Merry Christmas

xxxxxx-MERRY CHRISTMAS-xxxxx
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2Lte8RCqUQ&feature=player_embedded#

Scottsboro Boys Museum/ Interpretive Center Open House at the Historic Joyce Chapel in Scottsboro, Alabama

The Scottsboro Jackson County Multi-Cultural Heritage Foundation held an Open House at the historic Joyce Chapel Methodist Church in Scottsboro Sunday to showcase the future home of the Scottsboro Boys Museum/Interpretive Center. Joyce Chapel, built in 1878 and rebuilt in 1904, is the oldest African American Church in existence in Jackson County Alabama, it is located at 418 West Willow Street in Scottsboro, Alabama.

The Multi-Cultural Heritage Foundation is a 501C3 non-profit organization. Donations are graciously accepted and may be mailed to the Scottsboro Jackson County Multi-Cultural Heritage Foundation, P.O. Box 1557, Scottsboro, Alabama, 35768

Pictured left to right, Scottsboro Mayor Melton Potter, Ms. Sheila Washington and Rev. Tom Bell, Superintendent of the Northeast District for the United Methodist Church and Trustee of Alabama A&M University ( http://www.governorpress.state.al.us/pr/pr-2009-06-11-01-trustees.asp )

It is Ms. Washington whose idea that has been the driving force behind this project. The book titled the "Scottsboro Boy" sparked her interest in the case when she was 18. Ms Washington discovered the book hidden under a bed. Originally her parents had forbid her from reading the book, they were afraid of the emotional damage it might cause.

Ms. Caldwell plays Christmas music during the open house. Other singers included Ms. Stephanie Speers and Ms. Rebeca Parrish.

Pictured left to right: Ms. Washington, Rev. Tom Bell and Mr. Charles Rhodes, District Attorney for Jackson County Alabama

Pictured left to right: Ms Washington, and Mr. & Mrs. J.D. Stevens of Scottsboro.

Ms. Cheryl Snodgrass-Caffey (center of photo) discusses the displays and the Scottsboro Boys Case with members of the community.

Pictured left to right: Mr. Horrace Clemmons, Commissioner District 4, Jackson County Commission, Ms. Washington and Ms. Clemmons.

There were 52 people who attended the open house. Displays of art, poetry and history of the Scottsboro Boys Case were set up around the historic church.

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Article from "Left in Alabama:" http://www.leftinalabama.com/ http://www.leftinalabama.com/showDiary.do?diaryId=5386

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Huntsville Times article: "Remembering Scottsboro Boys," Monday, December 21, 2009
By David Brewer

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Open house held at site of museum set to open in February.
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SCOTTSBORO - Frigid temperatures Sunday could not keep Doris Baker of Decatur from driving here to attend an open house at the 131-year-old Joyce United Methodist Church where the Scottsboro Boys Museum will officially open on Feb. 1.

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"I've led many protests," Baker, a civil rights activist, said as she looked at photographs of the early 1930s trials of nine black men accused of raping two white women. "But one of the things that gives me strength" in the fight against social injustice "is things like this..."

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Read the rest of the story by David at this link.

http://www.al.com/news/huntsvilletimes/local.ssf?/base/news/126139057155310.xml&coll=1

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THREATS-RACISM

Unfortunately this project has had its detractors due to racism and bigotry in the community. Threats were made early on in the process to Mr. J.P. Parsons, Tourism Director, Jackson County Chamber of Commerce. http://arklite.blogspot.com/2009/11/scottsboro-city-council-meeting_16.html

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Threats of arson and racial hate speech have been conveyed on local internet discussion forums, al.com-Scottsboro Forum on December 16, 2009 between the hours of 11:24PM and 11:31PM. 1) "LET US ALL KNOW WHEN YOU GET THAT BLACK MUSEUM BUILT AND WE WILL BURN IT DOWN WITHIN THE MONTH." 2) "someone needs to take hussein obammy out soon." 3) "you idiots in scottsboro do what you want. you only making fools of yourselves.did the good white people hang any blacks 130 years ago? blacks get to much as it is.oh the good ole days with the cotton being pick. they knew their place then."

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"Left in Alabama" You Tube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=77I-QdXmMbA&feature=player_embedded# Many thanks to "Left in Alabama," excellent article and video, very professional job.

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"We must learn the lessons of our history or we will surely repeat our mistakes." Garry Morgan

Nuclear Power Zombies

.................The Nuclear Zombie by Christian Parenti.............

A couple of great articles on the insanity of nuclear power. "Three Mile Island, the NRC and Obama," or how the crazy nuclear activist saved the North East.  http://www.thenation.com/article/three-mile-island-nrc-and-obama#axzz2aWMYrhHg

More on the zombie's insanity:  http://www.thenation.com/article/what-nuclear-renaissance#axzz2aWMYrhHg

Scottsboro City Council Meeting, Scottsboro Boys Case, The Beginning of the Modern Civil Rights Movement.

The future home of the Scottsboro Boys Civil Rights Museum and Interpretive Center. The Scottsboro Boys Case was the beginning of the modern civil rights movement. http://encyclopediaofalabama.org/face/Article.jsp?id=h-1456 http://www.law.umkc.edu/faculty/projects/Ftrials/scottsboro/scottsb.htm

Historic Joyce Chapel, c.1878, rebuilt 1904 is a historic African American Methodist Church at 418 West Willow Street in Scottsboro, Alabama. Open House will be held on Sunday, December 20, 2009 from 4:00PM to 6:00PM

Monday evening a joint work session and regular council meeting was held. I will indicate in this outline the items in the work session approved in the regular council meeting.

Scottsboro High School student Lauren Long was elected by the student body to serve on the Scottsboro City Council as a student representative for last nights meeting. Very seldom do we see the future of our community in our local governmental meetings. Congratulations to Ms. Long.

1) Surplus property discussion concerning a piece of machinery used at solid waste called a composting turner attachment. This item was approved as surplus property in the regular council meeting. 2) Police Chief Ralph Dawe made presentation concerning restricting left turns from the High School exit onto Micah Way. Chief Dawe stated this situation is an accident waiting to happen. The restricted left turn hours will be from 7:45AM to 8:15AM and 3:15PM to 3:45PM. The rules were set aside during the regular council meeting and the new ordinance was approved. 3) Ms. Debra Borders discussed with the council Job Reclassification and changes to job descriptions. This item will be discussed further by the Administrative Committee and the city council at a later date. 4) During the regular council meeting the issue of the CDA, Commercial Development Authority, was discussed. The council is looking for board members to fill this board. Requests to be placed on this board should be submitted to the City Clerk no later than 4:30Pm Jan. 4, 2010. 5) Re-announce 2 vacancies on the Adjustment and Appeals Board. Deadline for requests to be placed on this board should be received by the City Clerk by 4:30PM Friday, Dec. 18, 2009.

