(2217,2217,'------------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-------------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n--------------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n--------------------------------<br />\r\nSolving Social Security\'s Insolvency<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIt\'s a fact that Social Security is in trouble. Republicans and Democrats can\'t agree on a solution to resolve the problem so we continue to ignore it and go further in debt.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nRepublicans have proposed a couple of plans that would also raise the Social Security retirement age, cut cost-of-living adjustments, and would also increase the early retirement age from 62 to 64.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n--------------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n--------------------------------<br />\r\nWhat should congress do to deal with the impending insolvency of Social Security?<br />\r\n<br />\r\n1. Leave Social Security as it is.<br />\r\n2. Raise the full retirement age to 69 or 70.<br />\r\n3. Cut cost of living adjustments.<br />\r\n4. Raise early retirement age to be from 62 to 64 or 65.<br />\r\n5. Let anyone currently over 55 remain in current system but allow under 55 have their own private accounts they control.<br />\r\n6. 2 and 3 above.<br />\r\n7. 2 and 4 above<br />\r\n8. 2, 3 and 4 above<br />\r\n9. Other combination of the above<br />\r\n10. 2, 3, 4, and 5 above<br />\r\n11. Undecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/what-should-congress-do-deal-impending-insolvency-social-security<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------------------<br />\r\nShould early retiree public school employees be allowed to be rehired as contract employees?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . . . . . . 4% <br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2224,2224,'SOLVING SOCIAL SECURITY&rsquo;S INSOLVENCY<br />\r\nClick here to see how republicans are recommending to stop Social Security&rsquo;s impending bankruptcy.<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/solving-social-security%E2%80%99s-insolvency<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSCOTT&rsquo;S BLOG - This just in - mainstream media may be lapdogs?<br />\r\nClick here to read Scott Stoecker&rsquo;s latest blog entry on the Mainstream Media.<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/just-mainstream-media-may-be-lapdogs<br />\r\n<br />\r\nGPS WARRANTLESS TRACKING<br />\r\nClick here to read about a case the U.S. Supreme Court is considering about our right of privacy.<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/gps-warrantless-tracking<br />\r\n<br />\r\nOBAMACARE ONE STEP CLOSER IN MI!<br />\r\nClick here to read about the passage of Health Care Exchange&nbsp; legislation (Obamacare) in the Michigan Senate and how the Senators voted on the issue.<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/obamacare-one-step-closer-michigan<br />\r\nClick here to read the comments on our facebook page on the issue from Senator Rick Jones clarifying his vote and from others.<br />\r\nhttp://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=299557990067957&amp;id=103375466421220<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nOTHER CCRP NEWS &amp; LINKS<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LIKE THE CCRP ON FACEBOOK -- CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO JOIN THE CCRP FACEBOOK GROUP AND GET IMPORTANT NEWS UPDATES -- CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LEARN HOW TO BECOME A PRECINCT DELEGATE! -- CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n517-281-4458<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />',1),(2230,2230,'-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nSenate Bill 413: Authorize &quot;double dipping&quot; for certain child welfare retirees.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSen. Mark Jansen (R) introduced (Senate Bill 413: Authorize &quot;double dipping&quot; for certain child welfare retirees) on June 7, 2011 that would allow certain child welfare employees who have left the state\'s employment and begun collecting pension payments to return to work through a contractual arrangement, collect a paycheck, and still collect pension payments. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe bill was introduced after the state agreed to add a large number of foster child care system employees under a lawsuit settlement. Due to the ability of many state employees to retire in their mid-fifties with full pension and health benefits, many of the best candidates for these necessary positions are retired state employees.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\nThe bill is currently under consideration for passage in the Senate.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the Michigan Legislature pass this bill and an allow an exception for these retired state employees to double dip?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes - allow this exception and consider exceptions in the future on a department by department basis based on need<br />\r\nYes - allow this exception but do not allow for exceptions in the future<br />\r\nNo exceptions should be allowed<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-legislature-pass-bill-and-allow-exception-these-retired-state-employees-doub<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhat should congress do to deal with the impending insolvency of Social Security?<br />\r\n<br />\r\n5% . . . . . . . . 1. Leave Social Security as it is.<br />\r\n0% . . . . . . . . 2. Raise the full retirement age to 69 or 70.<br />\r\n0% . . . . . . . . 3. Cut cost of living adjustments.<br />\r\n0% . . . . . . . . .4. Raise early retirement age to be from 62 to 64 or 65.<br />\r\n21% . . . . . . . 5. Let anyone currently over 55 remain in current <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; system but allow under 55 to have their own <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; private accounts they control.<br />\r\n0% . . . . . . . . .6. 2 and 3 above.<br />\r\n16% . . . . . . . .7. 2 and 4 above<br />\r\n5% . . . . . . . . .8. 2, 3 and 4 above<br />\r\n5% . . . . . . . . .9. Other combination of the above<br />\r\n42% . . . . . . . 10. 2, 3, 4, and 5 above<br />\r\n5%&nbsp; . . . . . . . . 11. Undecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2240,2240,'OBAMACARE - Freedom or Tyranny?<br />\r\nClick here to see read what the Supreme Court will be hearing when they decide whether Obamacare is Constitutional.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/obamacare-freedom-or-tyranny\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/obamacare-freedom-or-tyranny</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nCBS DEBATE AGENDA EXPOSED<br />\r\nClick here to read see how CBS manipulated their debate in favor of the candidates they wanted to focus on.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/cbs-debate-agenda-exposed\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/cbs-debate-agenda-exposed</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nHEAR WHAT THE OBAMAS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT OUR COUNTRY!<br />\r\nClick here watch a video on how the Obamas really feel about our country.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/what-do-obamas-think-america\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/what-do-obamas-think-america</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nOTHER CCRP NEWS &amp; LINKS<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LIKE THE CCRP ON FACEBOOK - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO JOIN THE CCRP FACEBOOK GROUP AND GET IMPORTANT NEWS UPDATES - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LEARN HOW TO BECOME A PRECINCT DELEGATE! - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nCCRP Executive Committee Monthly Meeting in St. Johns - Thursday November 17, 2011<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n517-281-4458<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />',1),(2246,2246,'-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nMany people advocate that the solution to solving the Social Security insolvency problem can be solved simply by eliminating the ceiling on withholding.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCurrently the Social Security Wage Base is $106,800 and the Social Security tax rate is 6.20% paid by the employee and 6.20% paid by the employer. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nA person with $10,000 of gross income will have $620.00 withheld as Social Security tax from his check, with the employer sending an additional $620.00. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nA person with $110,000 of gross income in 2010 incurs Social Security tax of $6,621.60 (resulting in an effective rate of approximately 6% - the rate is lower because the income is more than the 2010 &quot;wage base&quot;), with $6,621.60 paid by the employer. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nA person earning a million dollars in wages will pay the same $6,621.60 in Social Security tax (resulting in an effective rate of approximately 0.66%), with similar employer matching. <br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the Social Security Tax Ceiling be eliminated?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-social-security-tax-ceiling-be-eliminated\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-social-security-tax-ceiling-be-eliminated</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the Michigan Legislature pass this bill and an allow an exception for these retired state employees to double dip?<br />\r\n<br />\r\n31% . . . . . . .Yes - allow this exception and consider exceptions in the future on a department by department basis based on need<br />\r\n0% . . . . . . . .Yes - allow this exception but do not allow for exceptions in the future<br />\r\n69% . . . . . . .No exceptions should be allowed<br />\r\n0% . . . . . . . . Undecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2256,2256,'BALANCE THE BUDGET!<br />\r\nClick here to see what&rsquo;s happening in in Congress an passing a federal Balanced Budget Amendment.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://thehill.com/blogs/on-the-money/1007-other/194437-overnight-money-house-takes-up-balanced-budget-amendment\">http://thehill.com/blogs/on-the-money/1007-other/194437-overnight-money-house-takes-up-balanced-budget-amendment</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nI THOUGHT GM PAID US BACK!<br />\r\nClick here to read see what has really happened with GM paying back its bailout money.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/i-thought-gm-paid-us-back\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/i-thought-gm-paid-us-back</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nOIL, POLITICS &amp; OBAMA<br />\r\nClick here to see the latest developments on the Keystone pipeline and how our energy independency and politics collide.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/oil-politics-obama\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/oil-politics-obama</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nOTHER CCRP NEWS &amp; LINKS<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LIKE THE CCRP ON FACEBOOK - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO JOIN THE CCRP FACEBOOK GROUP AND GET IMPORTANT NEWS UPDATES - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LEARN HOW TO BECOME A PRECINCT DELEGATE! - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nCCRP Executive Committee Monthly Meeting in St. Johns - Thursday January 19, 2012<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n517-281-4458<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />',1),(2259,2259,'-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nState Senator Roger Kahn (R) introduced a bill on September 13, 2011, to require classes in public schools to recite the Pledge of Allegiance each day. The bill would prohibit compelling a student to recite the pledge. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nSome teachers argue that small children are unable to understand what&nbsp; giving their consent means or understand the Pledge they are taking.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Pledge of Allegiance was originally written as an expression of loyalty to the federal flag and the republic of the United States in 1892 by Christian Socialist Francis Bellamy. In 1942, Congress adopted the pledge and it&rsquo;s been modified four times since. The most recent change was in 1954, when the words &ldquo;under God&rdquo; were added.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Supreme Court has upheld the opinion that anyone has the right not to recite the Pledge.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHE PLEDGE: I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty, and justice for all.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould Michigan public schools require the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance each day?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-public-schools-require-reciting-pledge-allegiance-each-day\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-public-schools-require-reciting-pledge-allegiance-each-day</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the Social Security Tax Ceiling be eliminated?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . 59%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . .&nbsp; 34%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . 7% <br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTWO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAnonymous Comment #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nEvery analysis of all the proposed flat taxes show it is the middle class that gets hit the hardest. The super rich have had their taxes cut by far the most in the last ten years.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAnonymous Comment #2<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI don\'t know if it should be totally eliminated, but it should be adjusted so that everyone pays their fair share, keyword being fair. 46% of the people in this country don\'t pay taxes. How is that fair? The &quot;rich&quot; get all kinds of tax breaks, and the poor pay no taxes, so the tax burden is put primarily on the working middle class. I\'m all for a flat tax!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2265,2265,'FARMS - Life, Liberty &amp; the Pursuit of Happiness?<br />\r\nClick here to see how the EPA&rsquo;s latest regulations eill affect farmers.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/farms-life-liberty-pursuit-happiness\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/farms-life-liberty-pursuit-happiness</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nPOSITIVE, RELENTLESS ACTION &amp; THE BRIDGE<br />\r\nClick here to read see what the Speaker of the House has to say about Governor Snyder and his plan for the bridge.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/snyder%E2%80%99s-bridge\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/snyder%E2%80%99s-bridge</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nKill High-Speed Rail!<br />\r\nClick here to see how Congressional republicans could kill funding for President Barack Obama\'s signature high-speed rail program.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/kill-high-speed-rail\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/kill-high-speed-rail</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nOTHER CCRP NEWS &amp; LINKS<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LIKE THE CCRP ON FACEBOOK -- CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO JOIN THE CCRP FACEBOOK GROUP AND GET IMPORTANT NEWS UPDATES -- CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LEARN HOW TO BECOME A PRECINCT DELEGATE! -- CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nCCRP Executive Committee Monthly Meeting in St. Johns - Thursday January 19, 2012<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n517-281-4458<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />',1),(2273,2273,'-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe people of the state of Michigan approved the medical marijuana ballot initiative in 2008.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nKalamazoo voters recently approved making a little marijuana use a minor issue by successfully passing an amendment to the city\'s charter.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSixty-five percent of those who voted on it were in favor of amending the Kalamazoo city charter so that the use of an ounce or less of marijuana by any one 21 years or older is the lowest priority of law enforcement.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe people promoting the charter amendment drive in Kalamazoo state that their ultimate goal is for legalized marijuana use that the government can then tax and regulate.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nA Kalamazoo attorney and one of the authors of the successful charter amendment, said there is a grassroots movement to lessen the penalties for marijuana possession.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThese activists see the 2012 presidential election year as a prime opportunity to push their agenda to decriminalize pot growing and use by Michigan&rsquo;s residents.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nAre you in favor of decriminalizing the growing and use of marijuana for personal use in Michigan?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/are-you-favor-decriminalizing-growing-and-use-marijuana-personal-use-michigan\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/are-you-favor-decriminalizing-growing-and-use-marijuana-personal-use-michigan</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould Michigan public schools require the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance each day?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . 76%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . .24%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . 0% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nTWO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAnonymous Comment #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&quot;Some teachers argue that small children are unable to understand what giving their consent means or understand the Pledge they are taking.&quot;<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhen did the daily saying of the Pledge of Allegiance stop occuring in our schools? Teachers that &quot;argue&quot; this nonsense should not be teachers and should be removed. They must have a huge attitude problem and are unwilling to do the job paid for by American taxpayers. The entire purpose of education at home or in schools is that children, small and big, learn the meaning of words and ideas by repetition: whether please, thank you, I love you, I\'m sorry, addition, subtraction, the times tables, etc. Teacher that may this &quot;arguement&quot; may personally disagree with the Pledge or hate the United States and wish to obstruct the student\'s education of all that the pledge says about the United States, our symbols and their meaning: flag, republic ,one nation under God, liberty and justice for all. If a teacher cannot or will not teach the Pledge of Allegiance, it is likely that they are also not properly teaching American History, World History or citizenship and key core values.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2279,2279,'-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Michigan Department of Human Services recently instituted an &quot;asset test&quot; as part of the conditions for receiving food stamp assistance.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPurportedly it was the result the Department of Human Services Director Maura Corrigan\'s observations regarding a Hummer parked in DHS office parking lot. She inquired as to whether it belonged to a client and was informed that it did. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nCorrigan stated, &quot;I think there is a problem if people are drawing down benefits and also having assets that other taxpayers who are subsidizing them cannot afford . . .&quot;.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAs a result, the current asset test policy was implemented. A policy where anyone with cars worth $15,000 or more could no longer received the benefit.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAfter resistance from Governor Snyder the DHS altered its policy by allowing a one car exemption regardless of the value of the asset.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIn 2010, Michigan had the third highest percentage of people on food stamps in the country at 16.9 percent.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nOnly 13 states currently use an asset test for food assistance. Since 1996, 38 states have eliminated asset tests. <br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the State of Michigan require and &quot;asset test&quot; for people to qualify for food stamps?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-state-michigan-require-and-%E2%80%9Casset-test%E2%80%9D-people-qualify-food-stamps\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-state-michigan-require-and-%E2%80%9Casset-test%E2%80%9D-people-qualify-food-stamps</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAre you in favor of decriminalizing the growing and use of marijuana for personal use in Michigan?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . . 48%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . . .52%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . 0% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAnonymous Comment #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAs a former Lansing Law Enforcement Officer, I can testify from first hand experience the devastation that Medical Marijuana has reaped upon the Greater Lansing Community. The legislation was poorly constructed, and resulted in numerous homicides in the City of Lansing, and a significant increase in armed home invasions and thefts.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf Marijuana is going to be used in the State, the drug should be grown and inspected at State maintained facilities, taxed, and distributed like every other drug through pharmacies. Do you know of any other drug that can be manufactured and distributed by private individuals with no quality control, or testing for safety? I know of NONE.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2288,2288,'WHO&nbsp;IS&nbsp;THE&nbsp;REAL NEWT&nbsp;GINGRICH?<br />\r\nClick here to see where Newt has stood on the issues in the past.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/newt-futurist\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/newt-futurist</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nAMNESTY, PRIVACY RIGHTS &amp; WAR<br />\r\nClick here to see where the republican candidates differ on amnesty, the Patriot Act, and on our ongoing wars.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/amnesty-privacy-rights-war\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/amnesty-privacy-rights-war</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nDUTCH WIND ENERGY FIASCO<br />\r\nClick here to see see what the Netherlands has determined about the feasibility of wind power and what our future may hold if we continue down that same path.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/dutch-wind-energy-fiasco\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/dutch-wind-energy-fiasco</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nOTHER CCRP NEWS &amp; LINKS<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LIKE THE CCRP ON FACEBOOK -- CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO JOIN THE CCRP FACEBOOK GROUP AND GET IMPORTANT NEWS UPDATES -- CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LEARN HOW TO BECOME A PRECINCT DELEGATE! -- CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nCCRP Executive Committee Monthly Meeting in St. Johns - Thursday January 19, 2012<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<h6 data-ft=\"{&quot;type&quot;:1}\" class=\"uiStreamMessage\"><span data-ft=\"{&quot;type&quot;:3}\" class=\"messageBody\">WAKE UP YOU FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS!<br />\r\nGET INVOLVED<br />\r\nELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\nSEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS</span></h6>\r\n------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n517-281-4458<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />',1),(2293,2293,'-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe House Education Committee Tuesday will discuss the bill the Senate recently passed that would remove the cap on charter schools.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSenate Democrats unanimously opposed Senate Bill 618, arguing it opens the doors to for-profit schools and jeopardize the future of public schools. School boards have also said it would have negative repercussions.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCharter school advocates say it will empower parents by expanding school choice. The cap prevents universities from authorizing more than 150 charter schools. Approximately 110,000 students are enrolled in charter schools.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the &quot;CAP&quot; on the number of charter schools that are allowed be lifted?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-%E2%80%9Ccap%E2%80%9D-number-charter-schools-are-allowed-be-lifted\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-%E2%80%9Ccap%E2%80%9D-number-charter-schools-are-allowed-be-lifted</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the State of Michigan require and &quot;asset test&quot; for people to qualify for food stamps?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . 88%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . .12%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . .0% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAnonymous Comment #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHellooooooo, it is obvious too many people are gaming the system. Drug testing MUST be done to weed out those who are also drug and alcohol addicted. We should not subsidize their addiction!!!<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />',1),(2297,2297,'----------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n----------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nBROKEN PROMISES?<br />\r\nClick here to see how President Obama has done the opposite of what he said he would when he was campaigning.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/broken-promises\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/broken-promises</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nOVERRIDING THE 4th AMENDMENT!<br />\r\nClick here to read how OUR SENATOR LEVIN is seeking to deny us a constitutional right.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/senator-levin-wants-override-4th-amendment\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/senator-levin-wants-override-4th-amendment</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nLIFT THE CHARTER SCHOOL CAP?<br />\r\nClick here to read about a package of bills that will allow for more charter schools in Michigan and how it may impact the public school system.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/lift-charter-school-cap\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/lift-charter-school-cap</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nHISTORY OF THE CCRP REPUBLICAN OF THE YEAR<br />\r\nClick here to see a current history of the Clinton County Republican of the Year Award.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/history-ccrp-republicans-year\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/history-ccrp-republicans-year</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nOTHER CCRP NEWS &amp; LINKS<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LIKE THE CCRP ON FACEBOOK - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO JOIN THE CCRP FACEBOOK GROUP AND GET IMPORTANT NEWS UPDATES - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LEARN HOW TO BECOME A PRECINCT DELEGATE! - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nCCRP Executive Committee Monthly Meeting in St. Johns - Thursday January 19, 2012<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY&rsquo;S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n517-281-4458<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2302,2302,'-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLegislators in Lansing are considering various options to fix Michigan\'s roads. Among those options are:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 1.&nbsp; A 1 percent increase in the sales tax dedicated to road repairs in exchange for lower gas taxes.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 2. A user tax based on the number of miles driven as opposed to gallons purchased.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 3. Governor Snyder has suggested that the state raise vehicle registration fees.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 4. Governor Snyder has also suggested shifting from the state\'s 19-cents per gallon gasoline tax to a percentage wholesale tax on fuel.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFor an article on the various options that are being considered click on the following story link:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.mlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2011/11/would_you_trade_a_higher_sales.html\">http://www.mlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2011/11/would_you_trade_a_higher_sales.html</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nHow should Michigan pay for the maintenance of its roads?<br />\r\n<br />\r\n1. Raise the state sales tax by 1% in exchange for lowering gas prices.<br />\r\n2. Implement a usage based tax determined by the number of miles driven.<br />\r\n3. Raise vehicle registration fees $120.00 per car per year.<br />\r\n4. Tax the price of wholesale fuel and eliminate the 19-cents per gallon tax.<br />\r\n5. Combination of the above<br />\r\n6. Leave the funding as it is.<br />\r\n7. Undecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/how-should-michigan-pay-maintenance-its-roads\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/how-should-michigan-pay-maintenance-its-roads</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the &quot;CAP&quot; on the number of charter schools that are allowed be lifted?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . 76%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . 20%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . 4% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; YOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY\'S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2309,2309,'----------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n----------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHAS THE DEPENDENCY ENDGAME ARRIVED?<br />\r\nHas our government turned us into a society on the dole to the point where we are no longer a republic but a socialist state. Find out if it is too late to turn our country around.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/has-dependency-endgame-arrived\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/has-dependency-endgame-arrived</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nEARMARKS ARE LIKE CRACK TO CONGRESS!<br />\r\nCongress swore off earmarks because of the outrage from the people. Now we find out they are trying to sneak them back in. Find out what two Senators are proposing to do to stop the practice permanently.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/earmarks-are-crack-congress\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/earmarks-are-crack-congress</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nELECTRIC CARS ARE THE FUTURE!<br />\r\nWe constantly hear the President and Senator Stabenow beating the drum for batteries and electric cars and that it is where the future is for Michigan. Find out the truth about how all that is turning out and if it is the answer to helping save Michigan\'s economy.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/electric-cars-are-future\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/electric-cars-are-future</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nREINVENTING MICHIGAN&rsquo;S WORKFORCE<br />\r\nGovernor Snyder recognizes that there needs to be a change in what kind of graduates we produce in our universities. The fact is that there are jobs in Michigan that go unfilled because people are not getting degrees in those areas. Read what his plan is to change Michigan\'s educational focus.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/reinventing-michigans-workforce\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/reinventing-michigans-workforce</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nOTHER CCRP NEWS &amp; LINKS<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LIKE THE CCRP ON FACEBOOK - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO JOIN THE CCRP FACEBOOK GROUP AND GET IMPORTANT NEWS UPDATES - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LEARN HOW TO BECOME A PRECINCT DELEGATE! - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nCCRP Executive Committee Monthly Meeting in St. Johns - Thursday January 19, 2012<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY&rsquo;S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n517-281-4458<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2311,2311,'<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; NEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ----------------------------<br />\r\nIf the Republican Presidential Primary&nbsp; were held today who would you vote for?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMichele Bachmann<br />\r\nHerman Cain<br />\r\nNewt Gingrich <br />\r\nJon Huntsman&nbsp; <br />\r\nGary Johnson<br />\r\nRon Paul <br />\r\nRick Perry<br />\r\nMitt Romney <br />\r\nRick Santorum<br />\r\nNone of the above<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/if-michigan-republican-presidential-primary-were-held-today-who-would-you-vote\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/if-michigan-republican-presidential-primary-were-held-today-who-would-you-vote</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHow should Michigan pay for the maintenance of its roads?<br />\r\n<br />\r\n5% . . . . . . . 1. Raise the state sales tax by 1% in exchange for lowering gas prices.<br />\r\n0% . . . . . . . 2. Implement a usage based tax determined by the number of miles driven.<br />\r\n5% . . . . . . . .3. Raise vehicle registration fees $120.00 per car per year.<br />\r\n10% . . . . . . .4. Tax the price of wholesale fuel and eliminate the 19-cents per gallon tax.<br />\r\n20% . . . . . . .5. Combination of the above<br />\r\n50% . . . . . . .6. Leave the funding as it is.<br />\r\n10% . . . . . . .7. Undecided<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\n<br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n------------------<br />\r\nAnonymous #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhere is all the money we have already given the state? Has to be in somebody\'s pocket?<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; YOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY\'S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />',1),(2321,2321,'<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nA &ldquo;DIRTY&rdquo; Little Secret?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nClick on this story link to see how the Federal Reserve and the Banks have been trying to suppress information about the financial crisis but have lost their appeal to the Supreme Court on the release of the facts.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/%E2%80%9Cdirty%E2%80%9D-little-secret\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/%E2%80%9Cdirty%E2%80%9D-little-secret</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nIOWA: Gingrich, Paul, Romney - FOR NOW<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNewt Gingrich is currently in the lead in Iowa but Iowans are not comfortable with the candidates. Click on the following story link to see why Iowans can\'t make up their minds. <br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/iowa-gingrich-paul-romney-now\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/iowa-gingrich-paul-romney-now</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nChoking On Obamacare<br />\r\n<br />\r\nOur socialist leaders want to create more jobs but their policies and programs do everything to deter that. For an opinion piece by George Will on how Obamacare will coke the life out of businesses and hurt the people the democrats say they want to help the most, click on the following story link.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/choking-obamacare\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/choking-obamacare</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nReligion, Faith &amp; Voting Democrat<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe liberal left declares that in the upcoming election &quot;religious republicans&quot; and even &quot;evangelical republicans&quot; may be pulling the democrat lever. Democrats feel they can connect their policies on economic issues, values of equality, tolerance, and humanitarianism with a voting segment that has traditionally voted republican. To read the article on the democrat&rsquo;s attempt to sway the &quot;faith based&quot; voter, click on the following story link<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/religion-faith-voting-democrat\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/religion-faith-voting-democrat</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nOTHER CCRP NEWS &amp; LINKS<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LIKE THE CCRP ON FACEBOOK - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO JOIN THE CCRP FACEBOOK GROUP AND GET IMPORTANT NEWS UPDATES - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LEARN HOW TO BECOME A PRECINCT DELEGATE! - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nCCRP Executive Committee Monthly Meeting in St. Johns - Thursday January 19, 2012<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY\'S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\"> http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n517-281-4458<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2328,2328,'-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nOVERVIEW:<br />\r\nThe democrats are calling for additional revenue by taxing anyone who makes over a million dollars a year.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nRepublicans are calling for spending cuts without raising taxes because they feel that raising taxes would hurt our economic recovery.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThis poll is a webform based poll that allows for a greater degree of input and accuracy. Multiple choices can be made rather than a single option. Additionally comments can be made as part of the input.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPoll results will not available in a real time mode but will be calculated when the poll is closed.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhen this type of poll is closed the results will be sent out using the CCRP eNewsletter to everyone on the eNewsletter recipient list.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nWhat types of spending cuts and/or tax choices should be implemented? <br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/spending-cuts-taxing-options-poll\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/spending-cuts-taxing-options-poll</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTax personal income exceeding $100,000<br />\r\nTax personal income exceeding $250,000<br />\r\nTax personal income exceeding $500,000<br />\r\nTax personal income exceeding $1.000,000<br />\r\nImpose a Value Added Tax<br />\r\nImplement a National Sales Tax<br />\r\nEliminate redundant agency functions<br />\r\nCommerce Department (Eliminate)<br />\r\nEducation Department (Eliminate)<br />\r\nEnergy Department (Eliminate)<br />\r\nForeign aid cuts (Zero budget based with re-evaluation each year)<br />\r\nHomeland Security (eliminate)<br />\r\nMedicare cuts<br />\r\nRepeal Obamacare<br />\r\nSocial Security benefit reduction (needs based)<br />\r\nSocial Security (eliminate cost of living increases)<br />\r\nSocial Security (Raise the full eligibility age to 70)<br />\r\nTransportation Department (eliminate)<br />\r\nU.S. Postal Service (Privatize)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf the Michigan Republican Presidential primary were held today who would you vote for?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMitt Romney . . . . . . . . . . . 25%<br />\r\nNewt Gingrich . . . . . . . . . . 23%<br />\r\nMichele Bachmann . . . . . . .15%<br />\r\nRon Paul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10%<br />\r\nRick Santorum . . . . . . . . . .10%<br />\r\nNone of the above . . . . . . 10%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5% <br />\r\nRick Perry . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3%<br />\r\nHerman Cain . . . . . . . . . . . .0%<br />\r\nJon Huntsman . . . . . . . . . . .0%<br />\r\nGary Johnson . . . . . . . . . . . 0%<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2330,2330,'Mike Huckabee will be making an appearance and be signing his latest book on Thursday, December 15, 2012 at the Birch Run Expo Center.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nU.S. Senate Candidate Gary Glenn will also be holding a Rally and Private Reception fundraiser at the same location and time.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFor details click on this link to download a flyer:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"/sites/default/files/Event_Flyer.pdf\">EVENT FLYER</a><br />',1),(2334,2334,'-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIn Michigan there are 39 school districts that paid teachers to work at least half their time on union activities, with 25 of those districts paying for full release time. These 39 districts combined to pay at least $2.7 million to cover the costs of teachers who work on union business. <br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould teachers spending their time on union business get paid for it as part of their wage from the school district?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-teachers-spending-their-time-union-business-get-paid-it-part-their-wage-school-distri\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-teachers-spending-their-time-union-business-get-paid-it-part-their-wage-school-distri</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION &amp; RESULTS:<br />\r\n---------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhat types of spending cuts and/or tax choices should be implemented?<br />\r\n<br />\r\n84% . . . .Repeal Obamacare<br />\r\n79% . . . .Education Department (Eliminate)<br />\r\n74% . . . .Eliminate redundant agency functions<br />\r\n74% . . . .Energy Department (Eliminate)<br />\r\n74% . . . .Transportation Department (eliminate)<br />\r\n63% . . . .Commerce Department (Eliminate)<br />\r\n63% . . . .U.S. Postal Service (Privatize)<br />\r\n63% . . . .Foreign aid cuts (Zero budget based with re-evaluation each year)<br />\r\n37% . . . .Social Security (Raise the full eligibility age to 70)<br />\r\n32% . . . .Social Security benefit reduction (needs based)<br />\r\n32% . . . .Homeland Security (eliminate)<br />\r\n16% . . . .Implement a National Sales Tax<br />\r\n74% . . . .Social Security (eliminate cost of living increases)<br />\r\n11% . . . .Tax personal income exceeding $100,000<br />\r\n11% . . . .Tax personal income exceeding $500,000<br />\r\n5% . . . .&nbsp; Impose a Value Added Tax<br />\r\n5% . . . .&nbsp; Medicare cuts<br />\r\n5% . . . .&nbsp; Tax personal income exceeding $1,000,000<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHERE WAS ONE COMMENT SUBMITTED:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nComment #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThese departments need to be cut. They aren\'t adding any value to the United State of America. Education is local, and having a department at the federal level only allows some bureaucrats in some hidden office to have control over how your child is taught. The department of energy has not contributed to making the United State energy independent. They put road blocks in the way of business trying to drill for our own natural resources. Homeland Security is a complete duplication of the FBI, what a waste of money! Obamacare is giving complete control over how we live and die to the federal government. Are you kidding me?!?!? Why do we automatically give United States\' taxpayer money to other countries? Who thought that was a good idea??? When have you ever been satisfied with the service you get from the Post Office??? Does anyone even know what the commerce department does? Really???<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWAKE UP YOU FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; - STAY&nbsp;INFORMED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; - GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; - YOUR VOTE COUNTS<br />\r\nSEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2338,2338,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">----------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n----------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPublic Employee Benefit Fight<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Governor Snyder is threatening to veto a bill that would would ban benefits for same-sex and domestic partners for public workers at Michigan\'s public universities. The Bill has passed both houses of the Michigan Legislature and has gone on to the Governor&rsquo;s desk. <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Click on the following story link to read about the controversy and the threatened veto by the Governor.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/public-employee-benefit-fight\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/public-employee-benefit-fight</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nNot Teaching On The Taxpayer\'s Dime<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In Michigan there are currently 39 school districts that have paid teachers to work on union activities. Twenty-five of those districts paying for full release time. The cost to the taxpayers for these 39 districts was at least $2,700,000 million.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; With the MEA being so flush with cash that they can pay for targeting legislators for recall maybe it\'s time that they foot the bill for their union members on union business instead of putting the cost on the back of the taxpayer. <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Read the details by clicking on the following story link:<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/not-teaching-taxpayers-dime\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/not-teaching-taxpayers-dime</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTo vote in our poll on the issue click on the following poll link:<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-teachers-spending-their-time-union-business-get-paid-it-part-their-wage-school-distri\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-teachers-spending-their-time-union-business-get-paid-it-part-their-wage-school-distri</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe President\'s Policies<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Barry Sternlicht, the chairman and CEO of Starwood Capital, a privately held global investment firm, appeared on Squawk Box on CNBC this morning.&nbsp; He was asked to comment about the economy, unemployment and the direction President Obama is taking the country.&nbsp; He also makes some comments about the Republican field for 2012. <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; After about the first three minutes, he gets into his opinions about the president\'s campaign strategy, and how his policies and rhetoric are affecting the country.&nbsp; Check out the entire video at:<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/presidents-policies\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/presidents-policies</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nOTHER CCRP NEWS &amp; LINKS<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LIKE THE CCRP ON FACEBOOK - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO JOIN THE CCRP FACEBOOK GROUP AND GET IMPORTANT NEWS UPDATES - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LEARN HOW TO BECOME A PRECINCT DELEGATE! - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nCCRP Executive Committee Monthly Meeting in St. Johns - Thursday January 19, 2012<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY\'S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n517-281-4458<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2340,2340,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Governor and the republican majority appear to be at odds about who should be eligible to receive benefits for public employees. The legislature passed a package of bills that would ban benefits for same-sex and domestic partners for public workers.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Governor is threatening to veto any bill that doesn\'t exclude university employees from the ban and that doesn\'t ensure Constitutionality and university autonomy in the end.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the ban on employee benefits for public workers exclude Michigan\'s public universities?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-ban-employee-benefits-public-workers-exclude-michigan%E2%80%99s-public-universities\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-ban-employee-benefits-public-workers-exclude-michigan%E2%80%99s-public-universities</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould teachers spending their time on union business get paid for it as part of their wage from the school district?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . 0%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . .100%<br />\r\nUndecided . . .0% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHERE WAS ONE COMMENT SUBMITTED:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nComment #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSomeone should sue to obtain a ruling that says it is illegal for public Employers to pay their employees for time spent in performance of union activities even if the activity is a steward representing an employee disciplined by the Employer as all of the time spent is in performance of matters that benefit the union or union concerns. The individual should have their pay docked for time not spent performing their regular job AND THEN THE EMPLOYEE SHOULD ASK THEIR UNION TO MAKE THEM WHOLE FOR THEIR LOST WAGES, BENEFITS AND ACCUMULATION OF SENIORITY. Negotiated contract language that permits such payment in public employee contracts should be struck down as an illegal expenditure of public funds as the beneficiary of the money is the union and not the mission of the Employer. Union dues should pay for contract negotiation and administration (including stewards representing employees on grievances) regardless of whether the union official is a full time employee of the union or whether they are a full time employee of the Employer who takes time off of their real job and continues to get paid to perform union tasks and responsibilities. This should be the case for all public employees including teacher.<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWAKE UP YOU FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS!<br />\r\nGET INVOLVED - YOUR VOTE COUNTS<br />\r\nELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\nSEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2351,2351,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">----------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n----------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMI Senate Votes To Subsidize Electric Car Venture<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Michigan Senate has passed a bill to subsidize an electric vehicle component company. This practice was common under the Granholm administration and&nbsp; Governor Snyder swore it would stop in his administration.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Click on the following story link to read the details.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/mi-senate-votes-subsidize-electric-car-venture\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/mi-senate-votes-subsidize-electric-car-venture</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nLowe\'s, Reality Shows &amp; Reality<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; When we talk about reality it is often times difficult to determine what it is based on your own perspective.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The latest controversy has to do with Lowe\'s pulling their ads from a &quot;reality&quot; television series called &quot;All-American Muslim&quot; on TLC.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Click on the following story link to read about the controversy and what the Muslim community wants Lowe\'s to do to make amends for their actions.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/lowes-reality-shows-reality\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/lowes-reality-shows-reality</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nClimate Court &amp; Mother Earth<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The United Nations has proposed a new &quot;Climate Court&quot; that will protect Mother Earth from the ravages of man and climate change.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The new &quot;climate court&quot; would be responsible for enforcing a draconian set of rules requiring developed countries to cut emissions while compensating poorer countries in order to pay off a &quot;historical climate debt.&quot;<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For an article on the results of the conference and their proposed new court and remedies to solve the &quot;climate change&quot; problem click on the following story link:<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/climate-court-mother-earth\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/climate-court-mother-earth</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nOTHER CCRP NEWS &amp; LINKS<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LIKE THE CCRP ON FACEBOOK - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO JOIN THE CCRP FACEBOOK GROUP AND GET IMPORTANT NEWS UPDATES - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LEARN HOW TO BECOME A PRECINCT DELEGATE! - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nCCRP Executive Committee Monthly Meeting in St. Johns - Thursday January 19, 2012<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY\'S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n517-281-4458<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2353,2353,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nLowe\'s Home Improvement has pulled ads from a reality show about American Muslims.