In her column, “Citizens misled in Pearce recall,” Linda Turley-Hansen, a self-declared “outsider,” has accused Mesa residents of being “staggeringly ignorant” and said she has a few questions for those who support the recall.
I’m going to take her up on her inquiry and answer a few of them.
She says the “recall is a game of dangerous proportions,” by which she means that the framers of the Arizona Constitution didn’t quite know what they were thinking when they put that provision in our state’s founding document. Unfortunately, Linda, it’s in there and no one thinks it’s a game. The bottom line is the requirements for the recall were met, the signatures of LD18 residents were certified and Gov. Jan Brewer called the election. That’s the “rule of law.”
She asks if we want to get rid of “a strong legislative leader who took Arizona out of the red and into the black in a time the nation is floundering economically?” This again points out she’s no Constitutional scholar because Arizona’s Constitution requires a balanced budget, every year. What Pearce did was use smoke and mirrors, accounting tricks and a bad lease deal and raided dedicated funds from our schools, state parks and health care to make it LOOK like he balanced the budget. That’s not leadership, that’s ineptitude and chutzpah.
Even on Pearce’s own pet issue of immigration, Turley-Hansen still can’t check the facts. According to the National Council of State Legislators, SB1070 bills were introduced in 25 states, not 30. And out of that 25, it only passed in four. That’s an 84 percent failure rate. So why did SB1070 fail in 21 out of 25 states? Because those states looked at the real impact of SB1070 on business, jobs, tourism and the economy and said “no way.” Of the four states that passed similar bills, all of their economies tanked immediately after passage, as every news story coming out of Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina and Indiana tell you.
When it comes to crime statistics, Turley-Hansen doesn’t know what she’s talking about and PLEA knows better. Crime rates have been declining for years and there is no data anywhere to support her claim. Even if you look at Arizona prison data for criminal aliens (which includes green card holders as well as undocumented), their numbers have declined 1.2 percent since SB1070 despite a 25 percent drop in their total numbers. This says what every serious law enforcement official knows and that is they don’t commit the amounts of crimes the rhetoric of Pearce prays we believe.
As for education, Pearce voted for $450 million in education cuts, which led to schools laying off teachers and drops in student achievement. Under Pearce’s “leadership,” tuition at ASU increased 38.8 percent and U of A 33.4 percent in just the last two years. If that’s Pearce’s definition of success and “as close to free as possible,” someone needs a new dictionary.
Russell Pearce isn’t being recalled by Democrats. He’s being recalled by the over 10,000 Mesa voters who look at his abuse of the Fiesta Bowl, his family and campaign team running a sham candidate, his record of budget mismanagement, destruction of our educational system, his vote to raise taxes on every Mesa property owner, stopping 42,000-plus kids from getting medical care, and watching as Mesa businesses close left and right.
Russell Pearce can run from his disastrous record, but he can’t hide from the fact that tens of thousands of Mesans saw fit to exercise their Constitutional right to remove him, whether he likes it or not.
Though I have philosophical differences with Jerry Lewis, I believe Mesa will be much better served by someone who listens to businesses and schools, and who has credibility as an educator — and who doesn’t use hateful rhetoric to pander for votes.
• Andrew Sherwood is Democratic Party district chairman for Arizona’s Legislative District 18.
Accuracy posted at 5:58 pm on Mon, Oct 31, 2011.
Andrew Sherwood is Democratic Party district chairman for Arizona’s Legislative District 18 . . . And he is the Democrat than ran unsuccessfully against Sen. Russell Pearce in 2010 for the west Mesa's Senate seat.
HB 2162 legislation, sponsored by State Senate President Russell, that made changes to laws relating to the enforcement of federal and state immigration laws is constitutional and essential for the State of Arizona.
downtownresident posted at 8:26 pm on Mon, Oct 31, 2011.
Russ has to go. He's a millstone around our neck, pulling us down.
Cerulean posted at 8:38 pm on Mon, Oct 31, 2011.
It is good to see a rebuttal to Mrs Hansen's column. You say that "Linda Turley-Hansen, a self-declared “outsider,” has accused Mesa residents of being “staggeringly ignorant” "
Linda accused Republicans in Pearce's own party of being "staggeringly ignorant".