Reports: Mr. Speers announced the Scottsboro Boys Museum and Interpretive Center Open House will be from 4 to 6 PM, Sunday, December 20, 2009. The Scottsboro Boys History project's purpose is to facilitate education in our community and nation to the significant events surrounding the Scottsboro Boys Case, the beginning of the modern civil rights movement. The community is invited to Joyce Chapel Sunday evening for the open house.

Scottsboro City Council Meeting---Meeting Notices

There will be no Scottsboro City Council Work Session tonight due to the Christmas Parade this evening on the square. Next Monday there will be a work session prior to the regular City Council Meeting.

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Last Monday, November 30, the City Council continued the council meeting from the week before. Although the meeting was announced in the local news papers there was no required posting on the "place of notice" in the foyer Bulletin Board of City Hall.

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The Code of Alabama, 36-25A-3 ( http://www.legislature.state.al.us/CodeofAlabama/1975/coatoc.htm ) requires all meetings to be posted, regular, work sessions, special call or meeting continuations, there are no exceptions as some City Officials have indicated. Unfortunately this is not the first time a failure to post meetings on the required notice space has occurred. The law states: "(3) A municipal governmental body shall post notice of each meeting on a bulletin board at a place convenient to the public in the city hall, provided, however, that a corporation a majority of whose governing board is appointed or elected by a municipality and that has a principal office separate from the city hall may, in lieu of posting notice in the city hall, post notice of each meeting on a bulletin board at a place convenient to the public in the principal office of the corporation or other instrumentality." You will notice in this direct quote there is no exception for a "meeting continuation." A bad excuse is no excuse and gives the appearance of deceitful government. Please insure that all meeting notices are posted properly.

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Good Governance, accountability and open government. http://filipspagnoli.wordpress.com/2008/08/10/human-rights-facts-53-good-governance/

Scottsboro City Council Meeting

Last night was a regularly scheduled City Council Meeting. Being no old business the council moved into the New Business portion. 1) Alcohol Beverage License Public Hearing was held for Gino's Pizza, 102 Micah Way, new ownership. The license was approved. 2) 2 vacancies were announced on the Zoning Adjustment and Appeals Board. Requests for board membership must be submitted to the city Clerk, Ms. Cathy OShields no later than Dec. 18, 2009 by 4:30 PM. 3) Donation was approved in the amount of $210.50 for the Jackson County SPCA for the purpose of their landfill fees. 4) One time pay raise was approved for Scottsboro City Employees, $150 for full time employees, $75 for part time employees and $50 for temporary part time employees. 5) Resolution for Word Field, Scottsboro Municipal Airport Improvement project was approved. this is a cost share grant of $2.5 million. The U.S. Government will pay 95% of the grant, state and local government will each pay $64,784.00 6) Office Manager Grade 2 Job Description was approved. Ms. Borders stated that she was reviewing and updating all city job descriptions to insure the work performed coincides with the job description. Approval was acquired for the rescheduling of the Dec.7, 2009 work session to prior to the Dec 14, 2009 regular council meeting. 8) Surplus property declaration was made and approved for 3 trucks. 9) A request for a truck bid to go forward concerning the Sanitation Department was approved. This would be a used truck, 2003, was stated it is desperately needed by the Sanitation Department.

A Special Call City Council Meeting was announced for Monday, Dec. 30, 2009 at 6PM for the purpose of approving a bid for the Sanitation Truck

Jackson County Commission Meeting

Monday, November the 23rd was a regular meeting of the Jackson County Commission. There were no comments from citizens and officials.

One item was added to the Discussion portion of the agenda per request from Commissioner Jack Smith for the hiring of a County Engineer. A vote was taken and approved by the Commission.

There was one item on the consent agenda, payment to the County Attorney for $3332.35 for services for the month of October, 2009 which was approved

Old Business: 1) The October 26, 2009 commission minutes were approved as received. 2) Minutes from the November 9, 2009 meeting were approved as received. 3) Motion to approve a second work session for the 1st Thursday of each month died for a lack of a second. 4) 2 resolutions for the Council on Aging and the Alabama Department of Transportation was approved for the continuation of Bus Service in Jackson County. 5) Amendment of the Coroners Budget in the amount of $13,344.00 for insurance premiums back to March 2007 was approved. 6) Motion to approve and advertise position for a Road and Bridge Foreman Grade 7 for the Public Works Department died for a lack of a second. 7) The hiring of 2 additional full time Sheriff's Deputies for Courthouse Security was approved.

New Business: 1) Placement of "No 18 Wheeler Truck Signs" were approved for county Road 93. 2)Request from the Town of Paint Rock for the Public Works Department to work on Keel Street was approved. The town will reimburse Public Works for this project. 3) Exception to decrease the Right of Way on County Road 81 for the purpose of mining was disapproved. A motion was made and approved to maintain a 100ft right of way in the area proposed by D& E Mining to mine on County Road 81. 4) The Sheriffs Budget was approved for amendment in the amount of $2259.53 for Deputy Bobby Wilbanks' pay increase.

The Commission approved an Executive Session to discuss a legal issue. Upon return the commission voted to approve the County Attorney to submit a request for a Declaratory Judgement in the Circuit Court of Jackson County involving a contract dispute.

Discussion by Commissioners: The issue of hiring a County Engineer was brought forward, motion was made and seconded to hire Greg Richard as County Engineer at the pay rate of the last County Engineer. The vote was 3 to 1, the issue died as in the Discussion portion of the Commission meeting, in accordance with the rules there must be a unanimous vote for an issue to be approved. (Why the commissioners that wanted to hire an engineer did not ask for the item to be included on the agenda during Thursday's work session is beyond me. Particularly after Mr. Clemmons brought the issue up. Mr. Clemmons asked Mr. Smith if he was going to ask for the hiring of an engineer at the work session, Mr. Smith replied that he might. It would be beneficial that all County Commissioners were aware of the procedures of the County Commission's meetings.)

Scottsboro City Council Meeting--Scottsboro Boys

Scottsboro Boys Civil Rights Interpretive Center and Heritage Project is being planned for Scottsboro.
Update: Nov. 11, 2009- Report from the Daily Sentinel http://www.thedailysentinel.com/story.lasso?ewcd=e5ada5f1078b3bf7 The project is moving forward.
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Unfortunately bigotry and racism remaining in the area seem to be raising its ugly head in opposition to the project. It was reported to me tonight that the Tourism Director of the Chamber of Commerce's job has been threatened due to his participation in this project. This fact was reported to the Mayor, City Attorney, Mr. Hodges and Mr Thomas prior to the City Council meeting. It was decided the presentation would continue. The threat situation was also explained to Mr. Speers after the meeting.
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A committee of interested citizens was appointed by the Jackson County Legislative Delegation to study and formulate plans for this Cultural and Historical Tourism project to benefit the citizens of Jackson County. A project of this nature will benefit the community financially by fostering tourism and providing jobs.