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThey stopped advertising on TLC\'s &quot;All-American Muslim&quot; after a conservative group complained, saying the program was &quot;propaganda that riskily hides the Islamic agenda\'s clear and present danger to American liberties and traditional values.&quot;<br />\r\n<br />\r\nA Michigan congressman spoke out against the company\'s decision saying the company is &quot;upholding the beliefs of a fringe hate group.&quot; <br />\r\n<br />\r\nMinnesota Congressman Keith Ellison, a Muslim, said Lowe\'s is choosing to disregard the First Amendment saying:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&quot;Our nation\'s history is full of examples demonstrating how we have repeatedly torn down false divisions hate groups choose to create,&quot; Ellison said in a statement. &quot;But the struggle against bigotry and hatred must continue so we never give in to intolerance like Lowe\'s Corporation has done.&quot;<br />\r\n<br />\r\nOthers are calling for a boycott of Lowe\'s because of their actions.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLowe\'s has issued the following statement apologizing for making some people very unhappy:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&quot;Individuals and groups have strong political and societal views on this topic, and this program became a lightning rod for many of those views,&quot; the statement said. &quot;As a result we did pull our advertising on this program. We believe it is best to respectfully defer to communities, individuals and groups to discuss and consider such issues of importance.&quot;<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCalifornia Senator Ted Lieu says the apology doesn\'t go far enough and he has vowed to look into whether Lowe\'s violated any California laws and that they may be engaging in religious discrimination.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLieu is demanding the reinstatement of the ads.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nWhat should Lowe\'s do regarding the controversy related to the pulling of the ads for the &quot;All-American Muslim&quot; reality TV show?<br />\r\n<br />\r\n1. Nothing - they have already apologized<br />\r\n<br />\r\n2. Give a more complete apology and reinstate the ads that were pulled<br />\r\n<br />\r\n3. They never should not have apologized it\'s their right under the constitution to do what they did<br />\r\n<br />\r\n4. Undecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/what-should-lowe%E2%80%99s-do-regarding-controversy-related-pulling-ads-all-american-muslim-reality-\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/what-should-lowe%E2%80%99s-do-regarding-controversy-related-pulling-ads-all-american-muslim-reality-</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the ban on employee benefits for public workers exclude Michigan\'s public universities?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYES . . . . . . . . .10%<br />\r\nNO . . . . . . . . . .86%<br />\r\nUNDECIDED . . . . .5% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHERE WERE NO COMMENTS SUBMITTED:<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWAKE UP YOU FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS!<br />\r\nGET INVOLVED - YOUR VOTE COUNTS<br />\r\nELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\nSEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2360,2360,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nRepublicans pushed legislation through the House that would keep alive the Social Security payroll tax cuts for some 160 million Americans but would also require construction of a Canada-to-Texas oil pipeline that has brought a veto threat from the President.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Democratic-controlled Senate says the pipeline portion of the bill is DOA!.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe legislation &quot;extends the payroll tax relief, extends and reforms unemployment insurance and protects Social Security &ndash; without job-killing tax hikes,&quot; Republican House Speaker John Boehner declared.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHouse Democrats accused Republicans of protecting &quot;millionaires and billionaires,&quot; and pandering to the Tea Party.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nObama still insists that the legislation be paid for, at least in part, by &quot;asking the wealthiest Americans to pay their fair share&quot; in higher tax levies.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould Republicans demand inclusion of the Keystone Pipeline as part of the Social Security Tax Cut Extension Proposal?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-republicans-demand-inclusion-keystone-pipeline-part-social-security-tax-cut-extension\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-republicans-demand-inclusion-keystone-pipeline-part-social-security-tax-cut-extension</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhat should Lowe\'s do regarding a controversy related to the pulling of ads for the &quot;All-American Muslim&quot; reality TV show?<br />\r\n<br />\r\n6% . . . . . Nothing - they have already apologized<br />\r\n11% . . . . Give a more complete apology and reinstate the ads that were pulled<br />\r\n83% . . . . They never should have apologized it\'s their right under the constitution to do what they did<br />\r\n0%&nbsp; . . . . . Undecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHERE WERE NO COMMENTS SUBMITTED:<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWAKE UP YOU FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS!<br />\r\nGET INVOLVED - YOUR VOTE COUNTS<br />\r\nELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\nSEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2372,2372,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">IMPORTANT NEWS UPDATES FROM THE CCRP<br />\r\n----------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n----------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nObama Punts On Healthcare Exchanges<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/obama-punts-healthcare-exchanges\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/obama-punts-healthcare-exchanges</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nGingrich, The Constitution &amp; Rogue Judges<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/gingrich-constitution-rogue-judges\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/gingrich-constitution-rogue-judges</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nPaul Pulls Ahead In Iowa<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/paul-pulls-ahead-iowa\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/paul-pulls-ahead-iowa</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nSnyder/Executive Branch Want To Bypass Legislature On Healthcare Exchanges<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/executive-branch-wants-bypass-legislature-healthcare-exchanges\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/executive-branch-wants-bypass-legislature-healthcare-exchanges</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nOTHER CCRP NEWS &amp; LINKS<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LIKE THE CCRP ON FACEBOOK - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO JOIN THE CCRP FACEBOOK GROUP AND GET IMPORTANT NEWS UPDATES - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LEARN HOW TO BECOME A PRECINCT DELEGATE! - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nCCRP Executive Committee Monthly Meeting in St. Johns - Thursday January 19, 2012<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY\'S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n517-281-4458<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2374,2374,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNewt Gingrich stated his controversial position in the last republican debate and on CBS\'s &quot;Face The Nation&quot; regarding the accountability of judges and what options there should be on the part of the President and Congress to remove them from office based on their court rulings.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nGingrich said he would be willing to send Capitol Hill police or U.S. Marshals to arrest judges and haul them before a congressional hearing. He feels Congress and President should have the authority to ignore court rulings they disagree with, and that in the case of extremely controversial decisions, lawmakers should have the power to subpoena activist judges and have them defend their rulings.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nDo you feel that congress and the President should be able to subpoena judges they don\'t agree with to explain their rulings?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/do-you-feel-congress-and-president-should-be-able-subpoena-judges-they-don%E2%80%99t-agree-explain-t\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/do-you-feel-congress-and-president-should-be-able-subpoena-judges-they-don%E2%80%99t-agree-explain-t</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould Republicans demand inclusion of the Keystone Pipeline as part of the Social Security Tax Cut Extension Proposal?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . 76%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . 24%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . .0% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2383,2383,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nU.S. Attorney General Eric Holder Has stated that, &quot;All eligible citizens can and should be automatically registered to vote, and it\'s the government\'s &quot;responsibility&quot; to see that it happens.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHolder noted that many elections officials still are manually processing new applications, many of them handwritten that causes delays, errors, and confusion at the polls.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHe also stated that, &quot;Fortunately, modern technology provides a straightforward fix for these problems, and it should be the government\'s responsibility to automatically register citizens to vote, by compiling, from databases that already exist, a list of all eligible residents in each jurisdiction. These lists would be used solely to administer elections and would&nbsp; protect essential privacy rights,&quot;.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHolder is also calling for &quot;permanent, portable&quot; voter registration that would follow voters to a new polling place when they move. <br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould state voter registration laws be changed to allow for automatic voter registration similar to what Holder is proposing?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-state-voter-registration-laws-be-changed-allow-automatic-voter-registration-similar-w\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-state-voter-registration-laws-be-changed-allow-automatic-voter-registration-similar-w</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDo you feel that congress and the President should be able to subpoena judges they don\'t agree with to explain their rulings?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . 33%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . .63%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . 3%&nbsp; <br />\r\n<br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhat part of co-equal branches of government Newt doesn\'t get? That would be proper conduct for a king or a dictator, not an American President.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2396,2396,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Thomas More Law Center recently filed a federal lawsuit against the Howell Public School District, and teacher, Johnson McDowell, for punishment and humiliation regarding a student after he expressed his religious belief opposing homosexuality when asked by the teacher during class. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe student, a junior at Howell High at the time of the incident, was specifically asked by McDowell about his feelings related to homosexuality. He responded that as a Catholic he was offended by the gay and lesbian lifestyle. The result of his response was that he was ordered to leave the classroom under threat of suspension.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Michigan Education Association has supported McDowell\'s actions.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe day the incident occurred, Jay McDowell the student\'s Economics class teacher, wore a purple &quot;Tyler\'s Army&quot; t-shirt, as part of a national campaign promoted by the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation to highlight alleged &quot;bullying&quot; of homosexuals.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMcDowell decided to spend the entire day promoting this national pro-homosexual agenda, which included showing his classes a video concerning such &quot;bullying.&quot;<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMcDowell asked the remainder of the class whether anyone else did not accept homosexuality. A student raised his hand, and McDowell ordered him out of the classroom as well.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe lawsuit claims that student\'s constitutional rights to freedom of speech and equal protection have been violated by the policies and actions of the school district and McDowell. Among other things, the lawsuit seeks nominal damages, a declaration that the school policies and actions violate the Constitution, and injunction to prohibit further constitutional violations.&nbsp; <br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould a student be suspended for their comments on homosexuality based on their religious beliefs?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-student-be-suspended-their-comments-homosexuality-based-their-religious-beliefs<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould state voter registration laws be changed to allow for automatic voter registration similar to what Holder is proposing?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . 5%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . 95%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . .0% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAnonymous Comment #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMore Totalitarism. First ObamaCare to use federal authority to require everyone to buy insurance and make sure that the feds agree that the particular insurance purchased meets the feds requirements. Now, the same thing with voter registration which is very Soviet of him. Of course, Dems also have a very Soviet approach to Presidential caucauses: while they do not yet require party members to show up to caucuses, one\'s ballot is not secret in their caucauses. I would also point out that some people have a religious exception to registering to vote and voting and Holder, of course, would breach that constitutional protection.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI\'m getting really tired of Dems.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2402,2402,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSome Michigan School Districts are considering the addition of &quot;alternative lifestyles&quot; to their sex education curriculum starting in middle school or earlier.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould &quot;alternative lifestyles&quot; be taught as part of the sex education curriculum for children in Public Schools?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-%E2%80%9Calternative-lifestyles%E2%80%9D-be-taught-part-sex-education-curriculum-children-public-scho<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould a student be suspended for their comments on homosexuality based on their religious beliefs?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . 0% <br />\r\nNo . . . . . . .100%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . 0%&nbsp; <br />\r\n<br />\r\nTWO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAnonymous Comment #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI agree with Ida Salisbury but I go farther and question why the CC GOP poll question did not go the next step and ask whether the teacher should have been suspended. It would have been particularly interesting to see how we all voted on both of these questions. (May I also point out that the teacher\'s behavior was MORE than bullying in that the teacher holds a position of authority over the student.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nConcerning the teacher who I believe should have been disciplined, the discipline should be for wearing a political tee-shirt in class was divisive in that it endorsed homosexuality and for the teacher who then spent an entire class day promoting homosexuality and division among students and using his authority as a teacher to causing a student (who held religious beliefs that the practice of homosexuality is wrong) to respond in opposition to the teacher\'s comments. The student was set up by the teacher. The teacher was wrong. The teacher is the one who should have been suspended. The school is wrong. The school district should pay.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #2<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThis teacher was the bully. This teacher is engaging in indoctrination, not education. Is this America, or Russia, or China?<br />\r\nOur liberty and freedom are in grave danger!!<br />\r\nIda Salisbury<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2408,2408,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\"><br />\r\n------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nWE HAVE MADE CHANGES TO THE <br />\r\nCOMMENTING OPTION TO STORIES<br />\r\nAND POLLS ON OUR WEB SITE.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENTS WILL STILL BE ALLOWED<br />\r\nBUT THEY WILL BE SCREENED BEFORE<br />\r\nTHEY ARE POSTED TO THE STORY OR<br />\r\nPOLL THEY ARE ASSOCIATED WITH.<br />\r\n-------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHE REASON FOR THE CHANGE:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe have been receiving a number of garbage posts to the web site periodically that were automatically posted to the story or poll they were associated with. These posts were from &quot;anonymous&quot; web site visitors. Each morning these meaningless garbage posts were deleted as part of the daily audit and web site cleanup process.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLately, however we have been receiving vicious hate based comments on some of the stories that have appeared on the web site. Because of the change in the content of the comments being posted the new procedure outlined above has been implemented.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf you make a post and you don\'t see that it has shown up it will be posted after the daily posts have been reviewed for acceptability.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe don\'t have anyway of tracking who made the objectionable posts because they are anonymous. We believe in free speech, but we also believe in civility in the expression of that right. We will continue to be an open web site offering information and the opportunity to make comments&nbsp; to anyone who visits our web site.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEWS YOU NEED TO KNOW!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-------<br />\r\nObama To Rule By Fiat!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; President Obama has made the statement that he no longer needs congress. He says he can and will find ways to work around them to get his agenda accomplished.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For an article from www.newsmax.com on his attitude and how he plans on governing over the&nbsp; next year click on the following story link:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/obama-rule-fiat\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/obama-rule-fiat</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------<br />\r\nA FEMA Detention Camp Coming To A Location Near You?<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; I know you have all heard the stories about detention camps. Our government would never do such a thing.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; I am not one to subscribe to conspiracy theories but the link to the article at www.americanthinker.com is worth reading and food for thought about what is really happening at Homeland Security.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/fema-detention-camp-coming-location-near-you\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/fema-detention-camp-coming-location-near-you</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------<br />\r\nHope, Change &amp; Disenchanted Young Voters<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; President Obama managed to convenience the young voters that he would &quot;Change&quot; America and make their future more promising. After three years his record is abysmal and the young people are looking for other options.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For an article on how Obama may have lost the young voters click on the following story link:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/hope-change-disenchanted-young-voters\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/hope-change-disenchanted-young-voters</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nOTHER CCRP NEWS &amp; LINKS<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nBECOME A CCRP 2012 CLUB SPONSOR - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/club-sponsor-form\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/club-sponsor-form</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LIKE THE CCRP ON FACEBOOK - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO JOIN THE CCRP FACEBOOK GROUP AND GET IMPORTANT NEWS UPDATES - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LEARN HOW TO BECOME A PRECINCT DELEGATE! - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nCCRP Executive Committee Monthly Meeting in St. Johns - Thursday January 19, 2012<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY\'S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\"> http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n517-281-4458<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2414,2414,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nState officials are reconsidering drug testing for welfare recipients, a practice briefly implemented over a decade ago in Michigan but halted by the courts.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMichigan\'s Department of Human Services wants to roll out a program requiring drug screening for individuals who receive aid from the Family Independence Program. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThose who fail the screening - a process that could be as simple as questions asked on an application form - would be required to undergo mandatory drug testing.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould drug testing be implemented as a way of determining eligibility to receive welfare benefits from the state?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-drug-testing-be-implemented-way-determining-eligibility-receive-welfare-benefits-stat\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-drug-testing-be-implemented-way-determining-eligibility-receive-welfare-benefits-stat</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould &quot;alternative lifestyles&quot; be taught as part of the sex education curriculum for children in Public Schools?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . 28%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . .68%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . 4% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO &quot;PRINTABLE&quot; COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2416,2416,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW<br />\r\n---------------------<br />\r\nMichigan\'s Presidential Primary is a little more than a month off and two of the major candidates having dropped out of the field.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe debates have raised issues about the candidates that may have altered people\'s previous choice.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWith that said pick who you would vote for if the republican primary were to be held today.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; NEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ----------------------------<br />\r\n&nbsp; If the republican primary for the President were held today who would you vote for?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNewt Gingrich <br />\r\nJon Huntsman&nbsp; <br />\r\nRon Paul <br />\r\nRick Perry<br />\r\nMitt Romney <br />\r\nRick Santorum<br />\r\nNone of the above<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/if-republican-primary-president-were-held-today-who-would-you-vote-0\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/if-republican-primary-president-were-held-today-who-would-you-vote-0</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould drug testing be implemented as a way of determining eligibility to receive welfare benefits from the state?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . .&nbsp; 94%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . 3%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . 3%&nbsp; <br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; YOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY\'S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(2420,2420,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">TO:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CCRP Executive Committee Members &amp; Precinct Delegates<br />\r\nFROM:&nbsp;&nbsp; Steve Willis<br />\r\nRE:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; January 2012 CCRP Executive Committee Meeting<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe will be holding our Executive Committee Meeting on January 19, 2012 at the Clinton County Courthouse at 7:00 p.m.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPlease find attached the meeting minutes from the November 2011 meeting and the Agenda for this months meeting.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/January_general.pdf\">Agenda for January 19, 2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/Minutes11-17-2011.pdf\">Meeting Minutes from November 17, 2011</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nI look forward to seeing you there.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThanks,<br />\r\nSteve Willis<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2424,2424,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW<br />\r\n---------------------<br />\r\nConsumers Energy and DTE Energy are in the process of installing &quot;SMART METERS&quot; to replace existing electric usage meters in Michigan. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nCritics say that the plan to install the meters without an opt out option for consumers is a violation of their privacy rights because they claim the meters give utilities too much information about energy usage and what is happening within our homes. Additionally the critics also believe the Smart meters are are unsafe.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; NEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ----------------------------<br />\r\nShould energy companies allow electricity customers to opt out of having Smart Meters installed to replace their existing meters?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-energy-companies-allow-electricity-customers-opt-out-having-smart-meters-installed-re\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-energy-companies-allow-electricity-customers-opt-out-having-smart-meters-installed-re</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf the republican primary for the President were held today who would you vote for?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMitt Romney . . . . . . . . . . . . 30%<br />\r\nRick Santorum . . . . . . . . . . . 32%<br />\r\nNewt Gingrich . . . . . . . . . . . 16%<br />\r\nRon Paul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8%<br />\r\nRick Perry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8%<br />\r\nJon Huntsman . . . . . . . . . . . .0%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5%&nbsp; <br />\r\n<br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI am astounded that so many people supposedly support Mitt Romney. When it comes to obamacare, which imo is the final nail in the U.S. coffin, how will Romney contrast himself with obama? Obama will use a Romney nomination as confirmation that &quot;all Americans&quot; must want nationalized healthcare. Romney cannot argue it away.<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; YOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY\'S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(2436,2436,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nWE HAVE MADE CHANGES TO THE <br />\r\nCOMMENTING OPTION TO STORIES<br />\r\nAND POLLS ON OUR WEB SITE.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENTS WILL STILL BE ALLOWED<br />\r\nBUT THEY WILL BE SCREENED BEFORE<br />\r\nTHEY ARE POSTED TO THE STORY OR<br />\r\nPOLL THEY ARE ASSOCIATED WITH.<br />\r\n----------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nNEWS YOU NEED TO KNOW!<br />\r\n</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">----------------------------------------------------------</span><br />\r\n<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Smart Meter Investigation<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/smart-meter-investigation\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/smart-meter-investigation</a><br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nRomney, Obama &amp; A VAT Tax?<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/romney-obama-vat-tax\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/romney-obama-vat-tax</a><br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nObama Just Needs Another 1.2 Trillion To Hold Him Over<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/obama-just-needs-another-12-trillion-hold-him-over\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/obama-just-needs-another-12-trillion-hold-him-over</a><br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nUS Economic Freedom Declines<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/us-economic-freedom-declines\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/us-economic-freedom-declines</a><br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nIn New Hampshire Dead Democrats Get to Vote<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/new-hampshire-dead-democrats-get-vote\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/new-hampshire-dead-democrats-get-vote</a><br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nMichigan Democrats Developing College Grant Plan<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/michigan-democrats-developing-college-grant-plan\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/michigan-democrats-developing-college-grant-plan</a><br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nCensoring the Internet<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/censoring-internet\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/censoring-internet</a><br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nOTHER CCRP NEWS &amp; LINKS<br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nBECOME A CCRP 2012 CLUB SPONSOR - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/club-sponsor-form\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/club-sponsor-form</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LIKE THE CCRP ON FACEBOOK - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Clinton-County-MI-GOP/103375466421220?sk=wall</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO JOIN THE CCRP FACEBOOK GROUP AND GET IMPORTANT NEWS UPDATES - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/\">http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/ccrpmich/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO LEARN HOW TO BECOME A PRECINCT DELEGATE! - CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nCCRP Executive Committee Monthly Meeting in St. Johns - Thursday January 19, 2012<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-executive-committee-monthly-meeting-st-johns</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY\'S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\"> http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n517-281-4458<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2441,2441,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW<br />\r\n---------------------<br />\r\nSenators in the Michigan Senate are in the process of developing a proposal that would allow Michigan high school graduates to receive a $9,500 grant per a year for attending college.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThey say the money for these grants would become available by ending some business tax credits and other potential revenue changes.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThey say the money would be raised by closing tax loopholes and ending some business tax credits, collecting sales tax from out-of-state Internet retailers and saving money on state contracts.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe grants would be renewable for up to four years. The size of the grant would be based on how long a particular student spent in Michigan\'s K-12 school system.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe estimated annual cost of the program would be $1.8 billion once fully implemented. It would phase in with new high school graduates headed to college.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Senator who will introduce the bill says the plan could be accomplished without tax increases for Michigan citizens. But some businesses or others who could lose tax credits or exemptions under the plan would face higher tax bills than before.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; NEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the State develop a plan to give grants of up to $9,500 per year to Michigan High School graduates for college?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-state-pass-legislation-give-grants-9500-year-michigan-high-school-graduates-college\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-state-pass-legislation-give-grants-9500-year-michigan-high-school-graduates-college</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould energy companies allow electricity customers to opt out of having Smart Meters installed to replace existing meters?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . 68%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . .24% <br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . 8%<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nFOUR COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n<br />\r\nComment #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThese are so dangerous! The health ramifications of these have never been studied and the ability for them to control your electricity if they decide you are consuming too much by monitoring your usage and where the usage is coming from in your home is frightening. What happened to the land of the free?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nComment #2<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe vote should be 100%. I don\'t understand why 21% willing to give up your freedom. The govt. owns much of you already, are you willing to let Consumers Energy own what the govt. does not?! Do you not think, what are they going to do in the future with the power they will have?<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ida Salisbury<br />\r\n<br />\r\nComment #3<br />\r\n(I apologize for the length of this comment but this is an important subject in which few know anything.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTo the 3 (so far) who have voted in this poll, &quot;no&quot;, Consumer\'s shouldn\'t allow people to &quot;opt out&quot; in having their regular electric meter changed to a smart meter, I would like to understand why you voted &quot;no&quot;. I would like to know the extent to which you know about smart meters and why you think that a company who sells you a utility is entitled to detailed information in your home. And, I mean much more than how much electricy you used and how much they need to bill you. With a smart meter installed, you have lost all privacy about what is in your home and what goes on in your home, minute by minute. It\'s very scary Big Brother stuff. Google it and and or check out this link for a video:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/8JNFr_j6kdI\">http://www.youtube.com/v/8JNFr_j6kdI</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nAlso, someone I know sent the following letter to Consumers as a notice of no consent for the installation of any smart meters on their properties as Consumers indicates that property owners give &quot;implied consent&quot;. I don\'t know to what extent this letter has any meaningful legal basis BUT read it as it does summarize the problems with smart meters which, among other things transmit detailed wireless signals about activities in your home that can be intersepted by criminals. I don\'t know what role the Michigan Public Service Commission has played/could play in this matter nor what role they might serve if a property owner discovers that Consumers or some other provider wishes to or has installed a smart meter. BE ALERT as Consumers is changing out meters in Michigan.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&quot;Consumers Energy<br />\r\n&nbsp;Lansing, MI<br />\r\nRE: NOTICE OF NO CONSENT TO TRESPASS AND SURVEILLANCE, NOTICE OF LIABILITY<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDear Consumers Energy and all agents, officers, employees, contractors and interested parties,<br />\r\nAlthough you not have intention of installing such devices or smart meters at this time, other states have adopted such devices. This notice will cover any future negotiations for such monitoring devices at the addresses shown below.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf you intend to install a &quot;Smart Meter&quot; or any activity monitoring device at the below addresses, you and all other parties are hereby denied consent for installation and use of all such devices on the below properties. Installation and use of any activity monitoring device is hereby refused and prohibited. Informed consent is legally required for installation of any surveillance device and any device that will collect and transmit private and personal data to undisclosed and unauthorized parties for undisclosed and unauthorized purposes. Authorization for sharing of personal and private information may only be given by the originator and subject of that information. That authorization is hereby denied and refused with regard to the below properties and all its occupants. &quot;Smart Meters&quot; violate the law and cause endangerment to residents by the following factors:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n1. They individually identify electrical devices inside the home and record when they are operated causing invasion of privacy.<br />\r\n2. They monitor household activity and occupancy in violation of rights and domestic security.<br />\r\n3. They transmit wireless signals which may be intercepted by unauthorized and unknown parties. Those signals can be used to monitor behavior and occupancy and they can be used by criminals to aid criminal activity against the occupants.<br />\r\n4. Data about occupant\'s daily habits and activities are collected, recorded and stored in permanent databases which are accessed by parties not authorized or invited to know and share that private data by those who\'s activities were recorded.<br />\r\n5. Those with access to the smart meter databases can review a permanent history of household activities complete with calendar and time-of-day metrics to gain a highly invasive and detailed view of the lives of the occupants.<br />\r\n6. Those databases may be shared with, or fall into the hands of criminals, blackmailers, corrupt law enforcement, private hackers of wireless transmissions, power company employees, and other unidentified parties who may act against the interests of the occupants under metered surveillance.<br />\r\n7. &quot;Smart Meters&quot; are, by definition, surveillance devices which violate Federal and State wiretapping laws by recording and storing databases of private and personal activities and behaviors without the consent or knowledge of those people who are monitored.<br />\r\n8. It is possible for example, with analysis of certain &quot;Smart Meter&quot; data, for unauthorized and distant parties to determine medical conditions, sexual activities, physical locations of persons within the home, vacancy patterns and personal information and habits of the occupants.<br />\r\n9. Your company has not adequately disclosed the particular recording and transmission capabilities of the smart meter, or the extent of the data that will be recorded, stored and shared, or the purposes to which the data will and will not be put.<br />\r\n10. Electromagnetic and Radio Frequency energy contamination from smart meters exceeds allowable safe and healthful limits for domestic environments as determined by the EPA and other scientific programs.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI forbid, refuse and deny consent of any installation and use of any monitoring, eavesdropping, and surveillance devices on my property, my place of residence and my place of occupancy. That applies to and includes &quot;Smart Meters&quot; and activity monitoring devices of any and all kinds. Any attempt to install any such device directed at me, other occupants, my property or residence will constitute trespass, stalking, wiretapping and unlawful surveillance and endangerment of health and safety, all prohibited and punishable by law through criminal and civil complaints. All persons, government agencies and private organizations responsible for installing or operating monitoring devices directed at or recording my activities, which I have not specifically authorized in writing, will be fully liable for any violations, intrusions, harm or negative consequences caused or made possible by those devices whether those negative consequences are justified by &quot;law&quot; or not..<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThis is legal notice. After this delivery the liabilities listed above may not be denied or avoided by parties named and implied in this notice. Civil Servant immunities and protections do not apply to the installation of smart meters due to the criminal violations they represent.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNotice to principal is notice to agent and notice to agent is notice to principal. All rights reserved.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThis applies for the following properties: - - - - -<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSigned By -- - - - &quot;<br />\r\n<br />\r\nComment #4<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI don\'t need Consumers Energy checking up on my energy consumption. As long as I pay my bill, it is none of their business what I am using the energy for. BUTT OUT!!!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; YOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY\'S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(2445,2445,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">We will be holding our Executive Committee Meeting on January 19, 2012 at the Clinton County Courthouse at 7:00 p.m.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/January_general_0.pdf\">Please find attached the Agenda for this month\'s meeting.</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nI look forward to seeing you there.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThanks,<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2454,2454,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW<br />\r\n---------------------<br />\r\nMany constitutional attorneys believe that if Congress passes an unconstitutional law and the President signs it we don\'t have to wait for new elections, or even the supreme court to stop implementation of that law.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThey believe States can tell the Federal government &quot;NO!&quot; using the 10th amendment.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe process is called &quot;Nullification&quot; &ndash; and Founders like Thomas Jefferson considered it the &quot;rightful remedy.&quot;<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNorth Dakota has passed S 2309 that was enacted and signed by the governor, April 27.&nbsp; Using parts of&nbsp; model language invoking &quot;nullification,&quot; establishes by statute that, &quot;The legislative assembly declares that the federal laws known as Affordable Care Act - &quot;Obamacare&quot; likely are not authorized by the United States Constitution and may violate its true meaning and intent as given by the founders and ratifiers.&quot; ... no provision &quot;may interfere with an individual\'s choice of a medical or insurance provider except as otherwise provided by the laws of this state.&quot;<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAlabama, Florida, Montana, and Wyoming had pending statewide ballot questions regarding nullification of the Affordable Care Act - &quot;Obamacare&quot;.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIdaho, Indiana, Maine, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Oregon, and Texas have under consideration nullification/ state sovereignty bills with some seeking criminal penalties for federal or state enforcement of the Affordable Care Act - &quot;Obamacare&quot;.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; NEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the Michigan Legislature consider &quot;nullification&quot; to stop Obamacare if all other avenues fail?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-legislature-consider-%E2%80%9Cnullification%E2%80%9D-stop-obamacare-if-all-other-avenues-fai\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-legislature-consider-%E2%80%9Cnullification%E2%80%9D-stop-obamacare-if-all-other-avenues-fai</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the State pass legislation to give grants of up to $9,500 per year to Michigan High School graduates for college?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . 21%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . 71%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . 8% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHREE COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhen will the voted representatives stop giving away our tax dollars. There is no proven return on investment studies for these dollars in fact believe there is the opposite. I worked three jobs, saved money, paid 100% of my college costs, took 7 years to get my undergrad but had no debts when I graduated.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe helped pay for both of our sons education and they also worked during college. Both graduated with useful degrees, are fully employed with no debt.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSorry, this is another wrong headed, weakminded give away by bureaucrats. Why do we who are paying taxes need to be so vigilant, haven\'t they learned that spending taxpayers money on such giveaways will ensure they will not remain in office?<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nCOMMENT #2<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI saved and worked to pay my own way to college, and I got my 4 year degree in 3 1/2 years! And I didn\'t owe anything when I got done, either! The degree requirements need to be changed in 4 year programs. The first 2 years of a 4 year degree are all the same; English, Social Studies, Natural Science; Humanities and other classes that don\'t have anything at all to do with your degree. The universities are making all kinds of money off from these bogus requirements. Four year degree programs could be cut down to 3 year programs if all of required classes actually had something to do with your degree program. And how many vice presidents of the university does each university need? Look into how many MSU has. It is ridiculous! Universities have way too much overhead (administrators) that is not generating anything but high tuition costs for students. College education could be affordable if the universities were made to reform degree requirements, and cut high salary administrative positions.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #3<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSo, after saving the state of Michigan over $300,000 by home-educating my 5 kids, paying my property taxes to public schools I didn\'t use, my kids wouldn\'t get any money for college under this plan.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAnd by giving students -who went to public school - this large sum, the colleges wouldn\'t have to lower tuition . . . and my kids could pay top dollar for that.<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; YOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY\'S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\"> http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(2461,2461,'<span>We are about nine months away from one of the most important elections in the history of our country. WE will decide if WE want to continue down the road progressive politicians have planned for US or if WE want to save OUR Republic and demand the federal government live by a balanced budget.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWE will decide if WE want four more years of Barack Obama and six more years of Debbie Stabenow or if WE want to elect fiscally responsible conservatives to replace them. If we fail to replace President Obama and Senator Stabenow we will continue to see the erosion of OUR rights and freedoms and the financial destruction of OUR country.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAs a CCRP 2012 Club Sponsor YOU will help us to achieve those goals. The revenue received from the Club Sponsorships will be used to support and promote candidates, who represent OUR goals and interests.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFor more information on the CCRP Club Sponsorship options that are available and/or to register to become a Club Sponsor for 2012 click on the following link or print the attached 2012 Club Sponsor information sheet and form.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/club-sponsor-form\">LINK&nbsp;TO CCRP CLUB&nbsp;SPONSORHIP&nbsp;INFORMATION &amp; REGISTRATION FORM.</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/2012_Club_letter_and_form.pdf\">TO&nbsp;DOWNLOAD&nbsp;A&nbsp;CLUB&nbsp;SPONSORSHIP&nbsp;FLYER AND/OR REGISTRATION FORM CLICK&nbsp;ON&nbsp;THIS&nbsp;LINK</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nWITH YOUR HELP WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE AND RESTORE RESPONSIBILITY IN GOVERNMENT!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2465,2465,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW<br />\r\n---------------------<br />\r\nLegislation to be introduced at the state Capitol next week would boost the price of gasoline by about 9 cents a gallon and increase the average motor vehicle registration fee by about $60 a year, officials said Friday.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nA bipartisan package of 13 bills -- designed to collect an extra $1.4 billion annually to fix crumbling roads and bridges -- could be introduced in the House and Senate as early as Tuesday, said Rep. Rick Olson, R-Saline, who will sponsor the gas tax bill.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe bills have support from the Michigan Chamber of Commerce -- one of the state\'s most powerful lobby groups -- but face a tough fight in an election year for state House members.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&quot;I think we can come up with extra road money without raising taxes,&quot; said Rep. Paul Opsommer, R-DeWitt, chairman of the House Transportation Committee, in a sign of the obstacles the measures face.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nGov. Rick Snyder told Free Press editors and reporters Friday that he favors additional road money but wouldn\'t take a position yet on the sources or timing of the revenue because &quot;if we took a position too early, it would cause a lot of polarization.&quot;<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; NEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the Legislature pass proposed legislation that would raise vehicle registration fees and raise the gas tax to fix roads?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-legislature-pass-proposed-legislation-would-raise-vehicle-registration-fees-and-raise\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-legislature-pass-proposed-legislation-would-raise-vehicle-registration-fees-and-raise</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the Michigan Legislature consider &quot;nullification&quot; to stop Obamacare if all other avenues fail?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . 92% <br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . .8% <br />\r\nUndecided . . . . 0%<br />\r\n<br />\r\nONE COMMENTS WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe State Legislature should start working on this right now. We don\'t need to wait until the Supreme Court decides. We have the right to nullify this, the Federal Government is NOT in charge of the STATES!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; YOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY\'S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(2473,2473,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW<br />\r\n---------------------<br />\r\nLansing Mayor Verg Bernero is proposing that a new casino be build in downtown Lansing near the Lansing Center.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHe says the new&nbsp; $245 million American Indian casino in downtown Lansing could create about 2,200 jobs and help fund scholarships for area students.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nBernero says it would improve the viability of the convention center and fund four-year college scholarships for Lansing School District students under what\'s being called the &quot;Lansing Promise.&quot;<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe casino would be built on land that is currently owned by the city. That land would need to be sold to the tribe for the casino to operate. Under the plans, a smaller, temporary casino would open first.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMichigan has more than two dozen casinos, including three in Detroit. <br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; NEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ----------------------------<br />\r\nShould a proposed Casino in Lansing be built?