Masterrogue666 posted at 9:10 pm on Mon, Oct 31, 2011.
@ Sherwood: I disagree with YOUR INTERPRETATION of Turley's statement: "This recall is a game of dangerous proportions, one that has scammed multiple Republicans, many respected in District 18." Please notice I quoted THE ENTIRE sentence, and not just part of it. Where in her article does she state: "that the framers of the Arizona Constitution didn’t quite know what they were thinking". She CLEARLY STATED her concern in a previous sentence when she wrote this: "I’m not deeply affected by the possible recall of our Senate president and the contemptible, outsider intrusion into our state."
In other words, she said that there are persons/organizations, NOT IN District 18, that have contributed heavily to trying to recall Pearce. You are the one using smoke and mirrors, but the truth is right there, if you WISH TO SEE IT.
You mentioned as one of the reason's for Pearce's reacall is: "and campaign team running a sham candidate". Wrong. The recall was started BEFORE that incident. Was it a trick? Yes, but it was found to be LEGAL. Tell me, whom are the major contributors to Pearce's recall? Why hasn't that been answered BY ANYONE?
Did you know that Lewis's supportors have BROKEN THE LAW by mailing fake postcards advising not to vote for Cortez? Doubt me, check in the "Politics" section under "Bennett wants probe of campaign spending by groups who claim secrecy". Or do a google search on "Citizens United for Progress postcards" and click on the first link.
By the way, I heard that several thousand signatures were needed to start the recall. NOT the "tens of thousands" you claimed signed it. Smoke and mirrors indeed....
CooperG posted at 10:48 pm on Mon, Oct 31, 2011.
@Rouge - higher level thinking isn't your strong suit is it? Turley-Hansen clearly questioned the legitimacy of the recall. The Arizona Constitution set the parameters, not some "outside" group and all of those requirements were met. Sorry to burst your bubble.
There is plenty of evidence pointing to the plain and simple fact that Pearce supporters, including his brother and nieces shilled for Cortes. His niece's names are on the petitions and according to news reports there are witnesses who saw Lester driving them around as they gathered signatures. Besides, Sherwood never mentioned the Cortes debacle as happening before the recall, only as a reason he should be recalled.
Someone has broken campaign laws and it isn't anyone in the Lewis campaign--just the Pearce campaign. You like guilt by association, but that's just another campaign parlor trick and we aren't buying it. Character matters and cheaters shouldn't win and Pearce through the efforts of his family and supporters and campaign consultants obviously supports cheating.
As for "major" contributors to the recall, according to news reports, it's mostly LD18, Mesa and Arizona residents. That's much more local than Pearce's donors.
According to campaign finance reports, 96% of the money raised by Patriots for Pearce came from people who live outside of LD18. Of those who gave to Citizens Who Oppose the Pearce Recall, 98.1% live outside of LD18. Combined, less that 100 LD18 residents gave your hero any money. What does that tell you? It tells me that without "outside money," Pearce couldn't raise enough money to run for dog catcher.
BTW, 46% of Jerry Lewis' money came from LD18. Hmm, 46% compared to 1.9% for Pearce. Yup, we know who Pearce's supporters are: outsiders.
What is a "fake postcard?" The cards were accurate. Cortes is no longer running and a vote for her doesn't count. If you're going to complain about Citizens United for Progress, then you oppose the U.S. Constitution and the right of businesses to exercise their right of free speech. But maybe your "free speech" only applies to Russell Pearce supporters. What are you afraid of if others exercise their rights granted to them under the U.S. Constitution? You must be someone who hates freedom and if you hate freedom, you must hate America.
Finally, this is how "tens of thousands" works: when you add one thousand ten times, you have "tens of thousands" as in multiples of one thousand. It's not "ones of thousands." So Sherwood's assessment is accurate, even if you can't add or understand math concepts. Go ask a fifth grader. They'll know.
The only smoke and mirrors in this campaign emanates from the Russell Pearce campaign.
Freedom Lover posted at 5:11 am on Tue, Nov 1, 2011.
How appropriate! A democrat not likeing Senator Pearce, so what else is new?
CooperG posted at 6:59 am on Tue, Nov 1, 2011.
Classic Pearce Republican tactic, when you can't argue the facts, you attack the messenger. Distractions and distortions: it's all Pearce and his supporters have left. They can't even be honest with themselves.
sockratties posted at 7:44 am on Tue, Nov 1, 2011.