Tonight was a City Council work session. 1) Presentation by J.P. Parsons, Tourism Director, Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, concerning Scottsboro Boys Civil Rights Heritage Project. A civil rights interpretive center is being considered to foster cultural tourism. This cultural and historical tourism project was begun in July of this year as a result of citizen concerns initially expressed to the Jackson County Legislative Delegation. The Delegation formed a committee to further investigate and implement this project. Tonight, Mr. Parsons requested use of the City of Scottsboro's grant writer to request funding for this project. Cultural Tourism will result in financial benefits for the community. 2) Jackson County SPCA Donation request discussion. 3) City Employee one time pay raise discussion. 4) Resolution for airport funding discussion. 5) Debra Borders, job description discussion.

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My apologies for being so brief in this outline for items 2-5. I am still in shock that one or more influential members of our community would allegedly make threats to Mr. Parson's supervisor concerning Mr. Parson's job. Apparently the threats have been made in the attempt to prevent a Civil Rights Interpretive Center explaining the importance of the Scottsboro Boys Case. Some are more concerned about preserving bigoted ideology rather than learning from the lessons of our history to gain vision for our future in order that we may not repeat the mistakes of history.

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Update: Nov 19, 2009- After discussions with the Legislative Delegation, Mr. Roden, Mr. Parsons, Ms. Washington, other members of our community including myself yesterday it is obvious the project will go forward. The Chamber of Commerce Director and Legislative Delegation is solidly behind this plan. It was decided that we will not allow the ignorance of some who would make threats to stifle the positive plans of our group.

TVA's Nuclear $inkhole

All about RADIATION http://www.nirs.org/radiation/radiationhome.htm Please do not leave our children and grandchildren a radioactive legacy in remembrance of our generation!

$$$$$$$$$--RADIOACTIVE MONEY $INKHOLE--$$$$$$
You will notice on the right side of the picture the 2 proposed AP1000 radioactive nuclear reactors. The proposed radiation producing plants are to be located dangerously close to large sinkholes. The entire nuclear site is located over porus limestone rock which contains caves and sinkholes, this terrain is called Karst Terrain. The Sequatchie fault line, earthquake zone, is located approximately 1 mile west of the radiation producing plant.

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The cost of one 1200 mega watt Westinghouse Nuclear Reactor at Bellefonte is estimated to cost between $8 and 9 billion dollars. Exact costs are unknown as the TVA, Tennessee Valley Authority, refuses to release cost information. I have asked for the costs thru the Freedom of Information Act, FOIA request. The TVA claims a commercial proprietary privilege. So much for an open Federal Government. However, this link lists costs as high as $12 billion per reactor, that's $24 billion dollars for 2 Westinghouse AP1000 Radioactive Nuclear Plants. http://scitizen.com/stories/Future-Energies/2008/11/How-Much-Will-New-Nuclear-Power-Plants-Cost/

What could you do with $82,000? That is the amount TVA has spent on every man woman and child in Jackson County Alabama without generating 1 kilowatt of electric power at the Bellefonte Nuclear Power Plant $inkhole. Total amount- $4,500,000,000, 4.5 billion dollars.

Problems plague TVA. Today's press release reflects poor engineering and design flaws at TVA Radioactive Nuclear Facilities. http://blog.al.com/live/2009/11/tva_nuclear_plant_has_fire_res.html Other problems at Browns Ferry: http://arklite.blogspot.com/2009/09/tva-browns-ferry-reactor-scram.html
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As reported in the link above from the Mobile Press Register. "The Tennessee Valley Authority's (TVA) Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant in north Alabama has a fire response problem that could lead to a Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) civil penalty."
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"In a letter to TVA, the NRC said inspectors this year found that the plant near Athens, Ala., potentially violated four safety standards, the Chattanooga Times Free Press reported Thursday."
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Edwin Lyman, senior scientist for the Union of Concerned Scientists, told the newspaper that most of America's 103 reactors were designed before the NRC adopted its current fire safety standards. He said most don't have the desired cable separation and firewalls between parts of the plants."Almost no plants meet all of the NRC's physical standards, but the regulators have allowed plants to use manual steps like fire watches and walk-downs to compensate for the inadequate plant design," he said. "For a long time, the NRC was not issuing violations for fire safety issues. But lately the commission seems more determined to enforce these rules, which we believe is long overdue."
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No civility about a fire at a radioactive nuclear facility. That "nuclear feeling" equates to "death hanging in the air." That is not stopping the TVA at Bellefonte, Alabama, although the proposed nuclear reactor is an old design and the current incomplete plants have been stripped of parts and equipment. Excellent article from the Chattanooga Times Free Press on Bellefonte. The article opens, " When TVA canceled plans to finish its Bellefonte Nuclear Plant here in 2006, contractors began ripping out steel tubes and pipes from heat exchangers, steam generators and main condensers to sell for scrap metal." http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2009/mar/29/alabama-salvaging-bellefonte/

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TVA notice of hearing about Bellefonte in Scottsboro: http://blog.al.com/breaking/2009/11/tva_to_accept_comments_on_prop.html
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Nuclear Power plants suck up valuable dollars available for Sustainable Energy projects. New technology is on our doorstep and is knocking to enter. The radioactive nuclear industry and their political puppets lock the doors.

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There is progress, such as the recent Solar Plant in Arcadia, Florida. http://sweetness-light.com/archive/largest-solar-power-plant-opens-in-fl

A 1200 mega watt solar plant of a larger but similar design would cost $7.5 billion dollars with no worry concerning nuclear waste.

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1 radioactive nuclear reactor contains 100 tons of radioactive uranium pellets which are placed in the core of a 1000 mega watt nuclear reactor for its operation. The amount of long-life radioactive material in a 1000 mega watt nuclear power plant is equivalent to the explosion of 1000 Hiroshima sized bombs. (Reference:"Nuclear Power Is Not The Answer" pg 53-54 by Helen Caldicott,, New Press)

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Can we afford radioactive power?? Besides the inherent radiation risks, particularly dangerous for our children and pregnant mothers, http://www.nirs.org/radiation/radiationhome.htm , nuclear reactors are very expensive as indicated in the below linked article. The financial risks are extremely high, private financial institutions will not build these risky radiation producing power plants, they must rely on the taxpayers, U.S. Government, to pay for the risky radiation producing power plants. http://scitizen.com/stories/Future-Energies/2008/11/How-Much-Will-New-Nuclear-Power-Plants-Cost/

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Other options available. The TVA has studied other options such as a Conversion to Natural Gas Combined Cycle (NGCC) Units. This was TVA's preferred option as noted in the Executive Summary. Link: http://www.tva.gov/environment/reports/bellefonte/ The Natural Gas plant is much less expensive with fewer risks than a radioactive nuclear reactor. The Combined Cycle Natural Gas plant costs are less than $900 million. http://www.allbusiness.com/energy-utilities/utilities-industry-electric-power/12609408-1.html

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There is a better way, the TVA recognizes there is a better way to provide citizens power. http://www.tva.gov/news/releases/aprjun08/draft_plans.htm The answer for our future is Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Energy. Combined Cycle Natural Gas provides a temporary solution while sustainable energy solutions are being further developed and placed on line to serve the citizens of the Tennessee River Valley area with safe, efficient, electrical power. Encourage the TVA and your elected representatives to support Energy Efficiency and true Sustainable Energy Solutions for our future. Our children and grandchildren deserve safe energy, not radioactive poisons.

