Conservatism and Classic Liberalism--

Pickle in the middle... "Unfortunately, this is shaping up to produce familiar results. There is a growing movement for "change" that promises to "throw the bums out" in the next two elections. However, those who are part of this movement do not stop to consider what the Republicans' true agenda will be once they regain power. As they have for over 100 years now, Americans are dashing to the other side in their perennial political game of "pickle in the middle." They still haven't learned that the pickle never wins."
Campaign for Liberty: http://www.campaignforliberty.com/article.php?view=655

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One of my favorite topics, "The Culture War:" http://www.thefreemanonline.org/featured/the-culture-of-classical-liberalism/#

City Council Meeting, Monday August 23, 2010---Disaster Relief

Click on image to enlarge. Letter from St. Paul Church regarding Flood Victim disaster relief.

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At a meeting at St. Paul AME Church last night, Wed., Aug. 25, 2010, Rev. Anderson stated he had met with the Mayor and other city officials to include FEMA representatives. Officials have suggested that residents which were flooded should move. It was stated property owners homes will be purchased and new homes will be made available at no charge to the current property owners. Currently flood victims are staying in area motels. Food assistance is being provided. Rev Anderson stated the motel stays will be extended, FEMA trailers will be made available as well as public housing. It was stated efforts are being made to acquire furniture to replace lost furniture. Fund raisers are scheduled at St.Paul Church, North Houston St., Friday and Saturday at 6PM.
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Flood Story updates from the Daily Sentinel:
Cost of improved drainage could cost $17 million. http://thedailysentinel.com/story.lasso?ewcd=6818d2b02874b883
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A helping hand. http://thedailysentinel.com/story.lasso?ewcd=7f473e4cf6e400ae
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History of flooding. http://thedailysentinel.com/story.lasso?ewcd=54e73eae2aef599f

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There was no Old Business. New Business: 1) The terms of the current Municipal Court Judge and Assistant Judge will expire on Sep. 30, 2010. The terms of the 2 Municipal Prosecutors will expire on Sep. 30, 2010. Interested candidates for the positions should turn in their requests to the city Clerk no later than 4:30PM, Sep. 17, 2010 2) Larry Ward from Morgan Keegan made presentation concerning bond refinancing. This involves the refinancing of General Obligation Municipal Bonds. Judge Ward stated the bonds would benefit the city due to lower rates, total savings realized would be $375, 000. 3) Ordinance to rename Willis Street to Lost Luggage Lane.approved. A section of Willow St west of Cedar Hill Dr. will receive an honorary designation during the period of the Labor Day weekend to celebrate Unclaimed Bagge's 40th Anniversary.4) 3 Board members were appointed to the Industrial Development Board. Reappointed was Mr. Joe Porch, appointed was Mr. Steve Livingston and Mr. Roy Light. Mr. Light is also the Scottsboro Water, Sewer and Gas Board Director. 4) There are 3 vacancies on the Scottsboro Museum Board. Requests to fill the positions must be turned in by 4:30PM, Sep 17, 2010 to the City Clerk. 5) Bid opening for the recycling of 100 tons of recyclable waste. Tyaylor Group received the bid award for $10 per ton. 6) Rev. Granville Anderson of the St. Paul United Methodist Church made presentation concerning needs of the Flooding victims. The Maple Street area of Scottsboro experienced serious flood damage as a result of torrential rains last week. A special committee was formed to assist Flood victims in relocation. Councilman Gary Speers is the fund relief coordinator and Rev. Granville Anderson is serving as a liaison for the people effected by the flood, coordinating city, funding and community efforts. The Red Cross, Salvation Army, local businesses and several local residents have made donations of food and money to assist the flood victims. Donations for the Flood victims may be made to the Greater St. Paul African American Methodist Episcopal Church Disaster Relief Fund at the First National Bank of Scottsboro. (See above update below letter.) 7)CDBG grant approved for sewer line improvement in the industrial park. The grant is a cost share grant, $400K will be provided with the Water Sewer and Gas Board providing $150K. 8) Work Session on Sep 6 will be rescheduled for Sep. 13, due to Labor Day weekend, prior to the regular City Council meeting.

