Robin Smith, Congressional Candidate for 3rd District Comments on Earmarks February 26, 2010 To the editor: There is little argument today that the Congress has been irresponsible in the way it has handled our nation’s budget. The flood of new spending and the increase in debt we now owe to other nations threatens our national security. Since my entry into the campaign for Tennessee’s Third Congressional District, and before as a private citizen, I have been clear in my commitment to cutting wasteful federal spending based on the very principles that the average citizen uses every month; prioritizing our true needs while moving away from pork spending. It is because I have staked out principled ground on this issue, that I was honored to receive the endorsement of Club for Growth, the nation’s leading advocacy group for conservative fiscal policy. This week, funding for the critical Chickamauga Lock funding came into question at a forum of Third District candidates. During the forum, attorney Chuck Fleischmann stated that he “rejected the endorsement of Club for Growth, a special interest group” because he “refused to sign a pledge against earmarks” and cited the risk to funding of the lock as one of the reasons he has refused to sign a pledge to work for earmark reform. The funding of this local priority has national security implications and the process for all Army Corps of Engineers projects needs to be evaluated to place all requests on the same playing field. If appropriations were handled constitutionally, funding the lock would not be a matter of earmarks. Our positions on the issue of earmarks could not be more different. Perhaps Mr. Fleischmann is less confident in the national importance of Oak Ridge and the commerce of the Tennessee River than I am. I have met with both TVA officials and key stakeholders in Oak Ridge. My commitment is unwavering on funding such issues as this that impact national and energy security. Congress is supposed to work - with members articulating the case for funding national priorities based on the national interest-in its Constitutional manner. Issues with merit should survive and those without should not. Unfortunately, Washington as we know it today has devolved into a web of parochial deals and political nest-feathering -- and it's strangling our country's economy. We need a new breed of representative in Congress, people who will go and stand up for the nation's priorities, with fierce advocacy for their home district's role in filling those priorities, but with the common good as their only motivator. This will require us to blow up the earmark process as it exists today, enact major structural budget reform, and put good of the country ahead of personal politics. In 2009 alone, 10,160 earmarks worth $19.6 billion were requested. I believe that funding for Chickamauga Lock rises above these few examples of waste: $4,545,000 for wood utilization research $254,000 for the Montana Sheep Institute $7,100,000 for NOAA for the conservation and recovery of endangered Hawaiian sea turtle populations; $550,000 for the NOAA Chesapeake Bay office for blue crab research $1.9 million for the Pleasure Beach water taxi service in Connecticut $1.8 million for swine odor and manure management research in Ames, Iowa As I have stated since day one of my campaign, I am committed to the priorities of the Third District. I won't, however, pound the podium calling for a balanced budget and reducing deficit spending while advocating the use of earmarks. We already have plenty of folks in Washington doing that now. I will not say one thing while in Washington, DC and a completely different thing at home in the District. Tennesseans deserve better. Robin Smith Hixson, Tennessee Candidate for Congress

Tim Gobble, Congressional Candidate for 3rd District Comments on Terrorism January 13, 2010 To the editor: The attempted terror attack on-board Northwest Airlines flight 253 over Detroit on Christmas day should be enough to convince even the most adamant skeptics that we are at war with an enemy that is committed to inflicting as much death and damage as possible on innocent Americans. Had the attempt been successful, not only would it have cost the lives of the 290 people aboard the plane, but possibly countless people on the ground. As a former Secret Service agent, county sheriff and member of the District Three Homeland Security Committee, I believe there are four major components that are necessary to deal effectively with the on-going war against terror. 1. We must secure our borders, seaports, waterways and airports and other critical national infrastructure. 2. We must cultivate and encourage a strong intelligence network that will effectively share information of threats, suspected terror networks and individuals that pose threats to our national security. 3. We must have tough, well-equipped and well-trained law enforcement and judges ~ both civilian and military ~ who understand the dangers and threats posed by al-Qaeda and other terror organizations. 4. We must allow our mobile military (counter-terrorism special forces) to have the latitude they need to be capable of responding swiftly and decisively world-wide to eliminate or disrupt terror cells without the necessity of committing thousands of troops and supplies on the ground for indeterminate periods of time. Terrorists are always on the move and we must be prepared and capable of moving when and where they do. I understand the very real threat posed by fanatical terror factions who place the death of innocents over their own safety. We need strong, decisive leaders in Washington who understand the importance of the United States standing strong and prepared in a world of danger and uncertainty. As the only candidate with direct national security experience, I am uniquely qualified to serve you well in Congress. Additionally, my experience promoting jobs and effectively managing public budgets will help our local economy and bring fiscal responsibility back to Washington. Tim Gobble Cleveland, Tennessee U.S. Congrssional Candidate, 3rd District

