agriculture has TOO much lee way.  He said he had called this afternoon and been assured by the senators aides that S510 would probably not come up right away.  They voted this afternoon.  Can’t trust ‘em.   Estimate the cost to be 1.5 billion over the next five years.  ROY MUSSER said even though we had let our voices be heard on this bill (S510) to those we help get elected, they completely ignored us.  He can’t understand why the Senate and Congress would want to bother with the little Mom and Pop businesses and back yard gardens when it is the “Big Guys” producing the majority of the food that are have the major problems.  They are the ones Washington should be spending our money on checking out.  The only answer we get from the Federal Government is ‘they need more money and employees’ to be able to do their job.  Yeah!  He said he understood that Burr had started out helping write the bill so he could get in some of his ideas and then felt obligated to vote for it, even though he was unhappy with the majority written, that there were a lot of items in the bill he did not like.  We feel if that is the case, then he should not have voted for.  Both Burr and Hagan voted For.  The only hope we have now is to get Rep. WB Jones to try to stop the bill In the house any way he can.  All members, please contact Rep. Jones and ask for his help.  Tom Austin said Jones probably won’t be able to do anything but we can still let him know we are watching and keeping tabs on what is going on.  Also we need to remind Burr that we are keeping score.  Ken said it appeared to him that Burr doesn’t feel like he has anything to worry about since we voted for him and he (Burr) had sent  a nice, complementary letter to the TEA party (via Ken) thanking us for our support.  Maybe that  would keep us satisfied and quiet for a while.  Ken said he was actually shocked when he heard about the vote.  Yes, he had believed Burr ‘that time’, but would be more careful next time.  Another reason the TEA party needs to network with others is to show how strong we are.  Bob said he had a list of the different TEA party groups and would get them to Ken.  Ken said he would blast them when he does our members to inform them of our interests.

Someone said he felt that the Secretary of Agriculture already had too much power and could pretty much do as they wish.  CLAY GILLIKIN said we have the same problem with fishing.  Their stupid rules mandate and create waste with having to throw little fish, little crabs, turtles, etc away instead of using.  Usually after being caught they are dead anyway.  MANDY ANDERSON, from Jacksonville, said we already have too many laws on the books to protect us right now.  Instead of helping, they are taking away our freedoms.

Several wanted to start writing letters of why we are against S510 but Bob said he thought we should wait until we hear what Jones can do.  Dennis disagrees, we should do it now.  Don’t wait for Jones, (just let him know), because Jones may not be able to get an opportunity to have an impact.

Bob said HILDA DAVIS had been pushing for us to form a non-profit organization.  Bob said we have to do a lot of research prior to just jumping into something like this.  Many non-profits will not allow endorsement of candidates, no politics, can only discuss causes, etc.  Some require massive amounts of paperwork, etc.  Hilda is worried about someone taking our name and abusing it.  Recent event of a local retail business:  Had been in business about 10 years or more and someone registered that name with the county and then tried to put the original enterprise out of business.  Could we maybe just go to the county and register as DBA (doing business as).  Bob thinks we might look into this further.  Nancy said since we have a Federal ID number, we may be protected.  Bob said we will put this on a back burner until Hilda comes back to another meeting.

Bob said he had had several comments that we need to hold elections and formally elect our officers.
Offices open will be Chairman, Vice Chairman, Treasurer, and Secretary.  Nancy was asked if she would consider continuing as Treasurer, PEGGY GARNER, as Secretary and Bob, as Chairman.    All said they would be more than willing to continue if so moved by the membership.    All three were elected by acclamation.  Several members were nominated for Vice Chairman, KEN LANG, ERIC BROYLES, TOM AUSTIN, TOM SMITH.  Since Ken had left the meeting early and was not there to accept or reject the offer, Bob requested we think about it and come prepared to elect our Vice Chairman at the meeting on December 14th.

MARIANNE KUKULINSKI said she would like to see us develop a letterhead for correspondence originating from the Crystal Coast TEA Party Patriots.  Peggy asked if she would consider coming up with an idea and Marianne said she would love to.

Discussed the various web sites where we could find out what bills are coming up, who sponsored the bills and how they are voted on.  Stay tuned to your computer.  Information to follow.

Tom Austin said he had been in contact with some of the TEA Party organizations that are trying to organize a BIG state-wide rally in 2012 to get rid of Governor Perdue.  He said he had been checking out the hotels, cost of rooms, places to eat, etc in Greensboro.  He felt that Greensboro would be a better location than Raleigh as some had proposed.  Will continue compiling information and keep us informed.

Eric reemphasized that we need to let the public know what we are doing and that we also need to let the powers that be “We want the Tax Cuts kept for All”.

Discussion on next year’s rallies.  Since several keep talking about organizing a TEA Party down east, maybe Clay Gillikin could get something going around Harkers’ Island.  We will help in any way we can to assist them in getting started.  Then once they are going maybe they could help us hold a joint rally on April 15th at the Newport Flea Mall.  Tom Smith said he would try to get the flat bed truck again for the rally.  CATIE MIDGETT said she felt that instead of a rally on July 4th, since so many are attending the parades, that maybe we should enter a float in the local parades.  This would surely get our name before the public and a lot of attention if we do it up right.  HOWARD GARNER said that since April 15th is on a Friday, and most people will be at work, maybe we should have the rally the Saturday before the 15th (Tax Day).  It might help our turnout and help the Flea Mall business also.  These items will be discussed further after the first of the year.

Mandy said she had gotten an email from Freedom Works and she understood the Republican National Committee would be allowed to interview candidates for office.  This will be the first time they have been allowed to vet.

Discussed the Obama Health Care.  Some are saying to just correct, adjust  or amend the parts that are unwanted or don’t like.  Everyone is of the consensus that “No, don’t go messing with changing”, just totally repeal it and start over.  This may become one of our next projects.

Meeting adjourned at 7:40.
Submitted by Peggy Garner

MINUTES OF CRYSTAL COAST TEA PARTY PATRIOTS
NOVEMBER 23, 2010

Meeting held at Golden Corral, Morehead City, NC
Meeting called to order at 6:10 PM by Bob Cavanaugh
Pledge of Allegiance led by Bill Hodge
Invocation by Catie Midgett
29 in attendance

NEW ATTENDEES
Bob welcomed JEFF and KITTY SMITH from Marshallberg and Peggy (?) with Hilda and Helene

DENNIS TOMASO passed out calling cards that he had made up and asked for us to vote on which color we liked best.  The red lettering was chosen.  DEBORAH DEROSE said she could have them made up for approximately $20.00 per thousand.  Dennis said it would cost him more than that for him to print.

COUNTY COMMISSIONER MEETING DECEMBER 6
The December 6 TEA party meeting will be held in Beaufort in the court house at the County Commissioners’ meeting, to support Bill Smith who will be sworn in as our new county commissioner for Newport.  Please make arrangements to be there.  We would like to make a big impression and let them know the TEA party is still here in force.

EASLEY’S COURT CASE AND RESULTS
Discussion on former Governor Easley’s court case and the decision by State Board of Elections (Morrison) to reduce his fine from $100,000.00 to $5,000.00.  This was a good example as to why the judges’ elections are so important.  We need to find a web site to check on judges and keep up with their rulings.  By the time we really got down to thinking about which judges to support this year, our time was running out; so we really tried to do the best with what we could gather at that late date.  TOM AUSTIN said next time we need to prepare a questionnaire in advance and send it to each candidate and grade them on their responses in accordance to the principles of our organization and possibly send letters to the editor as to the candidates’ position.  Bob said he found out at the last primary about how many questionnaires are sent to the candidates.  It is overwhelming and if we, the TEA Party, also send out questionnaires, then we are just adding to their problems.  Debbie feels we need to make up a generic survey to send to all candidates, to which ERIC BROYLES agrees.  Dennis says we probably won’t get many responses but it will be a start on gathering the information.
CLAY GILLIKIN said people (seniors, teens, independents, etc.) are becoming more interested in past events.   He referenced our previous sheriff and the fact that he will still draw his retirement even after being found guilty of his crimes.  People are starting to notice, they are beginning to ask why things like this, with Easley and Thomas for examples, are happening.

MISSIONS OF THE TEA PARTY
Consolidation of last week’s submissions from Ken Lang, Eric Broyles and Catie Midgett was distributed among the attendees for discussion.  There was open discussion on the paper Eric had brought.  Still needs some tweeking.

TEA PARTY NON-PARTISANSHIP
Peggy, the new attendee with Hilda, said she was under the impression that the TEA Party was non-partisan, but you would never know it by the candidates we supported during the election.  They were all Republicans.  Tom said some of the judges perhaps were not, since all we checked was if they were conservative, not their party.  However, in order to stop Obama’s agenda, we couldn’t very well vote Democrat, we needed to oust them.   Bob explained our meeting with Smith and Nelms and why we supported the candidate we did.  Pam Hanson was backed because of the way that position was being passed down…always a democrat and usually from east of Beaufort.   Most of the current employees fit that category, and from comments we had heard it was apparent this policy would be continuing.  The last few Clerk of Courts had retired just before an election, handpicking their replacement so they could run as an incumbent, and Craig, with 35 years ‘experience’ could very well be planning to continue this action.  Tom said, according to his research Pam was better qualified.  She has worked at various positions, including supervisory, and has a variety of different types of experience.   Craig had spent his entire career in the Clerk of Court’s office.  AMY ROACH said she had checked into the duties of the Clerk.  In the past they had tried to make them judges, but that had been opposed.  People prefer to be able to talk to a clerk rather than a judge.  It is more relaxing.

CONSTITUTION
FRED DECKER said he is going to talk to Adele Collins about teaching the constitution in the schools.  WAYNE WILLIS said he had talked to someone today and they understood that they are going to start teaching history in the schools again.  Bob said he hoped to begin getting at least one politician each month to our meetings for questions and answers so we can be better informed.

ARE THEY LISTENING??
Dennis said he is still not sure that the politicians (even the ones we just elected) are listening to what we are saying.  ‘We’ must not forget that we are not owned by any one party, that we are still awake and paying attention.  It will be best for them to remember and pay some attention to us.  Just because we went Republican this election does not mean that we will next time.  Bob agreed and said we need to keep their feet to the fire.  Our members need to keep themselves informed.  We need to read the paper, watch TV, Google the internet, etc, and compile information on our politicians all during the year for use by the membership thereby enabling us to make better informed decisions.  If we do this on those in office now, then when the next election comes up, all we have to research is the opposition.

MISCELLANEOUS
Different subjects were touched on: ie.
US Citizens Assoc., (Judicial one website) wants to consolidate 401K’s, IRA’s, (any retirement accounts) and dump them into one Social Security account and then dole it out the way they want to.
Tricare/Medicare may be reduced 25% December 2010.  Many doctors have said they are going to drop 60% of Tricare.
These are just a couple of subjects we need to research and develop facts on, so we know what we are talking about and not just repeating what we hear.

TSA BODY SEARCH
The TSA is working under the Patriots Act, and by the way, did you know Joe Biden wrote the Patriots Act???  I know I didn’t.  Eric said he had talked to Burr, Jones, and Hagan, and they all agree that the current search system is not a good thing.  It is currently in subcommittee.  We need to monitor what is taking place.  Eric said he had heard that the policy is they cannot pat down Muslim women.    Guess they are going to be allowed to pat themselves.  And they are complaining about profiling.  We need to contact all our representatives and voice our concern.  Tom A. said we need to write all Senators and Representatives about the TSA and let them know how you feel.  Need to request the TSA be removed and another system instituted.