Good letter, Andrew... Ms. Linda Turley-Hansen has always written off the top of her head, and that's just the point. Thank you for addressing each of her silly ramblings in turn. She should realize that when she reaches out of her little make-believe world we are not all “staggeringly ignorant” as she would wish. Linda should continue to write her maudlin pie-in-the-sky fluff pieces and stay away from serious things like politics.
maxsmith posted at 10:35 am on Tue, Nov 1, 2011.
Still want to know why Andrew didn't run. This whole BS about it being a non partisan recall, what a laugh! the ENTIRE CBA from the ground up is liberal activists
chatmandu002 posted at 11:22 am on Tue, Nov 1, 2011.
What else should we expect from a democrat. The whole recall was a sham, instituted by the pro-illegal/open border crowd. Since the only difference between Mr Lewis and Sen Pearce is the illegal immigration issue. Mr Lewis is saying his religion is for protecting the illegals, because they believe all people are gods people and shouldn't be held responsible to public laws they don't like. What kind of slippery slope are we going down if elected officials use their religious dictates to legislate instead of public law.
CooperG posted at 11:28 am on Tue, Nov 1, 2011.
Yet ANOTHER example of ignoring the facts and shifting attention to the messenger. This is clearly the only strategy they have left.
DavidNichols posted at 11:30 am on Tue, Nov 1, 2011.
The Sham Candidate Scheme , is unbelievable, and is more than just a sham, it is a mass Felony, involving hundreds.
Nice Article Mr. Sherwood.
Slabside posted at 12:09 pm on Tue, Nov 1, 2011.
CooperJerk says to Rouge, "higher level thinking isn't your strong suit is it?"
Then the moron turns right around and says " Classic Pearce Republican tactic, when you can't argue the facts, you attack the messenger."
And
"Yet ANOTHER example of ignoring the facts and shifting attention to the messenger. "
Cooper shows us all what a liberal mental midget he really is.
eskimo posted at 3:00 pm on Tue, Nov 1, 2011.
My response to Linda's column
You have to be kidding, Linda. You are supposed to be a seasoned journalist, not a mouthpiece for the right wing wacko known as Russell Pearce. The recall is for citizens in LD 18. They signed the petitions, not outsiders. Pearce is the one with most of his money coming from outside his district and even outside his state. The man is corrupt and his opponent is not a Democrat or a "tool" of the Democrats. Jerry Lewis is a well respected conservative Republican, endorsed by many prominent Mesa residents. Did you get some Fiesta Bowl tickets for defending him? Oh, that's right he paid for the tickets. Still looking for the cancelled checks. Shame on you Linda. You should be ashamed of such an irresponsible piece of garbage.
arizonapride posted at 3:25 pm on Tue, Nov 1, 2011.
Masterrogue666 writes of the Cortes issue: "Was it a trick? Yes, but it was found to be LEGAL."
Ummmm...no. No, it wasn't.
There was no finding in either direction as the venue was due to a civil complaint.
Judge Burke stated that he believed Ms Cortes had presented herself as "genuinely interested in running". At the same time, he also found the claims made by her and those "running" her campaign to be "highly improbable". And, to clarify, highly improbably translates as "lying" and that extends to committing perjury.
So, on one hand I commend you as you are the first Pearce supporter who I've seen publicly admit that the Cortes candidacy was a "trick", not legitimate and designed solely pull votes away from Lewis. On the other hand, I strongly suggest you read up on Burke's decision. And, bear in mind, that Burke denied Cortes' request to dismiss the suit.
CooperG posted at 4:03 pm on Tue, Nov 1, 2011.
@slabside - do you have a point? In my response to rouge, I spell out the problems with his arguments. I back up what I say--like I'm doing now.
When you can argue that Pearce isn't incompetent, didn't raise taxes on every property owner in Mesa, didn't cause 5,000 teachers to lose their jobs, didn't cause college tuition costs to go up nearly 40% in two years, didn't make Arizona undesirable for new businesses, didn't cause health care costs to go up, then maybe someone will pay attention. But until then, your school-yard taunts are nothing more than wastes of time.
makemlegal8 posted at 4:04 pm on Tue, Nov 1, 2011.