Jackson County Commission Meeting

The agenda of the meeting was approved, 1 item was added as item (H) consideration to appoint Harold Brookshire to the Personnel Board. Another item concerning an addition to the agenda was to hire an Engineer, this item addition failed due to the lack of a majority vote.

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Consent Agenda was approved for $3337.50 to the Tennessee Valley Family Services.

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Old Business: A) Approval of Minutes from the October 26, 2009 meeting died for a lack of second. (Why were the official minutes of the October 26, 2009 meeting not approved? What is the legal standing for Commission Minutes not approved?) B) Adding a second work session for the 1st Thursday of the Month died for a lack of a second. C) December 23rd and 24th approved as additional holidays. D) December 31st approved as an additional holiday.

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New Business: A) Sign resolutions with the Alabama Department of Transportation for Council on the Aging, died for lack of second. (Commissioners play games possibly causing a loss of transportation grant money for senior citizens, another reason why this was motion was not approved?) B) Approval granted to sell a 1997 Ford Econoline for Council on Aging. (Has the property been declared excess property.) C) Approval of Public Works Department Excess Property list. D) Approval to auction of 3 Mack Trucks for the Public Works Department. E) Approval of George "Pee Wee" Mason's retirement effective November 1, 2009 F) Motion to approve the advertisement for a Road & Bridge Foreman Grade 7 for the Public Works Department died due to lack of second. G) Motion to amend the Coroners Office Budget in the amount of $13,344.00 for insurance premiums back dated to March 2007. Issue tabled until County Attorney could review. H) Agenda addition, motion to appoint Harold Brookshire to Personnel Board approved. It was mentioned one position for the Personnel Board remained open.

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Discussion Items: Mr. Clemmons questioned the validity of the change in Personnel Policy on May & September, 2009 due to a vote which may have been carried due to improper procedure. The County Attorney stated that he will investigate the matter.

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Huntsville Times Story: http://blog.al.com/breaking/2009/11/jackson_co_commission_appoints.html

Scottsboro City Council Meeting

Tonight was a very short City Council Meeting, 5 minutes. There was no old business.

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New Business: 1) Restaurant Alcohol Beverage License was approved for G&C Enterprises doing business as Agave Restaurant, 1402 County Park Rd., Scottsboro, Al. This was the former Buena Vista Restaurant. 2) The new Street Department Organizational Chart was approved.

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No reports. Mr. Hodges, Mr, Thomas and Mr. Bell will be attending the League of Municipalities Conference in San Antonio, Tx. this week.

Murder At Ft Hood by Military Officer, Jihad Attack??

Soldiers from the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment storm the grounds of the Soldier Readiness Center in a show of force as they help in the apprehension of Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan Thursday Nov. 5, 2009. Hasan, a psychiatrist set to be shipped overseas opened fire at the Fort Hood Army post Thursday, authorities said, a rampage that killed 12 people and left 31 wounded in the worst mass shooting ever at a military base in the United States.(AP Photo/David Morris, Killeen Daily Herald)

Reports indicated over 50 Rounds expended. 12 killed 31 wounded. http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/us_fort_hood_shooting Major Nidal Malik Hasan Army Doctor and Psychiatrist: http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/11/05/national/main5540862.shtml Initial reports had the name listed different, listed as Maj. Malik Nadal Hasan. The initial Yahoo report has been changed.

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Ft Hood info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fort_Hood

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Now reported that the shooter is alive, it was first reported shooter was dead.

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What relationship is this Dr. Malik Hasan to the shooter if any? Both physicians, the person in this profile is age 59, the shooters age according to reports is stated to be 39? http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/hmo/hasan/profile.html

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This report indicates 3 shooters, at 3 different locations as indicated in this Fox News video with confirmation by the Director of Public Information of Killeen, Tx.: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Hl_0Whrnw4

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UPDATE Nov 6, 2009: "Now reported 13 killed and this report-"Officials are not ruling out the possibility that some of the casualties may have been victims of "friendly fire," that in the mayhem and confusion at the shooting scene some of the responding military officials may have shot some of the victims."

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Friendly fire, where were the MP's or DOD police? Civilian police responded and seemed to be in charge of the scene initially. It is reported that a female Police Officer shot Hasan and was wounded herself.

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Ft Hood is now an "open post?" Soldiers storm the Readiness Center? Show of force? I'm beginning to wonder who is in charge of this mass confusion of public information releases and storming of the Soldier Readiness Center. The storming of the Readiness Center as a show of force? Reaction to reports of additional terrorists valid or intentional misinformation??

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Very interesting that retired officers alleging they served with Hasan were immediately available for interviews on Fox News stated that Hasan had made previous threats and apparently supported the murder of soldiers in Little Rock, Ar. earlier this year.

Jackson County Legislative Delegation & Public Examiners Audit

Senator Barron is serving his seventh term in the Senate. In 1983, he became the only successful write-in candidate in the history of the Alabama Legislature. He was born on April 22, 1942, in Jackson County and received his B.S. degree in Pharmacy from Auburn University. Senator Barron has four children and five grandchildren. Senator Barron is a businessman, a Democrat, a Baptist, and is a former member of the Auburn University Board of Trustees. He lists hunting, golf, and tennis as his hobbies. Senator Barron served terms as President Pro Tempore of the Senate, 1999-2006. The newly-comprised Senate shall elect its President Pro Tempore during the 2007 Organizational Session, or if called into a prior Special Session.

Representative Butch Taylor is serving his first term in the Alabama House of Representatives. He was elected to the House District 22 seat in a special election held on March 6, 2007.He is retired from the Madison County Board of Education where he served as a teacher and coach for 31 years.Representative Taylor and his wife, Ann, live in New Hope. He is stepfather to Shellie Richardson and Sherrie Morrison. He is also the father of one son, Jake.He has eight step-grandchildren, a grandson and granddaughter..

Representative John Robinson was elected in 1994. He was born on March 22, 1950, attended Jacksonville State University, and received his J.D. from the Birmingham School of Law.Representative Robinson is retired from the Jackson County District Attorney's Office and enjoys hunting, fishing, and country music.He is a member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church and has one son, Lawson, who attends the University of Alabama.