Fred said he had three people from down east talk to him about getting a TEA party started or maybe we could move our meetings further that way.  Bob said we need to be encouraging people from the western part of our county to get involved also.  Our county is a long county and with only one active TEA party, it puts a lot of driving from either direction.  Maybe we should consider getting another TEA party organized and encourage it to be a stand alone.  Maybe we could consider organizing one utilizing the Nelson Bay Café as a meeting place down east.  We need to start considering it and talking to people who are good at organizing in the eastern part of the county.  Any suggestions?

Next meeting November 30, 2010 – Golden Corral
December 6, 2010 – Court House.

Meeting adjourned
Minutes submitted by Peggy Garner

Hope everyone had a Happy and Filling Thanksgiving.

MINUTES OF CRYSTAL COAST TEA PARTY PATRIOTS
NOVEMBER 16, 2010

Meeting held at Golden Corral, Morehead City, NC
Meeting called to order at 6:05 PM, by Bob Cavanaugh
Pledge of Allegiance led by Roy Musser
Invocation by Debbie Rucker
35 in attendance

Bob recognized Catie Midgett to remind attendees of the fund raiser (sale of Christmas Trees and wreaths) sponsored by H2O Group at Glad Tidings Church  to enable interested students to go to Atlanta, Ga. next summer to work with the needy there.  Items purchased are to be picked up November 27.  (Several asked Peggy and Howard Garner to please pick up their purchases and bring them to the TEA party meeting on the 30th.)

NEW ATTENDEES
Several attendees were meeting with us for the first time (or first in a long time).  They were: David Beard (who had spoken to us a few weeks ago about a seminar, and asked us if we were interested in attending.)
Harriett Cooper, Hilda Davis, Helene McCabe and Jim Wade.

Bill (? Sorry, didn’t catch the last name) told us that he was an elder statesman; and was a 1962 founder of the conservative party of New York State.  He was at the nomination of Barry Goldwater at the convention.  He said we need to keep a close eye on the Democrats and what they are doing.  Keep their feet to the fire.  He had worked early voting this year eleven days out of the twelve.

CARTERET COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
Tom Austin attended the Carteret County Board of Commissioners last night (November 15).
Following are some of the items discussed:
Approval of proposed fees for inspection of mobile home parks.  Ordinance to change required annual inspection to once every three years.  The person who was supposed to collect the fees retired and no one else has picked up the slack, so no fees are currently being collected.
Bridge  – State has allocated $105 million for a hi rise bridge over/into airport and is supposed to be completed in 2012 according to DOT.  Could not ask questions – said it had already been approved.
U.S, Coast Guard has proposed a No Wake Zone in Fishing Creek which is supported by Fort Macon State Park.
Secondary Road Improvement    $200 Thousand has been allocated.
New Manager  reported a list is being developed showing everything the city owns, their condition, priorities, and maintenance.  This is the first time it has been done.  County staff is forming ideas on cost reduction, looking at the vendors also, and for ways to have technicians save labor costs.  They are developing a new budget.
Dennis Tomaso said it appeared to him that all is approved and discussed ahead of the meeting.
Bob asked Tom to keep up abreast of next meeting’s agenda.

MORE RULES AND REGULATIONS
Howard Garner asked if anyone had read the article “Health Board looks to future fee, rule changes” in Friday, November 12, 2010 News Times.  Some of the proposed fee changes included raising the fee for residential inspections for homes with four or less bedrooms from $300  to $400.; two new fees for flow increase reviews, and a new fee of $100 for replacement wells.  He said he felt that with so many people out of work, home foreclosures,  etc, any more additional fees may end up being the straw that broke the camel’s back.  He told of a friend of his that had recently put down two 4” wells just a few yards away from each other.  When Howard had asked him why two 4” wells and not a 6” well, the friend said the paperwork was so massive on the 6” well, it ended up being cheaper and less worry to put down the two 4”.  It is such bureaucracy (making up rules so as to increase fees) as this that the people are starting to rebel against.  We need to watch things like this and try to stop the massive intrusion into our daily life.
Howard also brought up about a critical cloture vote scheduled tomorrow, Wednesday, November 17,  on S.510, the so-called ‘Food Safety Modernization Act’, which will open the floodgates for tyrannical federal bureaucrats to crush local producers of healthy food.  He said don’t fall for the Senate’s rhetoric about a few provisions that supposedly address concerns of small farmers, the FDA still has all the power it needs to shut down family farms on a whim.  In other words, it will be up to the bureaucrats to decide whether or not local food production is decimated by federal regulations or shut down if the FDA has ‘reason to believe’ the food on the premises is contaminated.  While family farms face greater scrutiny and increased costs, the government’s Big Agriculture allies will have no problem adjusting to the new rules.  In these tough economic times S.510 will drive up the costs of food production by adding more layers of government interference.   Our own Senator Burr coordinated with other senators (Tom Harkin, D-IA, Mike Enzi, R-WY, Dick Durbin, D-IL, Judd Gregg, R-NH, and Chris Dodd, D-CT) to forge ahead with this bill.  Howard requested that all of the TEA party members please call Burr’s office (as he had done today) and request that Burr not vote for this bill.  Tom Harmon said he would get out an email blast to all our members requesting them to contact Burr.  Eric Broyles said we need to inspect the food coming in from overseas; that this bill will raise prices in grocery stores and hurt the elderly on fixed incomes.  He did not think a study had been made by Burr, or anyone involved, on the increased cost to food.  Eric said he had talked to a man in Burr’s office and he had told him Burr had said it was not a good bill but had some merits/good qualities.  Eric feels that more regulations are harmful, not helpful.  Tom Harmon said he felt Burr should change the wording to 500K NET, not 500K GROSS.  Bob requested we all email or call Burr’s office and ask him to vote NO on the S510 bill.  Also we should contact Walter B. Jones about this matter, also.

TREASURER’S REPORT
Nancy Bock reported that we currently have $2,153.00.

CONSTITUTION PAMPHLETS
The pamphlets cost $200 per 1,000.  The question was raised “should we go ahead and order NOW?  Decision – Yes go ahead and order.  Clay Gillikin said Carteret County does not teach about the Constitution.  He said he had given a teacher, who conducts an after school class, a couple of the pamphlets that he had.  She referred to them as the forbidden book.  It seems that the school board was not even authorized to allow Santa Claus to come to the schools for pictures because someone complained.  Fred Decker said he would try to get someone from the school board to come speak to us at our next meeting.

TAX DAY RALLY
Tom Harmon said he thought we will need more flags and that there is a excellent web site with extra good prices on flags.  He will get the info.  Question was raised about what to do about a dirty flag.  Can we wash it or dry clean it?  No one was exactly sure of the right procedure.

BUSINESS CARDS
It was brought up again about having business cards made for hand out.  Thought the minimum we could order would be about 500.  Nancy recommended we design a special Crystal Coast TEA Party Patriot logo for the cards.  Please submit your ideas at the next meeting.  Do we want 2 sided cards, with web site, or where we meet, our core values, etc.

MORE FORMAL FORMAT
At the last meeting it was brought up that we needed a more formal format for our meetings and hopefully be able to cover more information without so many interruptions.  Ken Lang had come up with an agenda for the meetings; Eric Broyles, a set of bylaws (which garnered much discussion) and Catie Midgett, Guidelines for Committees (Rally/Event and Voting) and Local Affairs/Elected Official Accountability Committee, requirements of.  Jere Geurin said we need goals; determine what we want to do and then establish goals.  “A vision without action is only a daydream.”   It was decided that Bob, Catie, Ken and Eric would meet after the meeting to consolidate their ideas for presentation at the next meeting.

TEEN GROUP INVOLVEMENT
Catie questioned is her age group getting involved with the TEA party still an objective or is it now on the back burner?  Bob said actively recruiting that age group would probably require parental consent to get them Involved.  Would the parents have to bring them to the meetings and events?  It will require a lot more information.  We can probably get them more involved by having seminars and events like the John Locke Society, history, and speakers.

DISCS
Eric asked if anyone had looked at the discs and tapes he had passed out at a meeting a couple of weeks ago.  Several said they had watched at least part of them and found them to be most informative.

MISCELLANEOUS
Clay Gillikin reported that the swearing in of Bill Smith as County Commissioner will take place around 8:00 PM on December 10.  He would like for the TEA party to have a good turn out in his support.  TEA party needs to get involved in publishing the agenda of the County Commissioners.  We need to get something out earlier than the Friday before the meeting.  The lateness of publishing the agenda makes it seem that the system seems to be oppressing participation by citizens.  Tom Harman said we need to start writing letters to the Editor about getting the County Commissioners to announce their agenda earlier.  Since you have to have anything you are interested in at least two weeks prior to the meeting, we need more information about what is being planned.  It was reported that the commissioners do not have to publish the agendas in the paper, they can post them on the bulletin board in the Court House.  Meetings are usually on the second Monday of the month.
Nancy said it would be nice to know what the commissioners have on their agenda, so if there was anything of real importance to the TEA party, then we could start our letters to the editor writing.

It was announced that Tom Harmon would be leaving for Thailand soon for approximately four months.  Ken Lang will now be keeping everyone abreast with what is happening and what we need to be doing.

Meeting adjourned
Minutes submitted by Peggy Garner

Minutes of Crystal Coast Tea Party Patriots

November 9, 2010

Meeting held at Golden Corral, Morehead City, NC

Meeting called to order at 6:02 PM by Bob Cavanaugh

Pledge of Allegiance led by Ed Russell

Invocation by Jere Geurin

34 in attendance

Bob announced that the Tea Party drive in the recent election was a great success. All Tea Party candidates were elected. He introduced Pam Hansen, one of our successful candidates.

Pam offered her thanks and said she probably could not have made it without our support. She owes us a debt of gratitude.

Bill Hodges, GOP Newport Precinct 2 officer, said he had worked all day at the Newport 2 polls at “Holly Springs Free Will Baptist Church.” He wanted to thank those who worked the polls also and said we needed volunteers to run for the GOP precinct officers in February. Fred Decker, GOP Newport Precinct 1 Officer, agreed we needed more participation in the local party. They need involvement by people to be delegates at county and state meetings for upcoming elections. You have to be registered as a Republican to volunteer.

Bob recognized Catie Midgett who spoke on a fund raising project, sponsored by the H2O Group at Glad Tidings Church, to enable students to go to Atlanta, Georgia this coming summer to help and assist some of those in need there. Bob asked those who may be interested in buying a Christmas Tree or Wreath to please see Catie either after the meeting or to get with her at our next meeting.

Wayne Willis explained the new board game that he had invented that helps teach history. He has named the game “Patriot or Potentate” and said he would appreciate any help we could give him in advertising.