I'm a voting liberal but I'll tell you people one thing,Russel Pearce has my vote
and all my family will be voting for him.Just for the sole reason that he is one of the
few people who doesn't care to have the illegals in our state feeding on all the freebies they can get from all the illegal loving trouble makers in his district.GO RUSS!
Slabside posted at 4:35 pm on Tue, Nov 1, 2011.
CooperG, just exposing you as the liberal hypocrite you are. [beam]
Gilbert Watch posted at 10:04 pm on Tue, Nov 1, 2011.
I guess it can now be confirmed. The Democratic District Chair of LD18 is helping Jerry Lewis beat Senator Russell Pearce. Oh, and Dea and Tyler Montague are joining you Sherwood. Birds of a feather..... When do you plan to change your party affiliation? Is it true that the reason they picked East Valley Tribune for the name of this Leftwing news organization is because Pravda was already taken?
Secret Combinations posted at 5:19 am on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
Shall I quote you Andrew from June 2011:
“I sort of know a couple people who know a guy who knows a person. It’s like six degrees from Waldo,” Sherwood said. “I don’t know what’s going to happen.”
You went on to say, "Political observers generally agree on the type of candidate who would be a formidable candidate in the strongly conservative west Mesa district. It’s generally thought Democrats will sit out the election because they do so poorly there. Also, opponents will likely rally behind a single opponent to avoid having multiple challengers split the vote."
Interesting strategy. So, who are the "couple people" you are talking about?
I noticed you were hanging around with Parraz et al when they celebrated at the Wright House on May 31st.
I noticed Mike Wright is a PC in the DEMOCRAT party. I know Mike has been a liason between the democrats/Parraz and the Montagues/Lewis. Surely you know Mike by now since he's one of your PCs. Is he one of your "couple people"?
Or how about THIS article you wrote TWO DAYS before Lewis announced his run:
http://www.azcentral.com/community/mesa/articles/2011/07/25/20110725russell-pearce-democrats-andrew-sherwood-0723.html
"Democrats should not run in Pearce recall election
As the 2010 Democratic candidate for state Senate in Legislative District 18, some thought that I would be a likely challenger in the recall election against Sen. Russell Pearce. I am not a candidate, and here's why:
First, recall elections are unlike "normal" elections, in that there is no party designation on the ballot.
That means recalls are not partisan elections. Were I or another Democrat to enter the race, Pearce would highlight that point and make unfounded accusations that the Democrats are behind the recall, which we all know simply isn't true, to rile up his base." (NO! Really?!? Democrats aren't behind the recall? Please. Don't insult our intelligence)
"Is it possible that some Mesa residents will come out of nowhere to run? Sure.
But the question people need to ask those individuals is this: If you have never been involved in elections, if you have never been involved in business, if you have never been part of a broader community organization, if you have no ability to raise campaign money, if you haven't canvassed neighborhoods before, if the residents of your own neighborhood don't know who you are, if the people in your own party don't know who you are, then how are you better or more qualified than Russell Pearce?"
Hmmmm....aside from the "never been involved in elections"/ "canvassed neighborhoods"/"ability to raise campaign money" part, I mean, that's what the Parraz group and his leftist contacts are for, right? What qualifications does Lewis have left? Weird that you seemed to get every single one that the recall group likes to highlight in Lewis' weak resume of qualifications:
1. Been involved in business
2. Been part of a broader community organization
3. Residents need to know you
4. People in your party need to know who you are
You continued, "I'm not running in the recall because I know this isn't the time to turn a nonpartisan election into one. I'm not taking the bait. Only a bipartisan coalition can defeat Pearce and give Mesa the type of representation it deserves."
Of course. This was the plan all along. Give the recall the ILLUSION that it is "bipartisan" by parading around the same few people like Snow, Jorgensen and Boettchner mixed in with all of the other leftists.
Perception is reality, right?
Secret Combinations posted at 5:33 am on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
And while we're at it, let's look at OTHER people who know Lewis would be running BEFORE he announced:
Andrea Garcia (L) who attempted to run against Pearce in 2010:
July 15, 2011
"They have a GREAT candidate who is running. He is an LDS Bishop and strong community and principled leader in Dist. 18. He has financial backing and is the only one who can beat Pearce and will follow a conservative Constitutional base that makes up 18."