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Reports: a) Water Sewer and Gas Board has provided $34K for street repair. b) Discussion concerning trip to TVA Board meeting in Knoxville.

c) Witt-Russell Refrigeration Group will be relocating from Brea California soon. Information concerning the recent acquisitions and selling of Carrier's Heat Transfer Products Group, HTPG.

Apparently the new company will be called "HTPG."

Carrier-Witt-Russell-Monomoy Capital/Starboard Capital acquisition and sale information. Carrier's parent company is United Technologies, UTX. It appears UTX is shedding part of its holdings to become leaner and more profitable.

http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/carrier-corp-sells-heat-transfer-products-group-98230934.html

http://mcpfunds.com/press.php
http://www.yumasun.com/articles/new-62496-business-pet.html

About Monomoy Capital http://investing.businessweek.com/research/stocks/private/snapshot.asp?privcapId=20337494

Starboard Capital Partners: http://investing.businessweek.com/businessweek/research/stocks/private/snapshot.asp?privcapId=34515554
http://investing.businessweek.com/businessweek/research/stocks/private/snapshot.asp?privcapId=109241148

Witt-Russell was Carrier's heat transfer products group. The world market has made it very difficult for U.S. refrigeration products to be profitable, welcome to the "world economy."
Monomoy is dedicated to constructive investing and business improvement. http://www.mcpfunds.com/

Best of luck to the new company. Moving its HQ out of California is a profitable move. http://www.witthtp.com/facilities.html

Garry L Morgan: MANY THANKS!

Garry L Morgan: MANY THANKS!: "Many thanks to those who voted for me in the Scottsboro election for City Council Place 4. The election results: Election results: City Cou..."

A nuclear ‘living laboratory’

LabRats?
A nuclear ‘living laboratory’ - timesfreepress.com

ELECTION DAY SCOTTSBORO, TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 2010

Sample Ballot for the City of Scottsboro election on August 24, 2010, City Council, School Board and Draft Beer will be on the ballot.

WAFF-TV Channel 48 story--http://www.waff.com/Global/story.asp?S=13030692

If you are a Scottsboro resident I ask for your vote tomorrow on Tuesday August 24, 2010, vote for Garry L.Morgan, Scottsboro City Council Place 4. Sensible leadership for Scottsboro's future, vote Garry L. Morgan.

Saturday's Scottsboro Daily Sentinel--Facts and Deceit of Politicians and Bureaucrats

Click on image for an expanded view.

Bloomberg Business Week Report: http://www.businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D9HNERU00.htm

http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2010/aug/20/tva-move-ahead-bellefonte-nuclear-reactor/

VOTERS of Scottsboro the TVA and your City Government are deceiving you.

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#1- The City Audit was released in Mid July. The Mayor and the City Council have refused to release the audit to the public due to the truth of its disclosures. The audit reveals a Government Fund deficit of $2,863,144; a General Fund Deficit of $826,844. Scottsboro politicians over spent. The facts are in the audit of which city officials refuse to release. They seem to think the political incumbents reelection is more important than telling the truth or being open and honest with you the citizen. See page 8B of the Daily Sentinel. I bought a political ad so you the citizen would know the truth concerning the audit. (see picture above)
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#2- As much as I would like to see Bellefonte happen deceiving the populace is not warranted. The TVA deceives you fellow citizens and our local political gentry falls right in line with the deceit. Build the plant but stop the deceit. Why can't government officials be honest with the citizens?

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There is a terrible culture of political deceit in our nation!

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Currently, you are paying 10.2 cents per kilowatt hour for residential power in Scottsboro. Mr. Kilgore states "we believe we will be able to produce power for less than 5 cents per kilowatt hour when it goes on line." http://www.thedailysentinel.com/story.lasso?ewcd=9dedee45faf32736 Prove your figures Kilgore! Mayor, since you state, "we stand ready to help TVA provide low cost electricity," prove Kilgore's statement! How in the hades are you going to lower the cost of nuclear power when the costs of construction are sky rocketing? (When the Daily Sentinel article in today's paper becomes available online I will post a link.)

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Current costs of nuclear power with the TVA are at best 11 cents per KW hr. If it were not for coal fired power generation the citizens of the TVA region would be paying as a minimum 50% higher electric costs.