The Jackson County Legislative Delegation was recently audited by The Alabama Department of Examiners of Public Accounts for the 16 month period of February 1, 2008 through June 30, 2009. Below you will find a brief synopsis of funds in those accounts and the link to audits.

Total receipts for TVA in lieu of taxes: $3,728,772.29

Total disbursements of the TVA in lieu of taxes: $3,880,050.34

Deficit after Transfers: $151,278.05

Balance as of June 30, 2009: $1,040,036.40

Full report concerning this audit may be viewed at http://www.examiners.state.al.us/ click on the "Audit Reports" in the right column, scroll down to the October 30, 2009 audit date. Audits of The Jackson County Sheriffs Department and District Attorneys Office may also be found at the site.

The Jackson County Legislative Delegation's phone number is (256) 218-3090. Their office address is 100 East Peachtree St.Scottsboro, AL. 35768

Scottsboro City Council

Tonight was a work session, a short one at that. 1) Discuss plans for the old animal shelter. It was stated that the old animal shelter located on the airport property would need to be demolished as the structure has termite problems. 2) Street Department Organizational chart was discussed. It was discussed that 1 foreman's position will be eliminated, currently there are 4 on the organizational chart of the Street Department.

TVA Purchases "Wind Power" from the Dakotas, Unknown Final Costs.‏

Sustainable Energy Solutions for the 21st Century reduces the amount of atmospheric pollution. TVA must decrease its emissions levels from coal fired power generation.


The State of North Carolina sued TVA alleging that TVA’s coal-fired power plants were a public nuisance. The complaint cited urgent environmental and health concerns in the state because of air pollution emitted by TVA’s plants in other states. The State of North Carolina won the law suit. The estimated cost to TVA could reach $1 billion. http://www.grandfather.com/newsletter/jan09/lawsuit.php

TVA reports on its plan for purchasing wind power from the Great Plains states of North and South Dakota.

TVA News Agency, Oct. 22, 2009: "TVA has entered contracts to purchase up to 450 megawatts of renewable wind energy – enough to serve about 140,000 average-size homes in the Tennessee Valley – from companies in North and South Dakota."

"Under contracts announced today, CPV Renewable Energy Company will supply up to 200 megawatts from 87 turbines at its Ashley wind farm in McIntosh County, N.D., and Invenergy Wind LLC will supply up to 250 megawatts of power from 167 wind turbines at its Hurricane Lake Energy Center in Roberts County, S.D. "

"The wind energy supply will be delivered to TVA beginning in 2012, if all applicable environmental requirements are met and firm transmission paths to TVA are secured."

"“TVA is committed to increasing our generation from non-carbon emitting sources by adding competitively priced wind, solar and biomass to our portfolio,” said TVA Executive Vice President of Power Supply & Fuels Van Wardlaw."

The complete article may be found at this TVA link: http://www.tva.gov/news/releases/octdec09/buy_wind.htm

Costs associated with generation and transmission were not mentioned within the article. I contacted TVA's News Agency to fill in some of the blanks. A very polite gentleman by the name of Scott Brooks anxiously answered my questions about this project.

Mr. Brooks had this to say about my questions, (paraphrased), "Costs are unknown at this time, it will depend on costs of the power at the time of generation." Concerning transmission costs, "The details are being worked out, contracts are not finalized."

Mr. Brooks also stated there are future plans to purchase more wind energy closer to the TVA Service Area. The locations of future generation sites were not disclosed as contracts have not been finalized.

Jackson Conty Commission Meeting

The Jackson County Commission meeting, normally held in Court Room 1, was moved to the Commission Board Room due to an extended District Court Docket.

1)Agenda and previous minutes were approved. 2) First to speak was Victor Manning, EMA Director on the subject of a Hazard Mitigation Grant and Federal NWS Grant. Apparently there was confusion about the proper grant which was not subbmitted thru to the National Weather Service (NWS) for a 100% funded grant for an Emergency Warning Transmitter connected to the NWS warning system for emrgency weather warnings in the rural areas of the county. Mr Manning reported that the 75/25% grant had been rejected by the previous County Commission. This matter will be discussed at the next work session. 2) 2 items on the consent agenda were approved for the total ampount of $6155.12 .

New Business: 1) Motion to accept Parrett Trucking Settlement approved. Parrett Trucking had originally been required to pay tax money from the purchase of out of state truck purchases from 1998 to 2002. This decision was reversed by decisions in Federal Courts. The county will be required to pay approxaimately $37,900 back to Mr. Parrettt. Mr. Parrett agreed to accept 3 installments of the repayment over 3 years so as to not create a hardship on the county in times of financial distress. 2) Public Hearing set for Nov 19, 2009 to consider the issue of allowing D & E Mining the right to mine coal from under the current right of way of Co RD 81. Ms. Manning, current County Engineer as well as the previous County Engineer have remarked, in their opinion, "mining close to the road way, 15 feet, was an unsafe act." The current right of way extends 50 feet from the edge of the county right of way. Further comments from the commission indicated there were concerns over safety of children on school buses as well as citizens traveling the area. 3) Motion to continue a 5% Tobaccoo Stamp discount to tobaccoo vendors was approved. 4) Motion to approve a second work session to be added in order that county business could be discussed prior to decisions was not approved, Commissioners Allen, Smith and Stone voted no. It was brought up by the Chairperson of the Commission and confirmed by the Administrator that Commissioners are not comming in to sign bill payment requests which are resulting in late fees being assesed to the county. 5) Motion to approve Nov 27th as an additional Holiday was approved. 6) Motions to approve December 23, 24 and Dec 31 as holidays died for a lack of a second. 7) Motion to approve the Dec 31, 2009 resignation of Ms. Jane Stump from the EMA office was approved. 8) Motion to approve David Bogue to attend the County Revenue Officers Association meeting Oct 30, 2009 in Montgomery was approved.

An Executive Seesion was approved. The commission adjurned into an executive session to discuss possible litigation. Upon reconvening motions were made and approved concerning an Attorney Generals Opinion related to Public Works Contracts.

Huntsville Times report on meeting, focusing on Parrett Trucking tax refund: http://www.al.com/news/huntsvilletimes/local.ssf?/base/news/1256634984101690.xml&coll=1

Scottsboro City Council Meeting

Last night was a regular meeting of the Scottsboro City Council, Mr Matthew Hodges was absent, Mr. Thomas as City Council President Pro-Tem served as Council President. There was no old business.