May 20, 2011
"Well there are 2 recalls. One a Republican led grassroots effort with backing by some LDS community leaders voicing out against Pearce" (Dee Dee Blase/Somos Republicans and Kenneth Smith) "And the other a mostly Democrat led effort backed with Union funding."
"Libertarians are backing the recall as well. (Not that we count, with our measly 10%, until a race where 10% will tip the election)"
Secret Combinations posted at 5:51 am on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
Balanced Budget.
Since you, Mr. Sherwood, were NOT elected to the Senate, perhaps you don't know what happened with the State Budget.
Why not read about it from an actual Senator?
http://azsenaterepublicans.com/2011/04/06/sen-allen-on-azs-balanced-budget/
Senator Allen:
"Friday we passed the final budget for Fiscal Year 2012 – a truly balanced budget, something we haven’t had in five years. There are no gimmicks, no rollovers, and no borrowing. Senate leadership stood firm on our commitment to not allow accounting tricks in the budget. Borrowing simply increases the hole we are in and passes the buck to future legislatures and generations."
With regards to the "raided Education and Healthcare funds", again, perhaps you ought to actually LOOK at the budgets over the years instead of spouting off Democrat talking points. The Education budget has seen an increase of 18% and Healthcare 92% between 2001 and 2011. During the years that Sen. Pearce was Chairman of the Appropriations Committee, the Education budget increased year over year. Education and Healthcare have seen INCREASES of 9% from the 2010-2011 budget. The 2012 budget shows a 1% decline in Education spending to correspond with the current and anticipated decline in enrollment while the Healthcare budget has seen an increase of another 8%.
Secret Combinations posted at 6:24 am on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
Regarding the number of states who have introduced similar bills as SB1070...this came straight from a leftist article by the Women of Color Policy Network dated April 2011:
http://wagner.nyu.edu/wocpn/publications/files/Immigration_Policy_Brief.pdf
"Since SB 1070 passed, over 30 states have attempted to pass similar measures."
As far as the reasons why the bills haven't passed in all of these states? Are you getting your information from places like ImmigrationWorks USA and Center for American Progress? They like to claim that the bills failed because of economic factors.
This is untrue. We already know that SB1070 had very little, if any, impact on the economy here in Arizona.
http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/business/articles/2010/07/28/20100728arizona-immigration-law-tourism.html
http://theamericano.com/2011/04/20/arizona-prospering-sb-1070/
"Critics point to the failure of other states to pass similar laws this year as evidence SB 1070 is not popular. However, they fail to acknowledge that the hesitation is due to uncertainty over what will happen in the courts."
Secret Combinations posted at 6:45 am on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
Seriously? GA, AL, SC and IN economies have tanked because of their immigration bills"?
FACTS Andrew. Facts. A quick google search will help. And PLEASE use critical thinking skills by researching from reputable sources (those who actually have knowledge about economics) rather than obviously biased leftists blogs and news sources.
Georgia:
http://www.terry.uga.edu/news/releases/2010/economic_outlook_forecast.html
"Coming out of the recession, Georgia’s economy recovered sluggishly, recording 1 percent growth in 2010. The Selig Center forecasts that Georgia’s economy will sustain the recovery and expand by 2.9 percent in 2011, after adjusting for inflation. That rate of growth in the state’s gross domestic product (GDP) will match the nation’s growth rate, which will be the first time in seven years that Georgia has caught up with U.S. GDP growth."
"And for the first time in many years, Georgia’s manufacturing industries will be hiring."
Alabama:
http://econpost.com/floridaeconomy/florida-alabama-louisiana-other-southeastern-states-economy-2011-fed
http://cber.cba.ua.edu/
"Weak U.S. and global recoveries will likely slow, but not derail, Alabama’s rebound."
" After growth of 2.0 percent in 2010 and modest but steady gains early in the year, the state’s GDP could increase around 1.5 percent in the second half of 2011."
South Carolina:
http://econpost.com/virginiaeconomy/economic-conditions-virgnia-maryland-north-south-carolina-fed
http://sccommerce.com/sites/default/files/document_directory/Economic_Outlook_-_South_Carolina_V_4_Issue_5_May_2011.pdf
"First quarter state exports increased 15.3 percent over the fourth quarter of 2010 to a value of $6.13 billion. This figure also represents an increase of 25.8 percent over the first quarter of 2010."