Ken Lang said he had worked early voting and election day at West Carteret. He was upset that there are those trying to blame the Tea Party for some of the GOP loses claiming it was because we wanted some people that were not in sync with the National GOP machine. He said it appeared to him that those like, Karl Rove, were more responsible for the candidates like Christine O’Donnell losing than the Tea Party; that they actually worked against her. It appeared that the GOP did not want to financially help those being backed by the Tea Party. We need to keep letting them know that we are still here and are not looking the other way. Maybe the Tea Party should start writing letters to the GOP leadership expressing their view on this matter. The Republicans who are looking down on the Tea Party winners, he felt were not true Republicans but are RINOs. He understands that the representative they want to put in charge of the Energy Committee is one who is in favor of global warming, cap and trade, etc. It is imperative that we find out who is being selected for the various committees and find out their leanings. We need to bombard with correspondence in support of those most conservative. He will get a list of members.

Also we need to make up agendas, put them on our Tea Party web site, so we are more informed abut the County Commissioners meetings, enabling us to know when something is important to us so we can attend. We need to set up committees to handle the various projects and events so all the planning, coordinating and organizing does not fall on Bob or any other one person. We need to make up a list of the various types of committees we may need. The question was raised about providing some structure to the meetings. This would allow more information to be presented in less time and in a more rational manner. What would the membership like to see done to accomplish this? It was affirmed that we are an independent organization, separate from any political party. We do not want to be absorbed by any one party.

It was recommended that we need to make sure we have roster at all events to gather names/addressesemail, to use for expanding the Tea Party membership.

Ken Lang reported that we need to take a closer look at our GOP leaders and members. He saw and heard about people at the polls passing out our Tea Party recommended candidates handouts, telling everyone they were republicans, but at the same time handing out Craig Lewis’s handouts and asking people to vote for Craig. This was viewed at Stella, West Carteret, Emerald Isle and Newport Precinct 2. As we know the Tea Party backed Pam Hansen, not Craig Lewis.

Clay Gillikin said this was the easiest election he had ever worked and he had worked a great many.

Eric Broyles said we need a group of Tea Party members to meet with the candidates we helped get elected and let them know we are watching. It is now accountability time.

Tom Austin said we had made a few mistakes this go around, but since it was out first time out, we should consider it a learning experience. One thing we should have done different was not to have waited so long to “meet” the candidates. We should have met with as many as possible early enough to get their thoughts, ideas, and opinions on the various important subjects and why they felt they should be elected. Tom will write up an SOP Desk Top procedure to help us be better organized next time. If you have any ideas or suggestions you can contact him at thomashaustin@hotmail.com. This may take a few months to get it all together.

Fred Decker asked that anyone who has any campaign posters or signs to please bring them to the next meeting and he will pick them up and get them to the rightful owners.

Tom said he drove Walter B. Jones in the Veterans’ Day parade and he (Jones) complemented the Tea Party on our grand victory.

Nancy Bock brought in a banner and requested everyone in attendance to please sign. She feels that it will become a special souvenir in the future.

Tom Harmon said his granddaughter in Maryland told him her teacher said she felt the Tea Party had had a big influence on the election. WOW. Great to hear, beats all the put downs.

Nancy sad she had been impressed by the Libertarian, Darryl Holloman, who ran against Walter B. Jones at the “meet the Candidates” sponsored by the League of Women Voters prior to the election. Would we like to have him come and talk to us at one of our meetings? He may decide to try again or have some ideas we would like to hear.

It was reported that Ken Humphrey, Carteret County Democratic Party Leader, was also working the polls during the election He would ask those coming in to vote if they would like a list of conservative judges – ask them to vote for Craig Lewis – did not mention Wade Nelms – nor admit he was a democrat. Huum?

Guest Speaker was Steve Johnson, with the Restore America Plan. For information on his organization you can go to www.republicofunitedstatesofamerica.org and to powercrossing.com.

Next meeting will be held at the Golden Corral, Tuesday, November 16, 2010.

Minutes submitted by Peggy Garner

MINUTES OF CRYSTAL COAST TEA PARTY PATRIOTS
MINUTES OF 26 OCTOBER 2010

Meeting held at Golden Corral, Morehead City, NC
Meeting called to order at 6:03 PM by Bob Cavanaugh
Pledge of Allegiance
Invocation by Jere Geurin

Political candidates in attendance:  Pat McElraft, NC House Representative District 13;
Pam Hanson, Clerk of Superior Court; Bill Smith, Board of Commissioners,
District 2 (Republican) and Wade Nelms, Board of Commissioners, District 2,
(Democrat).

FLAG PRESENTATION
Pat McElraft presented a North Carolina flag to Denise and Donald Winn, that had been flown over our state capital on May 15, 2010 in honor of her son and his grandson, Michael Russell.  Michael who passed away a year ago at the age of 14, had been a speaker at our 4th of July Rally 2009 and was a proud member of our organization.

BANNERS
Marianne Kukulinski brought in the banners and posters she had had made for the Tea Party.  Bob showed them to the attendees.  We had 10 banners made for $200.00.  Also available were “Tea Party Patriots” posters to be displayed at our positions at the polls.  In addition to the voter recommendation handouts we were told to take some of the constitutions for handouts also.

TEA PARTY MEETING IN CHARLOTTE
Bob announced that he had talked to Mark Hagan who is in charge of organizing the meeting.  This is the outfit that donated the money to the various tea party organizations for promotion of “Get out the vote”.

TREASURER’S REPORT
Nancy Bock reported that we had $2,828.00 in the bank.  We still owe the Wounded Warriors $696.00 and $74.00 for signs.

WASHINGTON TEA GET ACQUAINTED PARTY
A Tea Party party is planned for November 13 or 14 in Washington, DC,for all new freshmen congressmen to familiarize them with the tea party movement.

LEAGUE OF WOMEN’S VOTERS MEETING
Bob reported on the League of Women’s Voters meeting last Tuesday night.  He said he had received several calls questioning our sponsoring Bill Smith – that several of the tea party attendees had come away from the meeting uninspired by Bill and thought we should rethink our backing and maybe even support Wade Nelms.  Both candidates had been invited tonight to talk to those in attendance to give us a better idea of who we should back.  Pam Hanson spoke in Bill’s behalf as to how nerve racking getting up and speak before so many people could be, especially for those who had never been put into that position before.  Each time may get a little better but you never got completely over the nervousness.  Pat McElraft agreed with Pam and said she had had occasion to talk and be around Bill many times in the last few months and had found him to be quiet but knowledgeable.  We should not hold anything against anyone as a result of that forum.

Discussed why we had chosen Pam Hanson to back.  Craig Lewis campaigns on having 35 years of experience…but does not acknowledge that experience is not as the clerk of superior court but as an employee working there for most of that time.  He had been handpicked by
Darlene Leonard prior to her retirement (as had Darlene by her predecessor and even before) to serve as Clerk of Superior Court.  This has been going on for many years (as long as anyone in attendance could remember), which enabled the hand picked replacement to run as the encumbent, giving them an advantage.   While they put Pam down as having no experience and incapable of managing the Clerks Office; in the same breath they admit to having 22 clerical positions and each and every one is very adept and capable of conducting the duties of their positions.  With 22 capable clerks to continue the operations of the office while Pam learns the ropes, there should be no breaks or disruption in the Clerk of Superior Courts office.  Pam is co-owner of a small business (book store), and has various other experience (including working at the community college as a supervisor) giving her the clerical and judicial skills to serve in the position effectively.  The dirty politics in passing the job down from one Democrat to another Democrat must come to an end.
Wayne Willis said Craig’s only education and work experience, was “on the job” and “clerk of court seminars” other than community college.  Pam has more education and experience in dealing with people in a supervisory position.  Pam discussed Gus Wilgus’s letter to the editor.  She said the letter was the most damning of anything actually thrown at her, since Gus was a Republican, but said even though she did not put herself in the same category that “even Jesus had one in his group that turned against him”.  Clayton Gillikin said the “good ole boy” system has been around too long.  Apparently Craig (after 35 years) must be fixing to retire and plans to get things in line to pass the position again.  Tom Austin said our political problems are not just Democrat, this mess has been going on too long (the Dems have just been in power here) and our purpose should be to clean up the mess.  We want the best person in the position.

Several attendees said they had been very impressed with Libertarian Darryl Holloman, who is running against Walter B. Jones, Republican and Johnny Rouse, Democrat at the forum.
If it hadn’t been too late and provided no danger of splitting our votes (thus possibly getting the Democrat elected), then we might have placed our support with him.  Maybe next time.

NELMS AND SMITH DISCUSSION
Bob told us that Pam Hanson’s endorsement was not in contention.  We were really there to give Nelms and Smith an opportunity to inform us of their positions.  Bill was reminded that when he was asked at the forum, how many Board of Commissioners meetings he had attended prior to his decision to run and since, he had replied one.  They wanted to know “why”.  He said he watches the meetings on TV and reads about them in the paper.  That he did not have time to attend all meetings.  He had been remodeling his house and had been busy for the past few months.  He had a life also.  Bob asked him what he had meant when he had told them at the forum that he wanted to bring common sense back to the board.  He said the budget must take care of needs and not wants.  When asked what motivated him to run for commissioner?  He said when he was asked by friends to run.  He did not like what had been going on at the commissioners meetings and felt that the commissioners should not be putting on little shows.  He said he was referring Wade Nelms walking out on a recent executive session.
When Nelms was asked if he had done this, he replied “Yes, he had walked out of that meeting in disgust after learning that Chairman Doug Harris had passed what he felt was confidential information about a candidate for the county manager’s office to a public citizen.  He was really upset when the board later decided against hiring that candidate, due mainly to the email that had been sent to the board by Mr. Price.
He said his main reason for running for the office in the last election was to represent that portion of the population (12 to 14% poverty level), the working class.  He said he had attended so many commissioners meetings that the Chairman threatened to cut him off.  He wanted to bring common sense back to government and his understanding of the Tea Party was that they were not obligated to any one party.
Tom Austin asked about the bridge to Beaufort, types and impact.  Who owned surrounding land, etc.?  Who will benefit?  Would it be more economical to repair the current bridge or even build a new one in same location?   Nelms said the last estimate he had was $75M to drop in another bridge connecting to the high bridge.  If the bridge is a draw bridge then it should only be opened at certain times.  Beaufort wants to develop land near the air port.  A county commission owns land there.  The town also wants a draw bridge.
Question arose as to why the new county manager would be making so much money…more even than John Langdon.  Mr. Langdon had been approved $109 thousand a year before he retired.  Voted more leave time (same as a 20 year employee) when he will only have 2 years.  It was questioned, if the median wage was $36 -$38,000 (estimated) then why would the County Manager get so much more?
Bob said he understood the average wage in the Clerk of Court’s office was $48,000.00.  Asked Pam, if she is elected,  to look at things closely and make sure.
Eric Broyles asked Mr. Nelms what his position was on the Arizona Immigration Law since he had abstained when the vote was taken.  He said his abstention would count with the majority.  (Dissention over him not taking a real stand.)  When Mrs. McElraft questioned why he had abstained , Mr. Nelms said he felt we should go after businesses that hire illegals, that we have needs here in North Carolina and Carteret County.  We need to work with our adjourning counties and utilize all our resources.  He was more concerned with NC than a state so far away.
He said he had voted with the board to keep the tax reval the same.  State is passing down requirements to control salary, place to work, etc. and secondary roads to be taken over for maintenance by counties.
When asked if he would sign the Contract with America, Mr. Nelms replied ‘yes’.
Another member said they understood that ICE will not come to this county to pick up illegals that had been arrested until we had a minimum of 20 illegals.  Mr. Nelms was asked to look into this matter.
Bob said he understood that providing housing for “legal Mexicans’ was unreal.  He had been told that according to requirements placed on those businesses hiring Mexicans, that the Holiday Inn on the beach would be considered substandard.  When he asked about hiring some additional help for his business he was told to go to farms and get their workers (now that the season was over) …they were all illegal.  A Greenville business put out work notices that they would pay $8.50 per hour.  All workers were supposed to be legal.  They found out later that letters had been sent out requiring correction of bad Social Security Numbers.  Bob said he understood that farmers pay $1800 per illegal to get them here.  They work one year to pay off their debt and are then turned loose on the rest of the state and communities.  So many comments and reports are flying that no one knows what is true and what is not.
Nelms encouraged people to attend meetings.  He will check into info and ensure it is put online, so people will know what the agenda is (what is going on).   The agenda should be received about one week before the meeting.  He also stated he thinks we need to look into DOT scheduling due to several problems occurring recently due to overlapping jobs being done and creating disruptive road blocks.
Howard Garner said he had found when he had attended County Commissioners meetings that most of the people attending were there with their hands out.  We need to have tea party members at all meetings to try to stop some of this begging.  Carteret County is considered a high wealth county, (even though we have a 60% welfare), because of the beach and summer residents.