Robin Smith, Congressional Candidate for 3rd District Comments on Terrorism January 12, 2010 To the editor: During the last few weeks, the phrase, “Connect the dots” has returned to our national conversation following the failed Christmas Day terror bombing. When confronting the threat of terrorism, we must “connect these dots.” Our focus, however, should be the clear picture recognizable from the dots already connected yet ignored; ignored out of the scream of “intolerance” and the fear of being deemed “politically incorrect.” For decades, the acts of terror committed toward the US, Israel, the United Kingdom and all other nations have found their grounding in one purpose: the desire to establish Islamic law globally. Young radicalized extremists of the Muslim faith have been the vehicles to inflict terror through various imaginative means as we saw on September 11, 2001. Those “dots”, along with other acts of terror and subversive activity distract from the overlooked goal that motivates these unthinkable deeds. The global Muslim community, the ummah, governed by Islamic Law, Shariah will be aimed at Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Unfortunately, political correctness is allowed to restrain our efforts to confront the threat. Skeptical? After Fort Hood, what was our response? President Barack Obama urged, “I would caution against jumping to conclusions until we get all the facts,” despite Major Nadil Malik Hasan’s cry of "Allahu Akbar", often accompanying acts of terror, as he murdered 13 U.S. soldiers on American soil. What was the initial response to the attempted bombing of Flight 253 on Christmas Day? After three days of public silence, President Obama noted, “This incident, like several that have preceded it, demonstrates that an alert and courageous citizenry are far more resilient than an isolated extremist.” The parent organization of Hamas and al Qaeda, the Muslim Brotherhood, has as its stated mission in their strategic plan from 1991, "A kind of grand jihad in eliminating and destroying the Western civilization from within and 'sabotaging' its miserable house by their hands and the hands of the believers so that it is eliminated and Allah's religion is made victorious over all other religions." Our nation must be vigilant against individuals who attempt to board airplanes with the intent to murder “innocents” to most, but “infidels” to the radical Muslims through intelligence-gathering, monitoring visas and travel patterns, behavioral profiling and the enforcement of our current immigration laws. This treatment of the symptoms must be matched with a determination to remove any cancerous threat to our nation’s sovereignty and safety. The U.S. Constitution must truly be, as Article VI notes, “the supreme law of the land” and defended by our elected officials at all times, not just when it’s viewed as popular or politically correct. So, the question must be answered: Will we permit Shariah by failing to implement effective measures or will we honor and defend our U.S. Constitution and protect Americans? Robin Smith Hixson, Tennessee Candidate for Congress

Thanks for an honest employee at Zaxby's, Norris August 29, 2009 To the editor: On August 26, 2009, I left my billfold by mistake at Zaxby’s at the Interstate at Norris. Ms. Beth Haynes found it and gave it to her manager who returned it to me. I am VERY grateful to Ms. Haynes and want to commend her for her honesty and her family for rearing a truly good person. Please patronize this Zaxby’s since the food is good and the employees are GREAT! Sincerely, Sandra J. Guinn Lenoir City