New Business: 1) The voting date for Keg Beer sales was approved for August 24, 2010, the date of the regular city election. 2) Closing of a portion of the Micah Way service road between the northeast entrance/exit of the Walmart Shopping Center and Snodgrass Rd. was approved for the a Track Meet on November 5, 2009 from 7AM to 1PM. 3) Ms Kathy Downs Henderson was approved for the vacant Library Board position. 4) The 3 previous members of the Scottsboro Museum Commission whose positions became vacant were reappointed. They are Mr. Kelly Goodowens, Mr. Gerald Paulk and Ms. Joan Rasmussen. 5) Scottsboro City Schools and Scottsboro Solid Waste Bonds issue was approved. Mr. Larry Ward made presentation concerning the Bond Issue. He stated that Scottsboro received a better interest rate than the State of Alabama. The state is rated at AA while Scottsboro's Bond rating is A+. The School Bond issue was stated as 3.85% while the Solid Waste Bonds were stated to be 3.27%. 6) The Mayor has returned from his trip to Japan where he and Dus Rogers met with various business, industrial leaders in the attempts to bring business and/or industry to our city. The Mayor also reported that the vehicle right turn areas on Cecil and S.Broad Street, Micah Way and the main entrance to the Walmart Shopping Center were being widened to accommodate turns of tractor and trailer vehicles.

The Plan to Destroy Western Culture and Faith

Move to socialist economic policies and furtherance of debt.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>Indebted to the Chinese<<<<<<<<<<

From the Archives of the Ways & Means Committee of the United States House of Representatives. Below is the partial statement of Bill Wood, Charlotte, North Carolina, concerning Antonio Gramsci's plan to destroy our nation by Culture Warfare. A link to the full statement may be found at the bottom of this article.

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The plan for Marxist Class Warfare, the "Culture War."

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When Nikita Kruschev banged his shoe on the table and declared, ‘We shall destroy you from within’ during the infamous "Kitchen Debate" - he knew what he was talking about.

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"In 1926, an Italian communist named Antonio Gramsci ended up in Mussolini’s prison after a return from Russia. While there, he wrote his “prison notebooks” and they laid out a plan for destroying Western faith and culture. His plans included ways to undermine and discourage Westerners through the intentional collapse of the existing social structure from within."

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"Gramsci advocated not only Marxist class warfare, which was economically focused, but also social and cultural warfare at the same time. His theories and the “slow march through the culture” (or institutions) which he envisioned to destroy the West are enshrined in current American social policy. His theories surrounding “hegemony” and a “counter-hegemony” were designed to destroy Western social structure and overthrow the “West” from within."

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"Hegemony, as defined by Gramsci is that widely accepted system of values, morals, ethics, and social structure which holds a society together and creates a cohesive people. Western social structures holding society together (i.e. “the hegemony”) include: authority, morality, sexual restraint, monogamous marriage, personal responsibility, patriotism, national unity, community, tradition, heredity, education, conservatism, language, Christianity, law, and truth. His theory called for media and communications to slowly co-opt the people with the “counter-hegemony” propaganda message."

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"Today’s Marxist Communists operate in law, government, religion, media, entertainment and education. They use Orwellian NewSpeak with words such as “tolerance” which actually means intolerance of things that prevent the destruction of all social structures and societal “norms”. Gramscians preach the religion of division, class warfare and social warfare while spouting their hatred of anything traditional, conservative, moral, or values centered – their battle cry is “the personal is the political.” They want all of Western culture completely destroyed and centralized government control erected in the place of the structure they seek to tear apart and discard. The fruits of the culture war they have engaged on America can be seen in the corrosive remnants of broken families, broken children, filled prisons, and a host of other ills underwritten by America’s taxpayers."

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"Those who deeply care about this country and our constitution must fearlessly engage in this culture war--; the war for America’s heart and soul. It’s not too late yet. There is still a critical mass and majority of Americans who are not ready for the horrors of the type of communism or national socialism that Gramscians promote. No form of Marxism or communism (even its most radical form of National Socialism) has ever survived without totalitarian control. If the support were there for these Marxist Communists and National Socialists, history has shown that they would not hesitate to attempt a forceful or violent overthrow of American government."

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Marcus Tullius Cicero, in a speech in the Roman senate: "A nation can survive its fools and even the ambitious. But it cannot survive treason from within. An enemy at the gates is less formidable, for he is known and he carries his banners openly against the city. But the traitor moves among those within the gates freely, his sly whispers rustling through all alleys, heard in the very halls of government itself. For the traitor appears no traitor; he speaks in the accents familiar to his victim, and he wears their face and their garments and he appeals to the baseness that lies deep in the hearts of all men. He rots the soul of a nation; he works secretly and unknown in the night to undermine the pillars of a city; he infects the body politic so that it can no longer resist. A murderer is less to be feared. The traitor is the plague."

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Crazy conspiracy theory, not hardly, it is reality. The full story: http://waysandmeans.house.gov/hearings.asp?formmode=view&id=954

The Nuclear Mirage

Solar, wind, hydrogen, 21st Century energy solutions .

Pushing for more nuclear reactors, 100 more according to the socialist dreamers of unrealistic expectations (including Alabama Senators Shelby and Sessions, Representative Griffith, 5th district and President Obama), may result in 100 more nuclear Bellefontes, which cost $5 billion dollars more than 20 years ago. Now the cost is estimated up to $10 billion per unit. Can our nation afford up to 1 trillion dollars spent on nuclear ghosts not producing 1 watt of nuclear power. http://energy.nationaljournal.com/2009/10/does-nuclear-fit-the-bill.php#1377714
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Renewable energy power generation, such as hydrogen, wind and solar, is the solution. Tremendous advancements are being made concerning solar power, including "cheap nano carbon" materials. http://www.technologyreview.com/energy/18259/

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Renewables will trump nuclear energy, at much less cost. http://energy.nationaljournal.com/2009/10/does-nuclear-fit-the-bill.php#1377730

Hate Crimes Bill Includes Military Service Members and Dependents Protections

A new hate crimes bill will most likely be signed by the President soon. Many will remember several churches were burned in Alabama and in the south due to racial hatred.

The hate crime legislation contains protections for military service members and their family members.
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I am highlighting a few excerpts from the Hate Crimes Bill and including commentary concerning the bill.

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The Bill was attached to the Defense Appropriations Act which is a 1500 page + bill. It appears this bill will be approved by the President. One other important point, there is a segment in the bill which no one has discussed, the protections offered to the military and their dependents.

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This article summarizes an argument against the bill. http://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=113907# highlights from the article: "But we already have laws against violent crime. The only purpose of hate-crime legislation is to stifle politically incorrect speech. The left repeatedly claims that there is absolutely no way that these laws will be used to criminalize speech. Yet at the same time, they are claiming that conservatism fuels hate crimes."