Mr. Nelms and Smith were excused in order that those members in attendance could voice their opinions and vote.  The vote was 14 for Smith, 10 for Nelms, and 1 no change.  Voter recommendation handouts will continue to recommend Smith.

MISCELLANEOUS
It was reported that in King, North Carolina that objections had been made about the Christian flag that had been flown at the Veterans Park since 2004 and the ACLU had told them they had to take the flag down.  The county commissions had crumbled and stopped the veteran motorcyclists who had been protecting the flag to refrain from doing so.  The ACLU is trying to remove crosses from all graves “All gave some, some gave all”.  The people of King have hung tough and Christian flags are now flying in almost every citizen of King’s yard.

Wayne Willis said he had  been listening to Lockwood on the radio.  Lockwood was interviewing Chairman of the GOP Fetzer and asked “will the Tea Party filter down to the local level”?  Lockwood is way off base and does not know anything about the Tea Party.  We are the grass roots and we do not filter down but rise up.

Eric passed out Pricipals of Liberty discs and videos.  He hopes to use the discs to welcome new attendees.  However, he requested that those who took the videos home to watch to please return at the next meeting.  The disc is ours to keep.

Those planning to work the polls picked up the Tea Party Patriots posters, voter recommendation handouts and constitutions to prepare for the election.

Next meeting will be in two weeks here at the Golden Corral.

.

MINUTES OF CRYSTAL COAST TEA PARTY Meeting held at Golden Corral, Morehead City
Meeting called to order at 6:06 PM by Bob Cavanaugh
Pledge of Allegiance led by Ken Lang
Invocation by Catie Midgett
Introduction of new attendees

GRANT
Bob Cavanaugh reported that he had requested $1300.00 of the donated grant money and we ended up receiving $2,000.00.
The money should have been transferred as of today. Nancy Bock, Treasurer was not in attendance to give report.
POLL WORKER REPORT
Fred Decker said he had three names of possible poll worker volunteers for down east… Otway – Don Thomas;
Harkers Island – Mike Gainey; and Glouster – Heber and Diane Guthrie.
Tom Smith asked if we were going to have anyone working the polls at Early Voting. No response.
Wayne Willis recommended we get up with Betty Gillikin in Otway. She is a strong Republican and can possibly find poll workers.
Wayne said he had given Pam Hanson a list of possible workers and asked Bob to try to get it back so he can get it to Betty.
Bob reiterated about not asking anyone to vote when working at the polls. Discussed handout preparation and printing.
UTILIZATION OF GRANT MONEY
When Bob had applied for the grant money he had to list what the money would be used for picnic, banners, voter
recommendation cards. He hopes to have enough cards for each table at the polls. Discussed location of the banners
suggested Hwy 24 and 70, Hwy 24 and 58, Hwy 70 and 101, Newport and Mill Creek, and the high schools. Need boards
to erect signs, people to put up and take down. Discussed wording for signs that we can use over and over. Examples suggested:
I (heart) taxes-Vote Democrat     Lower Taxes- create More Jobs
Save Our Economy, Vote CCTP urges U 2 Vote Increase your paycheck -
Lower taxes CCTP - Common Sense - Vote … Clayton and Tom Smith urged us to keep it simple. (So easier to read as pass in a car)
We are going to get 10 signs made up. Mary Ann Kuklinski said she could get the signs made up on the base (Base Special Services)
size 2X6 for $20.00 each in four days after requesting. Agreed on CCTP.com – VOTE (red letters on white background).
Tom Austin asked if the Carteret County Community College had a newspaper. He has sent an email asking about the cost to place
an ad but has not heard anything back yet.
Tom Austin asked about getting business cards (Crystal Coast Tea Party Patriots) to pass out. Was told they come 500 to a box. Discussed where to get and the cost.
Clayton Gillikin recommended that we get small tents to place over the tables at the polls. He said it had rained on him every year
that he had worked at the polls.
Bob Cavenaugh and Tom Harmon are going to check on the cost of renting canopys from base Special Services for the people
who will be working the polling places handing out voter recommendation cards. They would need to be picked up from the base
the day before and picked up from the polling places at the end of the day (approximately no later than 8:00 pm so they could be returned to the base the next day. Cost will be looked at as well as availability.
OLD BUSINESS
Catie Midgett asked if Bob had heard anything from Washington, NC about the $100.00 rental return. Bob said that they had said
they would return it. They (Washington) earned about $4,000.00 at the rally and are looking into holding the Constitution seminars.
EARLY VOTING
The dates, times and places for early voting were discussed as well as getting people to work them. Nothing decided but there are
a few people already working at one or two of the places for the Republican Party. The TEA party will concentrate on working the
polling places November 2^nd. Dates, times and locations are:
ONE STOP ABSENTEE VOTING NOVEMBER 2, 2010 GENERAL ELECTION Thursday, October 14 through Friday, October 29, 2010 Monday through Friday 8:00am – 5:00 pm,and Saturday, October 30 8:00 am -1:00 pm.
Locations:
Carteret County Board of Elections (Beaufort Shopping Center) 1702 Live Oak Street, Suite 200, Beaufort, NC
Crystal Coast Church of the Nazarene, 4311 Country Club Road, Morehead City, NC
Western Park Community Center, 275 Old Highway 58, Cedar Point, NC
DOWN EAST RALLY OR SETTING UP A TEA PARTY

PATRIOTS MEETING OF 12 OCTOBER 2010

We are looking at setting up a rally or kitchen table TEA party for the people down east. We need to get some connections and

a place to hold the rally/kitchen table meeting. This will help in assisting them in setting up a TEA Party down east.

WESTERN AREA OF CARTERET COUNTY MEETING

We will try to set up a meeting at Debbie Rucker’s place of business so we can reach out to the people in that area. No time or

date set yet.

APRIL 15™ TAX DAY RALLIES
We are thinking of possibly having two (2) rallies in the county on April 15^th, 2011, tax day. One at the Newport Flea Mall and
another, someplace down east for the people there. It would mean the rallies would be smaller at each, but feel that more people
will turn out that might not attend the usual one rally.
PICNIC, SUNDAY OCTOBER 17^th
Don’t forget the picnic on Sunday, October 17^th. It will be after church and most people will be getting there around 1:00 pm. That
gives time to get out of church, go home, change clothes and get back to the picnic. It will be at the Newport Town Park between the
ball park and the library. Parking will be at the library and city hall as well as the ball park parking area. Please bring a covered dish.
NO RAIN DATE.

Next meeting to be held at the Golden Corral

Submitted by Peggy Garner
Meeting held at Golden Corral, Morehead City
Meeting called to order at 6:06 PM by Bob Cavanaugh
Pledge of Allegiance led by Ken Lang
Invocation by Catie Midgett
Introduction of new attendees

GRANT
Bob Cavanaugh reported that he had requested $1300.00 of the donated grant money and we ended up receiving $2,000.00.
The money should have been transferred as of today. Nancy Bock, Treasurer was not in attendance to give report.
POLL WORKER REPORT
Fred Decker said he had three names of possible poll worker volunteers for down east… Otway – Don Thomas;
Harkers Island – Mike Gainey; and Glouster – Heber and Diane Guthrie.
Tom Smith asked if we were going to have anyone working the polls at Early Voting. No response.
Wayne Willis recommended we get up with Betty Gillikin in Otway. She is a strong Republican and can possibly find poll workers.
Wayne said he had given Pam Hanson a list of possible workers and asked Bob to try to get it back so he can get it to Betty.
Bob reiterated about not asking anyone to vote when working at the polls. Discussed handout preparation and printing.
UTILIZATION OF GRANT MONEY
When Bob had applied for the grant money he had to list what the money would be used for picnic, banners, voter
recommendation cards. He hopes to have enough cards for each table at the polls. Discussed location of the banners
suggested Hwy 24 and 70, Hwy 24 and 58, Hwy 70 and 101, Newport and Mill Creek, and the high schools. Need boards
to erect signs, people to put up and take down. Discussed wording for signs that we can use over and over. Examples suggested:
I (heart) taxes-Vote Democrat     Lower Taxes- create More Jobs
Save Our Economy, Vote CCTP urges U 2 Vote Increase your paycheck -
Lower taxes CCTP – Common Sense – Vote … Clayton and Tom Smith urged us to keep it simple. (So easier to read as pass in a car)
We are going to get 10 signs made up. Mary Ann Kuklinski said she could get the signs made up on the base (Base Special Services)
size 2X6 for $20.00 each in four days after requesting. Agreed on CCTP.com – VOTE (red letters on white background).
Tom Austin asked if the Carteret County Community College had a newspaper. He has sent an email asking about the cost to place
an ad but has not heard anything back yet.
Tom Austin asked about getting business cards (Crystal Coast Tea Party Patriots) to pass out. Was told they come 500 to a box. Discussed where to get and the cost.
Clayton Gillikin recommended that we get small tents to place over the tables at the polls. He said it had rained on him every year
that he had worked at the polls.
Bob Cavenaugh and Tom Harmon are going to check on the cost of renting canopys from base Special Services for the people
who will be working the polling places handing out voter recommendation cards. They would need to be picked up from the base
the day before and picked up from the polling places at the end of the day (approximately no later than 8:00 pm so they could be returned to the base the next day. Cost will be looked at as well as availability.
OLD BUSINESS
Catie Midgett asked if Bob had heard anything from Washington, NC about the $100.00 rental return. Bob said that they had said
they would return it. They (Washington) earned about $4,000.00 at the rally and are looking into holding the Constitution seminars.
EARLY VOTING
The dates, times and places for early voting were discussed as well as getting people to work them. Nothing decided but there are
a few people already working at one or two of the places for the Republican Party. The TEA party will concentrate on working the
polling places November 2^nd. Dates, times and locations are:
ONE STOP ABSENTEE VOTING NOVEMBER 2, 2010 GENERAL ELECTION Thursday, October 14 through Friday, October 29, 2010 Monday through Friday 8:00am – 5:00 pm,and Saturday, October 30 8:00 am -1:00 pm.
Locations:
Carteret County Board of Elections (Beaufort Shopping Center) 1702 Live Oak Street, Suite 200, Beaufort, NC
Crystal Coast Church of the Nazarene, 4311 Country Club Road, Morehead City, NC
Western Park Community Center, 275 Old Highway 58, Cedar Point, NC
DOWN EAST RALLY OR SETTING UP A TEA PARTY

MINUTES OF CRYSTAL COAST TEA PARTY

PATRIOTS MEETING OF 12 OCTOBER 2010

We are looking at setting up a rally or kitchen table TEA party for the people down east. We need to get some connections and

a place to hold the rally/kitchen table meeting. This will help in assisting them in setting up a TEA Party down east.