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Currently there are 17 states whose power costs are less than the TVA area, under 10 cents per kw hr of use for residential costs, 17 fellow citizens. http://www.eia.doe.gov/electricity/epm/table5_6_a.html
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See this report, "The Staggering Costs of Nuclear Power," it reflects the costs will be around 25 to 30 cents per kilowatt hour, triple current U.S. electricity rates. http://www.americanprogress.org/issues/2009/01/nuclear_power.html
Quote from the above report, "Many U.S. utilities are diversifying through a combination of aggressive load reduction incentives to customers, better grid management, and a mixture of renewable energy sources supplying zero-fuel-cost kWh’s, backed by the KW capacity of natural gas turbines where needed. Some U.S. utilities, primarily in the South, often have less aggressive load reduction programs, and view their region as deficient in renewable energy resources. These utilities are now exploring new nuclear power."

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This is the problem I have with the TVA and our local government. Both have a history of deceit, particularly when the deceit benefits themselves. The proof of the deceit is present when you examine the facts.

TVA to Revive Bellefonte - Debt Re-cap at Article End

(Times Free Press Photo Fair Use for non-profit news reporting) Cask holding used, highly radioactive reactor fuel,

(TVA Photo of Bellefonte Units 1&2 Fair-Use for non-profit news reporting) Breaking News 11:00AM Aug 20, 2010: TVA Board passes $248 million in the next fiscal year for engineering and equipment work for the completion of the Unit 1 reactor at the Bellefonte Nuclear Power Plant in Hollywood, Ala.

TVA to revive mothballed Bellefonte - timesfreepress.com

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Article Quotes:

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Arnold Gundersen, a nuclear engineer and former executive at Nuclear Energy Services in Danbury, Conn., told the Nuclear Regulatory Commission this spring that TVA should not be allowed to reinstate its license since the Bellefonte reactor was not maintained in accordance with NRC regulations after TVA canceled its construction permit in 2006. “Instead of following regulations during the past three years, the plant [TVA] stripped and cannibalized its equipment and the NRC stopped inspecting the Bellefonte site activities,”

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Goodrich “Dus” Rogers, director of the Jackson County Economic Development Authority in Alabama, will lead a delegation at today’s Knoxville board meeting in support of the completion of Bellefonte.“We’ve seen those cooling towers sit idle at Bellefonte for decades and we want to see some steam come out of those towers so TVA can get more clean energy and we can get more jobs,” he said.

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Unfortunately, Mr. Rogers does not know the meaning of clean energy, radioactive atomic power is not clean. The atomic reactor fuels manufacturing process has killed or sickened thousands. Jobs, there will be very few if any current local people employed at the Bellefonte site that are not already on site. The contractors which will build the site and operate the site must have security clearances. The current builders group will be moved from the Watts Bar construction site to Bellefonte once the Watts Bar construction is complete. Operators of the plant site, once completed, will move to Scottsboro from other areas. There will be service jobs created in the community in approximately 3-5 years if and when the plant is approved for construction and once construction begins.

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There is a better, more economical way to utilize Bellefonte. An 840 mega watt combined cycle natural gas plant along with a 200 mega watt solar plant. This plant configuration coupled with energy conservation and efficiency measures serve to produce the needed energy with less risk and cost to the tax payers/rate payers . This option is $1.5 to 2.5 billion dollars less expensive than the price of completing 1 reactor at Bellefonte.

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According to TVA's August's 2010 Quarterly Financial Report their debt has decreased, it is $23.4 billion, interest on its debt is $23.8 billion. TVA has a $30 billion Congressional mandated debt cap. TVA's total commitments, including, debt, debt interest, retirement, leases, fuel purchases, litigation, environmental cleanup costs are $67.8 billion http://www.tva.gov/finance/reports/forwardlooking_sec.htm

The Continuing Saga of Bellefonte (Deja Vu?)

