The Becker Report
Volume III, Issue VII
September 29, 2008

Published by:
John Becker
Republican State Central Committeeman
Ohio's 14th Senate District
Clermont, Brown, Adams, Scioto, and Lawrence Counties
513-753-6440
www.BeckerGOP.com
mailto:John@BeckerGOP.com
www.BeckerGOP.com/TheBeckerReport.htm


Distribution:
Tim Rudd, Clermont County GOP Chairman
Paul Hall, Brown County GOP Chairman
Harty Wallingford, Adams County GOP Chairman
Dr. Terry Johnson, Scioto County GOP Chairman
Ray “Moose” Dutey, Lawrence County GOP Chairman


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Disclaimer
Nobody asked me to include this, but it seems like a good idea:
This newsletter is not sanctioned by the GOP, ORP, or any organization, or affiliation. I am fully and solely responsible for its' content. Although I strive for accuracy, this is not "The Gospel according to John." Additionally, I don't necessarily try to be "fair and balanced." After all, I didn't get into politics to be a news reporter. My agenda is to influence public policy consistent with Southern Ohio conservative values. For more information on my motivations or how to get involved, see: What is a Central Committee?

Prayers Needed
Tina Meranda sent me an e-mail telling me that she is doing great and appreciates all prayers.
Please keep Danny Bubp in your prayers while he serves our country in Iraq.
Pray that our nation does not have to suffer an "Obamination."

State Ballot Issues
Issue #1 - To provide for earlier filing deadlines for statewide ballot issues
This seems reasonable. I'm planning to vote yes.

Issue #2 - To authorize the State to issue bonds to continue the Clean Ohio program for environmental revitalization and conservation
I'll vote no. I'm always suspect when proponents tell you that "it won't raise your taxes." The state will pay interest on the bonds. Interest expense is paid via taxation.

Issue #3 - To amend the constitution to protect private property rights in ground water, lakes and other watercourses
I'm leaning toward voting yes.

Issue #4 - Mandatory Sick Days
Fortunately, the sick day issue will not appear on the ballot

Issue #5 - Referendum on Legislation Making Changes to Check Cashing Lending, Sometimes Known as "Payday Lending," Fees, Interest Rates and Practices
Governor Strictland signed into law restrictions that (if upheld) will force the payday lending industry, competition, and 6,000 jobs out of Ohio. Issue 5 is a referendum on the suspended law. A "No" vote will overturn a key part of the law, preserve 6,000 jobs, and allow the public to continue their right to make personal choices regarding their finances. In short, the public currently has the option to pay a $15 fee to obtain a $100 unsecured cash advance for a two-week period. Although no interest is charged (only a $15 fee) it technically calculates to 391 percent APR. Compare that $15 fee to multiple bounced check charges, merchant fees, or a late payment penalty and those APRs could calculate to well over 10,000 percent!
This is an issue I feel very strongly about. Please be pro-choice on financial freedom and Vote "No" on issue 5.
http://www.buckeyeinstitute.org/article.php?id=1111

http://www.buckeyeinstitute.org/article.php?id=1135

http://ohioans4financialfreedom.com/


Issue #6 - To Amend the Constitution by Initiative Petition for a Casino Near Wilmington in Southwest Ohio and Distribute to All Ohio Counties a Tax on the Casino
The Ohio Republican Party has taken a "Vote No" position on issue #6. I strongly agree and endorse Voting "No" on issue #6.
http://www.votenocasinos.com/

Election Info (Contested Races)
See Ohio Election Central for candidate's positions on important issues.

Presidential Race
John McCain

2nd Congressional District US Congressional Race
Jean Schmidt

6th Congressional District US Congressional Race
Richard Stobbs

Ohio Supreme Court Race
Maureen O'Connor
Evelyn Stratton

Ohio Attorney General Race
Mike Crites

Ohio State Senate Race
Tom Niehaus

12th District Court of Appeals Race
Judge Robert Hendrickson
Judge Robert Ringland

10th District State Board of Education
Jeff Hardin

Clermont County
Ed Humphrey for Commissioner
Bob Proud for Commissioner
Barb Wiedenbein for Clerk of Courts
Debbie Clepper for Recorder

Brown County
Rick Eagan for Commissioner
Gary Steele for Commissioner
Jessica Little for Prosecutor
Tina Meranda for Clerk of Courts
Amy Jo DeClaire for Recorder
Dwayne Wenninger for Sheriff
Scott Gusweiler for Court of Common Pleas

Adams County
Justin Cooper for Commissioner
Roger Rhonemus for Commissioner

Scioto County
George Crumm for Commissioner
Doug Coleman for Commissioner
Loren Purdom for Recorder

Lawrence County
Jason Stephens for Commissioner
Les Boggs for Commissioner
Perry Brock for Treasurer
Cheryl Jenkins for Clerk of Courts
Sharon Hager for Recorder
Jeff Lawless for Sheriff

Obama Watch
New
Shocking video of B. Hussein Obama shamelessly supporting infanticide.
This is a must see!!!