Connie Wade Behensky is seeking additional family information June 3, 2009 To the editor: I wrote to IAC and you published a picture that my 98 year old aunt had of our family and I got so much response. Now I have another request. I have found my ggg grandfather's children and I know the names of their children and they must still have children living in those parts. I would like to request anyone that is related to this family to please contact me. I know that there must be pictures of some of these people in their position. I just long to see what my ggg grandfather looked like and his children. I know two of them did not pass away till the early and mid teens in the 1900's. I know that my ggg grandfather Crocket Wade did not die until 1876 or 1878 and there must have been a photograph of him because photo's had been out for about 20 years when he passed away. I know that the only girl in the family Nancy Wade Murray is the one that would usually have the fam ily bible and pictures of her family. I have found her gggg grandsons and I am begging them to see if there are any pictures of Nancy Wade Murray. She had a daughter Anna Murray Robinson who married a Mr. Robinson and they had three children: Lillian Robinson, Marie Robinson who married a Dr. Taylor from Clinton. and Herman Robinson who was married to a Cora Foust. They had a daughter Anna Mae Robinson who married a Mr. Frank Martin. If you are in any of these families and have photo's of them will you please contact me. My name is Connie Wade Behensky and my phone number is: 574 273-1388. I don't want anything from you but pictures of my people. I love my family and cherish all that they did and just want to see any of them. I have had some help from Marie Robinson's great, great grandchild but I know that there are pictures of Herman, and Nancy Wade Murray and Crocket Wade. Also I am looking for a Lula Wade that was married to an Oscar Scruggs. Lula was the sister of my gg grandfather James Tate Wade. I know that she did not pass away till 1951 so there must be someone there in the Clinton Area that is related to Lula. Any information that you can give me on this family would be appreicated. Thanks you so much for all of your help in the past. I truely love the people of East Tennessee, the Anderson Co, area. You are the nicest people that I have ever come across and I have lived all around this country. You have so much to be proud especially your kindness to strangers. Respectfully yours, Connie Wade Behensky crafts4con@aol.com

A letter to President Obama March 24, 2009 When I was real young, I was proud to be an 'American'. When I went to school i stood proudly and placed my hand over my heart every morning and said the 'Pledge', with everyone else. And I think we all meant it too. When i was younger, it seemed everyone was 'proud'. Proud to help another, to me then that 'was' being 'American'. I learned that things did not have any value, unless they were 'earned'. When i turned 15 i was living on the streets by myself, in a strange city, but it was in 'America'. I remember shivering under that bridge at night in Dallas Texas, and I watched all the cars drive by. Not one stopped. I never did fall asleep at night, it was to cold i guess, the shaking would keep you awake. Why didn't anyone stop? Where there any 'Americans' left? Maybe i had a misconception of what an 'American' was. I got a fake ID then, and worked at a fast food place. I knew, if i wanted anything, i needed to earn it, that is how i was taught. I was not on the streets long, maybe 6 months, then a boys home for a year, and then another place for a year. wow. My attitude and life changed during that time, about 'America'. The Health Care System heh. I was cured, and released at 17, when the insurance ran out. Coincidence? I think not. I personally do not believe anything was wrong with me, and i still do not. But i think if someone is getting paid, they could think of something. Because of that, i do not trust doctors, or hospitals, insurance would do me no good, i have not been able to find anyone that cares beyond a paycheck. My teeth hurt, but i am fine. When I was 17, I got a job, and worked hard. I worked hard, for years, and years. I was angry back then. That is why I never registered to vote. I had finally been taught that the America that was taught to me as a child, did not exist. People cared about themselves, or money, or something else. Not simply another, because they were 'American', and that's what I had thought it was all about. I worked alot of different jobs over the years, fast food, tree work by power lines, offshore drilling, i always worked real hard, and always put pride in everything i did, and always will. I never did register to vote though. I never felt like i was a democrat, or a republican, or anything, but i always worked hard, and tried to help others, and i never cared what they were either. I'm not a big religious fanatic, but to me God has always been there, if nobody else is, so I have always done my best, because i never wanted to let God down. By the time i was the age to vote, I saw alot of people talk alot, but not do anything. The Government simply wanted money to me. I don't know what happened to all the people from when i was a child, and often i think maybe it has just been my perception that changed, but i don't think so. I live in the City of Oak Ridge now, the government built this city to develop the atomic bomb for WWII. I live in original housing, that housed the workers that worked on that. I felt like this is maybe one place that still existed in America, that was actually the America I got taught existed when i grew up. I was born in 1964. It seems the City of Oak Ridge is fighting with the owner of our housing, Applewood Apartments, because they are an 'eyesore'. We are poor. This is the only place the tenants here can afford to live. The rent is half of what is considered 'low income housing', and what i like, is they are not government subsidized. You have to 'earn' it. My apartment is nice. I live in an apartment some worker lived in to help win WWII!! wow.. and they want us all to just go away i think. We are scared, and upset about it. We have asked for help, but they say help is tearing them down and building new ones nobody here can afford. You know, I am poor, but i won't go away. I will never go away. There will always be poor. But I will not accept a 'handout' either. I am happy with being poor. But i find here, in Oak Ridge, it seems the City does not care. To me, that is the government, that doesn't care. If poor people are a problem, they are going to get rid of us, but you know, we will always be somewhere. Why cant' they simply help? They could grab a paintbrush, or a hammer, instead of talk alot and shuffle papers for money around. America. hmph. I haven't seen one government or citizen of Oak Ridge try to help. We were on the local news last week, and still nobody cares. I know this letter will never make it to you Mr Obama, maybe alot of government people will laugh at it before they throw it away. But i tell you what, I am 44 years old now, and if you helped, I would register to vote, and be a proud American. Not just proud, and not just an American, but a Proud American. You're the first person I've seen since watching Mr Kennedy on TV as a kid that it feels to me like you might know about the America I've been talking about. Thank you, Mike Johnson Oak Ridge