"The Crippler." Want somebody to blame for a "crippled TVA," here is his picture, "the crippler" himself, U.S. Senator Dick Shelby. (see story link at page bottom)

It certainly appears our Daily Sentinel has the inside track on Bellefonte, or do they? This morning's lead story should be a concern to the area's citizens. Read carefully, as you will notice the TVA will not make a final decision on Bellefonte Friday. They will however continue to spend rate payer money on a plant which no one knows if it will be completed. http://www.thedailysentinel.com/story.lasso?ewcd=5f0df2818269344f *

According to the Daily Sentinel article, a contingent of local officials will make presentations at Knoxville this Friday. *

Our electric rates continue to rise and rise, according to the TVA due to increasing fuel rates. The affects on business and industry are far more important than home owner electric rates. Sustainable energy solutions are less expensive than the growing costs of radioactive atomic power. *

A quarter of a billion dollars will be decided on Friday for improving existing controls and structure according to Terry Johnson, the TVA public relations person feeding the story to the Sentinel. The TVA is not telling the public the full story concerning Bellefonte. *

TVA now states, as indicated in the article, they will wait on its Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) which is due in the spring of 2011 before a final decision. http://www.tva.gov/environment/reports/irp/index.htm

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The bottom line is this, the TVA is spending hundreds of millions of dollars on Bellefonte without a final approval of construction of the nuclear facility. This is the epitome of government waste and it is madness!

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We wonder why the TVA is near its mandated $30 billion dollar Congressional Cap! We wonder why our nations debt is extreme! This is the reason, government bureaucrats who continuously mismanage programs in support of themselves and politicians who receive millions in election funding from government contractor PACs who are concerned about one thing, the amount of money they may fleece from you the taxpayer. Wake up to reality fellow taxpayers.

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A crippled TVA Board--- A dysfunctional Senate crippling the TVA. http://www.wbir.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=130966&provider=rss

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Senator Dick "the crippler" Shelby. Here is his contact info--http://shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=ContactSenatorShelby.EmailSenatorShelby

Scottsboro residents upset over long-standing drainage problem...

Story Link: Scottsboro residents upset over long-standing drainage problem - WAFF.com: North Alabama News, Radar, Weather, Sports and Jobs-

Flooding faults...It's their fault, no it's their fault, no it's their fault. No who's on first, no whose on second. Double talk and refusal to accept responsibility.
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Priorities...Recreation or infrastructure? Failed drainage, urban blight, neglect. But new soccer fields, tennis courts and a splash park are far more important than adequate infrastructure to prevent flooding. The continued neglect of the minority community can not be tolerated. You witness the results of this trend of continuing neglect on the above video link.
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Recreation Project will cost near $4 million dollars. http://arklite.blogspot.com/2010/08/scottsboro-city-council.html
http://thedailysentinel.com/story.lasso?ewcd=d696a97a94680997

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Priorities seem to be confused with our current leadership. Which is more important, infrastructure or recreation?
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Here's the problem folks, a larger well planned drainage system usually does not have a nice big bronze "vanity plaque" on it that lists those who built the ditch. Maybe a large "vanity plaque" should be erected with a drainage project, maybe then an adequate drainage system could be built.
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A larger well planned drainage system will cost many millions but it must be accomplished or we will experiance flooding problems on a much more frequent basis due to development changing the course of smaller waterways and over stressing historical area drainage. Changing climate patterns will also result in more extremes in weather. Scottsboro's drainage system must be improved sooner rather than later and must receive a high priority.

Please Support the Boys and Girls Club of Scottsboro---Voters League Fish Fry

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Voters League Fish Fry<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

SUPPORT OUR LOCAL BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB, CHILDREN ARE OUR FUTURE!

I know times are tough but this is a very worthwhile organization to support. Here is their website, http://www.bgcnortheastalabama.org/ , check them out!

About the boys and girls club: In every community, boys and girls are left to find their own recreation and companionship in the streets. An increasing number of children are at home with no adult care or supervision. Young people need to know that someone cares about them.

Boys & Girls Clubs offer that and more. Club programs and services promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging and influence.

As part of a national organization with 4,000 club sites, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Alabama is committed to provide the best programs and services to the youth of our community and the surrounding area as we have for the past 54 years.

Boys & Girls Clubs are a safe place to learn and grow -- all while having fun. It is truly The Positive Place For Kids.

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Fish Fry--This Saturday from 11:00 AM til later on in the afternoon, the Jackson County Voters League will be holding a Fish Fry to support the League's activities. Stop by 309 North Houston Street, Ben Sanford Center, this Saturday and purchase a fish dinner, hot dogs or a fish sandwich in support of the Voters League of Jackson County.