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-proposed-casino-lansing-be-built\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-proposed-casino-lansing-be-built</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the Legislature pass proposed legislation that would raise vehicle registration fees and raise the gas tax to fix roads?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . 17%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . . 76%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . .7% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nTWO COMMENTS WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhat is Paul thinking or he\'s not........this will hurt everyone even if you don\'t drive....<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #2:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nOne thing that prospective businesses look at is the quality of roads in a State. Any business wants good roads, safe streets and good schools.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; YOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY\'S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; http://www.clinton-countygop.org/<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2482,2482,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nState Senator Darwin Booher (R) has introduced Senate Bill 803 that would require voters to affirm that they are a U.S. citizen when voting or applying for an absentee ballot.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe bill would amend the Michigan Election Law to do the following:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-- Require an application to vote to include an affirmative statement by the elector that he or she was a citizen of the United States.<br />\r\n-- Require an elector who did not affirmatively state that he or she was a U.S. citizen to be challenged, and prohibit issuance of a ballot to an elector who did not make the statement under oath.<br />\r\n-- Require an application for an absent voter ballot to question whether the applicant was a U.S. citizen.<br />\r\n-- Prohibit a clerk from issuing an absent voter ballot to a person who indicated that he or she was not a U.S. citizen.<br />\r\n-- Require a clerk to issue an absent voter ballot to a person who did not answer the citizenship question, and include a prominent notice that the person had not answered the question and that the ballot would not be counted unless he or she answered it before the polls closed on election day.<br />\r\n-- If an election were contested in court, allow an absent voter ballot that was not counted due to a failure to answer the citizenship question to be counted if the court determined that the voter was a citizen at the time of the election.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the state require voters to affirm they are a U.S. citizen when voting or applying for an absentee ballot?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-state-require-voters-affirm-they-are-us-citizen-when-voting-or-applying-absentee-ball\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-state-require-voters-affirm-they-are-us-citizen-when-voting-or-applying-absentee-ball</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould a proposed Casino in Lansing be built?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . . 31% <br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . . .61% <br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . .8% <br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTWO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMy daughter works for the casino in Mount Pleasant. The casino does not give students any breaks. It is a mandatory 32 hours and they do not work with class schedule changes. Knowing she is a student, they schedule her third shift hours and then she has a full day of classes, then the next night is second shift forcing her to work and go to school arround the clock for 36 hours at least once per week. There are no benefits for 32 hours and because jobs are limited and because she is building a resume, she stays. How many times do we have to pay for America? What is happening is just plain greed. Spendable income needs to be spent on other types of entertainment. Casinos put other businesses at risk. Please don\'t let this be rammed down our throats. We have more than our share of casinos in Michigan.<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nCOMMENT #2<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMany non-profit organizations in Clinton County benefit from Texas Hold\'em events at Trippers. A Lansing casino would dry up this source of income for our non-profits.<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2490,2490,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">January 31, 2011<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDear Clinton County Friend,<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; This year could well be one of the most important election years in the history of our country. The Clinton County Republican Party (CCRP) will be doing all we can to make sure responsible individuals will be elected to office to represent us.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Our efforts to reach these goals take the dedication of grassroots activists like yourself both in your time and monetarily. To accomplish these goals each year we offer people the opportunity to become Club Sponsors of the CCRP.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; By becoming a Club Sponsor you will receive admission for two to the 2012 Lincoln Day Reception &amp; Dinner to be held at The Eagle Eye Golf Club on Thursday, April 12, 2012 featuring Congressman Dave Camp as our Keynote Speaker.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Three levels of sponsorship will continue to be offered for 2012, including a $300, $200, and $150 level. Additionally your name will be posted on our website and appear in all CCRP event promotional materials in 2012.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCCRP Club Sponsorship Benefits and Options:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAll Sponsorship Levels include:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 1. Admittance for two to the 2012 Lincoln Day Dinner and Reception meet &amp; greet with Congressman Camp.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 2 Acknowledgment as a club sponsor in all CCRP promotional materials in 2012.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nA 300 Sponsor Level also includes - Admittance for two to the Summer BBQ Fundraiser &amp; the &quot;FALL FEST&quot;Fundraiser.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nA 200 Sponsor Level also includes&nbsp; - Admittance for two to the Summer BBQ Fundraiser or admittance for two to the Fall Fundraiser.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; To become a Club Sponsor Click on the following link to the CCRP Website:<br />\r\n<a href=\"http:// http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/club-sponsor-form\">&nbsp;http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/club-sponsor-form</a><br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; OR<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For a Registration Form to Print and Return by mail see the attached PDF file.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The opportunity to become a Club Sponsor will end on March 15, 2012. </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"><br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Any questions related to the Club Sponsorship, should be directed to Sheri Harte Willis, CCRP Fundraising, Chairperson, at shwillis1959@gmail.com <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; THANKS AGAIN FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF THE CLINTON COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2491,2491,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">January 31, 2011<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDear Clinton County Friend,<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; This year could well be one of the most important election years in the history of our country. The Clinton County Republican Party (CCRP) will be doing all we can to make sure responsible individuals will be elected to office to represent us.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Our efforts to reach these goals take the dedication of grassroots activists like yourself both in your time and monetarily. To accomplish these goals each year we offer people the opportunity to become Club Sponsors of the CCRP.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; By becoming a Club Sponsor you will receive admission for two to the 2012 Lincoln Day Reception &amp; Dinner to be held at The Eagle Eye Golf Club on Thursday, April 12, 2012 featuring Congressman Dave Camp as our Keynote Speaker.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Three levels of sponsorship will continue to be offered for 2012, including a $300, $200, and $150 level. Additionally your name will be posted on our website and appear in all CCRP event promotional materials in 2012.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCCRP Club Sponsorship Benefits and Options:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAll Sponsorship Levels include:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 1. Admittance for two to the 2012 Lincoln Day Dinner and Reception meet &amp; greet with Congressman Camp.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 2 Acknowledgment as a club sponsor in all CCRP promotional materials in 2012.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nA 300 Sponsor Level also includes - Admittance for two to the Summer BBQ Fundraiser &amp; the &quot;FALL FEST&quot;Fundraiser.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nA 200 Sponsor Level also includes&nbsp; - Admittance for two to the Summer BBQ Fundraiser or admittance for two to the Fall Fundraiser.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; To become a Club Sponsor Click on the following link to the CCRP Website:<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/club-sponsor-form\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/club-sponsor-form</a><br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; OR<br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/2012_Club_letter_and_form_0.pdf\">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For a Registration Form to Print and Return by mail see the attached PDF file.</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The opportunity to become a Club Sponsor will end on March 15, 2012.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Any questions related to the Club Sponsorship, should be directed to Sheri Harte Willis, CCRP Fundraising, Chairperson, at shwillis1959@gmail.com<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; THANKS AGAIN FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF THE CLINTON COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2501,2501,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nRepresentative Rashida Tlaib (D) has introduced House Bill 4901 that would require to establish a process whereby a relative handful of individuals could force the state to create and impose an &quot;action plan&quot; for addressing claims that various human activities affecting the environment have a &quot;disparate impact&quot; on an identified minority or low-income population. This plan potentially could include imposing more rigid environmental regulations and standards in a particular community than apply in the rest of the state. The bill would create a number of new state government &quot;environmental justice&quot; boards and positions.<br />\r\n----------<br />\r\nEnvironmental Justice involves the interaction of health problems caused by exposure to pollution complicated by a host of social factors including: poverty, poor education, crime/violence, lack of resources and political disenfranchisement.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIn 2007, Governor Granholm issued an Executive Directive (ED) 2007-23 which required the Department of Environmental Quality to produce an annual report to the Governor &quot;on state activities to promote environmental justice&quot;. The policy develops both a plan for the Department of Environmental Quality and the government of the state of Michigan as a whole. In this policy &quot;environmental justice&quot; means the fair, non-discriminatory treatment and meaningful involvement of Michigan residents regarding the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies by this state. However, as of February 1, 2011 no report(s) have been produced, and various parts of the policy are still seeking implementation.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhat Governor Granholm couldn&rsquo;t get implemented by executuve order Rep. Rashida Tlaib now wants to accomplish by statute.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHOUSE BILL 4901(LINK)<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.legislature.mi.gov/%28S%2815ykftyn1saa3kzfaw0bjerv%29%29/mileg.aspx?page=getobject&amp;objectname=2011-HB-4901\">http://www.legislature.mi.gov/%28S%2815ykftyn1saa3kzfaw0bjerv%29%29/mileg.aspx?page=getobject&amp;objectname=2011-HB-4901</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the legislature create an &quot;environmental justice&quot; regulatory regime by passing House Bill 4901?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-legislature-create-%E2%80%9Cenvironmental-justice%E2%80%9D-regulatory-regime-passing-house-bill-4901\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-legislature-create-%E2%80%9Cenvironmental-justice%E2%80%9D-regulatory-regime-passing-house-bill-4901</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the state require voters to affirm they are a U.S. citizen when voting or applying for an absentee ballot?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . . 91%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9% <br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . . .0%&nbsp; <br />\r\n<br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhy does the description of this bill keep using &quot;was&quot; a citizen rather than &quot;is&quot; a citizen? It makes a big difference. What does the bill say?<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2511,2511,'<span>-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nDepartment of Homeland Security has a new policy that will require some Michigan to implant radio frequency identification (RFID) chips into the states\' driver&rsquo;s licenses. The chips allow Customs and Border Protection officers to scan an entire vehicle from up to 30 feet away in order to identify the vehicle\'s occupants.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThese chips will give public and private entities an unprecedented ability to track Americans. RFIDs can be read using widely available technology, including technology contained in mobile phones, which increases the risk of identity theft. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nMichigan is one of several states subject to the DHS mandate. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nFor an article on the subject click on this link:<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/forced-%E2%80%9Crfid%E2%80%9D-chips-driver%E2%80%99s-licenses\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/forced-%E2%80%9Crfid%E2%80%9D-chips-driver%E2%80%99s-licenses</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nAre you in favor of the DHS mandating that all Michigan drivers be required to have an RFID chip in their license?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/are-you-favor-dhs-mandating-all-michigan-drivers-be-required-have-rfid-chip-their-license\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/are-you-favor-dhs-mandating-all-michigan-drivers-be-required-have-rfid-chip-their-license</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the legislature create an &quot;environmental justice&quot; regulatory regime by passing House Bill 4901?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . 0%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . .100% <br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . 0% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2522,2522,'TO:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CCRP Executive Committee Members<br />\r\nFROM:&nbsp;&nbsp; Steve Willis<br />\r\nRE:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; February 16, 2012 Executive Committee Meeting<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe will be holding our monthly CCRP Executive Committee Meeting on February 16, 2012 at the DeWitt City Hall at 7:00 p.m.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/February_agenda.pdf\">Please find attached the agenda for the February meeting.</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe will have sign up sheets for the 2012 Club Sponsorships and the Lincoln Day Dinner Registration forms available.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSo bring your check book to help our local candidates and to get our message out.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI look forward to seeing you there.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSincerely,<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n<br />\r\nH: 517-641-6657<br />\r\nC: 517-281-4458<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />',1),(2531,2531,'<span>-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nState Senator Joe Hune has introduced a Senate Bill No. 905 in the Michigan Senate to require welfare recipients to perform community service if they are not already required to participate in welfare-related work or training programs.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFor the text of the bill click on this link:<br />\r\n</span><a href=\"http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2011-2012/billintroduced/Senate/htm/2012-SIB-0905.htm\"><span>http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2011-2012/billintroduced/Senate/htm/2012-SIB-0905.htm</span></a><span><br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould Michigan require welfare recipients to perform community service to receive benefits under the conditions of the bill?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n</span><a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-require-welfare-recipients-perform-community-service-receive-benefits-under-\"><span>http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-require-welfare-recipients-perform-community-service-receive-benefits-under-</span></a><span><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAre you in favor of the DHS mandating that all Michigan drivers be required to have an RFID chip in their license?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . 13%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . 84%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . .3% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nComment #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIt is my recollection that Cameron Brown and Mike Bishop did a lot to keep us from having this. Has term limits, again, resulted in a loss of institutional memory?<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2541,2541,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nMSU has implemented a mandatory health insurance policy requirement for freshmen. If they can\'t&nbsp; prove they have health insurance the university will automatically enroll them in a plan and add the cost onto their tuition bills.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMSU is the first in public university in Michigan to require mandatory health coverage. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nMSU officials say they are simply following about 25% of the public universities across in the country by mandating health insurance coverage. Their intent is to protect students who might get sick and have to choose between paying for medical treatment or college.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nOther public universities in Michigan recommend that students have health insurance and even offer options, but do not mandate it. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nMSU\'s plan is being phased in. Freshmen and other students who were new to MSU in the fall have until Feb. 29 to offer proof or be enrolled in the Aetna plan through MSU for $940 this semester.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nRepublicans on the state House Appropriations Committee\'s Higher Education Subcommittee say the move is the wrong one for two reasons: It tacks on more cost for college students already struggling to pay high tuition bills and reeks of &quot;Obamacare.&quot;<br />\r\n<br />\r\nUniversity officials say MSU is simply joining 25% of other public universities across the nation that have such plans, and the measure shows their concern for students\' well-being. They sent letters to incoming students in summer 2011 about the change.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe state constitution gives MSU autonomy, but legislators control state aid to universities.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nUnder the new policy, students have to log on to an MSU website and show that they have health insurance. If they don\'t, they have the option of buying one of several plans. If they don\'t choose one, MSU will enroll them into a plan from Aetna, which costs $940 for the spring semester and about $1,500 for the full academic year.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nBecause health insurance is required for all, students can use financial aid -- from grants to loans -- to pay for it.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe policy started with this year\'s freshman class. Students have until Feb. 29 to show they have coverage or be enrolled. About 8,300 of the 9,000 members of the freshmen class have responded that they have health insurance. The other 700 either don\'t have insurance or have yet to respond, MSU spokesman Kent Cassella said Tuesday.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nEach class that enters MSU from now on will fall under the new policy. MSU officials say their studies show about 90% of each entering class has insurance.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMSU is the only public university in the state to make the requirement.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould state colleges and universities require mandatory health insurance coverage for their students?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-state-colleges-and-universities-require-mandatory-health-insurance-coverage-their-stu<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould Michigan require welfare recipients to perform community service to receive benefits under the conditions of the bill?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . 93%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . 7% <br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . 0% <br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2545,2545,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">When:&nbsp; Thursday, April 12, 2012<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhere: The EAGLE EYE GOLF CLUB<br />\r\n<br />\r\nReception starts at 5:30 p.m.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; At The Eagle\'s Nest<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 15101 Chandler Road<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Bath, MI 48808<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Dinner starts at 6:30 p.m.</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"><br />\r\n</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In The Lakepoint Room</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"><br />\r\n</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 15101 Chandler Road</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"><br />\r\n</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Bath, MI 48808</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"><br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For the 2012 Lincoln Day Dinner we are fortunate to have Congressman Dave Camp as our keynote speaker. Congressman Camp has graciously agreed to speak to the Clinton County Party activists and other interested residents from the mid Michigan area. We look forward to hearing from him and what the republican agenda will be in 2013 after the November election.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe anticipate this will be a MUST ATTEND event and that it will motivate all of us to pick up where we left off after the 2010 election by continuing our efforts to elect people who can make MICHIGAN and OUR COUNTRY what it needs to be in the 21st century global economy.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe cost for this year\'s dinner and reception will be:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dinner &amp; Reception&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dinner <br />\r\n</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (w/Photo Opportunities)</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Only</span><br />\r\n<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">--------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Couple&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $125.00&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $75.00<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Single&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $65.00&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $40.00<br />\r\n----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (CCRP Sponsor Members: $150 per couple - must be paid on or before March 15, 2012.)<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (Club sponsors also receive recognition in the Program and other CCRP promotional materials.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTo sign up online click on the following link:<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2012-lincoln-day-dinner-congressman-camp\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2012-lincoln-day-dinner-congressman-camp</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nor<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDownload, print, and fill out the attached registration form and return it to Sheri Harte Willis, 4789 Drumheller Road, Bath, MI 48808 along with a check made out to: Clinton County Republican Party.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/LDD_NS.pdf\">2012 CCRP Lincoln Day Dinner Registration Form</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nThank You For Your Support of the Clinton County Republican Party!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2548,2548,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW<br />\r\n---------------------<br />\r\nMichigan&rsquo;s Presidential Primary is a little more than a week off and now there are only 4 left in the field.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe debates have raised issues about the candidates that may have altered people&rsquo;s previous choice.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWith that said pick who you would vote for if the republican primary were to be held today.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; NEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ----------------------------<br />\r\n&nbsp; If the republican primary for the President were held today who would you vote for?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNewt Gingrich <br />\r\nRon Paul <br />\r\nMitt Romney <br />\r\nRick Santorum<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/if-michigan-gop-presidential-primary-were-held-today-who-would-you-vote\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/if-michigan-gop-presidential-primary-were-held-today-who-would-you-vote</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould state colleges and universities require mandatory health insurance coverage for their students?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . 20%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . 80%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . 0% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMy daughter graduated from Hope two years ago and they have had this policy for years. I never thought Hope College was a bastion of liberalism.<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; YOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY\'S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(2559,2559,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">MITT&nbsp;ROMNEY TO&nbsp;SPEAK IN&nbsp;LANSING, SATURDAY FEBRUARY 25:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Ingham County Republican Party has asked me to announce that Presidential candidate Mitt Romney and Congressman Mike Rogers will be in Lansing at the Ingham County Lincoln Breakfast on Saturday, February 25, 2012, at Chisholm Hills Golf and Banquet Center at 2395 Washington Street in South Lansing.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nBreakfast starts at 9:00 am (doors open at 8:00 am).<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nFor details go to&nbsp; www.Icgop.org<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf you have any questions contact Norm Shinkle at (517) 655-5992.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSenator Tupac Hunter has introduced a bill in the Michigan Senate to authorize another means by which local government officials can impose higher property taxes in a certain area and use the revenue to pay off new debt they incur for spending on projects chosen by a board of political appointees. This scheme would be called &quot;neighborhood improvement districts.&quot; It could be triggered by one property owner getting 30 percent of the property owners in the designated district to go along by signing a petition. No vote of the people would be required for this entity to impose the higher property tax.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the Michigan Senate authorize new local taxing districts to allow for &quot;neighborhood improvement districts.&quot;?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-senate-authorize-new-local-taxing-districts-allow-%E2%80%9Cneighborhood-improvement-<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf the Michigan GOP Presidential primary were held today who would you vote for?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNewt Gingrich . . . . . . . . . 11%<br />\r\nRon Paul . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13%<br />\r\nMitt Romney . . . . . . . . . . 33%<br />\r\nRick Santorum . . . . . . . . . 40%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2562,2562,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\"><span>The Ingham County Republican Party</span> will be hosting a <span>Lincoln Day Breakfast on Saturday, February  25, 2012, at Chisholm Hills Golf and Banquet Center at 2395 Washington  Street in South Lansing. Governor Romney will be the keynote speaker and will be in attendance for about an hour and a half and will speak at around 9:30.</span><br />\r\n<span><br />\r\n</span></span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">Tickets: $40.00 per person/$75.00 per couple</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"><span><br />\r\n</span></span><br />\r\n<span style=\"font-size: larger;\"><span>Breakfast starts at 9:00 am (doors open at 8:00 am).<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\n</span></span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">To register go to </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"><span> www.Icgop.org<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Registration and payment can be made online by credit card or e-check.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span></span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"><span><br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span></span>',1),(2566,2566,'&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For the 2012 Lincoln Day Dinner we are fortunate and pleased to announce that Congressman Dave Camp will be our guest. Congressman Camp has graciously agreed to be at a pre-dinner reception and to be our keynote speaker on Thursday evening April 12, 2012 at the Eagle Eye Golf Club in Bath. <br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; We are fortunate to have a congressman in Washington who plays such a vital role in protecting our constitutional rights and being a steward of our tax money. As the chairman of the powerful Ways and Means Committee in the House he oversees the spending bills that pass through that chamber. Currently the republican house is the only place where the progressive spending can be stopped. We look forward to hearing what he has to say about the upcoming election and his perspective.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; We anticipate this will be a MUST SEE event and that it will motivate all of us to pick up where we left off after the 2010 election by continuing our efforts to elect people who can make Michigan and our country what they need to be in the 21st century global economy.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Information regarding the dinner and reception, as well as a web based event registration form, can be found by clicking on the following link:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2012-lincoln-day-dinner-congressman-camp\"> 2012 CCRP LDD Online Registration Form</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTo download a printable PDF registration form that can be mailed to us click on the following file link:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"/sites/default/files/LDD.pdf\">2012 CCRP LDD PDF Registration Form</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf you have any questions regarding the 2012 Lincoln Day Dinner please feel free to contact Sheri Willis at 517-281-6212 or e-mail her at: shwillis1959@gmail.com<br />',1),(2567,2567,'&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For the 2012 Lincoln Day Dinner we are fortunate and pleased to announce that Congressman Dave Camp will be our guest. Congressman Camp has graciously agreed to be at a pre-dinner reception and to be our keynote speaker on Thursday evening April 12, 2012 at the Eagle Eye Golf Club in Bath. <br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; We are fortunate to have a congressman in Washington who plays such a vital role in protecting our constitutional rights and being a steward of our tax money. As the chairman of the powerful Ways and Means Committee in the House he oversees the spending bills that pass through that chamber. Currently the republican house is the only place where the progressive spending can be stopped. We look forward to hearing what he has to say about the upcoming election and his perspective.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; We anticipate this will be a MUST SEE event and that it will motivate all of us to pick up where we left off after the 2010 election by continuing our efforts to elect people who can make Michigan and our country what they need to be in the 21st century global economy.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Information regarding the dinner and reception, as well as a web based event registration form, can be found by clicking on the following link:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2012-lincoln-day-dinner-congressman-camp\">2012 CCRP LDD Online Registration Form</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTo download a printable PDF registration form that can be mailed to us click on the following file link:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"/sites/default/files/LDD.pdf\">2012 CCRP LDD PDF Registration Form</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf you have any questions regarding the 2012 Lincoln Day Dinner please feel free to contact Sheri Willis at 517-281-6212 or e-mail her at: shwillis1959@gmail.com<br />',1),(2569,2569,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">REPUBLICAN PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTwo of the remaining presidential candidates will be in to toady (MONDAY FEBRUARY 27).<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Rick Santorum at 3 p.m. Monday in a ballroom at the Lexington Hotel<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; in Lansing Hotel at 925 S. Creyts Road. It&rsquo;s his first Lansing area <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; appearance of the campaign. (FREE EVENT)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ron Paul at 4:00 p.m. Monday at the MSU Auditorium at 149 Auditorium <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Road on the MSU Campus in East Lansing. Doors open at 3:30 and are <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; open to everyone. (FREE EVENT)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCLINTON COUNTY SHERIFF FUNDRAISING EVENTS:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ryan Cressman will be holding a fundraiser on Tuesday, February 28<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; from 5:30 p.m. &ndash; 8:30 p.m. at Uncle John&rsquo;s Cider Mill, Fruit House Winery<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 8614 N. US27 St. Johns.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sheriff Wayne Kangas will be holding a fundraiser on Tuesday, February 28<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; from 6:00 p.m. &ndash; ??, at Relli&rsquo;s Restaurant, 202 E.Main St., DeWitt.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; REMEMBER TO VOTE ON TUESDAY<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; YOUR VOTE WILL DETERMINE OUR CANDIDATE!<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2576,2576,'<span style=\"font-size: xx-large;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nGovernor Romney has outlined his plan to gradually delay Americans\' eligibility for Medicare and Social Security at the Detroit Economic Club on last Friday. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nRomney\'s proposed changes for Medicare and Social Security would start in 2022. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe plan proposals include:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n1. Starting in 2022 the plan would gradually increase the Medicare eligibility age by one month each year. <br />\r\n2. Both programs would be indexed to longevity so that they increase only as fast as life expectancy.<br />\r\n3. Under current law, the age for collecting full Social Security benefits is gradually rising from 65 to 67. Medicare is available at age 65. In both cases, the age is set in law, and Romney<span>\'</span><span>s suggestion that it be tied automatically to increases in the life expectancy of Americans would mark a major change. <br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould Medicare and Social Security be modified to reflect Romney&rsquo;s proposed changes based on longevity and life expectancy?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-medicare-and-social-security-be-modified-reflect-romney%E2%80%99s-proposed-changes-based-long<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span>&quot;</span><span> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the Michigan Senate authorize new local taxing districts to allow for </span><span>&quot;</span><span>neighborhood improvement districts.</span></span><span style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"><span>&quot;</span></span><span style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"><span>?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . 0%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . .94%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . 0% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span></span>',1),(2583,2583,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe arguments for energy subsidies are:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n1.&nbsp; Security of supply -&nbsp; to ensure adequate supply<br />\r\n2.&nbsp;&nbsp; Environmental improvement -&nbsp; to reduce pollution, including different emissions, and to fulfill international obligations (Kyoto Protocol).<br />\r\n3.&nbsp;&nbsp; Economic benefits - used to stimulate particular economic sectors.<br />\r\n4.&nbsp;&nbsp; Employment and social benefits - used to maintain employment.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMain arguments against energy subsidies are:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n1. Some energy subsidies counter the goal of sustainable development<br />\r\n2.&nbsp; They may lead to higher consumption and waste.<br />\r\n3. They may create a heavy burden on government finances and weaken the potential for economies to grow.<br />\r\n4. They undermine private and public investment in the energy sector,<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTypes of energy subsidies:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n1. Direct financial transfers - grants to producers, consumers, low-interest or preferential loans to producers.<br />\r\n2. Preferential tax treatments - rebates, exemptions on royalties, duties, producer levies and tariffs; tax credit; accelerated depreciation allowances on energy supply equipment.<br />\r\n3. Trade restrictions - quota, technical restrictions and trade embargoes.<br />\r\n4. Depletion Allowance - allows a deduction from gross income for exhaustible resources (oil,gas,minerals).<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the federal government continue to subsidize the energy industry?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes - Subsidize all energy providers<br />\r\n</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Yes - </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Subsidize only fossil fuel providers<br />\r\n</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Yes - </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Subsidize only &quot;Green Energy</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> providers<br />\r\nNo - End all energy subsidizes<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-federal-government-you-me-continue-subsidize-energy-industry\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-federal-government-you-me-continue-subsidize-energy-industry</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould Medicare and Social Security be modified to reflect Romney\'s proposed changes based on longevity and life expectancy?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . 61% <br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . .33% <br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . 6%<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2599,2599,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nIn you opinion what is the PRIMARY causal factor for higher gas prices?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWall Street speculative traders<br />\r\nTrouble in the mid east<br />\r\nThe failure of the President and the democrats to allow access to our resources<br />\r\nThe high cost of creating multiple gas blends due to environmental regulations<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/you-opinion-what-primary-causal-factor-higher-gas-prices\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/you-opinion-what-primary-causal-factor-higher-gas-prices</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2610,2610,'<span>-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe NAACP will go before a United Nations panel in Switzerland this week to argue that new voting laws approved by some U.S. states violate civil and human rights by suppressing the votes of minorities and others.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nA delegation from the civil rights organization will present its case in Geneva on Wednesday before the United Nations Human Rights Council, a body that normally addresses troubles in places such as Libya, Syria and the Ivory Coast.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Geneva appearance is part of an NAACP strategy rooted in the 1940s and 1950s, when the group looked to the United Nations and the international community for support in its domestic battle for civil rights for blacks.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSince last year, 15 states have passed new voting laws; currently 38 states, including some of those 15, are weighing legislation to require people to show government-approved photo identification or provide proof of citizenship before casting their ballots.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nProponents of the picture ID say they are needed to protect the integrity of the vote, to prevent illegal immigrants from casting ballots, and to clamp down on voter fraud.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nStates that have adopted the picture ID requirement account for 171 electoral votes in 2012 - or 63 percent of the 270 electoral votes needed to win the presidency.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIt is estimated that 21 million Americans don\'t possess government-issued photo identification. The NAACP estimates that about 25 percent of African-Americans nationwide don&rsquo;t possess the proper documentation to meet ID requirements.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould presentation of a picture ID be required when you vote?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-presentation-picture-id-be-required-when-you-vote<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span>&quot;</span><span> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n--------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION &amp; RESULTS:<br />\r\n--------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nIn you opinion what is the PRIMARY causal factor for higher gas prices?<br />\r\n<br />\r\n15% . . . . . . Wall Street speculative traders <br />\r\n22% . . . . . . Trouble in the mid east<br />\r\n59% . . . . . . The failure of the President and the democrats to allow access to our resources<br />\r\n4% . . . . . . .&nbsp; The high cost of creating multiple gas blends due to environmental regulations<br />\r\n0% . . . . . . .&nbsp; Undecided<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\n------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL<br />\r\n------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(4333,4333,'<span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n1,300,000 million long-term unemployed Americans will lose their unemployment insurance benefits on Saturday December 28, 2013 for the first time since 2008.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCongress failed to extend the benefits in the budget they approved before Christmas. Additionally more than 4 million unemployed could lose benefits next year unless Congress passes another extension. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nIn the past, states have provided unemployed workers with up to 26 weeks of benefits with the federal government providing extra weeks of assistance. Federal and state governments have been providing 99 weeks of cash payments.&nbsp; The average benefit is around $1,100 a month. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nExtending the benefits for another year would cost the government $25 billion that it will have to borrow. The cost of this will actually increase over time, as the government pays interest on this debt. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nMore than 4 million Americans looking for work have been unemployed for more than 27 weeks, beyond the time-frame of traditional unemployment insurance.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould Congress have renewed the additional extended unemployment coverage for the long term unemployed?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-legislature-pass-bill-double-campaign-contributions-and-allow-committees-fund-primary\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-legislature-pass-bill-double-campaign-contributions-and-allow-committees-fund-primary</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on </span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">\'</span></span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">\'</span></span>Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">\'</span></span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">\'</span></span> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the legislature pass a bill to allow phone companies to discontinue traditional land line phone services to customers?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes - 38%<br />\r\nNo - 62%<br />\r\nUndecided - 0% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDiscontined Use of Landlines<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAnd replace them with what, cell phones? Currently there remains several parts of the state where cell phone reception is abhorid. I would hate to have to rely on emergency services using a cell phone in these areas. I don\'t see why landline service needs to be replaced as some internet services, frontier being one, still use the phone lines for there service. I can see why AARP is against this bill. I am 55 years old, am computer savey, yet am relunctant to use, nor do I own, a cell phone. What is the service/cost difference between landlines and its replacement?<br />\r\n____________________<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2618,2618,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIt seems to be a common practice today by some employers to do online search of potential employees to see what they have on their social media pages before they make a hiring decision regarding the applicant.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIt is estimated that about 20 percent of companies are secretly scanning online profiles before they interview applicants. What they often find is shocking &mdash; including profiles that detail drug use, orgies and illegal behavior.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nEmployers feel that it gives a &quot;More Accurate</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> picture of the person than a person who shows up at an interview where their clothing is meticulous and they look like the perfect candidate, when in actuality the person that is sitting there being interviewed is almost entirely different than the person posting on their website.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMany employers admit they\'ve even learned how to access profiles applicants think are </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">private</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> &mdash; and they\'re surprised by how many people don</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">t care if everyone knows everything about them.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nDo you feel it is OK for employers to use social media to acquire &quot;private</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> information about potential employees?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/do-you-feel-it-ok-employers-use-social-media-acquire-%E2%80%9Cprivate%E2%80%9D-information-about-potential-e\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/do-you-feel-it-ok-employers-use-social-media-acquire-%E2%80%9Cprivate%E2%80%9D-information-about-potential-e</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould presentation of a picture ID be required when you vote?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . 100%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . . 0% <br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . .0% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nTWO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nComment #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nVoting and the UN<br />\r\n<br />\r\n1. I hope that they are laughed out of the U.N.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n2. I\'m curious whether anyone has done a survey of voting requirements in other countries, especially the major countries at the U.N.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n3. Does anyone know whether they have standing to approach the U.N.?<br />\r\n<br />\r\n4. It\'s interesting that they are going to the U.N. It was just last week that a video showed Congressman Sessions asking questions of Secretary Panetta concerning the procedure that the Department of Defense follows in going to war. This is a must see video. Panetta indicated that they seek permission from international bodies (such as the U.N. or NATO). Congressman Sessions was appalled and continued to question Panetta about the Constitution and the need to ask permission from Congress (not simply come to inform Congress after obtaining </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">permission from some international. We have a real problem on our hands in that the 0bama administration continues to operate in some ad hoc fashion rather than according to our Constitution and laws.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nComment #2<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI present pictured ID when I vote. I have also had my identity stolen once. ID is a good thing. Shame on the NAACP for presenting a picture of America that is not true. We all should prove citizenship and have identification. Repeal of these laws protect criminals and illegal aliens. What have we become?<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2629,2629,'<span style=\"font-size: large;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nBankers say that generously easing loan terms or reducing mortgages outright would only encourage homeowners who can pay to pretend they can\'t. It would also send a dangerous message: a financial commitment isn&rsquo;t really a commitment. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe $26 billion deal authorities struck with banks over foreclosure abuses, a main element of that will require the banks to reduce homeowner debt angers some. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nHomeowners who keep paying their mortgages, even if their homes have lost value, wonder why neighbors who weren&rsquo;t as responsible are getting help.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSince the settlement was announced, pressure has mounted for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the mortgage giants whose loans are not eligible for the deal, to allow debt relief for their borrowers as well. <br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nAre you in favor of banks reducing mortgages for homeowners who can\'t pay their loans back?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/are-you-favor-banks-reducing-mortgages-homeowners-who-can%E2%80%99t-pay-their-loans-back<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTo enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDo you feel it is OK for employers to use social media to acquire </span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">private</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> information about potential employees?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . .73%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . . 23% <br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . 3% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAnonymous Comment #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThere is no </span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">private</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> information which a potential employer is able to </span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">see</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">. If a potential employer or some other stranger is able to see information on a Facebook, the information viewed is public, not </span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">private</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe owners of Facebook pages choose whether their information is public or private. This is true in the </span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Information</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> about us (such as employment, education, marital status, birthday, etc , our </span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">photos</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">, our </span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">friends</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> , phone number, email address, our &quot;likes&quot;, etc. and we choose, point by point, who can see it: whether only the person whose FB page it is, friends, friends or friends or the public. Similarly, every single time we post a status update, a link, a photo, we have the opportunity to indicate who can see it, again, only the person whose page it is, friends, friends of friends, public or we can customize it to specific lists or we can only let specific person(s) see it and we can exclude its visibility to specific person(s).<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2636,2636,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThere appears to be some dissatisfaction with Governor Snyder\'s performance by&nbsp; grassroots conservative Michigan republicans.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIn a recent survey by Michigan Municipal League 41% of the respondents thought there should or would be a primary opponent to Governor Snyder.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nDo you think there will be a republican primary opponent running against Governor Snyder in August 2014 primary election?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/do-you-think-there-will-be-republican-primary-opponent-running-against-governor-snyder-augus\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/do-you-think-there-will-be-republican-primary-opponent-running-against-governor-snyder-augus</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTo enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot; after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAre you in favor of banks reducing mortgages for homeowners who can\'t pay their loans back?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . 14%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . 73% <br />\r\nUndecided . . 14%<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2638,2638,'You will periodically be receiving this update from the Clinton County Republican Party regarding upcoming events and meetings you might be interested in. The e-mail will have a link to the &ldquo;Dates &amp; Events To Note&rdquo; link on our website. This link will show all of the related information associated with the upcoming events, etc.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThis is the link to the informational page on our website wher the information will be posted:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />',1),(2644,2644,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIn June the Supreme Court will rule on whether national health insurance is constitutional.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nArticle 1 Section 8 of the Constitution of the United States is known as the &quot;Commerce Clause.</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> It grants Congress the power to </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">regulate commerce among the several states.</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> It is this clause that the issue focuses on and&nbsp; it forms the basis to justify legislating the &ldquo;individual mandate.&rdquo;<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThose who oppose Obamacare believe the legislation is a congressional overreach of its constitutional mandate, granting it far-reaching powers over every economic decision made by American citizens.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLiberals believe the Supreme Court will overstep its constitutional mandate if it rules against the legislation because they will be ignoring the Marbury v. Madison decision and numerous precedents since then.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf PPACA is voted down, the court will be accused of acting as a </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">super-legislature</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> defying the will of elected representatives. This point is especially important given the fact that the law is likely to be overturned only by a slim 5-4 majority.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Court\'s role is to ensure that the hallmark of American governance &ndash; the separation of powers &ndash; remains firmly in place.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nBased on the Constitution do you think that the Supreme Court will declare </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Obamacare</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> unconstitutional?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/based-constitution-do-you-think-supreme-court-will-declare-%E2%80%9Cobamacare%E2%80%9D-unconstitutional<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDo you think there will be a republican primary opponent running against Governor Snyder in August 2014 primary election?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . .&nbsp; 23%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . 69% <br />\r\nUndecided . . . . 9% <br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nTHREE COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAnonymous Comment #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAll things considered, a PRIMARY opponent against Snyder grossly ignores enormous success at cleaning up the Granholm mess in many areas and surely seems like an unnecessary risk. A primary race would also be a signal to the Dems that THEY have a better chance at taking on the race and they might be willing to really fundraise and put up a candidate who can bring back the Granholm days to Michigan.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAlso, good luck fund raising for it as there is NOT anything approaching a consensus among the various groups of Republicans and among the various geographic areas (such as Oakland County) that pull the contribution freight in statewide races! What will it be? Five dollar fund raisers?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAnonymous Comment #2<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf he does not stand up to put down the unions, I would hope someone would run against him.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAnonymous Comment #3<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhy would anyone want to step in the way of progress? For the first time in forever we have 2 people at the top that really care and are genuine. Anyone that is not happy has not taken the time to review the accomplishments or the future agenda.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2645,2645,'There are several events and fundraisers coming up in the next three weeks including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nApril 11 -- Tom Leonard for State Representative Fundraiser<br />\r\nApril 18 -- Michael Trebesh for State Representative Fundraiser<br />\r\nApril 21 -- U.S. Senate Candidate Gary Glenn at MSU<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS <br />\r\nCLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(Scroll through the list of events for details of each of the upcoming events)<br />',1),(2654,2654,'CCRP Dates To Remember (Additions for April). . .<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThere are several events and fundraisers coming up in the next three weeks including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/leonard-fundraiser-120411\">April 11 -- Tom Leonard for State Representative Fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/cressman-fundraiser-120418\">April 18 --Ryan Cressman for Clinton County Sheriff Fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/kirk-fundraiser-120418\">April 18 --Kevin Kirk for State Representative Fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/trebesh-fundraiser-120418\">April 18 -- Michael Trebesh for State Representative Fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/gary-glen-msu-april-21\">April 21 -- U.S. Senate Candidate Gary Glenn at MSU</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(Scroll through the list of events for details of each of the upcoming events)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2667,2667,'<span>-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMotorcycle riders celebrated the end of the law they\'ve opposed for decades while others raised the prospect that the change will raise insurance costs and the number of injuries and fatalities.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMichigan became the 31st state to give motorcyclists the option of wearing a helmet under legislation signed by the governor Thursday.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe provisions of the law include:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n1. They can forgo a helmet if they are at least 21 years old.<br />\r\n2. They must carry at least an additional $20,000 in medical insurance.<br />\r\n3. They must have either passed a motorcycle safety course or had their motorcycle endorsement for at least two years. <br />\r\n4. Passengers also must be 21 or older to go helmetless, <br />\r\n5. There has to be an additional $20,000 in insurance for the passenger, bought either by the passenger or the motorcycle driver.<br />\r\n6. Riders can immediately go without helmets if they meet the requirements.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nGovernor Synder\'s remarks at the time of the signing were:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &quot;While many motorcyclists will continue to wear helmets, those who choose not to deserve the latitude to make their own informed judgments as long as they meet the requirements of this new law,</span><span>&quot;</span><span>.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAAA of Michigan spokeswoman Nancy Cain said the automobile club was </span><span>&quot;</span><span>extremely disappointed</span><span>&quot;</span><span> by the repeal which included the following reasons:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n1. The law will increase motorcycle fatalities and injuries.<br />\r\n2. The repeal of the motorcycle helmet law will result in at least 30 additional motorcycle fatalities each year.<br />\r\n3. The repeal will also include around 127 more incapacitating injuries and $129 million in added economic costs to Michigan residents. <br />\r\n(The analysis is based on the experience of other states where similar measures have been enacted)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nOne of the arguments for the repeal of the is that it kept riders from other states from coming to Michigan, which has meant a loss of tourist dollars.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the Governor and the Michigan Legislature have repealed the motorcycle helmet law?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-governor-and-michigan-legislature-have-repealed-motorcycle-helmet-law\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-governor-and-michigan-legislature-have-repealed-motorcycle-helmet-law</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span>&quot;</span><span> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nBased on the Constitution do you think that the Supreme Court will declare </span><span>&quot;</span><span>Obamacare</span><span>&quot;</span><span> unconstitutional?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . . 94%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . . 0%<br />\r\n&nbsp; <br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(4738,4738,'<span>----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Local officials elected officials in mid Michigan are discussing the need for mass transit in the Lansing area. Buses would travel both directions in dedicated lanes on one side of the median along Grand River Avenue in downtown East Lansing.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Motorists would travel both directions in four lanes on the other side. And when buses aren\'t present, bicyclists would use the lane, shifting to the side if a bus comes along.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; This is the vision for a new bus rapid transit line as part of a wide-ranging look at upgrading the Lansing area</span><span><span>\'</span>s bus transit system. This new vision is the direct result of a series meetings conducted recently in East Lansing. The meeting included the preliminary design plans being proposed for the Capital Area Transportation Authority line that would run from the Capitol to the Meridian Mall in Okemos.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The core components for the new line that resulted the meetings included: <br />\r\n1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dedicate the two existing lanes of eastbound traffic along Grand River Avenue in downtown East Lansing to the bus transit line. <br />\r\n2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The median would remain largely intact.<br />\r\n3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;An additional lane would be added to Grand River mostly from the south side of the avenue, allowing for four lanes of eastbound and westbound motorist traffic.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The proposal includes input from bicyclists, East Lansing business owners, residents and Michigan State University employees and students.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dover Kohl is a subcontractor of Mead &amp; Hunt, a Lansing Township architectural and engineering firm that is performing an environmental assessment of the bus rapid transit line. CATA is paying Mead &amp; Hunt $1.1 million with federal and state grants.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The estimated cost of the new line would be $195,000,000.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; This new rapid transit line is an outgrowth of a larger planning effort studying the entire 20-mile Michigan Avenue corridor from the Capitol to Webberville. The goal of this project is to improve land use, the environment and access for pedestrians and bicyclists.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Population density along the corridor and increased use of public transit also are key themes in the broader study.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A proposed bus rapid transit proposal would replace it with a bus line in some ways similar to a light-rail system. Buses would operate in designated travel lanes on Michigan and Grand River avenues, and buses could have doors on both sides for easier boarding at newly built stations.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The design firm will draft complete designs after Lansing and Meridian Township meetings, then present them to the Federal Transit Administration, which must review the project</span><span><span>\'</span>s impact on the local environment.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; After that, CATA officials say they plan to continue with further design and engineering work. <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CATA hopes to receive federal and state funding for the project and to break ground in 2016.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the Lansing area create a </span><span><span>\'</span></span><span><span><span>\'</span></span>Rapid Transit Bus line</span><span><span>\'</span></span><span><span><span>\'</span></span> between the Capitol and Okemos?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.com/content/should-lansing-area-create-%E2%80%9Crapid-transit-bus-line%E2%80%9D-between-capitol-and-okemos\">http://www.clinton-countygop.com/content/should-lansing-area-create-%E2%80%9Crapid-transit-bus-line%E2%80%9D-between-capitol-and-okemos</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on </span><span><span>\'</span></span><span><span><span>\'</span></span>Add new comment</span><span><span>\'</span></span><span><span><span>\'</span></span> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould Michigan pass a package of bills to bailout Detroit with oversight by a committee to guarantee their solvency?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes - 23%<br />\r\nNo - 77%<br />\r\nUndecided - 0% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOUR COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL:<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1<br />\r\nrobbing Peter to pay Paul !!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&quot;Broke nations are bailing out other broke nations with borrowed money !<br />\r\nUnits of government are following suit !<br />\r\nHow long before the entire system collapses ? greed, gluttony, pride all with promises of a bright future from political hacks WE elect !!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf the entire US gross domestic product is 63 trillion dollars and we supposedly owe the international bankers<br />\r\nup to 211 trillion dollars in debt how does common core math reconcile this problem ??<br />\r\nhttp://theeconomiccollapseblog.com/archives/tag/bailouts<br />\r\nFather God have mercy on our ignorance and arrogance individually and as a nation !<br />\r\nhttp://deadlysins.com/sins/gluttony.html<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIn the 1990s we warned units of government as their counsel to use San Diego as a model of what NOT to invest in<br />\r\nIE &quot;derivatives&quot; all smoke and mirrors to support pension funds ....that county collapsed its system !!<br />\r\nYou can not squeeze lemon from a rubber tire !<br />\r\nPhilip &amp; Nancy Bareham<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nCOMMENT #2<br />\r\nDetroit<br />\r\n<br />\r\nReally, they did create their own problem and it is their responsibility to pay for it. It is not the responsibility of the rest of the state. Yes, they may have to sell some valuable artwork - - maybe just one piece. Aww. And/or sell the water system or real estate. That\'s the breaks.Yes, they need to move to defined contribution pensions as soon as possible - - but, be careful about this when new labor contracts are entered into - - recall how the unions extended existing contracts for a long time in order to avoid Right to Work. Yes, there needs to be a Commission as described to monitor much of Detroit\'s fiscal behavior in the next 20 years minimum. (There is always a huge City of Detroit scandal every 20 years, so it might be good for a Commission to run longer with the intention of trying to change that scandal culture so that those accustomed to it will die off and the younger replacements might not be trained in it. Who knows.) I don\'t recall whether the description of the Commission included appointments to the Pension Board(s) and Commission monitoring of the pension systems - - that has been a real corrupt cess pool and that needs to happen. I\'m nervous about the concept that the Commission would not be active during periods of &quot;fiscal health&quot; in Detroit This is a problem. First, accountants can make anything seem like it meets some terms and second, a new &quot;Granholm&quot; as Governor would automatically define anything as &quot;fiscal health&quot; to play games with Detroit, so I think it\'s a bad and risky idea that should be scrapped. Finally, obviously the discussion of an amount of a bail out is a buy in to get the extended Commission. Ok. Get to a number that is really low. $1 million.and no more. A million is enough to sound serious and not insulting to Detroiters and not so high that it insults the rest of us. $195 Million is still a huge insult to the rest of us.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #3<br />\r\nDetriot Bailout<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCreating a &quot;Nanny&quot; to oversea Detroit is a non winner for both the State and Detroit. Detroit needs to admit to itself that they had ample forewarning and chose to ignore the advice. There already exists a &quot;plantation&quot; mentality by both the citizens and the government official in the city and bailing them out does nothing for force them to learn from these mistakes and cultivate responsible management of their government.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nCOMMENT #4<br />\r\nDetroit Bailout<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI do agree with changing the pension system to a 401K and having a committee to oversee their finances does make sense. But with any bankruptcy assets need to be sold if possible. I think that some of the artwork could be sold. Why should the entire state pay for Detroit\'s mistakes?<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n------------------------------------ <br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2668,2668,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Do you want to make a difference and elect responsible people to represent us in Clinton County, Lansing, and Washington?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAre you tired of the federal government telling us how we should live our lives and redistributing OUR TAX DOLLARS we send to Washington in ways we don\'t agree with?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIn 2012 we MUST elect people who will represent US.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYou can help by becoming a Clinton County Precinct Delegate!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nClick on this link to get more information on how to become a precinct delegate in Clinton County.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(2669,2669,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">Do you want to make a difference and elect responsible people to represent us in Clinton County, Lansing, and Washington?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAre you tired of the federal government telling us how we should live our lives and redistributing OUR TAX DOLLARS we send to Washington in ways we don\'t agree with?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIn 2012 we MUST elect people who will represent US.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYou can help by becoming a Clinton County Precinct Delegate!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nClick on this link to get more information on how to become a precinct delegate in Clinton County.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span><a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate</span></a><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><br />\r\n</span>',1),(2676,2676,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Michigan Senate Finance Committee recently held its first hearing on a 8 bill package that would phase out the personal property tax (PPT) for industrial properties and provide an exemption for small commercial properties. The collected tax monies from these taxes currently goes to various Michigan municipalities.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAt the public hearing Michigan municipalities urged the Senators to protect their revenues in the Michigan Constitution before cutting taxes imposed on commercial and industrial equipment.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n1. The bills would ultimately eliminate approximately $470 million from the total $1.2 billion collected from the tax each year.<br />\r\n2. The Senate Fiscal Agency said the figure would be about $840 million by 2023 because the taxes imposed on industrial equipment, furniture and other fixtures would be phased out until it\'s completely eliminated by 2021.<br />\r\n3. The legislation calls for the creation of a fund to reimburse local taxing authorities for a portion of the lost revenue. <br />\r\n4. The plan calls for replacing about 81 percent of the lost revenue with funds freed up by the expiration of business tax credits. It was unclear where the remainder would come from.<br />\r\n5. There are several unknowns, including how the money would be disbursed and under what conditions, as well as how much the legislature decides to appropriate to the fund.<br />\r\n6. The Michigan Municipal League and Michigan Association of Counties requested a constitutional amendment to protect the revenue replacement, a move that Lt. Gov. Brian Calley and other bill supporters have opposed.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the Michigan Legislature pass legislation that would eliminate the Personal Property Tax on businesses?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-legislature-pass-legislation-would-eliminate-personal-property-tax-businesse\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-legislature-pass-legislation-would-eliminate-personal-property-tax-businesse</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nShould the Governor and the Michigan Legislature have repealed the motorcycle helmet law?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . 31%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . 62%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . .7%&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\n<br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIt\'s crazy to say we have to wear seat belts in cars, but no helmets on motorcycles. And it</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">s against the law to jump off a pier into lake Michigan.<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2680,2680,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">You can now view the 2012 CCRP Lincoln Day Dinner and Reception photos online by clicking on the following link to our website:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2012-ldd-congressman-camp\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2012-ldd-congressman-camp</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2686,2686,'-------------------------------------<br />\r\nTHE ENEMY WITHIN<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/destruction-republic\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/destruction-republic</a><br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nOBAMA VOTERS TALK ABOUT CANDIDATES<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/obama-voters-show-what-they-know\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/obama-voters-show-what-they-know</a><br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\nBECOME A PRECINCT DELEGATE IN 2012<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate</a><br />\r\n--------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYOU DETERMINE OUR COUNTRY&rsquo;S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\"> http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2690,2690,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nIt\'s a sad fact -- but voters in general are uninformed and more often than not don</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">t know who the candidates are in many instances let alone where they stand on the issues.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nVoters are too often influenced by political commercials full of half truths and in many cases outright lies but they still believe them because they don&rsquo;t know any better.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTerm limits have been on the books for 20 years now and many are questioning whether it was a bad decision on the part of the electorate.<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the term limit law in Michigan be repealed?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-term-limit-law-michigan-be-repealed<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the Michigan Legislature pass legislation that would eliminate the Personal Property Tax on businesses?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . 75%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . .&nbsp; 16% <br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . 9%<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2695,2695,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">The Clinton County Republican Party (CCRP) will be hosting a debate between the candidates for the 93rd House District seat to represent all of Clinton County and the southern portion of Gratiot County beginning in 2013.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe CCRP wishes to solicit input from the voters of the district regarding concerns and issues of importance to all of us. To that end we are asking that you submit questions you would like us to ask the candidates as part of the debate.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTo submit a question just click on the following link and fill out the webform and then click the &quot;SUBMIT</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> button.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/93rdhousedebate\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/93rdhousedebate</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe CCRP debate committee will review the submitted questions to determine what questions will be used for the debate. The CCRP reserves the right to alter/edit the questions for clarity and content.</span><br />',1),(2699,2699,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">There are several events and a fundraiser coming up this month including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 3 -- CCRP&nbsp; County Convention &amp; Executive Committee Meeting<br />\r\nMay 10 -- Tom Leonard for State Representative Fundraiser in DeWitt.<br />\r\nMay 18 - 19 -- Republican State Convention at Cobo in Detroit<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2704,2704,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">There are several events and fundraisers coming up this month including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE ASSOCIATED LINKS<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 2 -- Meet with Congressman Camp at the St. Johns Big Boy<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-2-congressman-camp-st-johns\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-2-congressman-camp-st-johns</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 3 -- CCRP&nbsp; County Convention &amp; Executive Committee Meeting<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-3-2012-ccrp-county-convention\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-3-2012-ccrp-county-convention</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 9 -- Ryan Cressman for Clinton County Sheriff Fundraiser.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-9-cressman-sheriff-fundraiser\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-9-cressman-sheriff-fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 10 -- Tom Leonard for State Representative Fundraiser in DeWitt.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-10-2012-tom-leonard-fundraiser-dewitt\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-10-2012-tom-leonard-fundraiser-dewitt</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 18 - 19 -- Republican State Convention at Cobo in Detroit<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-18-19-2012-state-convention\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-18-19-2012-state-convention</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2715,2715,'<span style=\"font-size: large;\">----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Michigan House is considering the authorization of Michigan&rsquo;s first privately-run prison for adult inmates.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHouse Bill 5174 would allow the Michigan Department of Corrections to house prisoners in privately operated prisons. The proposed legislation also includes a requirement that the private prisons would have to save 10 percent in costs to qualify.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLabor unions are opposed to the proposed legislation and want to preserve state prison jobs. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe legislation originally specified the Department of Corrections contract private prison services with the owners of a former juvenile correctional facility in Baldwin.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe bill remains bogged down in the Michigan House where the GOP enjoys a 63-47 majority and only 56 &quot;yes</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> votes are needed for passage where some republican legislators that have prisons in their districts are reluctant to vote for passage.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMichigan corrections officers unions and the United Auto Workers are active in those prison districts and also at the capitol. A union tent was on the capitol lawn the day the prison privatization vote was supposed to take place.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nA more expensive state-operated prison likely would be closed and replaced by the privately owned North Lake Correctional Facility in Baldwin if the bill is enacted. Some observers argue that this appears to be one of the strongest trumps the unions are using to keep the bill penned up.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the Michigan legislature passed legislation that would allow for the privatization of Michigan Prisons?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-legislature-pass-legislation-would-allow-privatization-michigan-prisons<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on </span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nShould the term limit law in Michigan be repealed?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . 48%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . . 50% <br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . 3% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHREE COMMENTS WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------<br />\r\nComment #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe already have term limits. . . it\'s called VOTING!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------<br />\r\nComment #2<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI agree. We have term limits called the voting booth. Why loose quallity leaders based on limits. We need the best people in office this would insure that we keep the best and vote out the worst.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------<br />\r\nComment #3<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe problem is that the majority of voters don</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">t have a clue about their legislator unless it affects the pocketbook. They don\'t know what their record is on issues is and they vote on name recognition when they get in the voting booth.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe election laws should be modified to require that the voter at least knows who the candidates are when they go to the polls. I know, there is a law against that. However the result is that we have people electing their legislators that don\'t know anything about them. Voting is a RIGHT it should have a corresponding RESPONSIBILITY!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTERM LIMITS SHOULD BE REPEALED!<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2716,2716,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">There are several events and fundraisers coming up this week and later this month including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE ASSOCIATED LINKS<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 9 -- Ryan Cressman for Clinton County Sheriff Fundraiser.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-9-cressman-sheriff-fundraiser\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-9-cressman-sheriff-fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 10 -- Tom Leonard for State Representative Fundraiser in DeWitt.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-10-2012-tom-leonard-fundraiser-dewitt\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-10-2012-tom-leonard-fundraiser-dewitt</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 18 - 19 -- Republican State Convention at Cobo in Detroit<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-18-19-2012-state-convention\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-18-19-2012-state-convention</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 23 -- Michael Trebesh for State Representative Fundraiser in Ithaca.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-23-2012-trebesh-fundraiser\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-23-2012-trebesh-fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 24 -- Kevin Kirk for State Representative Fundraiser in St. Johns.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-24-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-24-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2718,2718,'May 8 -- Mitt Romney in Lansing at LCC on May 8 at NOON..<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-8-2012-romney-coming-lansing\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-8-2012-romney-coming-lansing</a><br />',1),(2725,2725,'<span>-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The USPS is losing up to $25 million dollars a day. Until now, taxpayers have not been on the hook for its mounting losses. A bailout recently approved by the Senate would appropriate $34 billion in federal money.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Congress shares much of the blame. For years, the Postal Service begged Washington for the freedom to cut its own budget by closing post offices and cutting employees. But Congress, under pressure from rural constituents and labor unions, prevented the cuts.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In December, the USPS said it wanted to close more than half of its mail processing centers, eliminate 28,000 jobs, end overnight delivery of first-class mail, close 3,700 local post offices and end Saturday delivery.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Senate said no, prohibiting the Postmaster General from taking those actions altogether, or delaying them for two to three years.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For the time being, the Postal Service has a moratorium on office closings -- but that moratorium expires on May 15. <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The service is now caught between competing interests. On one side, the desire to fix the budget and stop the financial bleeding. On the other, the desire to spare small towns across America from losing their local post offices, even if they aren\'t making money. <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Postal Service has identified 3,700 post offices for possible closure. <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Both the House and Senate plans would curtail the Postal Service\'s ability to close those offices, though the Senate-passed measure is far more restrictive than the one being floated in the House. <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A competing House bill allows the postmaster to cut services, close offices, raise fees and force existing postal employees to pay for their own retirement. The bill faces some Democratic opposition and has yet to reach the House floor for a vote.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Unless the House and Senate compromise, the USPS could announce post office closings next week.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nREGARDLESS OF WHERE YOU STAND ON THE ISSUE CALL YOUR CONGRESSMAN OR U.S. SENATOR AND LET THEM KNOW WHERE YOU STAND ON THE BAILOUT!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSenator Stabenow\'s Office: (202) 224-4822<br />\r\nSenator Levin</span><span>\'</span><span>s Office: (202) 224-6221<br />\r\nCongressman Camp</span><span>\'</span><span>s Office: (202) 225-3561<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the U.S. Congress pass legislation to bailout the U.S. Postal Service?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-us-congress-pass-legislation-bailout-us-postal-service\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-us-congress-pass-legislation-bailout-us-postal-service</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span>&quot;</span><span> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the Michigan legislature pass legislation that would allow for the privatization of Michigan Prisons?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . 53%<br />\r\nNo. . . . . . . . . . .43%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . 3% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nTWO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1<br />\r\nPrivatizing the Prisons<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMy husband is a prison guard, and yes I want him to keep his job. If you want to pay them $10./hr, that\'s exactly the kind of people you will get. There are some jobs best left to professionals and corrections is one of them.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------<br />\r\nCOMMENT #2<br />\r\nprivatization in state prisons<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI worked on this issue extensively nationwide during the 1990s and IF the bias of entrenched unions AND entrenched state officials who are &quot;preservationists</span><span>&quot;</span><span> for the status quo can be addressed AS well as privatized corrections company/ integrity THEN privatization WILL work!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJust like the DRIC bridge subject. GOVERNMENT ALWAYS WANTS MORE CONTROL!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMichigan had an $800,000,000 budget for corrections when I first began working on that budget; corrections spending has grown 538% in the last 34 years ! In 2008 it was $2 billion + bucks annually ! 2012 ..yikes !<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting new results !!!! We must be innovative !!!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAlternative sentencing and community corrections has NOT reached its potential in Michigan !! PA 511 is under utilized !<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3842,3842,'<span style=\"font-size: large;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nGovernor Rick Snyder is demanding that the Senate put off their summer vacation plans and hold a vote on Medicaid Expansion.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSenate Majority Leader Randy Richardville invoked the unwritten rule that if a majority of your caucus is not in favor of a piece of legislation then you won\'t bring it up for a vote before the whole Senate. It was clear to Senator Richardville that the majority were not in favor of the Expansion of Medicaid that the Governor was calling for.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSenate Democrats had a guaranteed 12 votes (ALL OF THE DEMOCRATS) for passage, meaning that the House-approved proposal could have passed the Senate with support from as few as 8 of 26 Republican members. <br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span>We\'re talking about huge money, we</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span></span>re talking about huge implications,</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> &quot;</span> Richardville explained. </span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span>We have 12 Democrats -- I think 13 Republicans is a reasonable amount to request on something like this.</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;<br />\r\n</span></span><br />\r\nGovernor Snyder cut short his trade mission to Israel to come back to Lansing to lobby for Medicaid expansion on Thursday and criticized Senate Republicans explaining that he had personally asked Senator Richardville to take a vote and set aside the majority-majority rule.<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the Michigan Senate return and hold a vote on the passage of Medicaid Expansion the Governor is demanding?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-senate-return-and-hold-vote-passage-medicaid-expansion-governor-demanding\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-senate-return-and-hold-vote-passage-medicaid-expansion-governor-demanding</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on </span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span>Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould Congress remove non-farm related appropriations from the &quot;Farm Bill</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span> by creating a </span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span>Farm Only</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span> bill?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes - 92%<br />\r\nNO - 5 %<br />\r\nUndecided - 3% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFarm Bill<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHow about getting rid of the all the subsidies. Sugar and corn are destroying the health of the nation. Remember the more you subsidize something the more you get of it.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2730,2730,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Do you want to make a difference? We need people who are willing to help us ELECT people who represent US at all levels of government.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nA great way to do that is to become a Clinton County Precinct Delegate in 2012. It\'s easy and you can make a difference.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTo find out more about being a precinct delegate and to download a form click on the link below. The filing date is May 15, 2012 at 4:00 p.m.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/becoming-clinton-county-precinct-delegate</a></span><br />',1),(2736,2736,'<span style=\"font-size: large;\">Read &quot;THE GREAT DIVIDER</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> BLOG<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/great-divider-0\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/great-divider-0</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nPOLL: Candidate to run against incumbent in 24th Senate Primary in 2014<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nFor the last 10 years Clinton County has been part of the 33rd Michigan Senate District. Because of redistricting beginning in 2015 we will no longer be part of the 33rd State Senate District but we will become part of the 24th Senate District that is currently represented by Senator Rick Jones of Grand Ledge.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe 24th Senate District currently is made up of three counties (Eaton, Barry and Allegan). The new 24th Senate District is made of three counties and part of a fourth (Eaton, Clinton, Shiawassee and the four northeastern townships in Ingham County - Williamstown, Locke, Leroy &amp; Wheatfield).<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe new 24th Senate District has a new voter base that is comprised approximately of 75% new voters for Senator Jones. Senator Jones will be the &quot;Incumbent</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> for the district if he decides to run for a second term in 2014.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIn view of the fact that the composition of the new district has drastically changed the voter base should other potential candidates in the new district oppose Senator Jones in the 2014 republican primary election?<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould other potential primary candidates run against Senator Rick Jones in the 2014 24th district primary election?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-other-potential-primary-candidates-run-against-senator-rick-jones-2014-24th-district-\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-other-potential-primary-candidates-run-against-senator-rick-jones-2014-24th-district-</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the U.S. Congress pass legislation to bailout the U.S. Postal Service?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . 21%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . .67%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . 13% <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2737,2737,'<span>There are several events and fundraisers coming up this week and later month including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE ASSOCIATED LINKS<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 18 - 19 -- Republican State Convention at Cobo in Detroit<br />\r\n</span><a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-21-2012-tom-leonard-fundraiser-bath-township\"><span>http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-21-2012-tom-leonard-fundraiser-bath-township</span></a><span><br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 21 -- Tom Leonard for State Representative Fundraiser in Bath Township.<br />\r\n</span><a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-23-2012-trebesh-fundraiser\"><span>http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-23-2012-trebesh-fundraiser</span></a><span><br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 23 -- Michael Trebesh for State Representative Fundraiser in Ithaca.<br />\r\n</span><a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-23-2012-trebesh-fundraiser\"><span>http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-23-2012-trebesh-fundraiser</span></a><span><br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 24 -- Kevin Kirk for State Representative Fundraiser in St. Johns.<br />\r\n</span><a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-24-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser\"><span>http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-24-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser</span></a><span><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n</span><a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\"><span>http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</span></a><span><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2738,2738,'There are several events and fundraisers coming up this week and later month including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE ASSOCIATED LINKS<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 21 -- Tom Leonard for State Representative Fundraiser in Bath Township.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-21-2012-tom-leonard-fundraiser-bath-township\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-21-2012-tom-leonard-fundraiser-bath-township</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 23 -- Michael Trebesh for State Representative Fundraiser in Ithaca.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-23-2012-trebesh-fundraiser\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-23-2012-trebesh-fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 24 -- Kevin Kirk for State Representative Fundraiser in St. Johns.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-24-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-24-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2750,2750,'<span style=\"font-size: large;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nThe Republican led legislature and Governor Snyder were seeking to change the rules regarding when public school employee retirees could receive state covered health care benefits. part of their proposal was that a retiree could not receive the health care benefit if they retired before the age of 60. Teachers as young as in their 40s were outraged that they wouldn\'t be able to have the health retirement benefit if they retired before the age of 60.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSenate Bill 1040 still would require most school employees to put more than 10 percent of their paychecks toward retirement costs next school year. GOP leaders decided the age limit for retiree health care would have hurt teachers who already have retired or are near retirement and planned to get coverage.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSenate Republicans would like to get the bill through the Legislature and on Snyder</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">s desk before lawmakers leave in late June.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMost teachers hired before June 30, 2008, will continue to qualify for full health care coverage in retirement once they</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">ve taught for 10 years. Teachers hired after that qualify to have 30 percent of their retiree health care premiums covered once they</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">ve served 10 years, then earn 3 percent more coverage for each additional year, up to a limit of 80 percent.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nEmployees hired after July 1 wouldn\'t be offered health care in retirement. Instead, the state would give them 2 percent of their pay to invest in a 401(k) or similar program to cover retirement health costs. The bill also would require all retired school employees who have health care coverage to pay 20 percent of their premiums, up from 10 percent now.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nRetiree health care benefits make up the bulk of the $45 million in unfunded school employee liabilities.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe legislation</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">s supporters say a quarter of school districts</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> payroll costs currently are needed to cover pension costs, an amount that will climb 3 percentage points next school year if nothing is done.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Coalition for Secure Retirement-Michigan has said the state constitution guarantees the state has to live up to pension promises, and a lawsuit challenging the changes is likely if the measure passes.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould teachers who retire after 10 years receive paid health care benefits or other compensation if they retire early?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-teachers-who-retire-after-10-years-receive-paid-health-care-benefits-or-other-compens<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould other potential primary candidates run against Senator Rick Jones in the 2014 24th district primary election?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . 38%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . .61%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . 1% <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\nTHREE COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT 1:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nRep. Opsommer, <br />\r\n<br />\r\nI hope you read this! We the people of Michigan need YOU in the Senate! Please run against Sen. Jones in 2014, I, and many others would be dedicated to helping YOU get elected!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSo, yes! Other candidates NEED to run against Sen. Jones! That\'s the glory of our political process. WE the people make the decisions. Not the Establishment Fat Cats.