We Are a 100% Caring Community! March 4, 2009 Well, we did it…the United Way of Anderson County (UWAC) achieved its fundraising goals for 2009! The “we” in the last sentence refers to more than the staff, agencies, volunteers, the campaign cabinet, David and me. I am referring to all these folks and many, many more. The “we” refers to our community as a whole. We pulled together during the toughest financial time in memory to meet the needs of those folks having a tough time in Anderson County. What exactly did we achieve? Our community raised 3% more than last year – nearly $50,000 more – while most United Ways across the US saw a 5% drop in funding. This achievement ensures a 3% increase in general allocations is available for our community partners at a time when demand for their services is increasing daily. Additionally, the UWAC is working to establish a process to provide emergency funding for basic human needs. In a time when so many are struggling, the UWAC is in a position to provide a help for those who are hurting. Community is all about taking care of each other. During these tough times, we tend to automatically fear for our own economic situation and hold on tight to what we have just in case times get worse. But the real way for us to survive is to help each other. When we ensure that our neighbors are taken care of, we then will be taken care of in turn. The true heart and soul of our community showed itself during this campaign, and this heart and soul is one that cares deeply! I am so proud to live in this community. I grew up in a much smaller town (where I’m related to a good portion of the population) and often saw that community in action through my parents, their friends, and our relatives. Even though I find myself living in a much larger community, the feeling is much the same here. Because we achieved the UWAC goal, my outlook on the future is so much brighter. Even though this economy won’t bounce back immediately, the services provided by the wonderful agencies of the UWAC will be able to continue throughout the year. Thank you, thank you, thank you to the true community of Anderson County. Sincerely, Sandy Bradshaw Campaign Co-Chair, UWAC

United Way Resource Development Director says "Thanks" to IAC Staff December 4, 2008 To the editor: Thank you so much for the great coverage of the luncheon yesterday. And we always appreciate the “above the fold” positions for the photos and thermometers. On behalf of the agencies and UW staff…we really appreciate your dedication in supporting United Way!!!! Thanks again, Tami Carroll Oak Ridge

Tour of agencies supported by the United Way November 7, 2008 To the editor: Yesterday I went on a company sponsored tour of some of the agencies supported by the United Way. I must admit that I was enlightened and humbled by what I saw. I did not realize the overall good that comes from even a small contribution. I realize that some people do not believe in some of the agencies, that's OK. I do believe that the good far outweighs the bad. I would encourage any of you to sign up for one of the upcoming tours and see for yourself. Then make an informed decision about giving. We are truly blessed and it sobers you up real fast to see a world that most of us don't realize exists. Do as your heart leads you. Ed Vandergriff