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About the Voters League and Mr. Archie Stewart: http://www.leftinalabama.com/diary/6346/scotsboro-set-to-honor-professor-archie-stewart-man-of-firsts

Scottsboro City Election 2010, Political Forum, Part 2

Click on the above image for an expanded view. Candidate list for the Political Forum.

Mr. Terry Thomas, Place 3

Mr. Keith Smith, Place 4

Mr. Garry Morgan, Place 4

Ms. Carol McCrary, Place 3

Keg Beer will be an issue that will be on Scottsboro's ballot next Tuesday.

Vote next Tuesday, August 24th 2010 at the Scottsboro Rec Com, corner of Parks Avenue and South Houston Street.

My apologies to the Board of Education candidates. My photographer took excellent pictures of the City Council candidates but did not take any single photo's of the School Board Candidates.
garrymorgan.icopyright.com

Scottsboro City Election 2010, Political Forum, Part 1

Scottsboro Board of Education candidates, from left to right: Daryl Eustace-Candidate Place 3; Robert Ferrell-Candidate Place 2; Judy McCrary-Incumbent Place 2; Howard Hill-Candidate Place 3. David Estes candidate for Place 2 was not present due to commitment with the Alabama National Guard. A statement was read by Mr. Paulk,forum moderator, prepared by David Estes.

Scottsboro City Council candidates, from left to right: Carol McCrary-Candidate for Place 3; Keith Smith-Incumbent Place 4; Terry Thomas-Incumbent Place 3; Garry Morgan-Candidate Place 4. Mr. Matthew Hodges not pictured ran unopposed for Place 5.

Mr. Gerald Paulk, Esquire was the moderator for this evenings forum.

Scottsboro City Council candidates receive instructions from Mr. Brad Shurett concerning the Forum's format.

Candidates drew numbers out of a basket to determine the order of presentation.

The Scottsboro City Board of Education candidates receive instructions concerning the Forum 's format.

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The forum was an excellent experiance. The Election Forum will be broadcast on Scottsboro's Electric Power Board's (SEPB) Ch 10. Unfortunately not everyone has Ch 10 from the City of Scottsboro's Power Board. The forum was broadcast live on WKEA radio.

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Each candidate was allowed a 90 second introduction, two questions were drawn from a basket by each candidate, answers were limited to 90 seconds for each candidate and a 90 second closing statement from each candidate.

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Enjoy the pictures, they will be presented in 2 parts. Many thanks to my friend Gretel for taking the photos.

garrymorgan.icopyright.com

Scottsboro City Council

http://www.unclaimedbaggage.com/ Presentation by Ms. Brenda Cantrell.

The City Council Meeting was conducted in 2 parts this evening. The first was a continuation of last weeks regular City Council Meeting and the second was a council work session. The council meeting began early due to the election forum conducted at the Scottsboro High School.

City Council Continuation from Aug. 9, 2010: There was 1 item under new business, amendment of Street Department budget for the purchase of a portable vehicle air conditioner refrigerant recovery machine. This piece of equipment will cost $3275.00, the equipment was approved for purchase.

August 16, 2010 Work Session: 1) Ms Brenda Cantrell representing The Unclaimed Baggage Center made a presentation concerning the celebration of Unclaimed Baggage's 40th Anniversary on Labor Day of this year. Ms. Cantrell stated that Unclaimed Baggage had been awarded the Tourism Attraction of the Year for Alabama receiving the highest number of visits for any tourism destination.

Ms Cantrell requested that Willow Street from Cedar Hill Dr to the Muffler Shop receive an honorary designation during the Labor Day Weekend as Unclaimed Baggage Boulevard. A request was also submitted to change the name of Willis Street, the north entrance to Cedar Hill Cemetery and the small drive adjacent to Unclaimed Baggage Center on the west side to Lost Luggage Lane.

It was mentioned that Unclaimed Baggage is the worlds largest contributor to eye glasses via the Lions Club. The "Center" employs 115 local citizens.

The City Council will consider and vote on the issue at next Monday's council meeting.

2) Mr. Roy Light, Manager of the Scottsboro Water Sewer and Gas (WSG) Board discussed a $400,000 grant for the Hwy 72 Industrial Park to improve existing infrastructure, specifically sewer lines. Mr. Light stated the proposed project would involve 8000 feet of sewer line improvement. This grant would be a cost sharing grant. Mr. Light commented the WSG Board would provide approximately $150, 000 for the grant.