<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nCOMMENT 2:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSenator Jones is doing a good job.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJones is doing a good job. He just supported an end to the Business Personal Property Tax. When that is gone we will have more jobs. He also is endorsed by Michigan Right To Life and is &quot;A plus</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> on the NRA scale.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT 3:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPaul Opsommer would be a great choice.<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2762,2762,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">There are several events and fundraisers coming up next week including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE ASSOCIATED LINKS<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 21 -- Tom Leonard for State Representative Fundraiser in Bath Township.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-21-2012-tom-leonard-fundraiser-bath-township\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-21-2012-tom-leonard-fundraiser-bath-township</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 23 -- Michael Trebesh for State Representative Fundraiser in Ithaca.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-23-2012-trebesh-fundraiser\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-23-2012-trebesh-fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nMay 24 -- Kevin Kirk for State Representative Fundraiser in St. Johns.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-24-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/may-24-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2764,2764,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nA coalition of pro union organizations is promoting the &quot;Protect Our Jobs</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> ballot proposal which seeks to amend the Michigan Constitution on this falls November ballot to: <br />\r\n<br />\r\n1.&nbsp;&nbsp; Create a new right to collective bargaining.<br />\r\n2.&nbsp;&nbsp; Retroactively repeal dozens of cost-saving reform measures that already have been enacted.<br />\r\n3.&nbsp;&nbsp; Ban right-to-work legislation before such bills have even been introduced in the legislature making right-to-work laws unconstitutional.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThis proposal is spearheaded by government employee unions and is opposed by the Michigan Chamber of Commerce.<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould voters approve the </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Protect Our Jobs</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> ballot proposal in the November election?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-voters-approve-%E2%80%9Cprotect-our-jobs%E2%80%9D-ballot-proposal-november-election<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould teachers who retire after 10 years receive paid health care benefits or other compensation if they retire early?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . 14%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . .67%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . .19%<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI can\'t believe that any reasonable person would think that we should have this tremendous liablity for our schools and children after someone works only ten years and wants to retire before they are 60 or better yet 62 years old! Check out what is happening in GREECE!<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2772,2772,'<span style=\"font-size: large;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nState lawmakers are considering a work share bill that supporters say should help prevent layoffs.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nA bill was introduced this month to allow work sharing, where employers facing potential layoffs could instead decrease worker\'s hours and let employees collect unemployment benefits to make up part of the lost wages.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWork sharing programs have been used in 23 U.S. states as a way to minimize pink slips and maintain a skilled workforce, making it easier to adapt when demand improves.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nGov. Rick Snyder called for work share legislation last December in a speech about developing and connecting Michigan\'s talent.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPresident Barack Obama also has backed the idea. The payroll tax cut extension bill he signed in February contained funding to maintain work share programs in 23 states and create programs in others.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSPECIFICS OF THE BILL ARE:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAn employer decides that instead of laying off workers, it will cut employees\' hours from 40 to 30 hours a week, representing a 25 percent reduction in hours. If the employer meets all the criteria set out in the bill, its workers could receive 25 percent of what they would normally receive in unemployment benefits had they been laid off.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nEmployers that are up-to-date on their unemployment taxes could only use the program once for a maximum of one year. They couldn\'t lay off any employees in the affected department during the duration of the plan, which could end up lasting fewer than 52 weeks.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAn argument against the policy is that it\'s better to let jobs shift and encourage entrepreneurialism and investment in growing sectors of the economy.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the Michigan Legislature pass &quot;Work Share</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> legislation?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-legislature-pass-%E2%80%9Cwork-share%E2%80%9D-legislation<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on </span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould voters approve the </span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Protect Our Jobs</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> ballot proposal in the November election?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYES . . . . . . . . . . 6%<br />\r\nNO . . . . . . . . . .91%<br />\r\nUNDECIDED . . . . .3% <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI have never figured out how to vote in these questionnaires.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nBut on this one, my vote would be </span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">not just no, but hell no!</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><br />\r\n<span style=\"font-size: large;\"><br />\r\nWhat the real problem is how this stuff is presented to voters. There<br />\r\nwill be a huge need to educate people succinctly on the real problems<br />\r\npassage would create.<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2775,2775,'<span style=\"font-size: large;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nPetitions are being circulated for a proposal to require a higher renewable energy mandate by 2025.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Michigan Jobs Initiative wants to put the proposal on the Nov. 6 statewide ballot. I<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nIf enacted, the proposal would require that 25 percent of Michigan\'s energy come from renewable sources such as wind, solar and biomass by 2025.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nUnder current Michigan law 10 percent of Michigan</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">s energy is supposed to come from renewable sources by 2015.<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould voters approve a ballot proposal to require utilities to generate 25% of their energy from renewable energy by 2025?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-voters-approve-ballot-proposal-require-utilities-generate-25-their-energy-renewable-e<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on </span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the Michigan Legislature pass </span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Work Share</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> legislation?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYES . . . . . . . . . . 53%<br />\r\nNO . . . . . . . . . . .42%<br />\r\nUNDECIDED . . . . . 5%<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2780,2780,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">This coming Saturday the 2nd of June the State Republican Party will be hosting their first ever Super Door Saturday at the Michigan Republican Party headquarters. They would like to have everyone that is interested in going out door knocking or making phone calls to meet here around 10:00 am, send everyone out to their respective spots around the area and around 1 PM volunteers come back to the victory center for lunch and a little recharge before everyone goes back out. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf you are interested in helping out, become involved in reaching Michigan\'s voters who will vote for our candidates in the upcoming elections:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTo help us make a difference come to the Michigan Republican Party Lansing Victory Center at 520 N. Seymour Ave in Lansing at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday June 2.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2787,2787,'\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------\r\n----------------------------\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:\r\n----------------------------\r\nThe Michigan PROTECT OUR JOBS Amendment may be on the November 6, 2012 statewide ballot in Michigan as an initiated constitutional amendment. The initiative would add the right to collective bargaining for public and private sector employees to the state Constitution.\r\n\r\nOrganizers supporting the initiative have formed a campaign coalition called Protect Our Jobs with the purpose of collecting signatures for the amendment.\r\n\r\nThe following groups have been reported as supporters of the Protect Our Jobs campaign.\r\n\r\n    Michigan UAW, Michigan Education Association, We Are The People – Michigan, Michigan Nurses Association, Lecturers’ Employee Organization, Michigan branch of the American Federation of Teachers, Michigan AFL-CIO, Michigan State Utility Workers Council, National Education Association, Progress Michigan, and Michigan Democratic Party \r\n\r\nOpposition\r\n\r\n    Michigan Governor Rick Snyder has come out against the ballot measure, asking that supporters back off on their petition drive. However, Gov. Snyder has also discouraged his own party from pursuing RIGHT TO WORK legislation. He believes that both RIGHT TO WORK bill and the initiatives that would prevent them are too divisive, saying, in March, that, (My concern is that could start a whole divisive atmosphere of other people trying to put right-to-work on the ballot, a whole bunch of things like that, and that would distract from the good things we\'ve got going on.)\r\n\r\n    Proponents of RIGHT TO WORK legislation, called the initiative a, union-boss ballot initiative that would be horrible for businesses.\r\n\r\n----------------------------\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:\r\n----------------------------\r\nShould voters approve the PROTECT OUR JOBS constitutional amendment in November?\r\n\r\nYes\r\nNo\r\nUndecided\r\n\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-voters-approve-“protect-our-jobs”-constitutional-amendment-november\r\n\r\n(To enter your comments click on ADD NEW COMMENT after you vote.)\r\n\r\n-----------------------------------\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:\r\n-----------------------------------\r\n\r\nShould voters approve a ballot proposal to require utilities to generate 25% of their energy from renewable energy by 2025?\r\n\r\nYES . . . . . . . . . . .  10%\r\nNO . . . . . . . . . . . . 80%\r\nUNDECIDED . . . 10%\r\n   \r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:\r\n---------------------------------\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n',1),(2791,2791,'There are several events and fundraisers coming up in the next few weeks including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE ASSOCIATED LINKS<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 13 -- Michael Trebesh for State Representative Fundraiser at Motz County Park.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-13-2012-trebesh-fundraiser\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-13-2012-trebesh-fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 21 -- CCRP Monthly Executive Committee Meeting in DeWitt.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-21-2012-ccrp-executive-committee-meeting\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-21-2012-ccrp-executive-committee-meeting</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2801,2801,'<span style=\"font-size: small;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nRep. Geiss (D) has introduced a bill in the Michigan House to impose a 1-cent per bag on plastic bags used when you make a purchase at retail establishments. The details of the proposed bill included:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 1.&nbsp; The retail seller will add the amount of the bag tax to the total price of the goods or services.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 2. The fee (Tax) shall be stated separately on the sales receipt.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 3. The retail seller will collect the fees imposed by this section from the consumer. <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 4. The retailer will remit the collected fees quarterly to the state.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 5. The retail will keep a record of the total number of plastic bags and the number of plastic bags exempt and report these numbers to the state.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 6. The money collected will be deposited into the environmental protection fund created to support household recycling and litter cleanup in this state.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the Michigan legislature pass a &quot;Plastic Bag Tax<span>&quot;</span><span>?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-legislature-pass-%E2%80%9Cplastic-bag-tax%E2%80%9D\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-legislature-pass-%E2%80%9Cplastic-bag-tax%E2%80%9D</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on </span><span>&quot;</span><span>Add new comment</span><span>&quot;</span><span> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould voters approve the </span><span>&quot;</span><span>Protect Our Jobs</span><span>&quot;</span><span> constitutional amendment in November?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . 4%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . 96%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . 0% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span></span>',1),(2804,2804,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">There are several events and fundraisers coming up in the next month including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE ASSOCIATED LINKS<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHIS WEEK&rsquo;S FUNDRAISERS:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 13 -- Michael Trebesh for State Representative Fundraiser at Motz County Park.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-13-2012-trebesh-fundraiser\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-13-2012-trebesh-fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 13 -- Ryan Cressman for Sheriff Fundraiser at Cork &amp; Bottle in DeWitt.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-13-cressman-sheriff-fundraiser\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-13-cressman-sheriff-fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW --June 13 -- Kevin Kirk for State Representative at Fields Golf Course in Ithaca.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-13-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-13-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW --&nbsp; June 18 -- 4th Congressional Breakfast with Governor Snyder in Mt. Pleasant.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-18-2012-4th-congressional-breakfast-governor-snyder\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-18-2012-4th-congressional-breakfast-governor-snyder</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nOTHER JUNE MEETINGS &amp; EVENTS:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 21 -- CCRP Monthly Executive Committee Meeting in DeWitt.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-21-2012-ccrp-executive-committee-meeting\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-21-2012-ccrp-executive-committee-meeting</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJULY DATES TO REMEMBER:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 19 -- 93rd House District Debate Hosted by the CCRP.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/93rd-district-debate\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/93rd-district-debate</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 26 -- CCRP Annual Summer BBQ in BATH TOWNSHIP.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2803,2803,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">There are several events and fundraisers coming up in the next month including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE ASSOCIATED LINKS<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHIS WEEK&rsquo;S FUNDRAISERS:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 13 -- Michael Trebesh for State Representative Fundraiser at Motz County Park.<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-13-2012-trebesh-fundraiser<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 13 -- Ryan Cressman for Sheriff Fundraiser at Cork &amp; Bottle in DeWitt.<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-13-cressman-sheriff-fundraiser<br />\r\n<br />\r\nOTHER JUNE MEETINGS &amp; EVENTS:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 21 -- CCRP Monthly Executive Committee Meeting in DeWitt.<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-21-2012-ccrp-executive-committee-meeting<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJULY DATES TO REMEMBER:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 19 -- 93rd House District Debate Hosted by the CCRP.<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/93rd-district-debate<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 26 -- CCRP Annual Summer BBQ in BATH TOWNSHIP.<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2812,2812,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">There are several events and fundraisers coming up in the next month including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE ASSOCIATED LINKS<br />\r\n<br />\r\nUPCOMING FUNDRAISERS:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 13 -- Michael Trebesh for State Representative Fundraiser at Motz County Park.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-13-2012-trebesh-fundraiser\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-13-2012-trebesh-fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 13 -- Ryan Cressman for Sheriff Fundraiser at Cork &amp; Bottle in DeWitt.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-13-cressman-sheriff-fundraiser\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-13-cressman-sheriff-fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 13 -- Kevin Kirk for State Representative at Fields Golf Course in Ithaca.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-13-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-13-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 18 -- 4th Congressional Breakfast with Governor Snyder in Mt. Pleasant.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-18-2012-4th-congressional-breakfast-governor-snyder\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-18-2012-4th-congressional-breakfast-governor-snyder</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW --&nbsp; June 27-- Kevin Kirk for State Representative at Tom &amp; Marilyn Irrer&rsquo;s Mint Still in St. Johns.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-27-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser-st-johns\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-27-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser-st-johns</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW --&nbsp; June 28-- Pete Hoekstra for U.S. Senate at Paul &amp; Barb Opsommer&rsquo;s Home Still in Dewitt..<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-28-2012-pete-hoekstra-us-senate-fundraiser-dewitt\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-28-2012-pete-hoekstra-us-senate-fundraiser-dewitt</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nOTHER JUNE MEETINGS &amp; EVENTS:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW -- June 19 -- MITT ROMNEY TO BE&nbsp; IN DEWITT.<br />\r\nDetails to come.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 21 -- CCRP Monthly Executive Committee Meeting in DeWitt.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-21-2012-ccrp-executive-committee-meeting\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-21-2012-ccrp-executive-committee-meeting</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJULY DATES TO REMEMBER:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 19 -- 93rd House District Debate Hosted by the CCRP.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/93rd-district-debate\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/93rd-district-debate</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 26 -- CCRP Annual Summer BBQ in BATH TOWNSHIP.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2816,2816,'<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">-----------------------------------------------------------------</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">YOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">LET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">-----------------------------------------------------------------</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">----------------------------</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">NEW POLL QUESTION:</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">----------------------------</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">Are you in favor of the Governor going ahead and approving the building of the bridge to Canada without legislative approval?</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">Yes</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">No</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">Undecided</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; color: #aa0000; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; color: #aa0000\">TO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; color: #aa0000\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/are-you-favor-governor-going-ahead-and-approving-building-bridge-canada-without-legislative-</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment&quot;&nbsp;after you vote.)</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">-----------------------------------</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">PREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">-----------------------------------</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">Should the Michigan legislature pass a&nbsp;&quot;Plastic Bag Tax&quot;?</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">Yes . . . . . . . . . . 10%</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">No . . . . . . . . . . . 90%</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">Undecided . . . . . . 0%&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">FOUR COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">COMMENT #1:</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">THE INTENTION OF THE PROPOSAL [MAY] BE OF MERIT !</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">HOWEVER THE THE ROAD TO TYRANNY IS PAVED WITH&nbsp;&quot;GOOD INTENTIONS&quot;!</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">THE UNDERLYING QUESTION IS&nbsp;&quot;WHAT ARE WE GOING TO DO ABOUT MICHIGANS DEFICIT AND &quot;UNFUNDED LIABILITIES&quot;?</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO CONFIRM IF THAT FISCAL BUDGET NUMBER IS CLOSE TO 125 BILLION DOLLARS !</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">ON THE BACKS OF MICHIGAN TAXPAYERS !!! STUNNING !</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">PHILIP BAREHAM</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">COMMENT #2:</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">I suppose the next tax will be based on the number of toilet paper squares we use in public restrooms....</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">COMMENT #3:</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">I think the legislators must lay awake nights just coming up with new ways to take more of our money.(what they haven\'t already taken, that is.) Pretty soon it will be how much did you make, send it in!!!!!!!!</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">We need to get rid of these tax and spend liberals in both parties!!!!!!!!!</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">Ida Salisbury</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">COMMENT #4:</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">What an incredible burden of record keeping for retailers! Politicians need to quit abusing the business owners who actually create jobs! They need to clean up the abuses in their own house!</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva; min-height: 16.0px\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Geneva\">---------------------------------</p>\r\n<br class=\"Apple-interchange-newline\" />',1),(2822,2822,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">There are several events and fundraisers coming up in the next month including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE ASSOCIATED LINKS<br />\r\n<br />\r\nUPCOMING FUNDRAISERS:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 18 -- 4th Congressional Breakfast with Governor Snyder in Mt. Pleasant.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-18-2012-4th-congressional-breakfast-governor-snyder\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-18-2012-4th-congressional-breakfast-governor-snyder</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 27-- Kevin Kirk for State Representative at Tom &amp; Marilyn Irrer&rsquo;s Mint Still in St. Johns.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-27-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser-st-johns\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-27-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser-st-johns</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 28-- Pete Hoekstra for U.S. Senate at Paul &amp; Barb Opsommer&rsquo;s Home Still in Dewitt.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-28-2012-pete-hoekstra-us-senate-fundraiser-dewitt\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-28-2012-pete-hoekstra-us-senate-fundraiser-dewitt</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nOTHER JUNE MEETINGS &amp; EVENTS:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">---------- UPDATED --------<br />\r\n</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> June 19 -- MITT ROMNEY TO BE&nbsp; IN DEWITT.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-19-mitt-romney-dewitt\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-19-mitt-romney-dewitt</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 21 -- CCRP Monthly Executive Committee Meeting in DeWitt.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-21-2012-ccrp-executive-committee-meeting\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-21-2012-ccrp-executive-committee-meeting</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJULY DATES TO REMEMBER:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------- NEW --------<br />\r\nJuly 10 -- Clinton County Tea Party Patriots 93rd House District Debate in St. Johns.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/tea-party-debate-93rd-house-candidates-july-10-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/tea-party-debate-93rd-house-candidates-july-10-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 19 -- 93rd House District Debate Hosted by the CCRP.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-93rd-district-debate-july-19-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-93rd-district-debate-july-19-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 26 -- CCRP Annual Summer BBQ in BATH TOWNSHIP.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(2827,2827,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">There are several events and fundraisers coming up in the next month including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE ASSOCIATED LINKS<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMITT ROMNEY IS SCHEDULED TO BE IN DEWITT AT THE SWEETIE-LICIOUS BAKERY AND CAFE AT 1:15 PM ON TUESDAY JUNE 19<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTake the time to go to downtown DeWitt and see what Governor Romeny has to say about how he will turn our state and country around by restoring responsibility in government.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-19-mitt-romney-dewitt\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-19-mitt-romney-dewitt</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nDATES TO REMEMBER:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 18 -- 4th Congressional Breakfast with Governor Snyder in Mt. Pleasant.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-18-2012-4th-congressional-breakfast-governor-snyder\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-18-2012-4th-congressional-breakfast-governor-snyder</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 27-- Kevin Kirk for State Representative at Tom &amp; Marilyn Irrer&rsquo;s Mint Still in St. Johns.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-27-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser-st-johns\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-27-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser-st-johns</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 28-- Pete Hoekstra for U.S. Senate at Paul &amp; Barb Opsommer&rsquo;s Home Still in Dewitt.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-28-2012-pete-hoekstra-us-senate-fundraiser-dewitt\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-28-2012-pete-hoekstra-us-senate-fundraiser-dewitt</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW -- July 10 -- Clinton County Tea Party Patriots 93rd House District Debate in St. Johns.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/tea-party-debate-93rd-house-candidates-july-10-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/tea-party-debate-93rd-house-candidates-july-10-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 19 -- 93rd House District Debate Hosted by the CCRP.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-93rd-district-debate-july-19-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-93rd-district-debate-july-19-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 26 -- CCRP Annual Summer BBQ in BATH TOWNSHIP with REP. PAUL&nbsp;OPSOMMER.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2828,2828,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">The Clinton County Republican Party will be holding its Annual Summer BBQ on Thursday, July 26, 2012 at the Home of &quot;Buck</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> Kuisel &amp; </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Toot</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> Barnard at 5236 Drumheller Road in Bath, from 5:30 to 8:30 pm. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe cost is $20.00 per person (300 &amp; 200 Club Sponsors are admitted </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Free</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> as part of their Sponsorship)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\n<br />\r\nEvent sponsors $50.00.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLET\'S ACKNOWLEDGE PAUL OPSOMMER\'S SERVICE AND FOR ALL HE HAS DONE IN HIS 6 YEARS IN THE LEGISLATURE!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPlease RSVP by July 21 to Sheri Willis at shwillis1959@gmail.com with the number of people who will be attending. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nMake your checks payable to&nbsp; the Clinton County Republican Party. Registrations will be accepted at the event. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nRegister online at: <br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2012summerbbq<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(All proceeds will benefit the Clinton County Republican Party.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDOWNLOAD THE ATTACHED EVENT FLYER FOR DETAILS.<br />\r\n<img height=\"876\" width=\"684\" src=\"/sites/default/files/2012_bbq_flyer.jpg\" alt=\"\" /><br />\r\n<img height=\"0\" width=\"0\" src=\"/sites/default/files/2012_bbq_flyer.pdf\" alt=\"\" /><br />\r\n</span>',1),(2829,2829,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">The Clinton County Republican Party will be holding its Annual Summer BBQ on Thursday,July 26, 2012 at the Home of &quot;Buck</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> Kuisel &amp; </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Toot</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> Barnard at 5236 Drumheller Road in Bath, from 5:30 to 8:30 pm. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe cost is $20.00 per person (300 &amp; 200 Club Sponsors are admitted </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Free</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> as part of their Sponsorship.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nEvent sponsors $50.00.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLET</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">S ACKNOWLEDGE PAUL OPSOMMER\'S SERVICE AND FOR ALL HE HAS DONE IN HIS 6 YEARS OF SERVICE!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPlease RSVP by July 21 to Sheri Willis at shwillis1959@gmail.com with the number of people who will be attending. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nMake your checks payable to&nbsp; the Clinton County Republican Party. Registrations will be accepted at the event. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nRegister online at: <br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2012summerbbq<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(All proceeds will benefit the Clinton County Republican Party.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/2012_bbq_flyer.pdf\">DOWNLOAD THE ATTACHED EVENT FLYER FOR DETAILS.</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(2830,2830,'<span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">The Clinton County Republican Party will be holding its Annual Summer BBQ on Thursday,July 26, 2012 at the Home of &ldquo;Buck&rdquo; Kuisel &amp; &quot;Toot</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"> Barnard at 5236 Drumheller Road in Bath, from 5:30 to 8:30 pm. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe cost is $20.00 per person (300 &amp; 200 Club Sponsors are admitted </span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">Free</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"> as part of their Sponsorship)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\n<br />\r\nEvent sponsors $50.00.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLET\'S ACKNOWLEDGE PAUL OPSOMMER</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">S SERVICE AND FOR ALL HE HAS DONE IN HIS 6 YEARS IN THE LEGISLATURE!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPlease RSVP by July 21 to Sheri Willis at shwillis1959@gmail.com with the number of people who will be attending. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nMake your checks payable to&nbsp; the Clinton County Republican Party. Registrations will be accepted at the event. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nRegister online at: <br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2012summerbbq\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2012summerbbq</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(All proceeds will benefit the Clinton County Republican Party.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWE ARE ALSO LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS TO HELP WITH SET AND TAKE DOWN FOR THE EVENT, TO COOK, AND TO MAN THE REGISTRATION DESK. IF YOU ARE WILLING TO HELP OUT CALL SHERI WILLIS AT 517-281-6212 or e-mail her at shwillis1959@gmail.com.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/2012_bbq_flyer.pdf\">CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK TO DOWNLOAD THE EVENT FLYER FOR DETAILS.</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(2837,2837,'<span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMichigan State Senator Bert Johnson recently introduced Senate Bill No. 1177, that would increase Michigan\'s minimum wage from the current $7.40 per hour to $10 per hour by January 1, 2015 and then index the minimum wage to inflation. The senator asserts that &quot;a better minimum wage improves standards of living; stimulates consumption, and therefore job creation; and decreases the need for governmental assistance.</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">&quot;</span><br />\r\n<span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><br />\r\nOpponents say if the government attempts to mandate a wage, it will result in greater unemployment. The only question, is how much unemployment there will be? And who will be the people who become unemployed? Increasing the minimum wage by itself will not make any workers more productive. So when the minimum wage gets to $10 per hour, then all those workers who today are employed and producing between $7.40 per hour and $10 per hour will no longer be able to find work or will be laid off because business operate on comparatively fixed revenues.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe bad part about the minimum wage is that the people who lose the most are those who are at the bottom of the socio-economic ladder. <br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould Michigan\'s minimum wage be raised from $7.40 to $10.00 by 2015?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan%E2%80%99s-minimum-wage-be-raised-740-1000-2015\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan%E2%80%99s-minimum-wage-be-raised-740-1000-2015</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on </span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAre you in favor of the Governor going ahead and approving the building of the bridge to Canada without legislative approval?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . 33%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . .61%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . 6% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2840,2840,'<span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">The Romney campaign called me this afternoon to ask if we could provide 20 to 30&nbsp; volunteers to help out on Tuesday, June 19 in DeWitt when Governor Romney is scheduled to be at the Sweetie-licious Bakery &amp; Pie Company at 1:15. They are looking to have people who can hold placards when he is coming and going from the event. They have asked that the volunteers arrive at around noon at the site for instructions.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI know everyone is busy and it is summertime but let\'s try to have a GREAT showing to let people know we are serious about taking the presidency back and turning the country around. It\'s the least we can do.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf we can\'t even get 20 to 30 volunteers from the county I guess that means all of us are happy with the Obama executive orders, policies, and programs that are being forced on us everyday.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf you can help out and let me know by calling or e-mailing me so I&nbsp; can know what to expect as far as people showing up to help. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nI HOPE&nbsp;TO&nbsp;SEE&nbsp;YOU&nbsp;THERE!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />\r\nH: 517-641-6657<br />\r\nM: 517-281-4458<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2843,2843,'<span style=\"font-size: large;\">It has been brought to my attention that MoveOn.Org has spread the word to have their people in DeWitt on Tuesday to protest Governor Romney&rsquo;s appearance.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIt comes down to whether we are going to let the socialist based segment of our society take over our country or whether we will let our voice be heard. We are not an &quot;ORGANIZED</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> union based group but everyday people who care about our country and want it restored to its greatness based on our country\'s founding principles.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLet&rsquo;s get the people out tomorrow and let the MoveOn.Org people know we have a voice too.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf we let these people take over our country it is no else\'s fault but OUR OWN!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n--------------------------------<br />\r\nTHE FOLLOWING IS THE E-MAIL THAT MoveOn.Org SENT OUT<br />\r\n--------------------------------<br />\r\nDear MoveOn member,<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp; Mitt Romney is coming to DeWitt on Tuesday to get out his message that what America really needs is fewer teachers, fewer firefighters, and more tax breaks for the rich. Michigan is the final stop on his swing state tour--and the media has been following his bus and reporting on his speeches.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp; That\'s why we\'ve pulled out all the stops to hold our own parallel</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> &quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Romney for President of the 1%</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> tour--we\'re going everywhere he goes--flying airplane banners with messages from the 99% during the events, and following his tour bus with our very own </span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Romneymobile.</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&nbsp; But the key ingredient to making sure our voice is heard is to have a crowd of protesters at each of Romney\'s tour stops.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp; This is how we\'ll get our message out to the media and make the choice clear to swing voters--that a victory for Romney would be an unmitigated disaster for the middle class and the economy. It\'ll be a fun event and we\'ll provide signs that you can print out to bring with you!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCan you join us in DeWitt on Tuesday at 1:15 p.m. and be part of the people-powered movement to stop the &quot;President of the 1%?&quot;<br />\r\n--------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThanks for your Help,<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />\r\nH: 517-641-6657<br />\r\nM: 517-281-4458<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2849,2849,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">I would just like to thank everyone that got help to get the message out about Governor Romney\'s coming to DeWitt today. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe turnout was fabulous with around a thousand people in attendane on a HOT&nbsp;SPRING&nbsp;DAY! The Governor gave an uplifting meessage about his campaign, about winning Michigan with OUR&nbsp;HELP this fall, and becoming our next president.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLets all work hard between now and November to make that happen!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTo see pictures from the stio in DeWitt click on the following link:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/dewitt-welcomes-governor-romney\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/dewitt-welcomes-governor-romney</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2850,2850,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">Just a quick reminder that the we will be holding our monthly CCRP Executive Committee Meeting on Thursday, June 21, 2012 at the DeWitt City Hall at 414 Main Street in DeWitt at 7:00 p.m.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe following is the agenda for the meeting.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAGENDA<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; I.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Call To Order<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; II.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Invocation <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; III.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Pledge of Allegiance <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; IV. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Roll Call/Attendance Sheet <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; V.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Approval of the Agenda <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; VI.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Approval of Minutes from May 3, 2012 meeting&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; VII.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; COMMITTEE REPORTS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chair\'s Report - Steve Willis<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; B.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Treasurer&rsquo;s Report - Buck Kuisel<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; C.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Fundraising Committee Report - Sheri Willis<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; D.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lincoln Day Dinner Report (None)<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; E.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Communications Committee Report - Steve Willis&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; F. Membership Committee Report - (None)<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; G. Scholarship Report - (None)<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; H. TARS Report - Nick/Dena Roberts<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; VIII.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; OLD BUSINESS: (None)<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; IX.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; NEW BUSINESS: <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Candidate Support<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; X.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; UPCOMING DATES &amp; EVENTS:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A. July 19, 2012 --&nbsp; CCRP 93rd House Debate<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; B. July 26, 2012 --&nbsp; Summer BBQ in Bath Township<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; C.August 8, 2012 --&nbsp; Reconcillation Dinner at Jimmy&rsquo;s Pub in Bath Toenship<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; D.August 16, 2012 --&nbsp; County Convention and Monthly meeting following<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; XI.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; COMMUNICATIONS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ruth Captain - (Steve Gobbo)<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; B.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Elected Officials/Staff/Candidates<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; XII.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Other Business: <br />\r\nXIII.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Next Meeting - August 16, 2012 in DeWitt Township at Community Center<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; XIV.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Adjournment <br />\r\n<br />\r\nI look forward to seeing you there.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSincerely,<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\nH: 517-641-6657<br />\r\nC: 517-281-4458<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2857,2857,'<span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nMichigan joined the swelling ranks of states considering legislation that would effectively block any state cooperation with federal officials seeking to detain Americans under provisions in sections 1021 and 1022 of the National Defense Authorization Act.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe legislation (HB 5768) was introduced in the Michigan House on June 18, 2012 . The legislation would prohibit any state agent, state employee or member of the Michigan National Guard from assisting &quot;an agency of the armed forces of the United States in any investigation, prosecution, or detention of any person pursuant to 50 USC 1541, as provided by the federal national defense authorization act for fiscal year 2012, Public Law 112-81, if such aid would place that state agency, political subdivision, employee, or member of the Michigan national guard in violation of the United States constitution, the state constitution of 1963, or any law of this state.</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">&quot;</span><br />\r\n<span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><br />\r\nIn the 1840s and 1850s, northern states effectively used a similar strategy to block implementation of the Fugitive Slave Acts. The federal law denied due process to blacks accused of running away from slavery. A slave-owner could haul a man or woman back south simply on the authority of his own testimony. A black person was not even allowed to testify in her own defense. Northern states passed personal liberty laws, in some cases refusing state cooperation, denying the use of state resources to slave commissioners and forbidding state officers to participate in the process. Other state laws guaranteed any person charged as a fugitive slave a jury trial.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMichigan passed its personal liberty law in 1855. It guaranteed in section two, </span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">All persons so arrested and claimed as fugitive slaves, shall be entitled to all the benefits of the writ of habeas corpus and of trial by jury,</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"> and section five declared, </span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">No person arrested and claimed as a fugitive slave shall be imprisoned in any jail or other prison in this State; and any person having the care or control of any jail or prison, and knowingly permitting the imprisonment of such alleged fugitive slave therein, shall be subjected to the payment of a fine of not less than five hundred nor more than one thousand dollars.</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">&quot;</span><br />\r\n<span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><br />\r\nHB5768 was referred to the House Committee on Government Operations.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO MATTER WHERE YOU STAND ON THE ISSUE CALL, WRITE, OR E-MAIL YOUR STATE LEGISLATORS AND LET THEM KNOW WHERE YOU STAND ON THE NULLIFICATION LEGISLATION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSENATOR JUDY EMMONS&nbsp; (517) 373-3760<br />\r\nREP. PAUL OPSOMMER&nbsp; (517) 373-1778<br />\r\nRE. BEN GLARDON&nbsp;&nbsp; (517) 373-0841<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the Michigan Legislature pass legislation to nullify the federal </span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">National Defense Authorization Act</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-legislature-pass-legislation-nullify-federal-%E2%80%9Cnational-defense-authorization\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-legislature-pass-legislation-nullify-federal-%E2%80%9Cnational-defense-authorization</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould Michigan\'s minimum wage be raised from $7.40 to $10.00 by 2015?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYES . . . . . . . . . . . . 9%<br />\r\nNO . . . . . . . . . . . . 91%<br />\r\nUNDECIDED . . . . . . .0%&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHREE COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLet\'s wait and see what the economy for small businesses is in 2015...anticipation of better times to come can put small businesses out of business in the meantime.<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nCOMMENT #2:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDuring my career I have worked for less than &quot;minimum wage&quot; at times in the past but I was accumulating skills that I believe benefited myself and my future employers. I now earn considerably more than minimum wage but I &quot;earned&quot; it, it was not given to me.<br />\r\nNow, every time the &quot;minimum wage&quot; is artificially increased, it is a direct dilution of the wage that I have earned. This country cannot afford more people with no jobs because their skills do not equal the cost to hire them. They do not have the opportunity to learn the job skills needed to be productive workers.<br />\r\nMinimum wage laws just compound and increase the cost of living problem for every one, but especially those people who do have the lower paying jobs. It is just a vicious cycle that hurts the people the most that it is supposed to be helping.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #3:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nEach business knows what wage is appropriate in it\'s locale, for what the job entails, and what other similar businesses are paying etc. The government doesn\'t have experitise in this area, and should stay out of it.<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2864,2864,'<span style=\"font-size: large;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nPOTENTIAL CANDIDATES LIST:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nKelly Ayotte &ndash; Senator from New Hampshire and former state attorney general. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nJeb Bush &ndash; Former governor of Florida. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nChris Christie &ndash; New Jersey governor.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMitch Daniels &ndash; Governor of Indiana.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJim DeMint &ndash; South Carolina senator.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMary Fallin -- Oklahoma governor and a former member of Congress and a lieutenant governor.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNikki Haley -- Governor South Carolina.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSusana Martinez &ndash; Governor of New Mexico.