"Total nonfarm employment continued to climb in April, rising an estimated 11,700 jobs, as both the goods-producing and the service sectors expanded."
Of course there is also the battle that Gov. Haley has had with the Federal Government/unions in trying to create MORE jobs in the state with Boeing.
Indiana:
http://www.ibrc.indiana.edu/ibr/2010/outlook/indiana.html
"One year ago, Indiana’s economy was reeling from major hits caused by the deepest recession in decades. As 2010 draws to a close, we’ve seen measurable, if modest, improvement, and the prospects for the year ahead are mildly encouraging." (don't see anything mentioning immigration bills as the cause for the downturn)
"The recession that began in December 2007 hit Hoosiers very hard. By the time Indiana employment bottomed out two years later, 227,900 payroll jobs had disappeared—the 13th highest rate of decline in the nation. Fortunately, 2010 has been a relatively good year: we’ve recovered 40,000 jobs between December 2009 and September 2010 (preliminary). This gain of 1.4 percent so far is the fifth fastest in the nation, and the state has received national media attention for its job creation."
Secret Combinations posted at 6:49 am on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
Prison populations:
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-31727_162-20011391-10391695.html
"New data from the Arizona Department of Corrections shows that undocumented immigrants are increasingly over-represented in the state's prison population.
In June 2010, undocumented immigrants represented 14.8 percent of Arizona state prisoners, but accounted for only 7 percent of the state's overall population according to the Department of Homeland Security.
The new data also revealed for the first time a breakdown of crimes for which undocumented immigrants were incarcerated.
For example of all the prisoners serving time in Arizona state prisons for kidnapping, 40 percent were undocumented. Of those in prison on drug charges, 24 percent were undocumented. And 13 percent of those serving time for murder were undocumented immigrants, according to the new data from the Arizona Department of Corrections.
The number of undocumented immigrants in Arizona state prisons has also grown in recent years. In December, 2004 there were 4,098 undocumented immigrants in the Arizona state prison population making up 12.6 percent according to state data. By June 2010 the number had increased to 14.8 percent for a total of 5,983 incarcerated undocumented immigrants."
http://www.azauditor.gov/Reports/State_Agencies/Agencies/Corrections_Department_of/Performance/10-08/10-08.pdf
"Arizona’s prison growth rate exceeded that of every other western state between 2000 and 2008. In 2008, 1 in every 170 Arizonans was in prison, compared to 1 in 749 in 1980."
Secret Combinations posted at 7:16 am on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
The Education budget increased year over year from 2003 - 2008. Unless you have forgotten, we kind of went through this thing called a recession. Also, you aren't mentioning the over 70k decrease in the student population that also took place at the same time. Hence, the cuts. I don't recall ANY teachers being laid off at my children's school. Sure, they cried and boo hoo'd to us parents (as though 10% of the parents in the room weren't already laid off from THEIR jobs already) to get us to pass things like the "it's just a penny" sales tax increases to save THEIR jobs.
"Under Pearce’s “leadership,” tuition at ASU increased 38.8 percent and U of A 33.4 percent in just the last two years. If that’s Pearce’s definition of success and “as close to free as possible,” someone needs a new dictionary."
http://cronkitezine.asu.edu/spring2004/fees.html
"Since 1999, tuition increases have almost doubled every school year at ASU, from an $84 increase in 1999 to $140 in 2001 and a $236 increase in 2002. From spring 2003 to fall 2003, tuition increased $1,000. The largest percent increase in ASU history was in 1931 when tuition rose 100 percent—$10 to $20.
The College Board’s Annual Survey of Colleges, released October 21, 2003, shows that ASU’s increasing cost is not unique. Tuition and fees are on the rise nationally. During the 2003-2004 academic year, tuition increased an average of $579 at four-year public institutions, going from $4,115 to $4,694, a 14 percent increase. Private colleges saw a 6 percent increase nationally. The average increase at private colleges was $1,000 the exact amount of ASU’s last tuition increase."
http://www.collegeboard.com/student/pay/add-it-up/4494.html
"Nearly half (47 percent) of all full-time undergraduate college students attend a four-year college that has published charges of less than $9,000 per year for tuition and fees."