Reports: 1) CDA Special Call meeting on August 24, 2010 at 5:30PM. 2) The Mayor announced the City Election at the Rec Com will be held in the new gym instead of the old gym. The old gym where the election is normally held is experiencing air conditioning problems. The new gym is in the same building. Signs will be posted in appropriate locations directing citizens to the voting area.

garrymorgan.icopyright.com

Disappointment, Consequences and Racism

Scottsboro,  "the other side of the tracks."  photo by G. Morgan

Last night the Jackson County Voters League held their annual Political Candidate Forum. It was an eye opening experience into the realm of social justice and the dilemma of racism that plagues our community. 

Unfortunately some of the candidates did not show up,. another group that did not show up was the local press. 

Folks we have a sickness in Scottsboro, Alabama. Like a patient with cancer, ignoring our social ills, neglecting that which is part of our body will not heal the cancer. 

The cancer is not the Voters League or the African American community. The cancer is in the hearts and souls of the WHITE folks of this community who practice racism. White folks may very well be the majority, but ladies and gentleman we are not a democracy, the majority does not rule. We are a Republic where the rule of law is the realm of justice, codified in OUR Constitution, along with our unalienable rights to insure liberty. 

If you neglect part of your body, you will face the consequences. Such exists in the dilemma of our city we call home, Scottsboro, Alabama.

Scottsboro, Alabama is a good place with fine people. I know this to be a fact or I would not be writing this challenging article and saying to you, life is what we make it and we have the capability to make or break our community, to change our course of neglecting part of our community.

What's it gonna be, are we to treat all taxpayers in our community as equals or will we treat those who live on "the other side of the tracks" with cancerous neglect?

8AM update: On a local discussion forum which I frequent, a local citizen made the statement: "Sorry, but I do not understand what racism has to do with a forum that I take was poorly attended. That seems a huge leap to call it Racism." My reply: "Neglect, intentional neglect, intentional non-participation due to the fact the community on the other side of the tracks has been neglected. "

Many in the poor and minority community despise some local public officials and their historical discriminatory actions.. 

Sometimes, in small communities, the press attempts to cover-up the fact that RACISM is practiced today, that is the case in Scottsboro, Alabama. The local press, at this time in our history, attempts to suppress the cold hard facts of racism in our community.

My words are this, some public officials work very hard at making arrangements for influential members of the community and their children to receive a pass on crime, while the poor and minorities face the full brunt of the criminal justice system, this is one of those secretive facts about our quaint city which the influential do not want discussed in public. 

I'll add, facts seem to bring on the wrath of right wing extremists on the local Scottsboro forum, al.com-linked on this blog, which makes me wonder exactly what some public officials represent in Scottsboro, Alabama.

Scottsboro City Council Meeting

Councilman Matthew Hodges receives the Certificate of Election from Mayor Potter. Mr. Hodges received no opposition in his bid for City Council. This is his 3rd term on the Council.

Scottsboro City Council, Mayor, City Clerk, City Attorney dressed in pink in support of Breast Cancer Awareness. The pink t-shirts are being sold by the Scottsboro Fire Department for $9.00. Proceeds to go to fighting breast cancer.

“Real men wear pink” is the motto of firefighters across the country that raise money for a program called the Pink Heals Tour. Started in Arizona, the purpose of the Pink Heals Tour, complete with pink fire trucks, is to raise money and show support for women who are fighting the fight against breast cancer.

1) Consider Barge, Waggoner, Sumner and Cannon contract for sports complex. Mentioned there were environmental issues (wetlands) which would take from 120-140 days. The issue was approved. The complex will also include a splash park. 2) Bid opening for unpaved road surfacing. Charles E Watts Co. of Gadsden, Al. awarded bid. 3)Bid opening for Fire Department Equipment purchase, $14,267-awarded Sunbelt Fire Equipment; foam purchase-$390.00 awarded to Pro Fire Equipment. A government grant covered 95% of the purchase. 4) Vacancy on Water Sewer and Gas Board, request for position must be turned in to the City Clerk prior to Sep 10, 2010 at 4:30PM 5) Resolution of election by City Council, Certificate of Election by Mayor Potter. Mr Hodges ran unopposed, his election was certified. 6) The CDA will have a Special Called meeting on Aug 10, 2010 at 5:30PM at the City Hall Council chambers. 7) City Council meeting will be continued until 5:30 next Monday evening.