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nBob McDonnell -- Governor of Virginia. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nTim Pawlenty &ndash; Former governor of Minnesota.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nRob Portman &ndash; Senator from Ohio has twice been a cabinet level official, as well as a member of the House and Senate. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nMarco Rubio &ndash; Florida senator. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nPaul Ryan &mdash; Congressman from Wisconsin.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJohn Thune - South Dakota Senator.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nWho would you like to see as the running mate for Mitt Romney?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nKelly Ayotte<br />\r\nJeb Bush <br />\r\nChris Christie<br />\r\nMitch Daniels<br />\r\nJim DeMint<br />\r\nMary Fallin<br />\r\nNikki Haley <br />\r\nSusana Martinez<br />\r\nBob McDonnell <br />\r\nRand Paul<br />\r\nRon Paul<br />\r\nTim Pawlenty<br />\r\nRob Portman<br />\r\nMarco Rubio<br />\r\nPaul Ryan<br />\r\nJohn Thune<br />\r\nAlan West<br />\r\nNONE OF THE ABOVE<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/who-would-you-see-running-mate-mitt-romney\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/who-would-you-see-running-mate-mitt-romney</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the Michigan Legislature pass legislation to nullify the federal </span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">National Defense Authorization Act</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . 60%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . .16%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . 24% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2865,2865,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">There are several events and fundraisers coming up in the next month including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE ASSOCIATED LINKS<br />\r\n<br />\r\nUPCOMING FUNDRAISERS:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 27-- Kevin Kirk for State Representative at Tom &amp; Marilyn Irrer\'s Mint Still in St. Johns.<br />\r\n</span><a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-27-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser-st-johns\"><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-27-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser-st-johns</span></a><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 28-- Pete Hoekstra for U.S. Senate at Paul &amp; Barb Opsommer&rsquo;s Home in Dewitt.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-28-2012-pete-hoekstra-us-senate-fundraiser-dewitt\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-28-2012-pete-hoekstra-us-senate-fundraiser-dewitt</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJULY DATES TO REMEMBER:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW -- July 10 -- Clinton County Tea Party Patriots 93rd House District Debate in St. Johns.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/tea-party-debate-93rd-house-candidates-july-10-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/tea-party-debate-93rd-house-candidates-july-10-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 19 -- 93rd House District Debate Hosted by the CCRP.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-93rd-district-debate-july-19-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-93rd-district-debate-july-19-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 26 -- CCRP Annual Summer BBQ in BATH TOWNSHIP.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2871,2871,'There are several events and fundraisers coming up in the next month including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE ASSOCIATED LINKS<br />\r\n<br />\r\nUPCOMING FUNDRAISERS:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 27 - Kevin Kirk for 93rd State Representative Fundraiser at Tom &amp; Marilyn Irrer\'s Mint Still.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-27-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser-st-johns\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-27-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser-st-johns</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 28 - Pete Hoekstra for U.S. Senate at Paul &amp; Barb Opsommer&rsquo;s Home in Dewitt.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-28-2012-pete-hoekstra-us-senate-fundraiser-dewitt\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/june-28-2012-pete-hoekstra-us-senate-fundraiser-dewitt</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nWEEKLY PHONE BANK CALLING:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW - Americans For Prosperity Phone Bank Calling to Identify Conservative Voters.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/americans-prosperity-phone-bank-calling\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/americans-prosperity-phone-bank-calling</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJULY DATES TO REMEMBER:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW - July 7 MRP Victory Center Super Saturday IN LANSING.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/july-7-mrp-victory-center-super-saturday\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/july-7-mrp-victory-center-super-saturday</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 10 - Clinton County Tea Party Patriots 93rd House District Debate in St. Johns.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/tea-party-debate-93rd-house-candidates-july-10-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/tea-party-debate-93rd-house-candidates-july-10-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 19 - 93rd House District Debate Hosted by the CCRP.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-93rd-district-debate-july-19-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-93rd-district-debate-july-19-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 26 - CCRP Annual Summer BBQ in BATH TOWNSHIP.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2877,2877,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSENATE BILL No. 996<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMarch 1, 2012, Introduced by Senators CASPERSON, WALKER and HANSEN and referred to the Committee on Agriculture.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A bill to provide for indemnification for livestock, domestic<br />\r\nanimals, and pets that are killed by certain wildlife; and to<br />\r\nprescribe the powers and duties of certain state agencies and<br />\r\nofficials.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The bill would require MDARD to provide indemnification for the death, injury, or loss of livestock, domestic animals, and pets from wolves, coyotes, and cougars.&nbsp; The DNR would have to reimburse MDARD for all indemnification payments made under the bill.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For livestock and domestic animals, MDARD would have to reimburse the claimant the fair market value.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For an entire herd or flock, MDARD would have to reimburse the claimant based upon 100% of the fair market value of that type of animal as appraised for the purpose for which the livestock or domestic animal was intended, not to exceed an average of $4,000 per animal in the flock or herd.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For pets, MDARD would have to reimburse the claimant the fair market value based upon recent sale records for similar animals, up to a maximum of $2,500 per animal.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the state be paying people for livestock, domestic animals, and pets that were killed by wolves, coyotes, and cougars?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-state-be-paying-people-livestock-domestic-animals-and-pets-were-killed-wolves-coyotes\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-state-be-paying-people-livestock-domestic-animals-and-pets-were-killed-wolves-coyotes<br />\r\n</a><br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWho would you like to see as the running mate for Mitt Romney?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMarco Rubio . . . . . . . . 45%<br />\r\nChris Christie . . . . . . .&nbsp; 10%<br />\r\nPaul Ryan . . . . . . . . . .&nbsp; 10%<br />\r\nRon Paul . . . . . . . . . . .&nbsp; 7%<br />\r\nJohn Thune . . . . . . . . . 7%<br />\r\nAlan West . . . . . . . . . . 7%<br />\r\nJim DeMint . . . . . . . . .&nbsp; 3%<br />\r\nNikki Haley . . . . . . . . . 3%<br />\r\nRand Paul . . . . . . . . . . 3%<br />\r\nTim Pawlenty . . . . . .&nbsp; . 3%<br />\r\nKelly Ayotte . . . . . . . . 0%<br />\r\nJeb Bush . . . . . . . . . . .0%<br />\r\nMitch Daniels . . . . . . . 0%<br />\r\nMary Fallin . . . . . . . . . 0%<br />\r\nSusana Martinez . . . . . 0%<br />\r\nBob McDonnell . . . . . . 0%<br />\r\nRob Portman . . . . . . .&nbsp; 0%<br />\r\nNONE OF THE ABOVE .&nbsp; 0%&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2886,2886,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nThere is a petition drive currently underway to ban &quot;fracking</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"> in Michigan. The Michigan Fracking Ban Amendment is a proposed amendment to the Michigan Constitution that would prohibit the use of horizontal hydraulic fracturing, or &quot;fracking,&quot; by the oil companies. <br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the people of Michigan amend the Michigan Constitution to ban the practice of </span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">fracking</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-people-michigan-amend-michigan-constitution-ban-practice-%E2%80%9Cfracking%E2%80%9D<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on </span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the state be paying people for livestock, domestic animals, and pets that were killed by wolves, coyotes, and cougars?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . 22%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . .67%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . .11% <br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp; <br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n....seriously???!!!? So, what about if it\'s my kid or spouse that gets attacked? Do I get more money for that? And I guess everyone needs to pay more taxes so the state can pay me if my house becomes infested with termites, or cockroaches, or even ants because that would damage my personal property, and I DESERVE money if bad things occasionally happen to me. I\'m just about done with this mentality....<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2890,2890,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nSnyder vetoes controversial voter ID, registration bills<br />\r\n<br />\r\nGovernor Snyder on Tuesday vetoed three election law bills that would have required a ballot box affirmation of citizenship, restrict voter registration drives, and require photo ID for obtaining an absentee ballot.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSnyder said he vetoed the absentee ballot bill, House Bill 5061, because it would not let an absentee ballot count if the person did not affirm their citizenship by the close of the polls on an Election Day.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe governor\'s use of his veto pen won rare praise from Democrats, labor unions and other liberal special interest groups.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSnyder also vetoed Senate Bill 803, which sought to require residents to check off a box on their ballot affirming they are, in fact, U.S. citizens.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould Governor Snyder have vetoed the voter ID and citizenship bills that were passed by the legislature?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-governor-snyder-have-vetoed-voter-id-and-citizenship-bills-were-passed-legislature<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the people of Michigan amend the Michigan Constitution to ban the practice of </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">fracking</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . . 13%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . . .82%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . . 5% <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2894,2894,'HAVE A GREAT 4th OF JULY - BUT REMEMBER WHAT IT MEANS AND WHY THE FOUNDERS PUT THEIR LIVES ON THE LINE FOR US AND&nbsp;OUR&nbsp;LIBERTIES.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTake the time to go to our website and to read an article from Representative Alan West on America, when it was founded and what it has become today and think about what each of us can do to heal our nation and restore it to its founding truths.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/happy-4th-july-remember-reason-day\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/happy-4th-july-remember-reason-day</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2897,2897,'<span style=\"font-size: large;\">The Clinton County Republican Party SUMMER BBQ is just a little over two weeks away!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nRep. Paul Opsommer will be our keynote speaker at this year&rsquo;s Summer BBQ. He is wrapping up his final year as State Representative for the 93rd House District. Having him as our keynote speaker will give all of us the opportunity to thank him for his 6 years of service and to hear what he has to say about his time as our state representative.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThis years SUMMER BBQ will be held again this year in Bath at Buck Kuisel &amp; Toot Barnard&rsquo;s Home on Thursday, July 26 from 5:30 to 8:30 pm. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe cost is: $20.00 per person (300 &amp; 200 Club Sponsors &ldquo;Free&rdquo;)<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $50.00 per Event Sponsor<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCome and join us for a great time on July 26 in Bath Township!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDownload a registration form by clicking on the following link:<br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/summer_bbq_12_flyer_print.pdf\">sites/default/files/summer_bbq_12_flyer_print.pdf</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nor<br />\r\n<br />\r\nRegister online at:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2012summerbbq\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2012summerbbq</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(2898,2898,'<span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">The Clinton County Republican Party SUMMER BBQ is just a little over two weeks away!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nRep. Paul Opsommer will be our keynote speaker at this year\'s Summer BBQ. He is wrapping up his final year as State Representative for the 93rd House District. Having him as our keynote speaker will give us the opportunity to thank him for his 6 years of service and to hear what he has to say about his time as our state representative.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThis years SUMMER BBQ will be held again this year in Bath Buck Kuisel &amp; Toot Barnard&rsquo;s Home on Thursday, July 26 from 5:30 to 8:30 pm. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe cost is: $20.00 per person (300 &amp; 200 Club Sponsors &quot;Free</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">&quot;</span><br />\r\n<span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $50.00 per Event Sponsor<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCome and join us for a great time on July 26 in Bath Township.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDownload a registration form by clicking on the following link:<br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/summer_bbq_1-2_flyer_e-mail.pdf\">sites/default/files/summer_bbq_1-2_flyer_e-mail.pdf</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nor<br />\r\n<br />\r\nRegister online at:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2012summerbbq\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2012summerbbq</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(2899,2899,'There WILL NOT be a CCRP monthly meeting for July on the 19th. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe will instead be holding a debate between the 93rd House District Republican candidates at the Rodney B. Wilson Center Auditorium that night from 7:00 pm tp 9:00 pm.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAdditionally, we will be holding our annual summer BBQ on July 26 at Buck Kuisel and Toot Barnard&rsquo;s home in Bath Township.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTo register and/or for details go to our website at:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2012summerbbq\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2012summerbbq</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2903,2903,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nPresident Barack Obama has stated that he will veto any congressional legislation that extends Bush-era tax cuts to wealthier Americans.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nObama has called for a one-year extension of the Bush-era cuts for families earning less than $250,000 a year. He wants to let tax cuts enacted by Republican President George W. Bush to expire on Jan. 1 for higher income earners.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nObama wants Congress to pass a one-year extension of the Bush-era tax cuts for households making less than $250,000 before they expire at the end of the year. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nHe said the outcome of his November election contest with Republican rival Mitt Romney would then determine the fate of the tax cuts for higher income earners.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nRomney supports extending the tax cuts for all income earners. <br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould congress pass President Obama\'s proposed legislation that would increase the tax on anyone making more than $250,000.00?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-congress-pass-presidents-proposed-legislation-increase-tax-anyone-making-more-2500000<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould Governor Snyder have vetoed the voter ID and citizenship bills that were passed by the legislature?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . 11%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . 84%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . .5%&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\n<br />\r\nTWO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nToday\'s (Wednesday, July 4th) New York Times, includes on page A13 the story &quot;Republican Governor of Michigan Rejects Voter ID Bills&quot;. They described Snyder as &quot;a political novice in his first term&quot;.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf there is any chance that the legislature can get a 2/3 vote in each chamber to overturn the veto(s), they should proceed. Otherwise, they should work on the governor and quickly pass either or both of them again and make more noise about it. The Governor ought to figure out that if we are required to present picture ID to vote at the polls then the state ought to be able to require presenting picture ID to vote absentee. The Governor shares an affirmative duty with the legislatue and Secretary of State to make sure that people cannot abuse the voting system any more than people who win the lottery should not be able to receive welfare benefits.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&quot;Snyder said he vetoed the absentee ballot bill, House Bill 5061, because it<br />\r\nwould not let an absentee ballot count if the person did not affirm their<br />\r\ncitizenship by the close of the polls on an Election Day.&quot; In the NY Times article, they quote Sara Wurfel, a spokesman for Snyder as saying that Snyder &quot;suggested that veritifcation of a person\'s citizenship should be done only once, when a voter is first registered.&quot; Perhaps the legislature can let the Governor understand that the problem is somewhat like some of the problems of the welfare voting rolls which needed to be cleaned up. The voter registration problem is the lack of proof of citizenship when people first registered and that Snyder shares responsibility with the legislature and Secretary of State to give Clerks the tools to make sure that those who are on the voting rolls are qualified.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #2<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI have to show my ID when I fly, when I use my credit cards, when I go to a bank or credit union, and in countless other places. Why shouldn\'t it be required when I vote? It is imperative that we have accuracy and integrity in our voting processes.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhen we voted for Governor two years ago no one knew who Snyder was or what he really stood for ideologically. The longer he is in office the more we find out that King Rick the first is probably nothing more than a </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Granholm light</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> in many ways!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe all know that voter fraud is real! You see it in every election and the number absentee voters is significant and a perfect target for fraudulent activity.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhy Snyder thinks that you don&rsquo;t need to affirm your U.S. citizenship or show a picture ID when getting an absentee ballot is beyond me.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIn some ways he has done good things that have positively impacted Michigan&rsquo;s economy but in other ways he has been a huge disappointment (such as):<br />\r\n1. A veto of a transparency bill regarding </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">memorandums of agreement</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> between state officials with governments outside Michigan.<br />\r\n2. Bypassing the legislature and making an </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">interlocal</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> agreement with Canada to build a bridge.<br />\r\n3. Initiating health insurance exchanges (Obamacare) without legislative approval.<br />\r\n4. Pushing a high speed rail project that will be used by few and be a burden on taxpayers.<br />\r\n5. Failing to take a stand on making Michigan a Right-to-work state.<br />\r\n6. Elimination of the personal property tax on businesses that will hurt counties.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPersonally I will be working hard to have someone run against him in the primary in 2014 to get a governor that represents </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">conservative</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> interests not the liberal agenda. I might even vote for the Democrat if they are more conservative than King Rick.<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2906,2906,'There will be a open house on the proposed wind farm on Thursday, July 12, 2012 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on a 40-turbine Fowler Farms wind project at:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Fountain Hall<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; 4041 South U.S. Highway 27<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; St. Johns, MI 48879<br />\r\n<br />\r\nForest Hills Energy has applied for a permit for 40 wind turbines in Clinton County. The open house will provide ample information on the project and an opportunity to answer questions from the community.<br />\r\n------------------<br />\r\nRegardless of where you stand on the issue make your voice heard. <br />\r\n-----------------<br />\r\nFor more information on the proposed wind farm click on he following link to our website:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/wind-farm-bengaldallas-townships\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/wind-farm-bengaldallas-townships</a><br />\r\n<br />',1),(2907,2907,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">There are several events and fundraisers coming up in the next week including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE ASSOCIATED LINKS<br />\r\n<br />\r\nUPCOMING FUNDRAISERS:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJune 15 - June 27, 2012 -- Mike Trebesh Fundraiser in Dewitt<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/july-15-2012-trebesh-fundraiser\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/july-15-2012-trebesh-fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 18 , 2012 (Wednesday) - Kevin Kirk Fundraiser in Bath, MI<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/july-18-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser-bath\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/july-18-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser-bath</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nWEEKLY PHONE BANK CALLING:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW - Americans For Prosperity Phone Bank Calling to Identify Conservative Voters.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/americans-prosperity-phone-bank-calling\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/americans-prosperity-phone-bank-calling</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJULY DATES TO REMEMBER:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 19 - 93rd House District Debate Hosted by the CCRP.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-93rd-district-debate-july-19-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-93rd-district-debate-july-19-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 26 - CCRP Annual Summer BBQ in BATH TOWNSHIP.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2909,2909,'*In the last eNewsletter we had the wrong date for the Mike Trebesh Fundraiser on July 15.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThere are several events and fundraisers coming up in the next week including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE ASSOCIATED LINKS<br />\r\n<br />\r\nUPCOMING FUNDRAISERS:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n****************** REVISED *************************<br />\r\nJULY 15, 2012 -- MIKE TREBESH FUNDRAISER IN DEWITT<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/july-15-2012-trebesh-fundraiser\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/july-15-2012-trebesh-fundraiser</a><br />\r\n*****************************************************<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 18 , 2012 (Wednesday) - Kevin Kirk Fundraiser in Bath, MI<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/july-18-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser-bath\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/july-18-2012-kevin-kirk-fundraiser-bath</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nWEEKLY PHONE BANK CALLING:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW - Americans For Prosperity Phone Bank Calling to Identify Conservative Voters.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/americans-prosperity-phone-bank-calling\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/americans-prosperity-phone-bank-calling</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJULY DATES TO REMEMBER:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 19 - 93rd House District Debate Hosted by the CCRP. (DOORS WILL OPEN&nbsp;AT 6:15)<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-93rd-district-debate-july-19-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-93rd-district-debate-july-19-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nJuly 26 - CCRP Annual Summer BBQ in BATH TOWNSHIP.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />\r\n<br />',1),(2913,2913,'The Clinton County Republican Party will be holding a debate on July 19, 2012 at the Rodney B. Wilson Center Auditorium in St. Johns at 101 W. Cass Street between the four candidates who are running for the 93rd House District seat.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe debate will be from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. The doors will open at 6:15.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe debate will be approximately an hour and one-half for opening remarks, questions, and closing remarks and then time to talk to the candidates. Twenty-eight potential questions have been submitted to the candidates in advance for them to prepare their responses. As many questions as possible will be asked during that time frame and the questions that are asked will be at the discretion of the moderator.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nClick on the following link to see the debate details and the potential questions that may be asked at the debate:<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-93rd-house-district-debate-questions-details\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-93rd-house-district-debate-questions-details</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2916,2916,'You are invited to the Clinton County Republican Summer BBQ on July 26 to come and hear State Representative Paul Opsommer. It will be a great opportunity to hear what&nbsp; has been accomplished in his six years in Lansing, and what his predictions are for the remainder of the current legislative session.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSeveral other statewide and county candidates will be in attendance.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFor details and/or to register for the CCRP Summer BBQ click on the following link:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\ndownload the following printable file:<br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/2012_bbq_flyer_and_form.pdf\">sites/default/files/2012_bbq_flyer_and_form.pdf</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nDON&rsquo;T MISS THIS GREAT OPPORTUNITY!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />',1),(2920,2920,'<span style=\"font-size: large;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nGov. Rick Snyder is pushing to create an online site where individuals and small businesses can comparison shop for private health insurance.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHouse Republicans have been resisting his efforts to create an online site where individuals and small businesses can comparison shop for private health insurance. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe health insurance exchange is required under the Affordable Care Act recently upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court. But the court also ruled that the federal government can</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">t withhold a state\'s entire Medicaid allotment if it doesn\'t participate in the expansion, and some states now say they don</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">t plan to cover more residents.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSnyder wants the House to follow the lead of the Senate and approve setting up the exchange. House Republicans initially blocked the efforts to tap $9.8 million in federal planning money for the exchange until the court ruled. The state has been granted the money but can</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">t spend it without legislative approval. Nor can it apply for additional federal planning funds if the first grant isn\'t used.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNow some Republican House members say any action on the exchange should be put off until November, when they\'ll know if GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney defeats Democratic President Barack Obama and Republicans capture the U.S. Senate, making it possible some parts of the federal health care law will be repealed.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the Michigan House agree to setting up a healthcare exchange or wait until after the November election to decide?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-house-agree-setting-healthcare-exchange-or-wait-until-after-november-electio<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould congress pass the President\'s proposed legislation to increase the tax on anyone making more than $250,000.00?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . 20%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . 80%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . 0% <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2922,2922,'The Clinton County Republican Party will be holding a debate on July 19, 2012 at the Rodney B. Wilson Center Auditorium in St. Johns at 101 W. Cass Street between the four candidates who are running for the 93rd House District seat.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe debate will be from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. The doors will open at 6:15.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nClick on the following link to see the debate details and the potential questions that may be asked at the debate:<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-93rd-house-district-debate-questions-details\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/ccrp-93rd-house-district-debate-questions-details</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2930,2930,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">The Clinton County Republican Summer BBQ is just 6 days away on Thursday, July 26 with State Representative Paul Opsommer as our guest speaker. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe will also be raffling off a Verizon htc Trophy SmartPhone valued at $500.00. Tickets for the phone will be $3.00 each or two for $5.00. A drawing for the phone will be held near the end of the event. We would like to thank Alan Nelson, owner of &quot;The Cellular Connection</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> in St. Johns, for donating the phone for the raffle.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFor details and/or to register for the CCRP Summer BBQ click on the following link:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span><a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012\"><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012</span></a><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"><br />\r\n<br />\r\nWALK IN REGISTRATIONS WILL ALSO BE TAKEN AT THE DOOR!<br />\r\n&nbsp; $20.00 PER ADULT (kids free!) Please bring a check made out to </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">The Clinton County Republican Party</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDON\'T MISS THIS GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO MEET THE CANDIDATES AND TO HEAR REPRESENTATIVE OPSOMMER!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2931,2931,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">The Clinton County Republican Summer BBQ is just 5 days away on Thursday, July 26 with State Representative Paul Opsommer as our guest speaker. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nI JUST LEARNED AT&nbsp;A&nbsp;STATE&nbsp;COMMITTEE TRAINING&nbsp;SESSION&nbsp;YESTERDAY THAT RAFFLES AT POLITICAL FUNCTIONS ARE ILLEGAL BUT&nbsp;THAT&nbsp;SILENT AUCTIONS&nbsp;ARE&nbsp;OK. BUCK DOESN\'T WANT TO GO TO JAIL SO WE WILL NOT BE HAVING A RAFFLE AS PREVIOUSLY STATED IN THE eNEWSLETTER YESTERDAY.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe will instead have a &quot;silent auction</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> for the Verizon htc Trophy SmartPhone valued at $500.00. There will be no minimum bid and bids can be made at the door the day of the event. We would like to thank Alan Nelson, owner of </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">The Cellular Connection</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> in St. Johns, for donating the phone for the silent auction. The winning bid will be announced near the end of the BBQ.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFor details and/or to register for the CCRP Summer BBQ click on the following link:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/summer-bbq-bath-township-july-26-2012<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWALK IN REGISTRATIONS WILL ALSO BE TAKEN AT THE DOOR!<br />\r\n&nbsp; $20.00 PER ADULT (kids free!) Please bring a check made out to </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">The Clinton County Republican Party</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDON\'T MISS THIS GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO MEET THE CANDIDATES AND TO HEAR REPRESENTATIVE OPSOMMER!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2935,2935,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nGovernor Snyder recently vetoed a bill that was unanimously approved by the Michigan Legislature.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe bill related to &quot;memorandums of agreement</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> reached by state officials with governments outside Michigan. The governor said that the bill would have required state agencies to forward&nbsp; so-called </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">cross boundary</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> agreements to the attorney general\'s office before approval by the governor.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Snyder administration says it would have violated the separation of powers clauses for state government. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nRep. Paul Opsommer, the sponsor of the bill, stated:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">It was one of the last bills I thought would ever get vetoed, because it is a \'transparency\' bill,</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> <br />\r\n<br />\r\nOpsommer said the bill wasn\'t motivated by a recent and controversial agreement involving Michigan and Canada related to a proposed new bridge to link the nations. Rather that the impetus dates back to Governor Granholm&rsquo;s administration and a memorandum of agreement with England related to energy savings.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHe said the bill was designed to make sure future agreements with other governments could be found on file with the Michigan attorney general&rsquo;s office and the state\'s Office of the Great Seal.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLawmakers of both political parties were fine with that. The bill received final approval in the House by a 109-0 vote, and it cleared the Senate by a 38-0 vote.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the legislature override Governor\'s veto of the Tranparency Bill?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-legislature-override-governor-snyders-veto-transparency-bill\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-legislature-override-governor-snyders-veto-transparency-bill</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the Michigan House agree to setting up a healthcare exchange or wait until after the November election to decide?<br />\r\n<br />\r\n28% -- Yes - Set up the healthcare exchange NOW that Governor Snyder wants<br />\r\n69% -- No - Wait to decide on what to do until after the November election<br />\r\n3%&nbsp;&nbsp; -- Undecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTWO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHealth Exchanges<br />\r\n<br />\r\nContinue to say &quot;no&quot; to health exchanges. It will NOT be a benefit to Michigan residents. Listen to Rick Perry who understands the false promise of 0bama-proposed health exchanges (0bama has never proposed ANYTHING that is a benefit to Americans - - not one thing - - and the health exchanges are just one more bad, misdescribed thing to say defeat.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nContinue to say no even if in the worst possible scenarios, we wind up stuck with 0bamatax. Health exchanges are unfunded mandates from the feds to the states. All that it will do is expand Medicaid to people who are or who claim to be poor, including illegal alliens. The feds will only pay more for this expansion of service for a short time and then Michigan taxpayers will be stuck with an inflated bill that we cannot afford.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMedicaid is the worst possible &quot;health care&quot;. The reimbursements are so low that medical providers refuse to serve Medicaid patients or only allow a few patients. Expanded Medicaid will reduce the number of doctors and expand the line to be able to see a doctor. Medicaid that is expanded in a state that votes to accepts health exchanges steals money from Medicare health care, steals an extraordinary amount of money from Michigan taxpayers, adds to government bureaucracy and provides very, very little in return.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nCOMMENT #2<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHealth Care exchange<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTell the house to pass the health exchange legislation. Even if, and that\'s a big if, the GOP capture both the Pres. and the Sen it doesn\'t mean that they will be able to repeal any aspect of the healthcare law. If they don\'t act Mich families will lose.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMike Wall<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2939,2939,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Clinton County Republican Party Summer BBQ is just 2 days off on!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; THURSDAY, JULY 26 AT 5:30 to 8:30 pm<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; with State Representative Paul Opsommer as our guest speaker.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; THANKS THIS YEAR\'S EVENT SPONSORS!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; DR. ROB STEELE (Candidate for U of&nbsp; M Board of Regents)<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; JEFF SAKWA (Candidate for MSU Board of Trustees)<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ALAN NELSON<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; LARRY &amp; COREEN STRZALKA<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; BILL &amp; DAWN SHERMAN<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; For details and/or to register for the CCRP Summer BBQ click on the following link:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span><a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2012summerbbq\"><em><strong><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"color: rgb(128, 0, 0);\">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2012summerbbq</span></span></strong></em></a><br />\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; LATE REGISTRATIONS WILL ACCEPTED AT THE DOOR!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $20.00 PER ADULT (kids free!)<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Please bring a check made out to &quot;The Clinton County Republican Party</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; DON\'T MISS THIS GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO MEET THE CANDIDATES<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AND TO HEAR REPRESENTATIVE OPSOMMER!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2943,2943,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">We had a great Summer BBQ last night in Bath Township at Buck Kuisel &amp; Toot Barnard\'s Home with around 80 people in attendance. It was warn and humid but it was a great night for the event.&nbsp; <br />\r\n<br />\r\nIt was great to see all of the candidates and to hear Rep. Opsommer talk of the issues before the Michigan legislature and his hope that his efforts and agendas will continue with our new state representative next year.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI would like to thank everyone who was there for coming and extend special thanks to &quot;Buck</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> &amp; </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Toot</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> for the use of their home and to all those who helped at the event (Larry &amp; Coreen Strzalka, Phil &amp; Nancy Bareham, Bruce &amp; Janice Harte, Ray &amp; Elaine Snyder, Dave Seeger and Sheri Harte Willis) , our event sponsors, Dr. Rob Steele (U of M Board of Regents Candidate), Dawn &amp; Bill Sherman, Larry &amp; Coreen Strzalka, and to Jeff Sakawa (MSU Board of Trustees candidate). I would also like to thank Jeff Sakawa for his donation of two tickets each for Detroit Tiger, Piston, Lion, and Redwing games for our silent auction. Additionally I would like to give thank Alan Nelson at the Cellular Connection in St. Johns for donating an htc Windows SmartPhone, and to Mary and Steve Gobbo for the bracelets donation for the silent auction.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nOne sad note to mention at an otherwise great event was that Sheriff Kangas and 93rd House candidate Mike Trebesh mentioned they had both had personal attacks on them in the last week from sources that are difficult if not impossible to identify. It&rsquo;s sad that people or organizations choose to make these types of attacks for their own personal agendas. I know Wayne and Mike both are willing to take any comments or accusations that are made against them from anyone or any organization as long as they are able to know who their accusers are.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe all need to remember that politics is a tough business and we need to take these types of accusations with a grain of salt and concentrate on facts not half truths and unverifiable rumors. Judge the candidates for what they say and where they stand on the issues.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHANKS AGAIN FOR ALL YOU DO &ndash; AND REMEMBER TO VOTE ON AUGUST 7!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chair<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2948,2948,'<span>-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nANOTHER BILL THAT HAS BEEN INTRODUCED IN THE MICHIGAN HOUSE.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n2012 House Bill 5625: Mandate Michigan employers provide paid sick leave<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Introduced by Rep. Jim Ananich (D) on May 15, 2012, to mandate that employers grant employees one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked, up to 40 hours annually for small businesses, and 72 hour annually for larger employers.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCurrently public employees receive paid sick leave based on hours worked as part of their benefit package.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nA Michigan House member has proposed that all small businesses provide the same benefit to their employees.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe legislation would require that the employer grant 1 hour of sick leave for every 30 hours worked.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAccording to the legislation it would require that:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPaid sick leave shall accrue in 1-hour increments up to a minimum of 40 hours per<br />\r\ncalendar year for employees of a small business (10 employees or less) and 72 hours for all other employees (businesses with more than 10 employees).<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf you would like to see the text of the proposed legislation click on the following link:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2011-2012/billintroduced/House/htm/2012-HIB-5625.htm\">http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2011-2012/billintroduced/House/htm/2012-HIB-5625.htm</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the legislature pass legislation to require small businesses to provide sick leave to their employees?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-legislature-pass-legislation-require-small-businesses-provide-sick-leave-their-employ\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-legislature-pass-legislation-require-small-businesses-provide-sick-leave-their-employ</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span>&quot;</span><span> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the legislature override Governor Snyder\'s veto of the Transparency Bill?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . 80%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . .18%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . 3% <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2955,2955,'July 31 (Tuesday) - LANSING ROMNEY VICTORY CENTER GRAND OPENING with NIKKI HALEY<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/july-31-2012-romney-victory-center-grand-opening\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/july-31-2012-romney-victory-center-grand-opening</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nOTHER UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThere are several events and fundraisers coming up in the next couple of weeks including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE ASSOCIATED LINKS<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAUGUST/SEPTEMBER DATES TO REMEMBER:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAugust 2 (Thursday) - Cressman for Sheriff Meet and Greet BBQ (free).<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/august-2-2012-cressman-sheriff-fundraiser\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/august-2-2012-cressman-sheriff-fundraiser</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nAugust 8 (Wednesday) - Reconciliation Dinner at Jimmy&rsquo;s Pub in Bath Township.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/august-8-2012-ccrp-reconciliation-dinner\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/august-8-2012-ccrp-reconciliation-dinner</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nSeptember 10&nbsp; (Monday) - Attorney General Bill Schuette&rsquo;s BBQ in Midland.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/september-10-2012-attorney-general-bill-schuettes-bbq\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/september-10-2012-attorney-general-bill-schuettes-bbq</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2962,2962,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nMichigan Alliance for Prosperity officially submitted their petitions with the Michigan Bureau of Elections to place a question before Michigan voters in November that would require lawmakers to get a two-thirds majority in order to pass future tax increases in Michigan. The amendment increases the legislative approval requirement to raise taxes from the current 50 percent-plus-one to two-thirds of the legislature.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould Michigan voters pass the ballot proposal to require a 2/3 vote in the legislature to raise taxes?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-voters-pass-ballot-proposal-november-require-23-vote-legislature-raise-taxes\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-michigan-voters-pass-ballot-proposal-november-require-23-vote-legislature-raise-taxes</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the legislature pass legislation to require small businesses to provide sick leave to their employees?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . . 16%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . . . 84%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . .0% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHREE COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMost businesses do offer something, but a business owner should be able to make their own decisions on how they run their business &amp; what benefits best meet the needs of their staffs, within their means. It is their business, the government didnt build it, they arent there to bail them out if they overspend or do a bad job, &amp; cant pay the bills. So many government entities have overspent &amp; are in financial trouble, providing benefits they cannot afford &amp; do not fund, i dont think business needs to take thier lead! Most legislators have never had to meet a payroll or find the money to pay the bills, they just raise more taxes or fees, taking more from business &amp; individuals. Lansing needs to stay out of our lives &amp; fix your own problems!<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nCOMMENT#2<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAll to often we have forgotten that we are all in this together. Employers and employees both contribute to a business, employees should not have the worry that if they become sick that they will lose their jobs, or not be able to pay their bills. If and employer can not/does not have the ability to do this then maybe they need to rethink how they are doing business. What is a shame is that this sort of thing would need to be legislated.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT#3<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe have put enough taxes and regulations on business already. Do we want to drive business out of the state or bring more business in? Mandates of any kind drive up the cost of doing business. We want a business friendly state, don\'t we?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIda Salisbury<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2964,2964,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">The CCRP is inviting having a reconciliation dinner at Jimmy\'s Pub on Chandler Road in Bath Township (16804 Chandler Road&nbsp; East Lansing, MI 48823) the day after the primary election on August 8, 2012 at 6:00 pm.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLet</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">s all come together to support the winners of our republican primary election. It will be a great time to thank the candidates who ran for their dedication and wanting to serve us in Clinton County and in Lansing.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNow is time to focus on what our goals are in Clinton County, Michigan, nationally and to all work together to get our candidates elected.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHANKS AGAIN FOR ALL YOUR HARD WORK -- AND LET</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">S HAVE A GREAT TURNOUT TO START THE GENERAL ELECTION CAMPAIGN!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2972,2972,'<span>-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nREMEMBER TO VOTE TUESDAY AUGUST 7!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nState Representative Rashida Tlaib introduced House Bill 4899 on September 7, 2011. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe bill would prohibit pre-2007 diesel trucks over 14,000 lbs., buses, school buses, and construction equipment from being operated unless their motors are replaced or retrofitted to standards mandated by the California Air Resources Board.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFailure to comply would make owners subject to a $5,000 per day fine. The bill&nbsp; would also:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; 1.&nbsp; Mandate annual truck smoke and tampering inspections with a $40 fee.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; 2. Authorize taxpayer subsidies for diesel retrofits.