At what point does a baby get human rights?


The One we've been waiting for

B. Hussein Obama quotes scripture

Senator Biden praised John McCain's qualifications for president.

NotReady08

ObamaWantsYou.com

NoHussein.org

ObamaNation.com

GunBanObama.com

Be Patriotic. Pay More Taxes!

Old


B. Hussein Obama on national defense:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dl32Y7wDVDs

The National Journal rated him as the most liberal US Senator. This is an amazing feat considering the fact that US Senator Bernie Sanders (Vermont) is an avowed socialist. (As a matter of fact, although technically an independent, Sanders is the only Democrat that has the courage to admit that he is a socialist.) The bottom line is that B. Hussein Obama is to the left of an avowed socialist. What does that tell you?

This is my favorite video. It is almost five minutes and well worth watching all the way through:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5N-1-g90bW0

What does Ted Strictland think of B. Hussein Obama?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ik8BcMpnCZE

Voting records compared:
http://www.cwfpac.com/candidateStance.php

Beckerisms
During the "Great 2008 Blackout" (No electricity until day #9), I concluded that I am a "community organizer." I got together with some neighbors to remove a tree that had toppled a power line. Afterward, I got thinking about some other examples of  "community organizers."
Was Senator Robert Byrd a "community organizer" when he was a grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan?
Could the leader of a lynch mob or a gang leader be considered a "community organizer"?

If an avowed socialist were running for president, how would his policy proposals differ from B. Hussein Obama's?

Which Party represents the common man? Which Party represents the lowest common denominator?

Are people who support the so-called "pro-choice" position supporters of mass murder?

Reader Feedback
Senator McCain, with his VP Choice of Gov. Palin, reimplemented the term "Shock & Awe" for the Dems.
Obama and Rev. Wright will finally be silenced. Americans don't want doom and gloom from their leaders. They want a President and VP who exude optimism and encouragement like Senator McCain and Sarah Palin.

Dear Mr. Becker:
The idea that Saint Barack of Obama might be elected president gives me the willies. The thought that he might take office together with a commanding congressional majority is even more worrisome. Is that what will happen? Republicans have lost three special elections this year. Even with his mad pastor's ravings still ringing in people's ears, His Glibness is polling slightly ahead of our man McCain. We'll have a hard time winning at the top of the ticket and down-ticket prospects appear even worse. We need to turn things around and fast. We can do it by giving people reasons to vote for us rather than just against the other side. Actual restoration of law and order could be one such reason. Please consider the following: http://www.fairamendment.us/Dems%20to%20Crime%20Victims%20Drop%20Dead.htm

Criminals for Gun Control Video
Past Events
September 25, 2008
Many thanks to Lori Viars who sent me the following:
Family First PAC had a successful fundraising dinner on Sept. 25 at the Sharonville Convention Center. Dr. Jack & Barbara Willke were presented the 2008 Family First Champion Award for a lifetime of work leading the pro-life movement. Phil Heimlich emceed the event and Family First chairman Jack Gruber shared the importance of electing conservative candidates. A list of Family First endorsed candidates for the November general can be viewed on the group's website at www.FamilyFirstPAC.org.
Guest speaker Jill Stanek, R.N. shared her story of fighting then State Senator Barack Obama over protecting late-term babies who survived abortion. As a labor & delivery nurse at Christ Hospital in Oak Lawn, Illinois, Stanek witnessed many preemie babies who had been aborted but lived up to eight hours. No medical care was given to these babies, so she began to speak out. Stanek pushed to pass the Born Alive Infants Protection Act in Illinois and then at the federal level. President Bush later invited Stanek to the signing ceremony at the White House when he signed the federal bill into law.
Earlier in the day, Stanek shared her first-hand knowledge of Barack Obama's appalling record on this issue on the Bill Cunningham show. Stanek is running a TV ad about Barack Obama in key states. You can view the ad at www.BornAliveTruth.org. Family First Executive Director Lori Viars would like to thank everyone who attended the event and supported this good cause.
September 19, 2008 (Election of Ohio Presidential Electors)
The GOP State Central Committee met in Columbus to officially select Ohio Presidential Electors.
Additionally, Chairman Bennett discussed the many variations of federal and state financial accounts. He also gave a recap of the convention and talked about the energy that Sarah Palin has created for the Party.
Kay Ayres pointed out that, "Like the years 2000 and 2004, Ohio is center stage."
Jason Mauk briefly discussed the availability of signs and an upcoming training session.
I moved that the ORP take a position endorsing a "No" vote on issue #6 (casinos). David Miller seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Kevin DeWine talked about convention logistics, Mike Crites, absentee ballots, and the controversial Ohio Secretary of State.