WESTERN AREA OF CARTERET COUNTY MEETING

We will try to set up a meeting at Debbie Rucker’s place of business so we can reach out to the people in that area. No time or

date set yet.

APRIL 15™ TAX DAY RALLIES
We are thinking of possibly having two (2) rallies in the county on April 15^th, 2011, tax day. One at the Newport Flea Mall and
another, someplace down east for the people there. It would mean the rallies would be smaller at each, but feel that more people
will turn out that might not attend the usual one rally.
PICNIC, SUNDAY OCTOBER 17^th
Don’t forget the picnic on Sunday, October 17^th. It will be after church and most people will be getting there around 1:00 pm. That
gives time to get out of church, go home, change clothes and get back to the picnic. It will be at the Newport Town Park between the
ball park and the library. Parking will be at the library and city hall as well as the ball park parking area. Please bring a covered dish.
NO RAIN DATE.

Next meeting to be held at the Golden Corral

Submitted by Peggy Garner

MINUTES OF CRYSTAL COAST TEA PARTY PATRIOTS

MEETING OF 21 SEPTEMBER 2010

Meeting held at Golden Corral, Morehead City

Meeting called to order by Bob Cavenaugh at 6:05 PM

Pledge of Allegiance led by Bob Cavenaugh

Invocation by Jere Geurin

No. in attendance – 25

DONATION TO TEA PARTY PATRIOTS

Bob reported that during a recent web-site seminar that he participated in, it was reported that someone (anonymously) had donated one million dollars to the Tea Party Patriots.  He said he thought it was because most Tea Partys have officers and are managed from the top down, whereas the Patriots are a bottom-up (grass roots) organization.  He understands that there are 2800 groups in the Tea Party Patriot organization and apparently we are to share in the donation.  It is not supposed to be used for advertising, no endorsements, etc. but is to be used for ‘Get out the Vote’ expenses, internet purposes, and various other items.  Bob asked us to put on our thinking caps as to how we can best use our share.  He said local groups could support local candidates (since we usually know more about them) but we are to shy away from actual voter endorsement.  Prefer that we not endorse any party.

WASHINGTON, NC RALLY, OCTOBER 2, 2010

Bob reported that there will be at least four to six speakers; one of which is Dr. Ron Baity the preacher who was barred from the General Assembly for invoking Jesus Christ’s name in his opening prayer.  Other speakers mentioned are:  Frank Perry, former FBI Special Agent who is to speak on corruption in NC; David  Speckhardt, to talk on and explain the Fair Tax; Hal Weatherman , with insight on terrorism; Dan Garner, MBA/JD, Bank fraud, how it affects us; and Jerry Grimes, Pastor and Author of A Freedom Soon Known.

Be creative and design a sign to enter in the Most Creative Sign Contest to win a flag that has flown over the White House in honor of those serving in our military with a certificate from Congressman Walter Jones.  Also it would be appreciated if you would bring DVD’s to contribute to our military personnel overseas.  It is recommended that you bring a blanket or folding chairs and plan to be totally entertained.

Arrive by 1:00 PM for the opening event by the Rocky Hoc Theater as they recognize our armed services.  Hope to see you there.

Bob has loaned several Tea Party items for the Washington Rally use; ie. Bunting, flags, etc.  Said to remind him to get them back after the rally.

CRAVEN/PAMLICO CHRISTIAN COALITION SEVENTEENTH ANNUAL GOD & COUNTRY BANQUET

Howard Garner reported on the banquet held Monday, September 20,2010 at 6:30 at the Havelock Tourist Center, 201 Tourist Center Drive, Havelock, NC.   Master of Ceremonies was Jerry Schill.  A Salute to the Military was given by Lt. Commander Richard Lynch USN.  NC Congressman Walter Jones, Jr. gave a Capitol Hill Update and the Keynote Speaker was Dr. Mike Adams, UNCW.  Professor Adams was an atheist and a Democrat when he entered academia more than a decade ago.  But ever since he saw the light, and became a Christian and conservative, he has been in the crosshairs of the full-time feminists on campus.  Their insults, taunts, foul language, intolerance, and public declarations about their sex lives have trailed him from the campus to the courtroom.  He is a criminology professor at the University of North Carolina – Wilmington and one of the nation’s leading critics of the “diversity” movement in academia.  He writes a nationally syndicated column for Townhall.com and he and his wife live in Wilmington, NC.  His talk was enthusiastically enjoyed by those in attendance and the meal was excellent.  All for only $15.00 per person.

GET OUT THE VOTE COMMENTS

Ken Lang said he thought a good use of the donated monies we hope to received would be printing of the cards to be handed out at the polls.  Noted that there would be three Early Voting places; Election Office in Beaufort, Church of the Nazarene on Country Club Road in Morehead City, (and didn’t catch the other one, sorry).

Bob recommended that we put up our Tea Party banners (large 2×4 Tea Party and Get Out the Vote) at intersection of Hwy 70 and 24.  Will be good advertizing.  (Some joking about maybe placing them at either Sears or Kmart).

Bob also reported that Mark Hager, of Statesville, had announced that there would be a state-wide rally in Charlotte on October 30.  Found out they couldn’t afford big name speakers, ie. Newt Gingrich  wants $60,000.00 while Michael Reagan asks $20,000.00, which is too rich for our blood here in North Carolina.

Bob also reported that the Tea Party’s count of attendees at the various rallies were as follows: St. Louis and Sacramento, approximately 20,000 each while Washington was estimated at 67,000, much lower than last year but still enthusiastic.

Fred Decker said he will get the palm cards for distribution, but we need the personnel to pass them out at the polls.  Contact Fred if you wish to help.

Tom Smith would like to send a letter perhaps from the Crystal Coast Tea Party Steering Committee to Jones and Burr, asking why they will not sign off on the Contract From America.  He would like to see if they will pay any attention to us.  He said he will rough out what we want to say and get it signed at next week’s meeting.  He will request responses.  Maybe say this is what we expect and ask about term limits.  Eric Broyles said he had talked to employees in Burr’s office and he (Burr) is still opposed to Item 4 (Simplify the tax system – Adopt a simple and fair single-rate tax system by scrapping the internal revenue code and replacing it with one that is no longer than 4,543 words – the length of the original Constitution.)  Burr still contends that he has no control over the length of bills.  Maybe with a little modification, they will sign off.  Burr has signed off on the Fair Tax Act.

It was reported that the Republican ‘Young Guns’ are coming out with their contract.  Maybe we should wait and see what they have to say.

Eric Broyles would like for us to print out our recommended candidates for pass out.  Tom Austin has made up a list of voter recommendations.  He also passed out a few Sample Votes.  It was decided not to mark the samples up with our recommendations and print, but to make a listing of Office and Recommended Candidate for printing.  Discussion followed about what to print on the back of the recommended Candidate listing.  It was recommended we print the Tea Party Mission Statement and Core Values.  Dennis Tomaso and Tom Smith would like to see the Contract with America (maybe just take highlighted items) used.  Dennis and Tom will get together and see what they can come up with.  Once it is decided what to use, Peggy Garner volunteered to make copies for pass out.  She said if they could be printed on white paper, she would provide the paper for printing.

People, at the meeting, who volunteered to work the precincts are as follows:

Wildwood (Newport Middle School) – Jere Geurin and Ruth Parker

Methodist Church in Newport – Fred Decker, Tom Harmon and Tom Austin

Holly Springs Church, Nine Foot Road – Belva and Ron Manning (possibly Howard and

Peggy Garner)

There are 34 precincts in the county.  We need volunteers for each precinct.  Fred will bring a listing next week or have it put on the internet to get those interested to sign up.

Ruth said she had had several requests for information on candidates and who they should vote for.  She said there are a lot of people out there that are interested and need help.

Bob is going to run a list from the email data base he has.  He will get a list of all precincts and number of Republican and Independent voters and also prepare a list of all poll volunteers and where they plan to work.  Tom Harmon will get the information on Face Book and Ken Lang will take care of the web page.

Tom Austin read the list of recommended candidates that he was proposing.  (See information received in an email he sent me after the meeting for the complete list.)  List will not show whether Republican or Democrat.

An attendee said he understood that if you had been convicted of a felony you could not run for office and he had heard of someone running for Sheriff after being convicted of a felony.  It was determined that they could run but could not vote.  (Makes sense to me – duh)

Tom wants to get a list of all absentee voters, so that he can contact them and encourage them to get out and vote.

VOTER ASSISTANCE

It was reported that Judy Wilgus (with the Carteret County Republican Headquarters personnel) will be holding a class for the poll workers and watchers.  What they can or can not do. If watchers see anything out of the ordinary or that appears to be off someway, they are to call the Election Office and the Sheriff’s Office.  Someone said she had already held the class but others thought it was still on.  Someone will check.

DON’T ASK, DON’T tell

The Don’t ask, don’t tell Dream Act was voted down this week.  Tom Harmon said he had called Senator Hagan’s office to determine how she had voted.  He was told she had voted down.

AGENT ORANGE

It was discussed that Agent Orange was even more prevalent than had been thought even though the powers that be want to cut funds and limit areas of contamination.

MISCELLANEOUS

Recommended USA.com as a good place to go to get information or dispense information.  Also easiest place to go to get addresses or send faxes.

ITEMS LEFT OFF LAST WEEK’S MINUTES DUE TO COMPUTER PROBLEMS;

The question of the Tea Party Picnic on October 9^th was discussed and most found it a good idea if we can get the people to show up.  Tom Austin will check with local businesses that will be closed that Saturday (or Sunday the 10^th) and find out about additional parking in their lots if we need it.  Plan to have a pot luck/covered dish.  Also anyone wishing to help purchase hot dogs, buns and burgers, it will be appreciated.   (This week Peggy and Howard Garner volunteered to bring plastic plates, cups, utensils, etc.)  This event will be used to finalize what else we need, who plans to do what and where, and who is willing to help with the “Get Out the Vote”.

Andrew Blake (a new member and a student from Carteret County Community College, announced that he is organizing a reading of the Constitution of the United States of America at the Student Center Building on campus Monday, September 20^th,at 12:30 or 1:00 PM.  (This week it was announced that Andrew had been elected Student Body President.  Congratulations Andrew.

Our next meeting is scheduled to be at the Golden Corral also.

Meeting adjourned at 7:35PM.

MINUTES OF CRYSTAL COAST TEA PARTY

MEETING OF 7 AUGUST 2010

Meeting held at Golden Corral, Morehead City

Meeting called to order by Bob Cavenaugh at 6:00

Pledge of Allegiance led by Greg Lewis

Invocation by Jere Geurin

No. in attendance – 40

Several “First Timers” were with us tonight.  Welcome.