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"The open-borders lobby uses this tactic to silence opposition to illegal immigration by associating it with violence against Hispanics. Last year, Barack Obama blamed Lou Dobbs and Rush Limbaugh for "feeding a kind of xenophobia" that is the "reason why hate crimes against Hispanic people doubled last year." "

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Another argument against the bill: "What’s crazy about this legislation is that what defines a hate crime is based entirely off of subjective reasoning. So in essence, certain political points of view including particular religious points of view by an individual could potentially implicate them in a hate crime. Undoubtedly, this is an incredibly dangerous bill and unfortunately it will most likely be passed in the U.S. Senate and signed into law by the President."
Link: http://www.roguegovernment.com/Hate_Crimes_Prevention_Act_Sets_Foundation_To_Destroy_Free_Speech_In_The_U.S./15482/0/13/13/Y/M.html

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I'll highlight a few items from the original bill:
How may a hate crime be conveyed other than an act of violence? "Channels, facilities, and instrumentalities of interstate commerce are used to facilitate the commission of such violence." (This includes the Internet.)

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What are Hate Crimes other than violence against a protected class? "Members of targeted groups are prevented from purchasing goods and services, obtaining or sustaining employment, or participating in other commercial activity."

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Who are protected classes? "OFFENSES INVOLVING ACTUAL OR PERCEIVED RELIGION, NATIONAL ORIGIN, GENDER, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GENDER IDENTITY, OR DISABILITY." (including} "...when the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments to the Constitution of the United States were adopted, and continuing to date, members of certain religious and national origin groups were and are perceived to be distinct ‘‘races’’. Including all "personnel of the Armed Forces, their Dependents and their property within 5 years of discharge." The armed forces protections are included in a separate section of the "Hate Crimes Bill"

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When may prosecution occur? "...criminal investigation or prosecution of any crime that—is motivated by prejudice based on the actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability of the victim, or is a violation of the State, local, or tribal hate crime laws."

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Motivations of Bias--(Bias is not defined in the definition within this law.) "The problem of crimes motivated by bias is sufficiently serious, widespread, and interstate in nature as to warrant Federal assistance to States local jurisdictions, and Indian tribes."

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First Amendment and Free Expression:

"FREE EXPRESSION.—Nothing in this division shall be construed to allow prosecution based solely upon an individual’s expression of racial, religious, political, or other beliefs or solely upon an individual’s membership in a group advocating or espousing such beliefs. "

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"FIRST AMENDMENT.—Nothing in this division, or an amendment made by this division, shall be construed to diminish any rights under the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States."

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" CONSTITUTIONAL PROTECTIONS.—Nothing in this division shall be construed to prohibit any constitutionally protected speech, expressive conduct or activities (regardless of whether compelled by, or central to, a system of religious belief), including the exercise of religion protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States and peaceful picketing or demonstration. The Constitution of the United States does not protect speech, conduct or activities consisting of planning for, conspiring to commit, or committing an act of violence."

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It is also interesting to note that members of the United States Armed Forces and their dependents are protected by this legislation. Not only is an assault on a service member or his/her dependents a hate crime but the destruction of military members personal property is also covered under this law. The law extends the coverage to 5 years after the service member's discharge from the service.

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Article which discusses the issue and list a link to the 1500+ pages of the Bill. http://reason.com/blog/2009/10/15/could-politically-incorrect-sp

Scottsboro City Council Meeting

There was a continuation of the last regular City Council Meeting from Oct 12, 2009 for the purpose of Bond Issue approval. The issue was taken off of the agenda. A meeting of the Solid Waste Authority was approved for next Tuesday, Oct 27, 2009.

Work Session: 1) Chairman of the Personnel Board, Perry Guffey, made presentation requesting removing the City Council from the appeals process. It was the Boards recommendation that the appeals process go straight to the Circuit Court and bypass the City Council. ( This writer suggests this proposed action would be a serious degradation of employee rights as well as removing oversight of the boards actions from the appointing authority, the City Council, and should not be accomplished. 2) Discussion of Resolution for setting date of Keg Beer election in Scottsboro. 3) Discussion of Library Board Applications, 1 place open, 4 applicants. 4) Discussion of Museum Commission applications, 3 places open, 4 applications. 5) Discussion concerning the the closure of Micah Way between the northern most exit of of the Wal-Mart shopping center, but not including the exit and, the Scottsboro High School entrance, but not including the entrance, for the purpose of a Track meet on Thursday, Nov 5, 2009 between 7AM and 1PM. 6) "Friend for Life" Animal Rescue presentation and request for holding fund raising roadblock on city street location. It was pointed out that any organization performing a road block must have a 501C Non-Profit status which the rescue group does not have but is being worked on by the groups attorney and accountant.

Citizen Presentation by Mr. Joe Manning: Mr. Manning requested that the City Council Consider passing an ordinance not allowing the discharge of firearms within the city limits. Mr. Manning stated concerns over his neighbors shooting nuisance animals such as skunks near homes.

Reports: The Mayor is out of town on business with the EDA, trip to Japan; today is voting day for continuation of the Scottsboro City School Tax referendum.

President Obama Supports Nuclear Power

President Obama participates in the Nuclear Deception. The nuclear construction industry wasted no time in capitalizing on the Obama Administration's ill advised support of further nuclear power plant construction as evidenced by this NEI blog post:http://neinuclearnotes.blogspot.com/2009/10/word-or-two-from-president.html More evidence that he is just another socialist pawn of multi-national corporations.
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President Obama's connection to nuclear energy--Exelon Energy--big campaign contributions: http://investigativereportingworkshop.org/investigations/nuclear-energy-lobbying-push/multimedia/exelons-links-president-obama/


My blog listing of nuclear accident information. http://arklite.blogspot.com/search/label/Nuclear%20Accidents

"The U.S. Press: Top 10 Nuclear Lies:" http://www.culturechange.org/n_power.htm

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President Obama supports nuclear power, stating the French and Japanese nuclear programs are models for us.
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The President's statement in New Orleans yesterday: "There's no reason why technologically we can't employ nuclear energy in a safe and effective way. Japan does it and France does it and it doesn't have greenhouse gas emissions, so it would be stupid for us not to do that in a much more effective way."
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I guess no one briefed our President on recent French and Japanese accidents which have killed people and contaminated farmland and rivers, not to mention the intentional radioactive contamination of the English Channel by Areva, it has been recently reported the amount of radioactive contamination is decreasing in the English Channel. Just think, would it not be just "peachy keen" to read in our local paper, "The amount of radioactive contamination is decreasing in the Tennessee River at Scottsboro. A fine legacy we plan on leaving our children!
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Japan's Nuclear Accidents within the past 10 years: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hamaoka_Nuclear_Power_Plant another http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/461446.stm another http://www.commondreams.org/headlines04/0810-02.htm
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French Nuclear Accidents past 10 years: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/nationworld/2008060759_nukes19.html Attempts at secrecy (The French are such wonderful role models. They also sell their technology to Middle East tyrants, Libya.)http://theimpudentobserver.com/world-news/non-reported-french-nuclear-accident-raises-questions/ another (Feels like a sci-fi dream.) http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2008/jul/25/nuclear.industry.france another (French lies, from Nuclear Engineering International.) http://www.neimagazine.com/story.asp?storyCode=2053958

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UPDATE, Oct 16,2009: From Steven Chu, Secretary of Energy--The U.S. government will announce loan guarantees for nuclear plants “very soon,” Chu said. “Nuclear power is an important part of what the U.S. has to do to reduce emissions.”
The U.S. is “working aggressively to restart the nuclear industry,” he said. “I believe the nuclear waste problem is solvable on a scientific level and a political level.” http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=acZ_t_.bADeE

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UPDATE 2, Oct 17, 2009: http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=fdc_1255636974 ICECAP Link: http://icecap.us/index.php

A political trade off in the making, further nuclear construction for the passage of Cap and Trade, the backdoor Kyoto Protocol? Maybe a political trade off for concessions in a government sponsored national health care program?