September 17, 2008
The successful Clermont County Fair, upcoming Lincoln Day Dinner, and the November election were among the many topics discussed at the Clermont County Central Committee meeting in Batavia. Several candidates, or their representatives, briefly talked about their campaigns. Volunteers are needed for phone banks.

September 4, 2008
Nearly 25 people attended the Adams County Central Committee meeting. Stephen Caraway gave a club update. Money was appropriated for several candidates. The merits of opening a headquarters were discussed. Victory team assignments were made. And an answering service was proposed.

September 2, 2008
The Union Twp (Clermont County) Central Committee held their regular business meeting at the UT Civic Center. Matt Beamer, Union Township Trustee, addressed a number of issues regarding an audit and other concerns that had been in the media. Much discussion followed.

August 21, 2008
Bill Herdman sent me the following:
The Brown County Central Committee held a special meeting to recommend Amy Jo DeClaire to fill the vacancy of Recorder Gary Himes. He will resign effective August 31st. We also swore in 5 new members of the Central Committee. We now have in place 34 members out of 35 precincts. Jessica Little is running for Prosecuting Attorney for Brown County. We are having a fund raiser October 4th at our home at Lake Lorelei. Our guests will be transported by pontoon boats from the club house to our lake side home.
Future Events
September 29, 2008
David Barton Comes to Ohio for a Patriotic Event Fall tour to include Bob McEwen 

September 29, 2008
Meranda-Nixon Winery first annual harvest festival

September 30, 2008
Reception for Jean Schmidt at the home of Ron & Janet Maag from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm for $100
Contact Phil Greenberg at 513-686-0431

September 30, 2008
Absentee voting begins

September 30, 2008
Coffee with Judge Robert Ringland, Candidate for Court of Appeals at the home of Rachel Hutzel in Lebanon from 8:00 am to 9:00 am
Call 513-934-3613

September 30, 2008
Col. Moe is planning a brief visit at 6:15 pm at the Belmont County Republican Headquarters at 408 S. Jefferson St. , Belmont, Ohio

October 1, 2008
Breakfast fundraiser for Judge Robert Hendrickson at the Eastgate Holiday Inn for $100
Contact Nicole Rapier at 513-939-9726 for more info

October 4, 2008
Fundraiser for Jessica Little at the home of Bill Herdman at Lake Lorelei for $100 per couple or $75 per person
Call Bill Herdman at 513-875-3301 for more information.

October 5, 2008
Free campaign rally for Debbie Clepper from 2:00 - 4:00 at Batavia Station Restaurant
Call 732-9800 or 732-3443 for more information.

October 5, 2008
Clermont County Life Chain from 2:00 - 3:00 on SR 125 near St. Thomas More Church
513-575-0138

October 6, 2008
Union Twp (Clermont County) Central Committee meeting at the UT Civic Center at 7:00 pm

October 6, 2008
Voter registration deadline


October 6, 2008
Clergy Briefing Luncheon in New Boston (Scioto County) at 12:00 pm for $5
Guest Speaker: Bob McEwen
Contact Kevin Craft at 740-456-6148

October 14, 2008
Fundraiser for Bob Proud at Eastgate Receptions from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm for $75

October 14, 2008
Scioto County Central Committee at 7:00 pm in New Boston

October 15, 2008
Clermont County Central Committee meeting in Batavia at 7:00 pm

October 16, 2008
Reception for Jean Schmidt at the Queen City Club from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm for $2,500 to $1,000
Guest Speaker: Mitt Romney
Contact Phil Greenberg at 513-686-0431

October 16, 2008
Right to Life of Greater Cincinnati's Evening for Life at Xavier University's Schiff Center
Social at 5:30 pm and Dinner at 6:30 pm
Guest Speaker: Eduardo Verstegui

October 18, 2008
Rally Round the Flag at the Miami Twp Civic Center
Meet the candidates at 6:00 pm
Call 513-248-1130 for more info.

October 23, 2008
Brown County Central Committee meeting at HQ in Georgetown

October 30, 2008
Brown County Central Committee meeting at HQ in Georgetown

November 4, 2008
Election Day


November 11, 2008
Scioto County Central Committee at 7:00 pm in New Boston

December 4, 2008
Chairman Bennett's annual Christmas Party in Columbus from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

December 5, 2008
GOP State Central Committee meeting in Columbus at 9:00 am

December 9, 2008
Scioto County Central Committee at 7:00 pm in New Boston

January 13, 2009
Scioto County Central Committee at 7:00 pm in New Boston

January 16, 2009 (Election of Officers)
GOP State Central Committee meeting in Columbus at 9:00 am

February 10, 2009
Scioto County Central Committee at 7:00 pm in New Boston

February 20, 2009
Clermont County Lincoln Day Dinner at the Eastgate Holiday Inn

March 10, 2009
Scioto County Central Committee at 7:00 pm in New Boston

March 31, 2009
Scioto County Lincoln Day Dinner, social -- 5:30 p.m. with dinner at 6:00 pm