Greg Lewis, Chairman of the Carteret County Republican Party, spoke on requirements of those wishing to help the Republican Party at the polls.  First you must be registered as Republican to work the phones and serve as a poll watcher.  The County Republican Party Headquarters, across from the Chevrolet Dealer on Hwy 70, has signs and campaign materials for distribution.  Please stop by and pick up whatever you need.  Will appreciate help from anyone willing to post candidates’ signs along the roadside or in approving neighbors’ yards.  Question – is material available on the judges races, ie. which are conservative?  Yes.  Fred Decker said he had heard that ‘absentee ballots’ did not show which political party the contender was affiliated with.  Mr. Lewis said he was pretty sure that was wrong.  Bob Cavenaugh will collect names of those wishing to work the polls.

Tom Austin showed attendees the form we received at the Havelock Rally last weekend.  You will be able to vote for three candidates and the candidate with the highest count will win.  He recommended we consider voting for Doug McCullough, who is running for the seat that Wynn held.  A sample ballot will be released within a few days.  Contact GOP Headquarters.  Check out the GOP web site for a list of the candidates we plan to support.  Should be on line in a few days.

Lyn said that in the past, cards had been passed out at the polls, with the above information.  Greg said, yes, this will be done.  These cards can be handed out by those who are registered as ‘unaffiliated’.

Pam Hansom, Republican (and Tea Party favorite) candidate for Clerk of Court was recognized.  She asked again for our vote and support.  GOP has not held the Clerk of Superior Court in a minimum of at least 50 years (as far back as she could find records).  Pam is the owner and operator of Book Mart at Atlantic Beach.

BUS TRIP TO WASHINGTON

Had one ticket left on the first bus, and Tom Smith purchased it.  Last year we had 5 buses traveling to Washington – this year only one.  We have utilized radio advertising since August to no avail.  Discussion as to why participation is so low this year.  Bob was asked if he was going to try to get another bus.  He said he does not feel confident enough to attempt to sell enough seats to fill another bus; since we had such a problem with just filling one.  An attendee wanted to know if he thought we could get other cities involved in buying seats on the bus.  Bob said we only have three seats sold from Kinston, one from Jacksonville, and the rest from New Bern and Morehead City (Carteret County).   Due to the reduced time left, did not feel we had a chance to fill a second bus.  Since only one bus is making the trip from this area, our pickup schedule is all messed up.  Bob is working to try to make adjustments.  He reported he is receiving bogus reservations now.  Has received three to date.   Pam said she had heard that Beaufort County has five buses going but is not sure if all five have been sold out as anticipated.  Tom Austin said his daughter had checked the surrounding area around Rockingham (where she lives) and could find no buses going.  Tom Harmon said that Freedom Works organization reported that they had five buses leaving Indiana.  He still feels we will have at least as large an attendance in DC as Glenn Beck did; even though three large rallies are planned on the 12^th; ie St. Louis, (predicted to be huge), Sacramento, Calif., and Washington, DC; and many state rallies are also planned.

HAVELOCK RALLY

Bob said it was a good rally, but he had learned two things:  we definitely need to limit speaking times and have a ‘good mike’.

TREASURER’S REPORT

Nancy Bock, Tea Party Treasurer, reported we have $840.00 in the bank, but we still need to pay for the August/September advertising.  We also may need to pay for the July 4^th advertising with the newspaper.  Bob will check.

WASHINGTON, NC OCTOBER 2, 2010 RALLY

Bob reported that they were still looking for well known speakers (that didn’t charge an arm and leg) and entertainment for the rally to be held in Washington, NC on the waterfront.  Twenty-seven eastern counties are expected to be in attendance.  Bob said on one of his visits to Washington, NC, (wearing his Tea Party shirt); he stopped at a service station on the way, and the attendant asked him what a Tea Party was.  Bob asked, didn’t he watch TV or the news.  “No” replied the attendant, ‘don’t have time’.  So then Bob asked him if he was a Democrat.   Answer – ‘yes’.  Question answered.

CAMPAIGN SIGNS

It was reported that “Senator BURR’s” signs have come in.  Need to start getting them out.  Appreciate any help can get, since each sign placed in a prominent place is worth much more than it cost. It was reported that the state legislature has been ruled by the Democrats since 1898.   That is not a typo.  Yes, 1898.  Maybe that is why North Carolina is looked upon as one of the most corrupt states in the union.

IMMIGRATION

Eric Broyles passed out a sheet on Illegal Alien Statistics that he had compiled.  Following:

In 2009, $113 billion of U.S. taxpayer money spent on illegal immigrants.  Of this amount, $2.06 billion was spent by North Carolina.

There were 700,000 criminal offenses committed by illegal aliens, or 13 offenses per

illegal alien.

In 2003, 270,000 illegal aliens served jail time.

Illegal aliens make up 25% of the Federal prison population.

It is estimated that 50% of California’s prison population is illegal aliens.

It is estimated by FAIR that 21% of North Carolina prison population is composed of illegal aliens.

Forty-five percent of the crimes committed were drug related and twelve percent were for violent offenses.

There are 400,000 illegal aliens being sought by ICE as ‘absconders’.

Hispanics accounted for 18% of the drunk driving arrests.

Eight-three percent of illegal aliens only have a high school education.

Eric expounded further on these statistics.  Was asked how many were here in Carteret County.  It was determined that information was unavailable.  Neither are we able to find out how many illegals are attending our schools since there is a “don’t ask’ policy.

MISCELLANEOUS

Fred Decker recommended we check out Mid America News.  He will get me the info to share with our members.

Newt Gingrich’s book “To Save America” was recommended for all to read.

The bus to Washington, DC is scheduled to leave Morehead City WalMart parking lot at midnight, (Saturday night/Sunday morning) and plans are to be in Kinston so we will be able to leave there at 1:30 AM.  Nancy Bock has pennants to help rally attendees find our bus and also help keep us organized.

An email will be prepared and sent to members advising them what to bring or will need for the trip to Washington, DC.

Meeting adjourned at 7:05.

Minutes submitted by Peggy Garner

MINUTES OF CRYSTAL COAST TEA PARTY

MEETING OF 31 AUGUST 2010

Meeting held at Coastal Café and Coffee Shoppe, 102 Professional Park Dr.,  Beaufort, NC

Meeting called to order by Bob Cavenaugh at  6:10 PM

Pledge of Allegiance

Invocation by Jere Geurin

Number of Attendees:  29

GLENN BECK RALLY

Ken Lang, who attended the rally August 28, reported on his trip.  Said he had arrived at 8:45 at the mall, then walked and took pictures until almost to the Lincoln Memorial.  He said he was about half way up along side the reflecting pool and people were shoulder to shoulder.  It was awesome.  He did not think he saw Al Sharpton or his group but did see a Martin Luther King billboard with his speech being aired with about 200 people milling around.  He said Glenn Beck had lots of ‘big screen’ TVs and loud speakers scattered about the rally crowd.  It was hard to actually hear because if you were standing between two speakers (which he was) you would hear one speaker then the other as an echo.  The flock of geese that flew over the crowd was awe inspiring.  It was more impressive than even a military aircraft fly over; almost like GOD was in attendance also.  He estimated that at a minimum there was at least an excess of one half million people there.  He has posted some short clips on our Tea Party Face Book.

Butler Bennett told about hearing of the convert that came to criticize the rally, and after hearing just a part of the highly motivated speeches by the different religious groups, left a believer.

Tom Austin wanted to know if the DC police had allowed any concessions to set up or if there were any (or enough) porta-potties.   Ken said yes to both.  He was told by a vendor that the rally was never announced or advertised and he had found out only by accident.  (Apparently the people in Washington, DC do not watch Fox.)

9-12 WASHINGTON, DC BUS TRIP

Bob said that since there was going to be large rallies in Sacramento, California and St. Louis, Mo.  as well as individual state rallies this year, he did not think this 9-12 rally would be as big as last year’s; which will be a shame, since the liberals will feel like the Tea Party is just what they had called it, ‘an astro turf’ nothing to worry about group.  Bob said our participation is way down this year.  As of now they only have 40 people signed up to attend.  But, last year, people were signing up as they got on board the bus.

Tom Harmon talked about maybe one of our problems was that we had not had as big an advertising push as we had last year.  Only real advertising we had done this year was on Lockwood’s radio show.  We’ve had lots of letters to the editor which he felt sure had helped but he was getting a lot of phone calls for information.

Rev. T. Rondy Ward, retired and first time attendee, told us that he believed in the movement and decided to attend our meeting to find out more about what we were about.  He felt that many people are having money problems this year; or maybe just burnt out and waiting for election day.  He said his ‘liberal’ daughter wanted to know if we were planning on nominating Glenn Beck for president, since we were so enthused with his rally.  He believes that if we don’t do something and soon, we will no longer have a country.  We have to get back to our core principles.

Bob Cavenaugh said Pat McElraft told him that if the Republicans are successful and can take over this election; they  already have their resolutions written up and plan to have a head start on turning things around.

Roy Musser told that he had been fired for the first time this week, because he did not agree politically with the man that he was working for, but he had refused to back down on his principles.

Roma Wade volunteered to pay for two seats on bus to Washington in support and honor or Roy.  Bob reported that we now have 42 seats sold.  We had to put down $1,000.00 reservation on the bus.  We now have almost one bus full and wanted to know if we thought we should reserve another.  Consensus  was that if we can pre-sell bus up to “need 10 more”  then we can make up the difference with donations.  Otherwise,  probably no.

HAVELOCK  RALLY

The Coastal Carolina Taxpayers Association, a non-partisan organization advocating minimum government and maximum freedom, are inviting the public to a Labor Day weekend tea party from 4-8 PM Saturday, September 4, 2010, at the City Park, Highway 70 in Havelock.  The focus will be on immigration and amnesty, taxes, jobs and the economy, voting and voting as a responsibility.  There will be an open mike time or any who would like to speak.

Guest speakers will be Rev. Walter Leake and Mrs. Carol Leake; Jose Dominguez; Jeff Lewis, NC Fire Coalition; Melvin Cooper, Highway 70 corridor project; along with speakers from Freedom Works, the John Locke Foundation and the Civitas Institute.  The Metz Girls will provide entertainment.

LITTLE WASHINGTON, NC RALLY, October 2, 2010

Bob said they were still looking for speakers and entertainment.  Many potential speakers and entertainment groups wanted too large a fee to attend.

POTENTIAL LETTER TO GOV. PERDUE AND LEGISLATURE

Eric Broyles passed out a letter he had written, revising the one he had sent out via email.  Bob asked him to research the impact illegals have on our state.  There was some discussion about the  getting of drivers license in North Carolina by illegals.  Some wanted to invite one of our local law enforcement officers to one of our meetings, but it was decided they probable would not be allowed to come.   Following is the revised letter submitted by Eric:

August 10, 2010

Dear Governor Beverly Perdue and the North Caroling Legislature

After 7 years of war and 100+ years of autocratic rule under British rule, the creators of our constitution recognized the perilous dangers to the public safety, and as such, made it the number one priority requirement of our government and its public officials.  They felt so strongly on the subject that they included it in the Preamble to the Constitution.  For those of us who have forgotten its language and solemn pledge it makes to the people, it reads as follows:

We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish

Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the

General Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do

ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

When the Constitution was adopted by the states, each and every governmental official from the highest federal branch to the local level swore an oath to protect the safety and general welfare of its citizens.