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; 3. Impose a new tax on leases of diesel farm or construction equipment.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; 4. Impose a truck-idling limit of five minutes in any hour (subject to a $750 fine).<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; 5. Require registration of all diesel engines over 50 horsepower including farm tractors. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThis requirements would apply only to trucks registered or garaged in Michigan, not ones just passing through.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the legislature pass legislation requiring the ban or retrofitting of commercial diesel vehicles made before 2007?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-legislature-pass-legislation-requiring-ban-or-retrofitting-commercial-diesel-vehicles<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span>&quot;</span><span> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould Michigan voters pass the ballot proposal this November to require a 2/3 vote of the legislature to raise taxes?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . .&nbsp; 69%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . .&nbsp;&nbsp; 31%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . .&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 0%<br />\r\n<br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL:<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nRaising taxes<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe need to elect responsible individuals to our government. Members of our Legislature need to do what is right and correct for our Business Environment in Michigan. Requiring a 2/3 majority vote by both houses would be a great step in preventing taxation abuses.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTo mandate that employers grant paid sick leave to their emploees will only lead to the destruction of our Michigan based companies.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIn other words, STOP the Entitlement Freebees to help those who create the businesses and provide the business environment.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nRespectfully,<br />\r\nLoren Dean Mohney<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3881,3881,'<span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">BECAUSE OF THE SUMMER BBQ WE WILL NOT BE HOLDING OUR MONTHLY MEETING IN JULY!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Clinton County Republican Party Summer BBQ!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHURSDAY, JULY 25 FROM 5:30 to 8:30 pm<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWith Constitutional Law Professor William Wagner as our guest speaker<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSpeaking on a subject of concern to all of us:<br />\r\n</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">American Laws For American Courts</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">\'</span><br />\r\n<span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><br />\r\nThe Three CCRP 2013 Scholarship winners, and their parents, will also be in attendance.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe will also be holding a silent auction which includes the following items:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDROID RAZR Smart Phone - Donated by Alan Nelson at The Cellular Connection in St. Johns<br />\r\nBBQ Tool Set - Donated by Roger &amp; Janet Dennings from Dennings &amp; Associates in Elsie<br />\r\nIndividual Picnic Tote - Donated by Roger &amp; Janet Dennings from Dennings &amp; Associates in Elsie<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFor details and/or to register for the CCRP Summer BBQ click on the following link:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/2013ccrpsummerbbq<br />\r\n<br />\r\nOR DOWNLOAD&nbsp;AND PRINT AND RETURN THE REGISTRATION FORM AT THE END OF THIS EMAIL<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLATE REGISTRATIONS WILL ACCEPTED AT THE DOOR!<br />\r\n$20.00 PER ADULT (kids free!)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPlease bring a check made out to </span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">The Clinton County Republican Party</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;DON</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">T MISS THIS GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO HEAR A GREAT SPEAKER<br />\r\nAND MEET OUR SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf you have a silent auction item you would like to donate for the BBQ please contact Sheri Harte Willis at 517-281-6212.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/85_by_55_0.pdf\">BBQ REGISTRATION FORM</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/2013_bbq_flier_rev1.pdf\">BBQ&nbsp;FLYER</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2977,2977,'Today is the day WE WILL SELECT the people who will represent US on the November ballot.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIt is sad that&nbsp; only about 20% of the registered voters choose to vote in primary elections. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe primary election is where voters choose the candidates that will best represent them at all levels of government if they are elected in November.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDON&rsquo;T LEAVE THIS IMPORTANT CHOICE TO ONLY 20% OF THE REGISTERED VOTERS!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nGET OUT AND VOTE TODAY FOR THE CANDIDATES OF YOUR CHOICE!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AND<br />\r\nREMEMBER TO COME TO OUR RECONCILIATION DINNER<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ON WEDNESDAY AUGUST 7, 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AT JIMMY&rsquo;S PUB ON CHANDLER ROAD<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; IN BATH TOWNSHIP AT 6:00PM<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; LET&rsquo;S UNITE BEHIND OUR CANDIDATES WHO WILL<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; REPRESENT US IN THE NOVEMBER ELECTION!<br />',1),(2979,2979,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">FROM: Steve Willis for Nick Sizeland, Director, Lansing Victory Center for the Michigan Republican Party. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Michigan Republican Party is asking for your help and support this year for the November election. The Road to the White House runs through Michigan and we need all hands on deck to make sure Barack Obama is a one term President and that his Democrat allies do not put this country behind and in more debt. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nRecently Republican and Democrat strategists have moved Michigan from Lean Obama to Toss up State.&nbsp; I want to formally invite you to come to the Michigan Republican Party HQ in Lansing and visit the Lansing Victory Center to come and help us win this election. <br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nWe need your help! I want to make the Lansing Victory Center the top rated and best quality Victory Center in the whole state and I know with your help we will turn Michigan Republican for the first time since 1988. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nOur office is open from 9AM-9PM Monday-Saturday and it\'s a great way to not only help our Republican candidates but to also meet some like minded people and possible new friends. We need your help making phone calls to identify new Republican voters along with knocking on doors, writing letters to the editor supporting our candidates, recruiting friends and family to help along with other opportunities that will help our candidates achieve victory in 2012.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf you would like to help or have any questions e-mail him or give him a call.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNick Sizeland<br />\r\nLansing Victory Center Director<br />\r\nMichigan Republican Party<br />\r\nSecchia-Weiser Republican Center<br />\r\n520 N. Seymour Ave<br />\r\nLansing, MI 48933<br />\r\n(E):nsizeland@migop.org<br />\r\n(C):517-897-3451<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2982,2982,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">SMART METER UPDATE:<br />\r\nGet the latest news on Smart Meters and how they will impact you if they are installed at your home and what you can do to stop them from being installed.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/smart-meters-rep-horn-your-privacy-your-health\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/smart-meters-rep-horn-your-privacy-your-health</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nCAMPAIGN HELP:<br />\r\nThe Romney Campaign and the State republican Party are looking for help in getting&nbsp; our message out. <br />\r\n<br />\r\n1. They are looking for people to make calls from the Victory Center in Lansing.<br />\r\n2. They are looking for attorneys to work on election day.<br />\r\n3. They are looking for people to work with coalitions to get their message out.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf you have some free time you can volunteer your help by calling or e-mailing:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTravis Howell<br />\r\n517-897-0118<br />\r\nthowell@mivictory.org<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2985,2985,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIntroduced by Rep. Kenneth Horn (R)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThis bill would eliminate the last remnants of a 2000 law that took away regional electric utility monopolies and authorized customer choice.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCompitition was mostly eliminated by a 2008 law that essentially restored the monopolies by limiting customer choice to just 10 percent of the market. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nExisting customer contracts with competing electricity providers would be &quot;grandfathered,&quot; but no additional customers could get service from a competing provider. <br />\r\n<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the legislature pass legislation to totally restore regional utility monopolies?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-legislature-pass-legislation-totally-restore-regional-utility-monopolies\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-legislature-pass-legislation-totally-restore-regional-utility-monopolies</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the legislature pass legislation requiring the ban or retrofitting of commercial diesel vehicles made before 2007?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . .&nbsp; 5%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . .&nbsp; 95%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . 0%&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\n<br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #!:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCalifornia may not be the best example to follow.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(2992,2992,'ROMNEY/RYAN CAMPAIGN REQUEST<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Romney for President campaign is asking for names of people or  businesses that would be willing to display a LARGE 4\' X 8\' foot  Romney/Ryan sign on their property. They are looking for higher  visibility roads in Clinton County (Old 27, 21, 127, Grand River, I-69,  M-100, etc). If you would be willing to display a sign send me your:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; NAME and/or BUSINESS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ADDRESS WHERE SIGN WOULD BE DISPLAYED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; PHONE NUMBER<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; E-MAIL ADDRESS<br />\r\n<br />\r\nand I will forward it on the Romney Campaign. They will be making a  determination as to where they feel the signs would have the greatest  impact in the near future. If your location is selected they will  contact you directly to make the arrangements.<br />',1),(2993,2993,'CONGRESSMAN CAMP DeWitt Ox Roast Parade walkers<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNate Zimmer from Congressman Camp\'s campaign staff has asked if he could get some volunteers to walk in the parade this Saturday. If you can walk for Congressman Camp on Saturday morning give Nate a call to get the details at: 517-285-3722 or e-mail him at natez@davecampforcongress.com<br />\r\n<br />',1),(2994,2994,'<div class=\"field field-type-text field-field-news-body\">\r\n<div class=\"field-items\">\r\n<div class=\"field-item odd\">\r\n<p>CONGRESSMAN CAMP DeWitt Ox Roast Parade Walkers<br />\r\n(The previous eNewsletter had the e-Mail contact information wrong)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCONGRESSMAN CAMP WOULD REALLY APPRECIATE OUR SUPPORT<br />\r\nLET\'S LET CLINTON COUNT SEE HOW MUCH WE APPRECIATE WHAT HE DOES FOR OUR STATE AND COUNTRY</p>\r\n<p>Nate Zimmer from Congressman Camp\'s campaign staff has asked if he  could get some volunteers to walk in the parade this Saturday. If you  can walk for Congressman Camp on Saturday morning give Nate a call to  get the details at: 517-285-3722 or e-mail him at <a href=\"mailto:natez@davecampforcongress.com\">nate@davecampforcongress.com</a></p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>',1),(2997,2997,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW<br />\r\n---------------------<br />\r\nA bipartisan group of legislators have been attempting to reform the sugar price-support program that currently costs consumers and businesses an estimated $3.5 billion and 20,000 jobs each year. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nSugar is the most tightly controlled agricultural commodity in the nation. Current federal policies keep prices artificially high. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe federal government also tightly controls the supply of sugar in the United States. Domestic producers are limited to strict quotas, and imports are severely restricted. Because of this, American manufacturers pay double the world\'s average price for sugar, which leads to higher prices at the grocery store. <br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; NEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ----------------------------<br />\r\nAre you in favor of eliminating the current sugar subsidies?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/are-you-favor-eliminating-current-sugar-subsidies\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/are-you-favor-eliminating-current-sugar-subsidies</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the legislature pass legislation to totally restore regional utility monopolies?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . 8%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . .79%<br />\r\nUndecided . . 13% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; YOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY&rsquo;S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(2999,2999,'<span>&nbsp;CCRP: SMART METER PUBLIC HEARING!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp; The Michigan Public Service Commission will be having a Public Hearing  on September 10, 2012 at 2:00 pm, before Administrative Law Judge  Dennis W. Mack, at Constitution Hall, 525 West Allegan, Lansing,  Michigan.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe hearing will be a prehearing conference to set future hearing dates and decide other procedural matters. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThis is an important issue to all of us, impacting our privacy and our  health. If you would like to hear what DTE has to say and have your  voice heard please attend the meeting.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFor details on the hearing click on this link:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/smart-meters\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/smart-meters</a></span><span><br />\r\n<br />\r\nGet CCRP updates and news on twitter at @swillis1945<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3004,3004,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n2012 House Bill 5610: Ban driving with trailer hitch except when towing.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Introduced by Rep. George T. Darany (D) on May 9, 2012, to prohibit driving a vehicle with a trailer hitch unless actually towing a trailer. In other words, the hitch would have to be removed except when towing.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Referred to the House Transportation Committee on May 9, 2012.<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the legislature pass legislation to require the removal of the hitch and ball from a vehicle when they are not towing?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-legislature-pass-legislation-require-removal-hitch-and-ball-vehicle-when-they-are-not<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAre you in favor of eliminating the current sugar subsidies?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . 79%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . 18%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . 3%&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3008,3008,'CCRP: ROMNEY &amp; RYAN in Commerce Michigan on August 24<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThere are several events and fundraisers coming up in the next month including the following that you might be interested in attending:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR DETAILS ON THESE EVENTS<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE ASSOCIATED LINK<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAugust 24 (Friday) -- Governor ROMNEY &amp;&nbsp; Congressman RYAN in Commerce Michigan<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/august-24-2012-romney-ryan-commerce-michigan\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/august-24-2012-romney-ryan-commerce-michigan</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nSEPTEMBER&nbsp; DATES TO REMEMBER:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSeptember 10&nbsp; (Monday) - Attorney General Bill Schuette&rsquo;s BBQ in Midland.<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/september-10-2012-attorney-general-bill-schuettes-bbq\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/september-10-2012-attorney-general-bill-schuettes-bbq</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nFor tickets contact Bruce Harte at 517-641-7287 or at&nbsp; harte@msu.edu<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/upcoming-events</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />',1),(3013,3013,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW<br />\r\n---------------------<br />\r\nSENATE JOINT RESOLUTION U has been introduced in the Michigan Senate by Senator Steve Bieda (D) from Macomb County and Senator Rick Jones from Grand Ledge. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe proposed joint resolution would amend section 19 article VI of the state constitution by removing the age limit restriction of 70 when judges can no longer run for office that is currently in effect.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHIS IS THE LANGUAGE THAT WOULD BE STRICKEN FROM THE CONSTITUTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &quot;(3) No person shall be elected or appointed to a judicial office after reaching the age of 70 years.</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><br />\r\n<span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;----------------------------<br />\r\nAre you in favor of eliminating the age restriction on Michigan judges from running for office once they reach the age of 70?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/are-you-favor-eliminating-age-restriction-michigan-judges-running-office-once-they-reach-age\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/are-you-favor-eliminating-age-restriction-michigan-judges-running-office-once-they-reach-age</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on </span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the legislature pass legislation to require the removal of the hitch and ball from a vehicle when they are not towing?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . . 7% (3 votes)<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . .&nbsp; . 91% (42 votes)<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . . 2% (1 vote)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHREE COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\n_______________<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nremoving hitch and/or ball from towing vehicle<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSeriously, our Legislators cannot think of something better to write a law about! This is why Michigan citizens think we should have a part-time legislature.<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\n________________<br />\r\nCOMMENT #2<br />\r\n<br />\r\ntrailer hitch legislation<br />\r\n<br />\r\nToday it is banning bare trailer hitches, tomorrow it will be banning Denard Robinson running without tied shoelaces.<br />\r\nI am grateful a democrat sponsored this, given this is an election year.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNot all tow hitches are the &quot;Reese&quot; style with removable connectors. Thus on a basic level this is impractical and should be considered unenforceable. A previous post mentioned that our police should be allowed to focus on a more serious level of crime (those with victims) and not be diverted into what becomes citizen harassment.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nGreg Palen<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\n________________<br />\r\nCOMMENT #3<br />\r\n<br />\r\ntrailer hitch legislation<br />\r\n<br />\r\n1. obviously whoever is suggesting this, and would vote for it doesnt tow things, this is very impratical!<br />\r\n2. I suspect the purpose of passing this law is actually to generate revenues from tickets<br />\r\n3. our police should spend their time on real problems like drugs, rape &amp; breakins<br />\r\n4. legislators need to solve some real problems, like jobs &amp; energy!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; YOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY&rsquo;S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(3025,3025,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW<br />\r\n---------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Rep. Joseph Haveman (R) has introduced House Bill 5727 that would EFFECTIVELY REQUIRE local governments to enter &quot;energy performance contracts</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> with private entities that make energy-saving improvements to public buildings and guarantee savings that exceed the cost of the contract.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFOR THE TEXT OF THE BILL CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span><a href=\"http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2011-2012/billintroduced/House/htm/2012-HIB-5727.htm\"><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2011-2012/billintroduced/House/htm/2012-HIB-5727.htm</span></a><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"><br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;----------------------------<br />\r\nAre you in favor of the State REQUIRING local units of government to enter into </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">energy performance contracts</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/are-you-favor-state-requiring-local-units-government-enter-%E2%80%9Cenergy-performance-contracts\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/are-you-favor-state-requiring-local-units-government-enter-%E2%80%9Cenergy-performance-contracts</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAre you in favor of eliminating the age restriction on Michigan judges from running for office once they reach the age of 70?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . . 58%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . . . 39%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . . 4%<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTWO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAge Discrimination<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe are republicans! Why would we discriminate against someone over 70!? Ronald Reagan was a great president. We have a great Sheriff. Best in the state!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #2<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJugdes Age<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe will end up with a bunch of 90 year old judges like in the Federal system who can\'t keep up with the case load.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n________________\r\n<div class=\"rtecenter\"><br />\r\nYOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY&rsquo;S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\nGET INVOLVED<br />\r\nELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\nSEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a></div>\r\n</span>',1),(3037,3037,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nMany corn and soybean farmers will make more money in this catastrophic drought year than they would have if their crops had received normal rainfall.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe winners will be the grain farmers and the insurance companies, and the losers will be the taxpayers, according to Craig Cox of Ames, a vice president of the Environmental Working Group, a leading crop insurance critic.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMuch of the risk inherent in federal crop insuranceis borne by the federal government.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTaxpayers pay more than 60 percent of the cost of insurance premiums.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTaxpayers also pay about $1.3 billion a year to defray administrative and operating expenses of the approved insurance providers. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe government also pays a substantial portion of the indemnity payments -- a portion that increases dramatically as losses mount.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe total cost to the government of crop insurance was $11.3 billion last year, and it will be substantially more than that this year.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIn the worst case scenario claims could total $30 billion and the federal government would be responsible for $23 billion.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCrop insurance has provided a windfall for corn and soybean producers.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nFarmers who lost much of their corn crop to the drought will actually make more money than they would have under normal rainfall conditions.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe revenue guarantee formula is fairly simple: The farmer\'s average production history (measured in bushels per acre) is multiplied by the price of the crop and by the coverage level, which can range from 50 to 85 percent, with 80 percent the standard in the grain belt.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe formula uses the higher of the projected price, which protects farmers from falling prices during the growing season, or the harvest price, which enables them to reap the benefits of rising prices during the growing season -- the situation that prevailed this year.<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the federal government provide crop insurance to farmers or should it be private sector insurance only?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nKeep the insurance the same (Combined Public &amp; Private)<br />\r\nMake it private sector insurance only (No government involvement)<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-federal-government-provide-crop-insurance-farmers-or-should-it-be-private-sector-insu<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAre you in favor of the State REQUIRING local units of government to enter into </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">energy performance contracts</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . 21%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . . 79%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . 0%<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nALL government should be focused on high citizen service at the very least taxpayer cost, but a mandate is not needed, leadership in cost reduction is needed. L. Meyer.<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3041,3041,'CAMPAIGN HELP NEEDED:<br />\r\nThe Romney Campaign in conjunction with the Michigan Republican Party will be having a &ldquo;Walk Day&rdquo; on Saturday, September 15 in St. Johns.<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nWe are STILL LOOKING for people to walk door-to-door&nbsp; for 1-to-3 hours handing out RonmenyRyan literature and to ask 2 short survey questions that will help us to identify likely voters and to get them to the polls in November.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf you are willing to help on September 15 to get the message out please contact me by Tuesday September 11 so we get the details to you regarding the walk day.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPlease consider donating a few hours of your time to get our message out to help restore responsibility in government.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\nH: 517-641-6657<br />\r\nM: 517-281-4458<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />',1),(3043,3043,'With: SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER REPRESENTATIVE DAVE AGEMA<br />\r\n(The Michigan Republican Party\'s Newly Elected National Committeeman)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAT<br />\r\nTHE PEACOCK ROAD TREE FARM<br />\r\nIn The &quot;Snack Barn&quot;<br />\r\n(Graciously Provided by Owners Ed &amp; Diana Carpenter)<br />\r\n11854 Peacock Road<br />\r\n&nbsp;Laingsburg, MI 48848<br />\r\n<br />\r\nEVENT SPONSORS<br />\r\nBruce &amp; Janice Harte<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhen: Thursday, October 18, 2012 (6:00 pm to 8:00 pm)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n$20.00 per person&nbsp; -- $50.00 as an Event Sponsor<br />\r\n(Children under 18 admitted free with their parents)<br />\r\n(Dress is Casual - Fall Food Items will be provided)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ed &amp; Diana Carpenter, owners of Peacock Road Tree Farm, have graciously volunteered the &quot;Snack Barn&quot; for this year\'s&nbsp; CCRP Fall Fest. Come and join us to hear what Representative Agema has to say and for a great time with friends, food, plenty of things to do for the kids, free wagon rides, and of course talk of the upcoming November election.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Let\'s have a great turnout for the event as we look forward to a victory on November 6.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(300 &amp; 200 Club Sponsors Free - see footnote for details)*<br />\r\n*300 Club Sponsors are given free admission to all fundraising events and 200<br />\r\nClub Sponsors are given free admission to either the Summer BBQ or the Fall Fundraiser for 2012.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(All proceeds will benefit the Clinton County Republican Party.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;Late registrations will be accepted at the door.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK TO REGISTER:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/node/1763\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/node/1763</a><br />\r\n<br />',1),(3053,3053,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW<br />\r\n---------------------<br />\r\nWith the murder, violence, and protests in the middle east against America and it citizens there are moves in congress to halt aid to Egypt an Libya.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Obama administration is in the final stages of organizing a $1 billion package to ease the rising debt burden of Egypt&rsquo;s Morsi\'s government. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe U.S. also gives Egypt $1.3 billion a year in military aid.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;----------------------------<br />\r\nShould we continue to give aid to Egypt and Libya?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-we-continue-give-aid-egypt-and-libya\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-we-continue-give-aid-egypt-and-libya</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the federal government provide crop insurance to farmers or should it be private sector insurance only?<br />\r\n<br />\r\n65% - Make it private sector insurance only (No government involvement)<br />\r\n27% - Keep the insurance the same (Combined Public &amp; Private)<br />\r\n8% - Undecided<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe private sector can always do everything cheaper than the govt. There is less fraud, abuse, and outright criminal activity in the private sector. Plus, they are employing people and and paying taxes into the govt. Yes, corporations are people, contrary to the morons in the democrat party.<br />\r\nIda S.<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; YOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY&rsquo;S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(3057,3057,'DO YOU WANT ANOTHER 4 YEARS LIKE THE LAST 4?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHELP US TO IDENTIFY AND GET PEOPLE TO THE POLLS WHO WILL VOTE BASED ON THEIR VALUES!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIn conjunction with &quot;Focus on Family&quot; several of us will be making phone calls to ask a few survey questions that will help to identify voters who haven&rsquo;t voted in the last few presidential elections.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe survey questions will be targeted to identify voters who believe in TRADITIONAL MARRIAGE and THE RIGHTS OF THE UNBORN who have failed to vote in the last few elections. The goal is to get the VALUES VOTERS to the polls to elect Governor Romney and Pete Hoekstra.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe will be making the calls every Tuesday evening beginning at 5:30 pm up until election day at our home in Bath Township. Cell phones will be provided to the callers as well as food and refreshments.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThis may be our last chance to restore the rights and freedoms our country was founded upon. If we fail in this election we have no one to blame but ourselves.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf you want more infomration or if you can help us out call me or e-mail for details.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n517-281-4458<br />\r\n517-641-6657<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />\r\n<br />',1),(3068,3068,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW<br />\r\n---------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMandate motorist turn on dome light when stopped at night<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSenate Bill 1231, Introduced by Sen. Judy Emmons (R) on August 15, 2012, to require a motorist stopped by police at night to turn on vehicle&rsquo;s interior lights, subject to a $100 fine.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHERE IS THE LANGUAGE THAT WOULD BE ADDED TO THE CURRENT LAW:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (7) If a driver of a motor vehicle is directed to bring his or<br />\r\nher motor vehicle to a stop under subsection (1) at any time<br />\r\nbetween a half hour after sunset and a half hour before sunrise, he<br />\r\nor she shall illuminate the interior dome light of his or her<br />\r\nvehicle until the police or conservation officer allows the vehicle<br />\r\nto resume operation. An individual who violates this subsection is<br />\r\nresponsible for a civil infraction and shall be ordered to pay a<br />\r\ncivil fine as follows:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (a) For a first violation, $100.00.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (b) For a second or subsequent violation, $200.00.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;----------------------------<br />\r\nAre you in favor of the State passing a law that would mandate a driver turn on vehicle\'s interior lights when stopped by the police?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/do-you-favor-state-passing-law-would-mandate-driver-turn-vehicle%E2%80%99s-interior-lights-when-stop\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/do-you-favor-state-passing-law-would-mandate-driver-turn-vehicle%E2%80%99s-interior-lights-when-stop</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould we continue to give aid to Egypt and Libya?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . 5%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . 93%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . .2% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nONE COMMENT WAS MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI remember Reagan\'s response to Libya: One well placed bomb shut them up. Quadafi lost a young child and stability was restored to the world. But Hillary thought that over throwing Quadafi was a good idea. Does she recognize that she was wrong? And 0bama thought that his soaring rhetoric and misunderstanding of the world and human beings was appropriate in Egypt. Yikes. Dumb and Dangerous.<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; YOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY&rsquo;S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(3075,3075,'<div class=\"rtecenter\">&nbsp;With: SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER REPRESENTATIVE DAVE AGEMA</div>\r\n<p class=\"p1\">(The Michigan Republican Party\'s Newly Elected National Committeeman)</p>\r\n<p class=\"p2 rtecenter\">AT</p>\r\n<p class=\"p1 rtecenter\">THE PEACOCK ROAD TREE FARM<br />\r\nIn The &quot;Snack Barn&quot;<br />\r\n(Graciously Provided by Owners Ed &amp; Diana Carpenter)<br />\r\n11854 Peacock Road<br />\r\nLaingsburg, MI 48848<br />\r\n<br />\r\nEVENT SPONSORS:<br />\r\nJean &amp; Rod Bond<br />\r\nBruce &amp; Janice Harte<br />\r\nDawn &amp; Bill Sherman<br />\r\nLarry &amp; Coreen Strzalka</p>\r\n<p class=\"p2 rtecenter\">When: Thursday, October 18, 2012 (6:00 pm to ?:?? pm)<br />\r\n$20.00 per person&nbsp; -- $50.00 as an Event Sponsor<br />\r\n(Children under 18 admitted free with their parents)<br />\r\n(Dress is Casual - Fall Food Items will be provided)</p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\">&nbsp; &nbsp;Ed &amp; Diana Carpenter, owners of Peacock Road Tree Farm, have graciously volunteered the &quot;Snack Barn&quot; for this year\'s&nbsp; CCRP Fall Fest. Come and join us to hear what Representative Agema has to say and for a great time with friends, food, plenty of things to do for the kids, free wagon rides, pig race, and of course talk of the upcoming November election.</p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\">&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Let\'s have a great turnout for the event as we look forward to victory on November 6.</p>\r\n<p class=\"p2 rtecenter\">(300 &amp; 200 Club Sponsors Free - see footnote for details)*<br />\r\n*300 Club Sponsors are given free admission to all fundraising events and 200<br />\r\nClub Sponsors are given free admission to either the Summer BBQ or the Fall Fundraiser for 2012.<br />\r\n(All proceeds will benefit the Clinton County Republican Party.)</p>\r\n<p class=\"p2 rtecenter\">Late registrations will be accepted at the door.</p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p class=\"p1 rtecenter\">CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK TO REGISTER:</p>\r\n<p class=\"p1 rtecenter\"><a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/node/1763\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/node/1763</a></p>',1),(3076,3076,'&nbsp;September 26, 2012\r\n<p class=\"p2\"><br />\r\nPETE HOEKSTRA FUNDRAISER ON OCTOBER 2 IN OKEMOS</p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\">Come to Okemos and help the Hoekstra Campaign in the last few weeks of the campaign to defeat the Senate&rsquo;s Worst Senator.</p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\">For details on the event&nbsp; download the following file:<br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/hoekstra.pdf\">sites/default/files/hoekstra.pdf</a></p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\">CCRP FALL FEST FUNDRAISER ON OCTOBER 18</p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\">Come and join us at the Peacock Road Tree Farm,11854 Peacock Road in Laingsburg on Thursday, October 18, 2012 from 6:00 pm to ?:?? pm. Our special guest will be Michigan&rsquo;s newly elected Republican National Committeeman Dave Agema. It should be a great time with friends, food, plenty of things to do for the kids, free wagon rides, pig race, bon fire, roasting marshmallows, and of course talk of the upcoming November election. Let&rsquo;s have a great turnout for the event as we look forward to a victory on November 6.</p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\">For details of the event click on the following link:<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/node/1763 \">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/node/1763<br />\r\n</a></p>',1),(3077,3077,'&nbsp;September 26, 2012\r\n<p class=\"p2\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\">PETE HOEKSTRA FUNDRAISER ON OCTOBER 2 IN OKEMOS</p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\">Come to Okemos and help the Hoekstra Campaign in the last few weeks of the campaign to defeat the Senate&rsquo;s Worst Senator.</p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\">For details on the event&nbsp; download the following file:<br />\r\n<img src=\"/sites/default/files/hoekstra_0.pdf\" width=\"0\" height=\"0\" alt=\"\" /><img src=\"/sites/default/files/hoekstra.pdf\" width=\"0\" height=\"0\" alt=\"\" /><br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/hoekstra.pdf\">HOEKSTRA FUNDRAISER DETAILS<br />\r\n</a><br />\r\nCCRP FALL FEST FUNDRAISER ON OCTOBER 18<br />\r\nCome and join us at the Peacock Road Tree Farm,11854 Peacock Road in Laingsburg on Thursday, October 18, 2012 from 6:00 pm to ?:?? pm. Our special guest will be Michigan&rsquo;s newly elected Republican National Committeeman Dave Agema. It should be a great time with friends, food, plenty of things to do for the kids, free wagon rides, pig race, bon fire, roasting marshmallows, and of course talk of the upcoming November election. Let&rsquo;s have a great turnout for the event as we look forward to a victory on November 6.</p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\">For details of the event click on the following link:<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/node/1763\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/node/1763</a></p>',1),(3079,3079,'<span style=\"font-size: large; \">&nbsp;-----------------------------------------------------------------  </span>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">YOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW<br />\r\n-------------------------</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">If you believe the polls, Governor Romney should drop out of the race now -- he doesn&rsquo;t have a chance!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br type=\"_moz\" />\r\n</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">Obama is campaigning everyday while the country and the world are in turmoil and the mainstream media say things are getting better everyday.<br />\r\n<br type=\"_moz\" />\r\n</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">Obama panders to all of his special interests to garner their votes and he promotes class and race warfare.<br />\r\n<br type=\"_moz\" />\r\n</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">The question, if Obama wins a second term, is how did it happen that a president that performed so poorly won a second term?</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \"><br />\r\nObama&rsquo;s future an&nbsp;&quot;OUR FUTURE<span style=\"font-family: georgia, serif; font-style: normal; line-height: 27px; \">&quot;</span>&nbsp;are vested in&nbsp;<span style=\"font-family: georgia, serif; font-style: normal; line-height: 27px; \">&quot;</span>YOUR VOTE<span style=\"font-family: georgia, serif; font-style: normal; line-height: 27px; \">&quot;</span>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<span style=\"font-family: georgia, serif; font-style: normal; line-height: 27px; \">&quot;</span>YOUR PARTICIPATION<span style=\"font-family: georgia, serif; font-style: normal; line-height: 27px; \">&quot;</span>&nbsp;in the political process!</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \"><br />\r\n</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">Answer the poll question and then ask yourself if you want 4 more years of Obama and his goal to&nbsp;<span style=\"font-family: georgia, serif; font-style: normal; line-height: 27px; \">&quot;</span>FUNDAMENTALLY TRANSFORM AMERICA<span style=\"font-family: georgia, serif; font-style: normal; line-height: 27px; \">&quot;</span>!</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \"><br />\r\n</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">If that\'s what you want do nothing -- and it will happen!</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \"><br />\r\n</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">NEW POLL QUESTION:</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">&nbsp;----------------------------</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p4\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">If Obama wins the election in November what will be the reason he won?</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \"><br />\r\n</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">Obama\'s policies and programs</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">The influence of his special interest groups</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">The influence of the main stream media</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">The ignorance of the voters</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">The weakness of Governor Romney</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">Because I didn\'t get involved</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">Undecided</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p5\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \"><br />\r\n</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p6\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">TO VOTE IN THIS POLL CLICK ON THIS LINK</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p6\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/if-obama-wins-election-november-what-will-be-reason-he-won</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \"><br />\r\n</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">(To enter your comments click on&nbsp;<span style=\"font-family: georgia, serif; font-style: normal; line-height: 27px; \">&quot;</span>Add new comment<span style=\"font-family: georgia, serif; font-style: normal; line-height: 27px; \">&quot;</span>&nbsp;after you vote.)</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \"><br />\r\n</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">-----------------------------------</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">PREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">-----------------------------------</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \"><br />\r\n</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">Do you favor the State passing a law that would mandate a driver turn on a vehicle\'s interior lights when stopped by the police?</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \"><br />\r\n</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">Yes . . . . . . . . 12%</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">No . . . . . . . .&nbsp; 82%</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">Undecided . . .&nbsp; 6%</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \"><br />\r\n</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">NO COMMENTS WAS WERE ON THIS POLL QUESTION</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \"><br />\r\n</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">---------------------------------</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO HELP:</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">CALL 517-281-4458</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">OR</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">E-MAIL ccrpmich@gmail.com</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p2\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \"><br />\r\n</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; YOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY&rsquo;S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; GET INVOLVED</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS</span></p>\r\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-size: large; \">&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</span></p>',1),(3090,3090,'This e-mail goes to around 400&nbsp; Clinton County residents. Hopefully a few of you will be willing to help identify values voters!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe are looking for at least 6 more callers tonight&nbsp; to make calls for around two hours at our home at 4789 Drumheller Road in Bath from 5:30 to 8:00. (Phones, food and drinks will be provided).<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe will be making phone calls to identify voters who vote based on fiscally and socially based values. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nCan you spare a couple of hours to help turn our country around? <br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf we do nothing to make a change it will be our fault!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf you would like additional information regarding the calling or you would like to volunteer please call Steve or Sheri Willis at 517-641-6657.<br />',1),(3101,3101,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW<br />\r\n---------------------<br />\r\nState Senator Tom Casperson has introduced a bill to prohibit the Department of Natural Resources from designating an area of land specifically for the purpose of achieving &quot;biological diversity</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe bill would amend several parts of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to do the following:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;--&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Prohibit the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Natural Resources Commission from promulgating or enforcing a rule or an order that designates or classifies an area of land specifically for the purpose of achieving or maintaining biological diversity.<br />\r\n&nbsp;--&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Delete the conservation of biological diversity from the DNR\'s duties regarding forest management, and require the Department to balance its management activities with economic values.<br />\r\n&nbsp;--&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Eliminate a requirement that the DNR manage forests in a manner that promotes restoration.<br />\r\n&nbsp;--&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Provide that a State department or agency would not have to designate or classify an area of land specifically for the purpose of achieving or maintaining biological diversity.<br />\r\n&nbsp;--&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Eliminate the restoration of natural biological diversity from the definition of </span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">conservation</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">.<br />\r\n&nbsp;--&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Eliminate a reference to </span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">unusual flora and fauna</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"> in the definition of&nbsp; </span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">natural area</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">.<br />\r\n&nbsp;--&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Delete a legislative finding that most losses of biological diversity are the result of human activity.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;----------------------------<br />\r\nAre you in favor of the State passing a law that would restrict setting aside state land for </span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">biological diversity</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/are-you-favor-state-passing-law-would-restrict-setting-aside-state-land-%E2%80%9Cbiological-diversit<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on </span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf Obama wins the election in November what will be the reason he won?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe ignorance of the voters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .&nbsp; 50% <br />\r\nThe influence of the main stream media . . . . . . .31%<br />\r\nThe weakness of Governor Romney . . . . . . . . . . .8%<br />\r\nThe influence of his special interest groups . . . . .6%<br />\r\nObama&rsquo;s policies and programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3%<br />\r\nBecause I didn\'t get involved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; YOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY&rsquo;S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(3102,3102,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">The following is the content of an e-mail from the Clinton County Tea Party Patriots regarding a debate they will be hosting on October 23 between the candidates for the 93rd House District seat between Tom Leonard (R) and Paul Silva (D). <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThey are offering you the opportunity submit questions that you might want asked of the candidates.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHi to all receiving this message...............<br />\r\nIn the spirit of having the public be as informed as possible concerning the candidates running for the Michigan\'s 93rd District, I would like to extend a request to those receiving this email to submit questions for the candidates.&nbsp; We have an ample supply of questions already, but are always interested in more to choose from. Understand that we may use all, some, or none of the questions submitted.&nbsp; The odds are great that your questions submitted are already in our roster in some form or another.&nbsp; But if there is a question you would like to ask &quot;the other candidate&quot;, now is the time to submit.&nbsp; The event is taking place on Tuesday, October 23, and any questions submitted must be in by Friday noon, October 19th.