Wireless Service September 30, 2008 To the editor: As a member of the Senate Transportation Committee, I know how important reliable wireless service is to our state. If your car breaks down on a back road, a cell phone may be your only way to get help. Law enforcement, emergency personnel, and everyday citizens depend on quality coverage to deal with safety issues such as natural disasters, auto accidents, and domestic violence. That's why a recent proposal before the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has implications for rural Tennessee. Wireless carriers cannot always justify the costs of building new cell towers in smaller communities. However, a federal Universal Service Fund (USF) program helps build reliable communications networks in rural areas. The fund's wireless portion was capped earlier this year, and now cuts are proposed that could eliminate 75 percent of the support we now receive in Tennessee. Statewide, we could lose up to $3.3 million in annual USF support. If dozens of new cell sites are cancelled or delayed each year, public safety could be threatened. Wireless coverage is increasing nationally, but more work must be done in Tennessee to bring reliable cell phone networks to rural areas. This important program and its broad based impact should be examined very closely before any funds are reduced. People interested in the issue may visit www.ConnectingRuralAmerica.org to learn more. Jamie Woodson State Senator Knoxville

Inside Anderson County Photos September 15, 2008 To the editor: I have just moved back to the great hills of Anderson Co, Tn from Fl. It is great to be home. I just happened on Inside Anderson County & LOVE the pictures!! I do not know who takes them, but they are just fabulous. I really enjoyed seeing the ones of the peacocks, dogwoods, etc. Keep up the good work, Share your names, or maybe I missed them; Shirley Farmer Oak Ridge

Editor's Note: The Inside Anderson County photos are by Jeanne Underwood & George Farris

Does anyone recognizes the family in this old photo? September 2, 2008 To the editor: My name is Connie Wade Behensky and my father Jack Wade grew up in Anderson Co. along with his seven brothers and sisters. I have longed to find my roots and started my search 8 years ago. Begging anyone that I have met along the way to help me with my search and to see if anyone had pictures of this family. My grandfather Charles Crockett was a Federal Marshall in Anderson Co in the late 1920's and early 1930's. He died in 1934 when my father was 7 years old. My father does have a sister still living in Knoxville, Pauline Sexton and I asked her daughter if she would look for family pictures that her mother might have. She found some - this is the only one that does not have a name. Would you please post this picture in your newspaper to see if anyone recognizes this family. I think that it has to be of the Wades or the Cardens. My father's mother was Stella Carden and his father like I said Charles Crockett Wade. Any help that you can give me would be greatly appreciated. Please help me find out who the people are in this picture. Connie Wade Behensky crafts4con@aol.com

"Great publication" April 23, 2008 To the editor: Thank you for this informative and entertaining on-line publication. I look forward to checking it each day for news and feature updates and the photos that show the diversity and beauty of Anderson County. The on-line format provides an excellent tool for promoting this county as a beautiful place to live and do business. Congratulations on your quality work. Linda Kimmel Oak Ridge

"Enjoy reading TN Federal Legislators reaction to Economic Stimulus Package" February 7, 2008 Dear IAC: Thanks for your coverage of our Federal Legislators reaction to the State of the Union Address and the Presidents Economic Stimulus Package. I found it refreshing to be able to read what our legislators actually said as opposed to having someone else “interpret” it for me. Thanks for the coverage, It’s great to read what actually happened and then make up my own mind on what it means to me. Thanks again, Rick Morrow Oak Ridge

"Something to Ponder" January 31, 2008 Dear Editor Is there some sort of disease going around where leaders loose their common sense of what their mission is or do they have moments of stupidity when they disperse their power? This past summer TVA; as well as, other energy conveying Groups passed on rate increases to their customers. Just recently, I sat in on an elderly advisory board in Anderson County. And they said that they had helped 400 plus citizens with their utility bills And they had used up their entire budget funding but the problem was they had 800 citizens needing assistance. Well, Saturday, January 19, 2008, I read this caption “Donation will help ensure schools get documentary” TVA officials donated $25,000 to Green McAdoo Cultural Organization to pay to distribute documentary to schools and libraries. I have nothing against the Green McAdoo Cultural Organization Or the film. But I do have great difficulty when TVA tries to compete with and use its money for things that are not or will not reduce the energy burden placed upon its taxpaying customers. Lee Roy Gilliam Oak Ridge

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