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UPDATE 3, Oct 21, 2009: After researching the Obama Administrations plans it becomes evident this was planned 4 months ago and is a trade off. Nuclear Power for the passage of the Kyoto Protocol. http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2009/jul/08/nuclear-power-obama-us

Jackson County Commission Meeting/Open Meetings Deliberations

Tuesday Oct. 13, 2009 the Jackson County Commission held their regular Commission meeting. Normally the Commission holds their meeting on a Monday, however Monday was a state Holiday and the Courthouse was closed for normal operations. Jackson County Commission video's of the meetings may be viewed at this site. http://jacksoncountypatriots.com/

1) Previous minutes of meetings were approved. 2) A citizen presentation by Garry Morgan was given concerning Secret Deliberations and Conduct of Commissioners. This presentation will be listed after the regular meeting outline. 3) 3 items on the consent agenda were approved for the sum of $4470. 4) Mr. Clemmons was absent due to sickness and the County Attorney was out on business. 5) Work Session will be held on Oct 15, 2009.

Old Business: 1) The new Jackson County Health Department Fee Schedule was approved. This subject has been discussed several times in the past years. It has been more than 20 years since any fee increase has been approved.

New Business: 1) Motion to approve and hire two full time deputies for Courthouse Security died for a lack of a motion. 2) Motion to approve Deputy Pay Raise and purchase of uniforms for courthouse security officers tabled. 3) Motion to purchase 2 hand held metal detectors died for lack of a motion. 4) Motion to approve and set courthouse hours of security for the 1st floor died for a lack of a motion. 5) Motion to approve the hiring of J.D. Smith for County Engineer died for a lack of a motion.

Presentation on Open Meetings and Commissioner Conduct by Garry Morgan: Thank you Madam Chairman, Commissioners and citizens of Jackson County for this opportunity to speak on the very important issue of Open Meetings, Commissioner duties and conduct of the deliberative process of the Jackson County Commission.

First I will outline some important points of the Code of Alabama as related to the Open Deliberation process. The Alabama Open Meetings Act is covered in the Code of Alabama Title 36, Section 25A.

The purpose of this law is stated: "It is the policy of this state that the *deliberative process of governmental bodies shall be open to the public." The law goes on to say, "electronic communications shall not be utilized to circumvent any of the provisions of the open meetings law." Electronic communications refers to telephones, emails, faxes, etc. * The deliberative process, deliberation, is described as, "an exchange of information or ideas among a quorum (majority) of members of a governmental body intending to arrive at or influence a decision of the governmental body at a later date. "

Examples of questionable conduct. If one member of the commission contacts another member of the commission then a third member of the commission is contacted telephonically or by other means and a discussion ensues concerning commission business outside of the commission meeting this is a violation of the law. I suspect this is the means and fashion of how deliberations were reached concerning Motions made on May the 11th and Sep 28th involving Courthouse Security issues and issues of changes in the personnel policy. I will discuss the specific motions in a few moments.

Powers and Duties of the Commission and Commissioners may be found in the Code of Alabama at 11-3-11. No where in in this law does it give any individual commissioner any special power other than when the commission is in session. I make reference to 2 separate situations where an individual commissioner, Mr. Stone, gave an assignment to the county attorney for developing a resolution without the vote of the commission or the approval of the chairperson of the commission. This cost the taxpayers money due to this commissioners inappropriate conduct. The resolutions were brought to the commission for a vote on 2 separate occasions 1st on the 11th of May and again a separate resolution on the 28th of September without the knowledge of the chairperson and one commissioner. This was a violation of the Open Meetings Laws of Alabama and the County Commission Policy and Procedures for conducting meetings.

Assignments of the staff of the Jackson County Commission is the sole responsibility of the chairperson of the commission and/or a vote by the commission, there was no vote prior to this resolution. The rule is mentioned in roman numeral V.J of the Rules and Procedures of the Jackson County Commission.

It appears there have been secret deliberations. (per minutes of the county commission) May 11th: "Motion to change the point grading system within the hiring process." There were no deliberations, no discussions in the open meeting prior to this resolution/motion being passed. This drastically altered the Jackson County Personnel hiring system and resulted in 2 members of the Jackson County Personnel Board resigning due to this inappropriate and what appears to be an illegal action by three commissioners.

May 11th, another motion, this time involving Courthouse Security, "motion to rescind resolution and funding for courthouse security." Once again, no deliberations, no prior discussion prior to the approval of this motions resolution. The County Attorney had drawn up a resolution concerning this issue per order of one of the commissioners, not the chairperson, nor was there a prior decision of the commission.

The May 11 motions discussed were approved by 3 members of the Jackson County Commission, Commissioners Allen, Smith and Stone. These 3 members obviously were aware of the secret resolution, they were also aware of the content of the open meetings law but yet they intentionally violated the law by having the resolution drawn up by the county attorney with out prior approval of the Chair of the commission or a prior vote of the commission. This action was in contravention of Alabama's Open Meetings Law and the Procedures of the Jackson County Commission.

September the 28th, once again a commissioner inappropriately had the county attorney draw up another secret resolution not approved by the full commission nor the chair of the commission. 3 commissioners were aware of this resolution, Allen, Smith and Stone. The Chairperson and Mr. Clemmons were not aware of the resolution. Unfortunately, once again the unauthorized resolution made it to the floor and was approved by majority vote. Another example of secret deliberations in violation of Alabama's Open Meetings Law and procedures of the Jackson County Commission. More inappropriate spending of tax payer money going to the county attorney.

It is important that meeting rules and decorum be maintained at all times. Loss of personal bearing and professionalism by one or more of the commissioners does not foster team work nor a professional appearing commission.

At times there may be political differences of opinion. Whatever the differences it is the legal responsibility of each of you to conduct the peoples business in the open and insure your conduct is professional at all times.

I ask each of you to please conduct the citizens business of Jackson County in the open insuring the proper decorum and format in accordance with the law and local procedure be followed at all times. The citizens of Jackson County deserve no less.

Thank you for your time.