<br />\r\nPlease submit&nbsp; questions to:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDavid J. Smith&nbsp; <br />\r\nSecretary <br />\r\nClinton County Tea Party Patriots<br />\r\nhillhouse1971@yahoo.com<br />\r\n<br />\r\nQuestions? Call 517.281.9482<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3103,3103,'You can pick them up starting on Saturday morning between 9:30 am and 10:00 am at the Clinton County Courthouse parking lot and after 2:00 pm at our home in Bath Township&nbsp; at 4789 Drumheller Road (Between Webster and Chandler).<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe are also looking for distribution locations in the DeWitt and St. Johns areas. If you would be willing to serve as a distribution site please let me know as soon as possible.<br />\r\nI can be reached at H:517-641-6657 or M:517-281-4458 or by e-mail at sgwillis1945@gmail.com.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe were allocated 250 signs and they are going fast so if you want one let me know as soon as possible because we don&rsquo;t know how many more we will be getting in the future.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe also have a limited supply of Romney/Ryan bumper stickers if you are interested.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />',1),(3104,3104,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">You can pick up Romney/Ryan signs at:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nST JOHNS<br />\r\nThe Cellular Connection, 800 S US Highway 27 Ste 5, Saint Johns, MI 48879<br />\r\nHours of Business:<br />\r\nMonday - Friday 10:00am - 8:00pm<br />\r\nSaturday 10:00am - 6:00pm<br />\r\nSunday 12:00am - 5:00pm<br />\r\n<br />\r\nBATH/DEWITT (CALL AHEAD)&nbsp; <br />\r\n4789 Drumheller Road (Between Webster and Chandler)<br />\r\nH: 517-641-6657<br />\r\nM: 517-281-4458<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe are still also looking for a distribution location in the DeWitt area. If you would be willing to serve as a distribution site please let me know as soon as possible.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI can be reached at H:517-641-6657 or M:517-281-4458 or by e-mail at sgwillis1945@gmail.com.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe also have a limited supply of Romney/Ryan bumper stickers at the BATH/DEWITT location if you are interested.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3106,3106,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">You can pick up Romney/Ryan signs at:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nST JOHNS<br />\r\nThe Cellular Connection,&nbsp; 800 S US Highway 27 Ste 5,&nbsp; Saint Johns, MI 48879<br />\r\n<br />\r\nHours of Business:<br />\r\nMonday - Friday 10:00am - 8:00pm<br />\r\nSaturday 10:00am - 6:00pm<br />\r\nSunday 12:00am - 5:00pm<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDEWITT AREA (CALL AHEAD or EMAIL)&nbsp; <br />\r\nRichard &amp; Geri Schultz Home<br />\r\nH: 517-669-4545<br />\r\npinewhite@4wbi.net<br />\r\n<br />\r\nBATH (CALL AHEAD or EMAIL)&nbsp; <br />\r\nSteve &amp; Sheri Willis Home<br />\r\n4789 Drumheller Road (Between Webster and Chandler)<br />\r\nH: 517-641-6657<br />\r\nM: 517-281-4458<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe also have a limited supply of Romney/Ryan bumper stickers at the BATH location if you are interested.<br />\r\n--------------------------<br />\r\nHELP GET &quot;VALUES VOTERS</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"> TO THE POLLS:<br />\r\n(PRO LIFE &amp; TRADITIONAL MARRIAGE)<br />\r\nMAKE PHONE CALLS ON MONDAY OCTOBER 8 OR TUESDAY OCTOBER 9<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Public Interest Forum is sponsoring two groups in Clinton County who will be making making phone calls to identify voters who vote based on fiscally and socially based values. These voters have not voted in the last two presidential elections and we need to get them to vote this year based on their beliefs.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; If you would like to help out in this effort you can go to First Baptist Church in St. Johns on Monday Night (10/8/12) at 5:30 pm or to the home of Steve &amp; Sheri Willis at 4789 Drumheller Road in Bath on Tuesday Night (10/9/12) at 5:30 pm.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; If you would like additional information regarding the calling please call Steve or Sheri Willis at 517-641-6657.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3110,3110,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">THE&nbsp;FOLLOWING&nbsp;IS&nbsp;FROM&nbsp;THE&nbsp;STATE&nbsp;PARTY:<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nThe Romney Campaign just let me know that we have buses going to the Paul Ryan event tomorrow in Rochester Hills. For anybody that goes on the bus they will all be designated into a special VIP area during the event. Carter Bundy and I absolutely have to know a head count of who will be going as we have to make sure there will be enough room on the bus for everybody. The bus will be leaving from Okemos Park and Ride at 3PM and then we will head to Rochester Hills for the event. This will be a great opportunity for the Clinton County GOP to see our next Vice President and the rest of the GOP leaders in Michigan. For more information either call myself or Carter Bundy 517-898-9886&nbsp; ASAP. Below is a link to print out your ticket for the event, I hope to see you all there!<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nLink to print off ticket<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://paulryanmi.eventbrite.com/?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=et&amp;utm_content=text_body_visit+here&amp;utm_campaign=1843804_114116_Team%20Michigan# &lt;http://paulryanmi.eventbrite.com/?utm_medium=email&amp;amp;utm_source=et&amp;amp;utm_content=text_body_visit+here&amp;amp;utm_campaign=1843804_114116_Team%20Michigan&gt;\">http://paulryanmi.eventbrite.com/?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=et&amp;utm_content=text_body_visit+here&amp;utm_campaign=1843804_114116_Team%20Michigan# &lt;http://paulryanmi.eventbrite.com/?utm_medium=email&amp;amp;utm_source=et&amp;amp;utm_content=text_body_visit+here&amp;amp;utm_campaign=1843804_114116_Team%20Michigan&gt; <br />\r\n</a>&nbsp;<br />\r\nBest,<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nNick Sizeland<br />\r\nLansing Victory Center Director<br />\r\nMichigan Republican Party<br />\r\nSecchia-Weiser Republican Center<br />\r\n520 N. Seymour Ave<br />\r\nLansing, MI 48933<br />\r\n517-897-3451<br />\r\nnsizeland@migop.org<br />\r\nhttp://www.facebook.com/LansingVictoryCenter<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3111,3111,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">With: SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER REPRESENTATIVE DAVE AGEMA<br />\r\n(The Michigan Republican Party\'s Newly Elected National Committeeman)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAT<br />\r\nTHE PEACOCK ROAD TREE FARM<br />\r\nIn The &quot;Snack Barn</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><br />\r\n<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">(Graciously Provided by Owners Ed &amp; Diana Carpenter)<br />\r\n11854 Peacock Road<br />\r\nLaingsburg, MI 48848<br />\r\n<br />\r\nEVENT SPONSORS:<br />\r\nJean &amp; Rod Bond<br />\r\nBuck Kuisel &amp; Toot Barnard<br />\r\nBruce &amp; Janice Harte<br />\r\nDawn &amp; Bill Sherman<br />\r\nLarry &amp; Coreen Strzalka<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhen: Thursday, October 18, 2012 (6:00 pm to ?:?? pm)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n$20.00 per person&nbsp; -- $50.00 as an Event Sponsor<br />\r\n(Children under 18 admitted free with their parents)<br />\r\n(Dress is Casual - Fall Food Items will be provided)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCome and join us to hear what Representative Dave Agema has to say and for a great time with friends, food, plenty of things to do for the kids, free wagon rides, pig race, and of course talk of the upcoming November election.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Let\'s have a great turnout for the event as we look forward to victory on November 6.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(300 Club Sponsors are given free admission to all fundraising events and 200 Club Sponsors are given free admission to either the Summer BBQ or the Fall Fundraiser for 2012.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;Late registrations will be accepted at the door.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK TO REGISTER:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/node/1763<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3115,3115,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Hello Clinton County Precinct Delegates, Citizens and Volunteers,<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nWe have 27 days left to make sure the next 4 years are where we want it to be. To the volunteers that have come in to make phone calls or knock on doors, Thank you so much for all of your hard work and effort! To everyone else time is running out and if you want to see Barack Obama out of office the time is now to volunteer! We are only down by 3 points in Michigan and with your help we can do this, if Barack Obama loses Michigan he loses the Presidency. Michigan is in play and with the help of you we will make this happen and have a bright and better future.<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nThe last two weeks of the election are especially crucial, this is our Get Out the Vote Phase. We need to call all the Republicans and Independents that we have identified through the many months and push them to the polls and knock on their doors reminding them to vote and persuade the Independents that Mitt Romney is the candidate to turn this country around. Please start thinking about this and when you can sign up to come on certain days to volunteer. The Victory Center is open from 9AM-9PM Mon-Sat and 2-9 on Sundays and If you would like to knock on doors specifically, Please let me know what area you would like to walk and I will set that up for you. Please feel free as always to give me a call or send me an email with any questions or concerns. Please sit back think about how you want the next 4 years to be and volunteer to push Mitt Romney over the edge.<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nI have two exciting events that I would like for you to attend if so tomorrow to support our Republican Candidates. Congressmen Pete Hoekstra will be in Lansing at a talk of Health Care and we would like to show our support for Pete. Also Congressmen Mike Rogers will be at the Lansing Victory Center for the Debate Watch Party for the Paul Ryan/Joe Biden debate starting at 9. We would like to have everyone coming to show up around 7:30-8:00PM to have a good crowd for Congressmen Rogers and make some calls. Snacks and drinks will be provided as always. Please call or email me to confirm that you are coming to either of these events or both. Thank you all so much.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPete Hoekstra Event<br />\r\nWho: U.S. Senate candidate Pete Hoekstra<br />\r\nWhere: Lansing, Radisson Hotel, 111 North Grand Avenue<br />\r\nWhen: 6:00 PM Thursday October 11th<br />\r\nWhat: Health Care Debate with Pete Hoekstra and nonpartisan Independent Choice Network<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMike Rogers Event<br />\r\nWho: Congressmen Mike Rogers<br />\r\nWhere: Lansing Victory Center 520 N. Seymour Ave Lansing Michigan Republican Party HQ<br />\r\nWhen: 7:30 Thursday October 11th<br />\r\nWhat: Phone Bank and Debate Watch Party with Congressmen Mike Rogers<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNick Sizeland<br />\r\nLansing Victory Center Director<br />\r\nMichigan Republican Party<br />\r\nSecchia-Weiser Republican Center<br />\r\n520 N. Seymour Ave<br />\r\nLansing, MI 48933<br />\r\n517-897-3451<br />\r\nnsizeland@migop.org<br />\r\nhttp://www.facebook.com/LansingVictoryCenter<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3116,3116,'<span>As most of you know the United Nations is attempting, with the help of the U.S. government and State and local groups, to reach into almost every aspect of our lives. For those of you who are familiar with AGENDA&nbsp;21 you know what I am referring to. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nRep Opsommer\'s office has forwarded me the following information regarding a conference that will be held in East Lansing, October 21-23 to discuss </span><span>&quot;</span><span>Sustainable Energy for All</span><span>&quot;</span><span>. The conference is being sponsored by </span><span>the United Nations Association of Greater Lansing and Michigan State University. These organizations are actively seeking to implement United Nations based initiatives that will impact us in ways that will endanger our basic rights and freedoms and our very sovereignty. The event is open to the public if you are interested in attending the conference. See the information below for details:</span><span><br />\r\n<br />\r\nFrom: ippsr-action [mailto:ippsr-action@ssc.msu.edu] <br />\r\nSent: Monday, October 01, 2012 11:35 AM<br />\r\nTo: ippsr-action<br />\r\nSubject: Conference Oct 21-23, Sustainable Energy for All<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nRegistration is open for all who wish to attend the United Nations Conference planned for October in East Lansing. The gathering is part of the United Nations General Assembly\'s designation of 2012 as the International Year of Sustainable&nbsp; Energy for All. It is cosponsored by the United Nations Association of Greater Lansing and Michigan State University.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe meeting will kick off on Sunday evening, Oct 21, at the Hannah Community Center with an address by Vice President of the UN Foundation Melinda Kimble, and continue on MSU</span><span>\'</span><span>s campus through Tuesday. The two-day program will focus&nbsp; on sustainable energy practices, innovation and the economics of sustainability. Information shared there will increase awareness about the importance of increasing sustainable access to energy, energy efficiency and renewable energy at the local, national,&nbsp; regional and international levels. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThose who wish to attend &quot;Sunday dinner and address only</span><span>&quot;</span><span> are welcome. One- and two-day registration options are also available. All participants must register by close of business on Oct 15. For more information, visit http://www.canr.msu.edu/faculty_staff/canr_conferences/sus/.<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3122,3122,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW<br />\r\n---------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says it hopes to complete a rule that would require rear view cameras in the back of vehicles, which could cost as much as $57.2 million per life saved. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nEquipping all vehicles with the rearview camera with interior mirror display would cost between $1.1 billion to $2.57 billion and is estimated to result in 26 to 69 &quot;total fatalities avoided,</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> according to NHTSA documents.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMagna Electronics Technology Inc. in Grand Blanc Township is getting local and state tax incentives to produce the rear view camera technology. The company received a five-year, $2.1 million deal in 2011 with the Michigan Economic Development Corp.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMagna Electronics plans to invest $64.8 million over the next five years in Michigan to expand the plant in Grand Blanc Township. Magna is the largest manufacturer of rear view camera technology in the country.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;----------------------------<br />\r\nAre you in favor of the federal government mandating rearview cameras on all new vehicles?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/are-you-favor-federal-government-mandating-rearview-cameras-all-new-vehicles\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/are-you-favor-federal-government-mandating-rearview-cameras-all-new-vehicles</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAre you in favor of the State passing a law that would restrict setting aside state land for </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">biological diversity</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . 50%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . .42%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . .8% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; YOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY&rsquo;S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(3126,3126,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">With: SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER REPRESENTATIVE DAVE AGEMA<br />\r\n(The Michigan Republican Party\'s Newly Elected National Committeeman)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAT<br />\r\nTHE PEACOCK ROAD TREE FARM<br />\r\nIn The &quot;Snack Barn</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><br />\r\n<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">(Graciously Provided by Owners Ed &amp; Diana Carpenter)<br />\r\n11854 Peacock Road<br />\r\nLaingsburg, MI 48848<br />\r\n<br />\r\nEVENT SPONSORS:<br />\r\nJean &amp; Rod Bond<br />\r\nBuck Kuisel &amp; Toot Barnard<br />\r\nBruce &amp; Janice Harte<br />\r\nDawn &amp; Bill Sherman<br />\r\nLarry &amp; Coreen Strzalka<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhen: Thursday, October 18, 2012 (6:00 pm to ?:?? pm)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n$20.00 per person&nbsp; -- $50.00 as an Event Sponsor<br />\r\n(Children under 18 admitted free with their parents)<br />\r\n(Dress is Casual - Fall Food Items will be provided)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCome and join us to hear what Representative Dave Agema has to say and for a great time with friends, food, plenty of things to do for the kids, free wagon rides, pig race, and of course talk of the upcoming November election.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Let\'s have a great turnout for the event as we look forward to victory on November 6.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(300 Club Sponsors are given free admission to all fundraising events and 200 Club Sponsors are given free admission to either the Summer BBQ or the Fall Fundraiser for 2012.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;Late registrations will be accepted at the door.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDOWNLOAD THE FOLLOWING FLYER FOR DETAILS:<br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/2012_fall_fundraiser_bw.pdf\">CCRP FALL FEST FUNDRAISER</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK TO REGISTER:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/node/1763\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/node/1763</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(3130,3130,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">TOMORROW NIGHT!<br />\r\nTHURSDAY - OCTOBER 18, 2012<br />\r\n6:00 pm to 8:00 pm<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDON&rsquo;T MISS THE OPPORTUNITY TO HEAR:<br />\r\nSPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER REPRESENTATIVE DAVE AGEMA<br />\r\n(The Michigan Republican Party\'s Newly Elected National Committeeman)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAT THE<br />\r\nPEACOCK ROAD TREE FARM<br />\r\nIn The &quot;Snack Barn</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><br />\r\n<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">(Graciously Provided by Owners Ed &amp; Diana Carpenter)<br />\r\n11854 Peacock Road<br />\r\nLaingsburg, MI 48848<br />\r\n<br />\r\nEVENT SPONSORS:<br />\r\nJean &amp; Rod Bond<br />\r\nBuck Kuisel &amp; Toot Barnard<br />\r\nBruce &amp; Janice Harte<br />\r\nDawn &amp; Bill Sherman<br />\r\nLarry &amp; Coreen Strzalka<br />\r\n<br />\r\n$20.00 per person&nbsp; -- $50.00 as an Event Sponsor<br />\r\n(Children under 18 admitted free with their parents)<br />\r\n(Dress is Casual - Fall Food Items will be provided)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCome and join us to hear what Representative Dave Agema has to say and for a great time with friends, food, plenty of things to do for the kids, free wagon rides, pig race, and of course talk of the upcoming November election.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Let\'s have a great turnout for the event as we look forward to victory on November 6.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(300 Club Sponsors are given free admission to all fundraising events and 200 Club Sponsors are given free admission to either the Summer BBQ or the Fall Fundraiser for 2012.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;Late registrations will be accepted at the door.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDOWNLOAD THE FOLLOWING FLYER FOR DETAILS:<br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/2012_fall_fundraiser_bw.pdf\">CCRP FALL FEST FUNDRAISER</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nCLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK TO REGISTER:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/node/1763\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/node/1763</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(3135,3135,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Around 60 adults and kids attended our Annual Fall Fest Fundraiser at the Peacock Road Tree farm in Bath Township on Thursday night.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe adults were treated to a presentation by State Representative Dave Agema, Michigan\'s newly elected national committeeman, who spoke to his time in the Michigan Legislature, his vision for our country, and how he will represent us with the Republican National Party.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSenator Rick Jones and Paul Opsommer were also in attendance, with Senator Jones giving us an update on his newly redrawn senate district that will now include all of Clinton County beginning in 2015.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhile Representative Agema spoke the kids in attendance went on a hayride and saw a pig race. Everyone in attendance had a great time with lots of good food, conversation, and getting updated on the county races of the candidates who were there. In attendance were:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCountywide Candidates:<br />\r\nPhil Hanses for Drain Commissioner and Tina Ward for Treasurer<br />\r\n<br />\r\nBath Township Candidates:<br />\r\nBruce Harte for Trustee, Buck Kuisel for Trustee, &amp; Larry Meyer for Supervisor<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDeWitt Township Candidates:<br />\r\nDavid Seeger for Trustee<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIt&rsquo;s too bad that in a county where we have over 70 elected Republican office holders that we only had four current office holders that chose to attend the event. Events like these are a great opportunity for candidates to meet the grassroots individuals who go door-to-door and make phone calls and that are instrumental in getting our candidates elected to office.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIn closing I would like to acknowledge and thank Ed &amp; Diana Carpenter for their generosity in donating the use of the Peacock Road Tree Farm for us to use for the event.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI would also like to thank the Fall Fest event sponsors:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Rod &amp; Jean Bond, Extol Oil &amp; Detailing in St. Johns<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Bruce &amp; Janice Harte<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Buck Kuisel &amp; Toot Barnard<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Tom &amp; Marilyn Irrer<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Randy &amp; Ida Salisbury<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Bill &amp; Dawn Sherman<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Larry &amp; Coreen Strzalka<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Tina Ward<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAnd last but not least special thanks to all of the people who helped in the preparation for and at the event:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Ray &amp; Elaine Snyder<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Larry &amp; Coreen Strzalka<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Bruce &amp; Janice Harte<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Buck Kuisel &amp; Toot Barnard<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Phil &amp; Nancy Bareham<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Mary Harr<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Bob Craig<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Charlie &amp; Gail Wadell for donating the beef<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; Sheri Harte Willis<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAll proceeds from our events go to support our Clinton County candidates, activities&nbsp; by the CCRP to promote our ideals, and to maintain our website.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHANKS AGAIN FOR SUPPORTING THE CCRP!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLET&rsquo;S GET THE VOTE OUT AND HELP TO RESTORE RESPONSIBLE GOVERNMENT ON NOVEMBER 6!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3138,3138,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW<br />\r\n---------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nU.S. District Judge Paul Borman has ordered Michigan Secretary of State Ruth Johnson to remove citizenship check-off boxes from November ballot applications.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nBorman told Johnson the boxes that ask Michigan voters to confirm their U.S. citizenship slows the voting process, is confusing and is a burden on the right to vote.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLawyers representing the secretary of state have argued the citizenship question could prevent an unqualified person from voting and committing a crime.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe American Civil Liberties Union\'s Michigan chapter, unions and others wanted the court to order Johnson to stop requiring the check box. The groups also want all clerks to be told the box shouldn</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">t be used.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nA coalition of local election officials, advocacy groups, and voters is asking the judge to halt the use of the box. They say it violates the Equal Protection Clause of the US Constitution.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nVoters would not be denied a ballot if they refuse to answer.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSecretary of State Ruth Johnson ordered the question on the ballot applications. Her attorneys say it</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">s a good way to make sure only eligible voters get ballots.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;----------------------------<br />\r\nDo you think there should be a U.S. Citizen check box voters should have to check on ballots to confirm their citizenship?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/do-you-think-there-should-be-us-citizen-check-box-voters-should-have-check-ballots-confirm-t\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/do-you-think-there-should-be-us-citizen-check-box-voters-should-have-check-ballots-confirm-t</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAre you in favor of the federal government mandating rearview cameras on all new vehicles?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . 7%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . 89%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . 4% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY&rsquo;S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE<br />\r\nGET INVOLVED<br />\r\nELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\nSEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(3139,3139,'We have just received another shipment of Romney/Ryan, Dave Camp, Pete Hoekstra, and Supreme Court signs and you can pick them up in:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nST JOHNS AT<br />\r\nThe Cellular Connection,&nbsp; 800 S US Highway 27 Ste 5,&nbsp; Saint Johns, MI 48879 (ALL SIGNS)<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; HOURS OF BUSINESS:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Monday - Friday 10:00am - 8:00pm<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Saturday 10:00am - 6:00pm<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sunday 12:00am - 5:00pm<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAllaby-Brewbaker Insurance<br />\r\nDowntown St. Johns (ROMNEY/RYAN &amp; SUPRME COURT SIGNS)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nBATH/DEWITT - ALL SIGNS (CALL AHEAD)&nbsp; <br />\r\n4789 Drumheller Road (Between Webster and Chandler)<br />\r\nH: 517-641-6657<br />\r\nM: 517-281-4458<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDEWITT - ALL BUT SUPREME COURT(CALL AHEAD)<br />\r\nThe phone number to call is 669-4545.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI can be reached at H:517-641-6657 or M:517-281-4458 or by e-mail at sgwillis1945@gmail.com.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />',1),(3148,3148,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">The Michigan Supreme Court races:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAs all of you know the candidates for the Michigan Supreme Court run as NON PARTISAN candidates. It is important that we continue to elect the candidates that will stand up for the RULE OF LAW and to defend our constitution from the constant attacks from the progressive left. We currently have a 4 to 3 conservative majority on the court.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThis year conservatives have an opportunity to take a 5 to 2 majority on the court because of the forced retirement of Justice Marilyn Kelly because of the 70 age limit. This will mean that there are 3 seats up for consideration instead of the usual 2 every two years.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Democrats plan for getting their Liberal candidates elected is to have them have &quot;Irish</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> names and be </span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Female</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> but not to focus on upholding our constitution and the law!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/dems-supreme-court-plan-run-irish-women-candidates\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/dems-supreme-court-plan-run-irish-women-candidates</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nPlease remember to vote for the three conservative candidates who will make sure the rule of law is upheld:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSupreme Court Justice Stephen Markman (incumbent)<br />\r\nSupreme Court Justice Brian Zahra (incumbent)<br />\r\nJudge Colleen O\'Brien (Running for open seat vacated by retiring judge Kelly)<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLANSING COMMUNITY COLLEGE TRUSTEES:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThere are 5 candidates running for the&nbsp; 2 open LCC trustee positions. All five lean from hard liberal to liberal. Of the five the two most fiscally conservative and most likely to keep costs down are:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJoe Manzella<br />\r\nRobin Smith<br />\r\n<br />\r\n--------------------------------------------<br />\r\nProvided by The Clinton County Republican Party<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3150,3150,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">We are looking for 5 volunteers to help out in Bath Township on election&nbsp; day at three Bath Township precincts. We will be working in 3-hour shifts and will be uploading information to the Romney Campaign to help get the vote out by getting people to the polls who haven&rsquo;t voted on election day. If you would like additional information and/or would be willing to help call Sheri Harte Willis at 517-281-6212.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe online registration for the Romney campaign to help with this effort is:<br />\r\n</span><a href=\"http://www.mittromney.com/orca\"><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">http://www.mittromney.com/orca</span></a><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"><br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3151,3151,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">A week from today America, Michigan, and YOU AND I will decide the direction of OUR COUNTRY!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe need to do all we can to make that happen by electing people to office to represent us in Washington, Lansing, and locally. You can help in that effort by making phone calls at the Lansing Victory Center and/or going door-to-door to get the vote out.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf we don\'t change the direction our country is headed in we won&rsquo;t have anyone to blame but ourselves!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nLet</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">\'</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">s work to put Michigan in the Romney/Ryan column on November 6!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe will be making phone calls through election&nbsp; day at the Lansing Victory Center at 520 Seymour Ave, in Lansing. For more information call&nbsp; or e-mail Nick Sizeland at nsizeland@migop.org&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 517-897-3451.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSheri and I will be going down to make calls on Thursday at 1:00 pm if any of you would like to go down at the same time. It would&nbsp; would be great to send a group from Clinton County to help out. If you can make it give me a call and let me know so I can let Nick know how many will be coming to make calls.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3152,3152,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">As of this morning I have received the names of 14 people who have requested to have their names placed on the ballot for the selection of&nbsp; delegate elected members to the CCRP Executive Committee for the next two years. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe county party has 21 openings to be filled that will comprise the new delegate elected members.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf you wish to have your name on the ballot for consideration for membership on the executive committee please notify Steve Willis by phone (H: 517-641-6657&nbsp; M: 517-281-4458) or by e-mail at sgwillis1945@gmail.com by 5:00 pm on Wednesday, November 14, 2012 to assure inclusion of your name on the ballot.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nAll submitted names will appear on the ballot.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nA complete description of the process is attached to this e-mail. If you have any questions please feel free to call me.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"/sites/default/files/ex_comm_select_instr.pdf\">Selection process document</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\nH: 517-641-6657<br />\r\nM: 517-281-4458<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3154,3154,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">Several of us in Clinton County from the CCRP and the CCTPP have been making phone calls over the last five weeks to identify and get values voters to the polls to vote for the candidates who believe in traditional marriage, the rights of the unborn, and religious freedom. It appears that the effort has paid off. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nThursday night I received the following e-mail tonight from Charlie Nunez at the Public Interest Forum who has been spearheading the effort in Clinton County:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------<br />\r\nTonight at 7:00 pm, I received new information and internal polling indicating that Michigan could determine the Election! Events are occurring around the nation, including Florida, Ohio and Wisconsin, that shows Michigan in the spot light! <br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nBecause of this, our sponsoring organization is asking the Public Interest Forum to hire 50 new callers state-wide. This is a paid position. We will also need those who want to call on a volunteer basis. (If you don&rsquo;t need the money, donate it to your favorite cause!)<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\n&middot;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; We need callers and we have a brand new script! (If you are currently calling, please continue using the current script, until notified of the change over which should be on Friday.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nOur mid-Michigan team is looking for 15 new callers (age 16+). All callers will be paid $15 per hour! It&rsquo;s an &ldquo;all hands on deck.&rdquo; Let me know if you are interested and I will forward you the website to register. (The normal paperwork will be required which I will cover, later.)<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nIf you are currently calling, please increase your hours! These last 96 hours are mission critical. We are on the 1-yard line! With your help, we will finish strong!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDoor Hangers on Marriage<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nIn addition, I have approximately 1,000 door hangers to be distributed on Friday, Saturday or Monday. This is a straight door-hanging project without surveys. The hanger clearly distinguishes the marriage issue between President Obama and Governor Romney. Ten people could hang 100 door hangers about 90 minutes. Every conservative vote is important. The weather will be sunny and 45! Great weather for walking &ndash; take the kids!<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nLet&rsquo;s complete the mission! <br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nSincerely,<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nCharles Nunez, Jr.<br />\r\n517.896.7268<br />\r\nCharlie@charlienunez.com<br />\r\n-------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIf you would like to help out with this effort call Charlie or you can call me at H: 517-641-6657 or M: 517-281-4458 to volunteer or for more information.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nSteve Willis, Chairman<br />\r\nClinton County Republican Party<br />\r\nsgwillis1945@gmail.com<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3160,3160,'<span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">See what Forbes has to say about the impact of Obamacare on Seniors on Medicare in Michigan! <br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span><a href=\"http://www.forbes.com/sites/aroy/2012/11/02/in-michigan-obamacare-to-cause-25-of-doctors-to-stop-accepting-medicare-patients/\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\">http://www.forbes.com/sites/aroy/2012/11/02/in-michigan-obamacare-to-cause-25-of-doctors-to-stop-accepting-medicare-patients/</span></a><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><br />\r\n<br />\r\nIT\'S YOUR&nbsp;FUTURE&nbsp;AND&nbsp;YOUR&nbsp;HEALTH!<br />\r\nREMEMBER TO&nbsp;VOTE FOR ROMNEY/RYAN &amp; HOEKSTRA ON&nbsp;TUESDAY!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYOUR&nbsp;VOTE&nbsp;WILL&nbsp;MAKE&nbsp;A&nbsp;DIFFERENCE!<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3166,3166,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">REMEMBER TO VOTE ON TUESDAY NOVEMBER&nbsp; 6!<br />\r\nOUR FUTURE MAY DEPEND ON YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\nMICHIGAN COULD DETERMINE THE ELECTION!<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;----------------------------<br />\r\nWho do you think will win Michigan in the Presidential Election on November 6?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nObama<br />\r\nRomney<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/who-do-you-think-will-win-michigan-presidential-election-november-6<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nDo you think there should be a U.S. Citizen check box voters should have to check on ballots to confirm their citizenship?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . 84%<br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . .14%<br />\r\nUndecided . . . . 2% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHREE COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #1<br />\r\nCitizenship check off box<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould be a no brainer!! If you are not a citizen, you are not qualified to vote in ANY American election. What in the world, would be wrong with knowing before you vote, that you qualify.<br />\r\nIda S.<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nCOMMENT #2<br />\r\ncitizenship check box<br />\r\n<br />\r\nin no way can this confirm that a person is a US citizen simply by checking a box, please!<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nCOMMENT #3<br />\r\nNo box for citizenship<br />\r\n<br />\r\nI do not believe the State should require a box for citizenship at the election polls for four reasons. First, a voter is required to declare whether he is a citizen at the time he registers to vote. Requiring a person to declare whether he or she is a citizen at the ballot box is superfluous, a waste of resources, and may confuse voters. Second, it is intellectually dishonest for Republicans (and I am a life-long Republican) to bristle at any attempt to interfere with or limit our Constitutional right to bear arms but support limitations or interferences with any citizens\' right to vote. A voter has proved his or her citizenship prior to the election; the State should not interfere or ask again. Third, it is a waste of government resources to pursue a measure that purports to lessen voter fraud. The Secretary of State\'s own investigation found almost no voter fraud in Michigan with respect to fraudulent identification (2 cases). Moreover, there is no statical or verifiable evidence that asking an individual if they are a citizen at the ballot box reduces the almost non-existent cases of voter identity fraud. Additionally, the real voter fraud is that committed by the likes of Rep. Thad McCotter and his cronies who falsified nomination petitions. We, as defenders of the Constitution, should have outrage at McCotter (one of our own) trying to game the system. Finally, Republicans should take the moral high ground and defend every citizens\' right to vote free of government interference and castigate those that would interfere, abuse, or game this sacred right. <br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; YOU CONTROL OUR COUNTRY&rsquo;S FUTURE WITH YOUR VOTE!<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GET INVOLVED<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ELECT RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE IN 2012<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; SEND THIS LINK TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/</a><br />\r\n</span>',1),(3168,3168,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">I would like to thank all of the dedicated people who helped with the races in Clinton County for our republican candidates. The phone calls and door knocking on numerous occasions were appreciated by the candidates and was a great help in their individual races.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nOnce again, as in 2008, the presidential race had a huge impact on the races in Bath Township. The student vote from MSU in precincts 2 and 5 returned all seven democrat candidates into office again as well as flipping one county commissioner seat back to that democrat side.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIt&rsquo;s a shame that the MSU students who have no vested interest in Bath Township determine the<br />\r\nfuture of the residents who do have a vested interested the their future.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe good news is that we retained republican control of all of the countywide races and 6 of the 7 Commissioner seats as well as the 93rd House District.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYou can find complete election results for Clinton County at this link:<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-county.org/Government/CountyClerk/ElectionandVoterInformation.aspx\">http://www.clinton-county.org/Government/CountyClerk/ElectionandVoterInformation.aspx</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3170,3170,'<span style=\"font-size: larger;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMeghan McCain Tweeted this today: <br />\r\n<br />\r\n&quot;Keep calling people like me RINO\'s and see how many elections we keep winning.</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><br />\r\n<span style=\"font-size: larger;\"><br />\r\nPeople say the republican party can no longer appeal to voters and that its conservative positions have cost it a large segment of the voters. The president wants to pass programs that republicans are ideologically opposed to.<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nIt is suggested that the GOP move away from its positions on abortion, same sex marriage, immigration, Obamacare, legalization of marijuana, and renewable energy for a few.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;----------------------------<br />\r\nShould the republican party move more toward the middle and abandon their conservative ideologies?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<a href=\"http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-republican-party-move-more-toward-middle-and-abandon-their-conservative-ideologies\">http://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/should-republican-party-move-more-toward-middle-and-abandon-their-conservative-ideologies</a><br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: larger;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWho do you think will win Michigan in the Presidential Election on November 6?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nObama . . . . . . . 13%<br />\r\nRomney . . . . . .&nbsp; 88%<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNO COMMENTS WERE MADE ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3185,3185,'<span style=\"font-size: medium;\">-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nYOU CAN NOW COMMENT ON STORIES AND POLLS<br />\r\nLET US KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ISSUES.<br />\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />\r\nPOLL OVERVIEW:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIt\'s an unwritten rule that when an incumbent candidate is running for another term in office that no other candidates run against them in a primary election. <br />\r\n<br />\r\nNEW POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n&nbsp;----------------------------<br />\r\nDo you believe that incumbent candidates should not be contested in primary elections?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes<br />\r\nNo<br />\r\nUndecided<br />\r\n<br />\r\nhttp://www.clinton-countygop.org/content/do-you-believe-incumbent-candidates-should-not-be-contested-primary-elections<br />\r\n<br />\r\n(To enter your comments click on &quot;Add new comment</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\">&quot;</span><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"> after you vote.)<br />\r\n<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\nPREVIOUS POLL QUESTION:<br />\r\n-----------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\nShould the republican party move more toward the middle and abandon their conservative ideologies?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nYes . . . . . . . . . . . . 21% <br />\r\nNo . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77% <br />\r\nUndecided . . . . . . . . . 2% <br />\r\n<br />\r\nTHERE WERE 7 COMMENTS ON THIS POLL QUESTION<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nComment #1<br />\r\nCompromise core beliefs - NEVER!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nJust because you lose an election doesn\'t mean you change your beliefs. That\'s what is wrong with our country. Our politicians pander to the groups that get them elected and throw out the foundational truths that our country was created upon. Fiscal irresponsibility is wrong, homosexuality is wrong, abortion is wrong and to change a political party\'s stands for votes is unconscionable.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nComment #2<br />\r\nCenter-Right<br />\r\n<br />\r\nMost Americans are center-right. As long as we have extreme candidates that say extreme things we will lose elections. We actually had one candidate that said if a woman is raped and a baby is the result of that rape then God intended for it to happen. We need more common sense conservatives. NO more extreme candidates.<br />\r\n&nbsp;<br />\r\nCOMMENT #3<br />\r\nWhat does it mean to be a Conservative?<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe need to articulate what it means to be a conservative in a more effective and meaningful matter - instead of letting the Democrats define what it means to be a conservative - we need to define what it means and then speak about and advocate for those positions.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #4<br />\r\nChanging our views, no no no!!<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWhat would we do that for, to become more like the Demacrates that we so patiently apposed. They have taken an un Godly stand on all these issues. We don\'t need to become more progressive we need to stand for what is right and good and not evil and wrong. How quickly the winds of the nobles are changing, don\'t expect me or any one with a true faith in God to go along with this. Respected submitted, Jean A. Shank<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #5<br />\r\nNo, I don\'t believe that<br />\r\n<br />\r\nNo, I don\'t believe that Republican should abandon their conservative ideologies but there needs to be the ability to compromise. Our country was build with checks and balances so that one ideology is not able to take complete control. With the attitude that there is no compromise, nothing gets done. That is what I have seen recently with the Republican Party as well as the Democrat Party. Sometimes you have to give a little on something so that you can move forward on something else. If you really care about this country, both sides need to bend a little bit to move things forward and not resort to the blame game.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #6<br />\r\nAnonymous wrote 4 days 11 hours ago<br />\r\nConservative and moderate<br />\r\n<br />\r\nWe\'ve had several moderates run for the party, how many of won? zero, zilch, nada!!! We need to run a true conservative. I think if we could not win in this environment, they need to close up shop and let the tea party take over and run against the liberals.<br />\r\nIda<br />\r\n<br />\r\nCOMMENT #7<br />\r\nAnonymous wrote 4 days 12 hours ago<br />\r\nRepublician Party Needs......<br />\r\n<br />\r\nTake a look at the results of the last poll on this site. 88% actually believed that Mitt would win this State. Michigan was actually one of the earlier calls for O bama. You cannot keep doing things the same way and expect different results! If nothing changes, then nothing changes. Look at the wording of the above question... abandon ideologies, never. Adjust YES! That is if you want to see a Republican in the White House any time soon.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n---------------------------------<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),(3190,3190,'<span>I am forwarding the following e-mail message from Michigan Freedom To Work:<br />\r\n<br />\r\nIt is time for Michigan to become a right-to-work state. If the conditions were ever perfect for this to happen, they are right now. Consider:<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; - We have a Speaker of the House who has publicly expressed support for RTW.<br />\r\n&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; - A solid majority of House members and, I believe, Senate members have expressed a willingness to vote for a RTW law, if it comes to a vote on the floor. <br />\r\n&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; - We have a Governor who has pledged to sign a RTW bill if it gets to his desk.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; - We have a veto-proof majority in the Senate.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; - Three unabashedly pro-union ballot proposals were soundly defeated at the polls. <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; - Indiana became the 23rd RTW state this year.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; - Wisconsin, the birthplace of public-sector unions has beaten back multi-million-dollar efforts by the union bosses to recall the governor and many legislators. In spite of their efforts, the governor remains and the Assembly and Senate have retained or won back Republican majorities. <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; - Polling data has shown that a solid majority of Michigan residents support RTW for Michigan.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; - We are entering the &ldquo;lame-duck&rdquo; session, a time when anything can happen, and usually does.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; - There is a wealth of data to give evidence that right-to-work states create more jobs, more wealth, fewer residents on welfare, higher per-capita disposable income, and much more. Find the data here and here. <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; - With all this compelling data, and circumstances being as ideal as they have ever been, what is holding up the legislation that has already been written, from being introduced in the House and the Senate? The answer lies in one person, the Majority Leader of the Senate, Randy Richardville.<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; - He has gone on record opposing RTW <br />\r\nhttp://www.eclectablog.com/2011/09/michigan-senate-majority-leader-wont_10.html<br />\r\n&nbsp; in Michigan. <br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; - In spite of the fact that the House, the Senate, and the people of Michigan have said YES to RTW, and the governor has agreed to sign the bill, Mr. Richardville has flatly refused to support this bill. <br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; - It is time to respectfully ask the Majority Leader to either support RTW or step out of the way and allow this bill to be heard and voted on. He can vote against it if he wishes, but I believe the Senate will pass it, if given the opportunity, the House will follow suit, and the Governor will quickly sign it. <br />\r\n<br />\r\n&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; - Please contact Randy Richardville here <br />\r\nhttp://www.misenategop.com/senators/contact.asp?District=17<br />\r\n&nbsp; and respectfully ask him to give Right-to-work for Michigan an up or down vote.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n</span>',1),