Reports: 1) The Jackson County Voters League will hold its Candidates Screening and Endorsement Forum Tuesday August 10th at the North Houston Street church of Christ. Registration is at 5:30PM, a $25.00 registration fee will be charged. 2) Monday, August 16, 2010 at 7PM the City Council and School Board Forum will be conducted in the High School Auditorium.

garrymorgan.icopyright.com

Jackson County Commission Work Session

Citizen Comments: Mrs. Ralph Starkey spoke to the Commission concerning an upcoming agricultural and livestock show. Several youths participate in showing livestock. Mrs. Starkey displayed pictures and told of the success of our young people participating in agricultural projects. She requested the commission provide funds for a public purpose in supporting Jackson County Agriculture at regional and state shows. The commissioners discussed different levels of funding for this project. Mr. Porter, County Attorney, stated money could be provided if their was a public purpose.

The following items were discussed at the work session: 1) Position at Public Works; 2) Sheriffs Department, reimbursement of accumulated leave, discuss jail maintenance. 3) Discussion of maintenance position. 4) Discussion of road paving.

The County Commission adjourned into another lengthy Executive Session, approximately 50 minutes, for the purpose to discuss pending litigation. The Sheriff Dennis Miller and the Chief Deputy Chuck Phillips were present in the Executive Session for approximately 20 minutes. The commission returned and adjourned the meeting.

garrymorgan.icopyright.com

NEPA Scoping Deceptions, AREVA-DOE-TVA Browns Ferry Plutonium Concerns

Huntsville Times article with my comment: http://blog.al.com/breaking/2010/08/safety_dominates_meeting_about.html

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Concerns from Decatur leaders: http://decaturdaily.com/detail/65777.html

Civilian contractors were misrepresenting themselves with the blessings of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) http://nnsa.energy.gov/ . Areva-Shaw contractors wore identification name tags of the Department of Energy (DOE) NNSA. Many of the alleged federal employees, DOE-NNSA, present were civilian contractors who stand to gain billions of dollars from the plutonium-MOX program. http://www.wise-uranium.org/epdcs.html

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All civilian contractors of Areva ("The French State owns more than 90%.")-Shaw should have been identified properly as civilian contractors, this was not the case. The failure of proper identification casts a shadow of doubt over a program which must be free from deception. Areva: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Areva Shaw-Areva-MOX=SHAM: http://ir.shawgrp.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=61066&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1150039&highlight=
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In another disclosure at last evening's meeting, the TVA has been involved in Secret negotiations with the NRC, Nuclear Regulatory Commission (The NRC was not present at last evenings meeting.), to relax security of shipments concerning Plutonium-MOX fuel due to costs of security. This disclosure was revealed in recent Freedom of Information Act disclosures which the TVA Public Relations representative denied in last nights meeting. Mr. Terry Johnson, Public Relations-TVA, seemed shocked at the FOIA disclosure at last nights meeting. Mr. Johnson denied any knowledge of the NRC-TVA negotiations, stating when asked about the secret negotiations, "I find it doubtful TVA would do such a thing." Dr. Edward Lyman, Union of Concerned Scientists disclosed the documents to Mr. Johnson with me present.

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I expressed concern to Mr. Johnson that deception from the TVA can not be tolerated in the NEPA, National Environmental Protection Act, process concerning disclosing to the public necessary information related to public safety of nuclear materials.

Scottsboro City Council

Looking south toward the Courthouse clock tower from the "Scottsboro Depot" historical site.

Last night was a short meeting with one item on the agenda. Review of contract discussion relating to Barge, Waggoner & Canon. The engineer is working on plans for the expansion of Scottsboro's new recreation complex. The city will pay for the project with a $4 million plus bond issue therefore increasing Scottsboro's debt obligations. City Council members have stated a need for additional recreation facilities. Several citizens have spoke favorably for more recreation facilities.