On August 16, 2010, the Carteret County Board of Commissioners passed a resolution in support of Governor Jan Brewer of the Great State of Arizona and Arizona Senate Bill 1070.  The vote on this resolution was unanimous, with only one Commissioner abstaining.  The Crystal Coast Tea Party Patriots commend our Commissioners for their resolve, foresight, and their faithfulness in keeping their pledge to protect the safety and general welfare of the Citizens of Carteret County.

According to the Federation For American Immigration Reform (FAIR) and PEW Hispanic Center, there are over 400,000 illegal immigrants now residing within the borders of North Carolina, or 4.45% of the total population.  FAIR estimates that it will cost North Carolina tax payers $1.7 Billion in 2010 for emergency medical care, education, and incarceration expense alone.  It is a known fact that many illegal immigrants are paid in cash under the table for their labors, thereby, avoiding the payment of state and federal income taxes.  Furthermore, this does not factor in the impact that illegal immigrants will have on employment for citizens, increased unemployment cost for displaced working citizens due to the loss of a job to an illegal immigrant, natural resources, highways, transportation systems, air pollution, and many more.  Most of the impact will be felt by the taxpayer and the unemployed.  From a moral perspective, many illegal immigrants are paid wages below the Federal minimum wage standard and therefore are taken advantage of or abused by their employer.  The illegal immigrant knows full well that they cannot protest the treatment they receive at the hands of their employer for fear of being turned in by their employer and deported.  On a final note, when and illegal immigrant gets hurt on the job, it is not their employer that pays for their medical expense at the hospital’s emergency room but your friendly taxpaying citizen.

In full support of the recent resolution passed by Carteret County Board of Commissioners supporting Arizona Senate Bill 1070, we petition the State of North Carolina to pass similar legislation for the full enforcement of U.S. Immigration Laws within its boundaries; thereby, protecting its citizens, its economy, its natural resources, etc., for all time sake.  Furthermore, we ask all other North Carolina citizens and Tea Party Patriots to join us by signing their signatures to this petition.

In closing, we welcome and encourage all legal and law abiding immigrants to visit the great State of North Carolina and enjoy its bounty and many natural wonders and resources.

We, the Crystal Coast Tea Party Patriots

Attest Our Signatures To This Petition and Call For Action

GET OUT THE VOTE

Lyn Baker wanted to know when we were going to get committees together and start getting organized to push the get out the vote.  Bob said it would have to be after we get back from the 9-12 Rally.  Tom Harmon passed out a list of activities we need for “Getting out the Vote”.  See below:

GET OUT THE VOTE

1. Door to Door Script (prepared)
2. Materials:  Door Hangers? (If available)
3. Tea Party Email sign-up sheets
4. Bumper Stickers (offer to put them on)
5. Stickers – Candidate – Whatever we can get from GOP Headquarters or Candidates
6. Yard Signs – Have yard signs in a car nearby
7. Voter Registration Forms – (If elderly or handicapped, offer to provide ride on Election Day.

We need to prepare maps for areas we are going to cover.

We need to have names and addresses of Republicans and Independants.

We have to get a commitment for volunteers.

Train Volunteers!!!

Need voting record of our candidates on legislation passed

Need voting record of opponent or their past record in the office they have held.

We need to have dirt on the opponent.

Further discussion brought out that we should not go as Tea Party members, just as individuals, since we do not support any particular party.  We are made up of various parties but remain true conservatives.  Since there are so few of us able to work the polls, it was decided that, if we were interested, we should contact Judy Wilgus, 222-0210.  She is looking for volunteers and will surely find something for us to do.  Those who wish to work outside the polls; we have 34 districts, you are encouraged to join us to find out what we need to do.  It has been 112 years since the Republicans have had a majority in the Legislature.  If the ones we support this election do not do as they promise, then we will remove them at the next election or maybe even think about that third party (TP).  We must hold their feet to the fire and let them know, we are not letting up.

MISCELLANEOUS

It was reported that the voter cards (who is running) are not available yet.

October 14 is early voting.

Rev. Rondy Ward spoke to those interested in getting the USS Kitty Hawk relocated to this county as a memorial/museum, a rally is being planned for Tuesday at 12:00 with SCORE.  Perspectives have been worked up and have possibly got a chance for property to put the ship on.  The USS Kitty Hawk is being readied to move from Washington State to the East Coast.  It will cost $12 million to get here.  (Reverend Ward will be getting more information to us later which I will have placed on our face book site.)

Roma Wade thanked Donna of the Coastal Café and Coffee Shoppe for her gracious hospitality tonight and bought her a Tea Party T-shirt.  As soon as Bob can get with Debbie Rucker to make arrangements somewhere in Emerald Isle or nearby, we will start meeting at that end of the county.  Howard recommended maybe we might consider the T&W Restaurant on 58 since they have many meeting rooms available.  Notification with be made upon decision of where.

Our next meeting will be at the Golden Corral, September 7^th, usual times (5 to eat, meeting at 6).

Meeting adjourned at 7:21.

Meeting submitted by Peggy Garner

MEETING OF AUGUST 24, 2010

Meeting called to order at 6:03 by Bob Cavenaugh

Pledge of Allegiance led by Ken Lang

Invocation by Roy Musser

Number of members in attendance -  26

Guest – David Beard, Jr.

ARIZONA IMMIGRATION RESOLUTION/COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

A group of Crystal Coast Tea Party members, in their red T-shirts attended the County Commissioners meeting on Monday, August 16.  Support for the Arizona resolution on Illegal Immigration by the commissioners was favorable.  Everyone who attended this meeting left with plans to attend more often as they found it most informative and interesting.

Note:  Since plans had been made to attend the commissioners meeting on Monday night, our regular (August 17^th) Tuesday night meeting at the Golden Corral was cancelled.

TREASURER’S REPORT

Since Nancy was not in attendance, Bob Cavenaugh reported that we had $1,844.40 in the bank after paying $675.00 for shirts and $1,000.00 on the bus trip.  Of that $1,844.40, $525.00 is bus money, so actually have $1,319.40.

911 BUS TRIP TO WASHINGTON

Participation, so far, in the bus trip to Washington is disheartening.  We do not even have one bus filled to date.  Don’t know if members finances are the problem, maybe people waiting until the last minute to decide or to pay, or maybe even Glenn Beck’s August trip is siphoning off some our members who would usually attend with us.  Time is running out, folks.  Please let Bob know ASAP if you plan to go.

OCTOBER 2, 2010 RALLY IN WASHINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA

Bob reported that attempts are being made to get Newt Gingrich, Ron Paul or some other well known to be the speaker.  Bob reported that he was also on the entertainment committee and was trying to get up with Billy Joe Royal.  (He was hoping to get him to perform at the rally.)  Any help with contacting will be appreciated.  If any member knows of an entertainer that would help us out by entertaining at the rally, please get with Bob, so we can wrap up that part of the planning.  Amy Roach mentioned a barbershop quartet that she knew of and would check it out.  Tom Smith (I think it was) mentioned a band that uses the same trailer we used at the July 4^th rally, but could not remember the name, but he will check it out also.

GUEST – DAVID BEARD, JR.

David told about a seminar that his son had attended and found most interesting, so David is trying to get enough people interested to have a seminar here in Carteret County.

It is conducted by the Foundation for Economic Education, with many interesting topics:  ie

My Favorite President – (subject: Grover Cleveland, one of America’s best and most

pro-liberty chief executives)

Witch-Hunting for Robber Barons:  The Standard Oil Story – (subject: competition,

monopoly, and John D. Rockefeller)

The Promise of Privatization – (subject: what it is, who’s doing it, why it works, how to

do it so it won’t fail)

Seven Principles of Sound Public Policy – (subject: the philosophic and economic pillars

of a free society and government’s proper role)

Great Myths of the Great Depression – (subject:  why it happened, how the government

prolonged it, policies to avoid so it won’t happen again)

Learning the Lessons of Ancient Rome – (subject:  observations on the reasons for the

rise and fall of one of history’s greatest civilizations, and their

relevance for our time)

Adam Smith and the Birth of Economics – (subject:  how Smith changed the world with

his devastating critique of mercantilism and advocacy of free

markets)

Free Trade vs Protectionism – (subject:  the case for free trade from basic, free market

principles and incorporates responses to protectionist

arguments)

A Student’s Essay That Changed the World – (subject:  the inspiring story of Thomas

Clarkson and the British anti-slavery movement, one of finest

hours in history for the cause of human liberty)

The Origin, Nature and History of Money – (subject:  how money evolved naturally in the

marketplace but was eventually usurped by revenue-hungry

governments; includes fascinating stories of notable hyper-

inflations)

The Silver Panic of 1893 – (subject:  19^th century U.S. monetary history here made

understandable, from bimetallism to greenback inflation to the

gold standard)

The Difference One Can Make: Unsung Heroes of History – (subject: depending on time,

the stories of two to five incredibly inspiring but lesser known

individuals whose courage and character teach volumes to

people of all ages)

Liberty and Character – (subject:  the indispensable connection between the two;

without character, a free society is not possible; without

liberty, character cannot be exercised)

Though the standard length for each  of these talks is about 45-50 minutes, they can  easily be adapted to a time frame as brief as 20 minutes or as long as 60 minutes.  Each can also be adapted to be suitable to audiences from adult to high schools ages and each one advances a free market perspective in its own informative and entertaining way.  For further information Google FEE.ORG. and click on name for resume.

David wanted to know if we would be interested in holding one of these 3 hour seminars here and if so would we prefer a Friday night or Saturday morning.   Friday night was the consensus and many in attendance were interested in going.  It is for high school, college and also adults.  Can possibly hold at the community college.  Please let Bob know if you would like to attend so David can get an idea of how many are interested.

VOLUNTEERING FOR COUNTY COMMITTEES

It was reported at the County Commissioners meeting that they welcomed citizen’s willingness to participate in local government decisions.  One way of participating is by serving as a citizen member of one of the County’s Commissions, Advisory Boards and Committees listed below:

ABC Board                                                                Adult Home Community Advisory Comm.

Aging Planning Board                                                    Beaufort-Morehead Airport Authority

Board of Equalization and Review                              Carteret County Beach Commission

Carteret Co. Area Transportation System (CCATS)

Carteret Community College Board of Trustees       Carteret County Library Board

Child Fatality Prevention Team                                    Civic Center Advisory Board

Coastal Regional Solid Waste Management Authority

Council for Women                                                  Criminal Justice Partnership Program

Eastern Carolina Workforce Development Board    Eastern Carolina Regional Housing Auth.

Economic Development Council                                  Fire & EMS Commission

911 Communications Advisory Board                         Harbor Authority

Harkers Island Sanitary District Board                                  Health Board

Hospital Board of Trustees                                          Hwy 70 Corridor Commission

Industrial Facilities & Pollution Control Financing Authority

Jury Commission                                                             Juvenile Crime Prevention Council

Marine Fisheries Advisory Board                                 Municipal ETJ Boards

Mayor’s Committee for Persons with Disabilities     Newport Library Board

N.C. Eastern Region (Global TransPark)                      Nursing Home Advisory Board

Onslow-Carteret Behavioral Healthcare Service Area Board

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board                             Planning Commission

Public Water Access Committee                                  Regional Aging Advisory Comm. (RAAC)

Scenic Byway Committee                                              Senior Center Advisory Board

Social Services Board of Directors                               Tourism Development Authority

Transportation Committee                                           Zoning Board of Adjustment

If you wish to be considered for appointment to one of these groups, please go to

www.carteretcountygov.org and access a copy of the form.  Complete in its entirety and mail to the County Manager’s Office, 302 Courthouse Square, Beaufort, NC 28516 or you may fax it to 728-2092.  Please be aware you must be a resident of Carteret County to apply and you must be at lease eighteen (18) years of age.  For more information you may call Jeanette Deese, Clerk to the Board at 728-8580.