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Citizen presentation: Garry Morgan made presentation in regards to recent discussions related to the CDA, Commercial Development Authority. Previous City Council articles related to the CDA and discussion of the issue: http://arklite.blogspot.com/2010/07/scottsboro-city-council-what-is-cda.html and http://arklite.blogspot.com/2010/07/scottsboro-city-council-meeting.html . Questions were raised in regards to the CDA and how it would be involved in planning. "Why would the CDA need money as it does not have bylaws, there is no budgeted item to fund the CDA?" Morgan stated, "the CDA is not the City Planning Commission, we have a board for that purpose. The CDA does have a purpose but it is not to circumvent the Planning Commission. The CDA may be involved as a liaison to the planning process with existing businesses who may want to expand and new business coming to town. The CDA should serve to make planning easier not take the place of a planning commission."

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Morgan suggested, "the city should consult with Auburn University's Economic Development Institute (EDI) prior to implementing any program. City Attorney Steve Kennamer stated, "the city has discussed these issues with Auburn EDI." The city may have discussed these issues with Auburn as Mr. Kennamer states, but the City has not made the public aware of any issue concerning discussions with Auburn concerning the CDA. ( Comment: This writer is very leery of any secretive discussions when the public is not kept informed. It is very important the city keep the voters aware of any major discussions related to the CDA.)

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There are several current businesses in Scottsboro who oppose the CDA, these business owners have stated, "the CDA offers an unfair business advantage to new businesses locating in Scottsboro." The CDA offers incentives to current businesses expanding. Several businesses in town have pulled out of the Chamber of Commerce due to the Chamber's support of the CDA.

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Plutonium at nuke plant? - Decaturdaily.com

BLN, Bellefonte proposed Nuclear Units 1 & 2.

Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant.
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Plutonium at nuke plant? - Decaturdaily.com

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Excerpt from the Decatur Daily: "A Public hearing is set Tuesday, August 3rd, 2010 on Energy Department plan to use weapons-grade fuel at Browns Ferry."
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"The U.S. Department of Energy will hold a public meeting Tuesday at Calhoun Community College’s aerospace building from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. to discuss plans to use mixed uranium-plutonium oxide, a processed version of weapons-grade plutonium, at TVA’s Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant in Limestone County. "

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Dr. Ed Lyman,PhD., specialist and expertise in Nuclear Power, Nuclear Weapons & Global Security-Nuclear Terrorism, Union of Concerned Scientists in Washington, D.C.. Dr Lyman, among others, will speak at the Decatur Hearings Tuesday in regards to the danger of utilizing Plutonium Mixed Oxide fuel in TVA's atomic reactors.. http://www.ucsusa.org/news/experts/edwin-lyman.html Dr Lyman has stated the following in regards to an error in the Decatur article: "The story has a mistake in the amount of plutonium that TVA reactors would have to dispose of - it's actually at least 34 metric tons. The seven tons mentioned in the story would be additional to the 34 metric tons."
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Browns Ferry is west 55 air miles from Scottsboro.

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Dr. Lyman will be in Scottsboro Monday to meet with the Bellefonte Efficiency and Sustainability Team, BEST. We will be discussing with Dr. Lyman usage of weapons grade Plutonium in TVA's aging reactors and TVA's manufactoring of Tritium in its reactors.
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The probability is very high that the TVA will use Plutonium oxide fuel and will manufacture Tritium in the Bellefonte Reactor Facility if the reactor becomes operational.
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BEST has extended a Hand of Friendship to the TVA for a sit down discussion and tour of Bellefonte to discuss various concerns over degraded equipment and issues related to engineering, geology-hydrology, tritium manufacture, usage of Plutonium fuel and security problems related to Bellefonte. Risk & Reliability factors have not been considered when utilizing plutonium fuel in the reactors designed for uranium fuel usage. The TVA at the Executive level has refused our offer for a meeting.
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In other information concerning Bellefonte, the Washington D.C. Court of Appeals action filed due to the NRC's circumvention of Atomic Reactor Construction Licensing Safety and Procedures regarding Bellefonte's construction license will proceed. The respondents, the NRC and the TVA, attempted to have the case thrown out. The judges agreed with the actions of the Blue Ridge Environmental Defense League, Petitioners, the case has merit and will proceed.
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It is the Petitioners position the NRC and the TVA have attempted to take shortcuts and violated Atomic Reactor Construction Licensing Safety and Proceedures in the licensing process resulting in a Federal Appeals Court Case which will now proceed.