We can be more effective if we serve on these boards.

REPUBLICAN DRAWING

Bob has tickets for the Republican fund raiser drawing.  Tickets are $100.00 each for an opportunity to win $5,000.00.

PAT MCELRAFT INVITED

Bob has invited Pat McElraft to attend our meeting on September 7 at the Golden Corral.   Please attend and bring your friends as we would like to show Pat our strength in numbers.

MISCELLANEOUS

Roma Wade reported on his wife’s back problems.  She has recently taken her first shot and the second is coming up soon.  We all wish her a speedy recovery.

Jere Geurin passed out a sign up sheet for those interested in attending his Manhatten Declaration seminar.

Lyn Baker requested that we meet occasionally on the other side of the bridge (Beaufort).  She has a restaurant, “Coastal Café and Coffee” located at 102 Professional Park near the Post Office and Food Lion on Hwy 70W lined up for us to meet at.  Discussed that we might consider meeting in Beaufort even maybe further downeast, maybe Emerald Isle occasionally.  Decided our next meeting (August 31) will be in Beaufort at the Coastal Café and Coffee. A map is supposed to be posted on our web site for those who are not familiar with this business.

Lyn would like to sell car fresheners (she will furnish) to help raise money for our organization.  She said they would cost her 80 cents and we could sell them for $1.00.  The whole dollar would go to the Tea Party.

Tom Austin discussed the “Debt Free America Act”.   This is a 1% transaction tax being proposed by Democrats that would enable the government to take over every banking trans-action you make (i.e., checking, savings, ATM, debit card, just about everything you do will be hit with a 1% transaction fee).  Also this proposed bill goes on to say that this additional money will pay down our national debt and do away with all other taxes.  Several comments (mostly against) were made.  Imagine the cost of an item that has a 1% fee added to each transaction made – won’t just be 1% – in bank and out bank equals 2% – right?  Can get worse.  Can you think of any tax that once added has been done away with??

Eric Broyles discussed last week’s County Commissioners meeting and their vote in support of adopting the Hanover County resolution ‘Support of SB 1070 on Illegal Immigration”.  He suggested we send a letter to both the County Commissioners and to Gov. Brewer (Arizona) showing our support for SB1070 and thanks to our commissioners for stepping up and supporting Arizona’s attempt to try to alleviate their immigration problem.  Eric will draft a letter for next week’s meeting.

DON’T FORGET next week’s meeting will be held at the Coastal Café and Coffee Shoppe at 102 Professional Park Dr., Beaufort, NC.

Minutes submitted by Peggy Garner

MINUTES OF CRYSTAL COAST TEA PARTY

MEETING OF AUGUST 10, 2010

Meeting called to order by Bob Cavenaugh at 6:02 PM

Pledge of Allegiance

Invocation by Catherine Midgett

Number of members in attendance – 32.

Guest- PAM HANSON in attendance

ARIZONA IMMIGRATION RESOLUTION

Bob reported that Howard Garner had gotten a copy of the New Hanover Resolution from a friend of his that works at the court house.  Howard said the friend also told him the Resolution for discussion and vote was on the County Commissioners next meeting’s agenda.  Bob requested that as many members of the Tea Party, that could make the meeting, to please show up at the meeting (date to be announced on our web page) wearing our Tea Party shirts.

WASHINGTON, NC TEA PARTY RALLY

The Tea Party rally date in Washington, North Carolina has been changed from September 24^th to October 2, 2010 due to a conflict in scheduling.  Bob reported that he understood that 27 counties were involved.  He is on the committee to find speakers for the rally and also entertainment.  He is planning to contact Billy Joe Royal to see if he will sing at the rally.  Since this rally is a month prior to election, the emphasis will be on ‘getting out the vote’.

There was also some thought about a 2012 rally in Raleigh to get rid of Perdue and her cronies.

GREENVILLE TEA PARTY

For those who were not at last week’s meeting, Bob went over his visit to Greenville’s Tea Party organizational meeting.   Discussed their ideas on “kitchen table meetings” or “house party meetings”, and what he thought they would need to make them a success.

TREASURY REPORT

Since Nancy Bock, Treasurer, was not in attendance, Bob discussed expenditures we had.  The ad that was in the paper cost $346.00, which was more than we had expected.  The paperwork was signed on Wednesday prior to Friday and Saturday, (July 4^th event).  It is thought that this was one of the reasons for the low turnout.

RALLIES

Bob wanted to know if anyone had heard our ads on Lockwood’s radio program.  We are currently sponsoring his program (for about a month) on 107.1 from 5:00 to 6:00 and using our ads to push our 9-12 trip to Washington.  Reports were that the ads were good.  It is costing us about $125.00 per week or approximately $500.00 for the month.  Bob hopes to have other members on the program to also talk, encouraging all members, who are physically able, to please make plans go on the bus to Washington, DC for the 9-12 Rally.  When asked when the deadline to get your money in, Bob replied “September 11”; that he had taken money

up until they were getting on the bus last year.  You can either pay Bob or ‘Pay Pal’.  Bob is making a list of attendees and will use the list to determine who will be riding on which bus.

Discussed Glen Beck’s event in Washington, DC on August 28.  Havelock is planning to have a bus making the trip.  They are looking for people who want to go.  Check the web page and/or contact the Havelock Tea Party.  There will be no signs or banners at this event, just there to listen to the speakers.

Tom Harmon said he was in DC this past Saturday, and while much talk is going on about the 9-12 rally in St. Louis (for those who live too far to go to DC), he found that many who plan to attend the rally in DC will be bypassing St. Louis, avoiding Glen Beck’s 8-28 event and will be in DC on 9-12 with their banners and posters, en masse.

Debbie Rucker encouraged everyone to please promote the ‘bus trip’ and help out with ‘Get Out the Vote’.  Also writing letters to the editor is a big help also.  You may send your letters via email and the paper will print as long as you give your name and address.  She said she hopes she can make the bus trip to DC.  She has written a children’s book and will be having a book-signing in Wilmington on September 11.  Hopes to get back in time to catch the bus.

MISCELLANEOUS

Pam Hanson reported her campaign was underway and would appreciate any help she could get…. especially watching her signs that she has put up.  She had placed two signs by the ‘Out Back’ restaurant, after receiving permission to do so.  The signs were there when the manager closed up that night, but after having remembered something he returned to find the signs removed and her opponent’s in their place.  One of her large signs has also been torn down and the posts pulled up.  Signs are expensive and having to replace vandalized signs can add to the expense of campaigns.

Jere Geurin reported his study group on the Manhattan Declaration, that he had planned to begin in September, will probably have to be postponed until October.  Family problems will keep him from being able to begin them as planned. He says if everyone who signs up to attend the 50 minute program will host another study group, then we can easily reach over 100 million people.

Discussion on “American Way Tea Party”, Laura Ingraham’ upsetting comments  on  the Glen Beck show this morning.   Some are upset over the media’s playing up ‘in-fighting within the Tea Party’.  Do we want officers in charge or just conservative ‘grass roots’ doing their thing.  Eventually there will be consensus among the groups.

Matt Kimbell of ‘Freedom Works’ said that November 3^rd is the most important day.  Let the politicians know that the winners may be there now, but will not necessarily stay.  We will hold their feet to the fire.  We don’t need ‘A’ leader.  If we have ‘A’ leader, the media and others opposed to the Tea Party groups will attack the “A” leader.  We are a diverse group and as such it is hard to shoot a moving object.  So as ‘conservative grass roots’ they can’t go after all of us.

Tom Austin disagreed with November 3^rd being the most important day.  Once the election is over, the Lame Ducks/the party “NOW” in power, as a last ditch effort, will try to shove everything they can down our throats.  Obama will be signing everything he possibly can to end all our remaining freedoms.  We must do everything in our power to encourage anyone left who agrees with us to do everything they can to stop them.

Tom Austin would like to see Catherine (Catie) Midgett get involved in ‘Youth Points’, a radio program and try to get others like her interested in helping.  We need to contact the County Board of Education and try to get a list of registered teens so we can contact them and invite them to our meetings.

PICNIC

Tom Austin said he had made contact with those in charge of the Town Park about us having a picnic get-together.  Since we probably will have less than 500 there, it will be a Class B event with no permits required.  We will set up and clean up.  A date will be announced later after the bus trip and prior to the election, since this occasion is to get together, a bigger crowd than we usually have at our regular meetings, to prepare for the election.  We are looking at finding people to work the polls; serve as watchers; drivers to carry voters needing a ride to the polls; etc.  (It was reported that watchers are just that; have to watch the voters, can not talk, read, do crafts, or anything but watch.) Probably the hardest job of the day.  Call (check out face book to find out who – it should be posted) to volunteer.  If you are planning to work the polls, you must remain at least 50 foot away and then (almost) anything goes.

GOP HEADQUARTERS

The grand opening is scheduled for the 21^st of August.

At 3:30, Saturday, August 14^th,  Senator Richard Burr will meet and greet supporters at the GOP headquarters building located across from Brandywine on Hwy 70.   It is requested that all Tea Party members show up in their red Tea Party shirts.  Let’s let everyone know that we are a party to be reckoned with.

MISCELLANEOUS

Tom Austin thanked everyone who had written letters to the editor in response to Ken Humphrey’s letters.  Jere Geurin said he would write anytime Ken wrote.

Booth for the seafood festival was again mentioned.  Several wanted to know why we had decided against having a booth.  Explained that we did not have enough interested in working, ordering whatever food type we would serve, and maintaining it; plus thought time had elapsed.  Someone suggested we serve ‘tea’.  Bob said he would check again.

Meeting adjourned at 8:00.

————————————————————————————————————————-

TEA PARTY ON THE WATERFRONT

WASHINGTON, NC.,  OCTOBER 2, 2010

Several TEA Party groups are coming together on Oct. 2^nd at the waterfront in “Little Washington” for a super TEA Party rally. The hope is that we get a huge crowd and therefore can command some really good speakers and get a lot of press coverage.

The idea is to propel that energy into getting people to help get out the vote (they are going to ask everyone at the rally to pledge to get 5 people to get out to vote for Conservative, Constitutional Candidates).

We have the park all day. Venders and entertainment will start setting up as early as 10:00, and speakers will start taking the stage at about 2:00. The plan is to have entertainment and food vendors and merchandise vendors at the event, as well as tents set up for candidates to gather, greet people, answer questions, and give out literature. They have got most of the committees set up and have even raised some money already. Now they are trying to secure speakers, musical entertainers, vendors, etc, as well as get as many more TEA Party folks to come as possible. It should be a fun time.

From there, the thought is to have another super rally –
in RALEIGH !!

Remember: Saturday, October 2, 2010

“Recession is when your neighbor loses his job… Depression is when you lose yours…
And recovery is when Barack Obama loses his.”

No staking of grounds
No digging or trenching
No attachments to existing landscaping