ASU's proposed tuition increase would put their rate at $7800-$8200. Still below the national average.
Perhaps if the state didn't have to comply with new Federal EPA mandates (and forced to increase the School Facilites Board budget by another $100M) or had to pay for full day Kindergarten, the cuts to state Colleges wouldn't have needed to be cut.
That being said,attending College is a privilege and should be paid for by those who choose to attend. Last I checked, state colleges have increased their tuitions even when their budgets WEREN'T cut. Perhaps the Colleges/Universities should learn to work with a budget and not continue to ask for more handouts to pay for their over expansion?
Secret Combinations posted at 7:47 am on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
"Russell Pearce isn’t being recalled by Democrats"
Now come on. Who's misleading whom?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oXoCutuFESg
(you can be seen in several shots in the video. I love the one with you talking to the Arizona Progressive Democrat leader, Dan O'Neal)
Cast of players in the recall (as seen in the video. I noted those who actually live in LD18):
Randy Parraz (activist/failed US Senate run/AFL-CIO/EVPAV/PDA/LiUNA/LUCHA/LA RAZA etc)
Carolyn Cooper (activist/CBA)
Todd Landfried (spokesman for ImmigrationWorks USA/Arizona Employers for Immigration Reform. Also was at the Wright House when Lewis announced his run)
Sheila Ryan (activist/Code Pink/LUCHA/attended several rallies to protest Pearce fundraisers)
Domingo Garcia (activist lawyer/immigration activist/he and wife donated $15k to CBA)
Fred Barlam (activist/CBA)
Saul Solis (activist/partner with Parraz and EVPAV/Democrat who may actually live in LD18)
Brian Barabe (activist/partner with Parraz and EVPAV)
Robert Unferth (activist)
Amy McMullen (activist/Code Pink)
Jim Parker (PDA/CBA/Do it Now Foundation)
Jacqueline Adams (Arizona Black Caucus)
Daniel Oretga (activist lawyer)
Mike Wright (LD18 Democrat PC)
Daniel Martinez (activist/partnered with Parraz and EVPAV)
Virginia Hauflaire (activist/Code Pink)
Dana Kennedy (Emerge, Arizona AFL-CIO)
Dan O'Neal (PDA/spoke at PDA conference over the summer along with Fred Barlam and Sal Reza)
Todd Selleck (LD18 Democrat vice chair)
Lilia Alvarez (activist/CBA)
Jason Odhner (activist/seen at just about every anti-Arpaio/Pearce rally/attended Board of Supervisors meeting in 2008 and was arrested. Sued and awarded a $75k settlement)
Steve Gallardo (Democrat State Senator)
April Bojorquez (took Parraz's "Somos Leaders" workshop over the summer)
Barbara Njos (PDA/Code Pink)
Geoff Esposito (CBA/paid $8300 for recall effort/seen shaking hands with you at the Wright House Celebration Party https://www.facebook.com/#!/media/set/?set=a.186651921384078.45122.156774247705179&type=3 )
Amanda Zill (CBA/LD18/no clue on party affiliation)
Wayne Manske (LD18 Democrat)
Michael Conway (LD18 Democrat)
Oh, forgot to throw in a few more:
Julie Jorgensen (R?/LD18)
Mary Lou Boettcher (R?/LD18)
Chad Snow (R?)
yep. Just your every day citizen in "LD18" who is behind the recall.
rats behind posted at 9:18 am on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
So, since Dea and Tyler Montague have referred those of us in LD18 to this article claiming it to be nformative, am I to believe that they are actually cozying up to the Democrats?
red flag alert! Traitors!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JB99LpwLfnA&feature=youtu.be
dangerkat posted at 9:20 am on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
Hate filled rhetoric is never called for but it is so often used by the politically angry . There are a few simple truths in this election; these truths do not require debate. TRUTH: Russell Pearce has lost the confidence of many voters in District 18. TRUTH: Actions by members of his campaign have been beyond the pale and indicate a sense of desperation and entitlement.
TRUTH: Outside "interests" have largely fueled Pearce's campaign and individuals in LD 18 have been the primary supporters of Jerry Lewis.
I am a life-long conservative Republican, but I have no problem with Independents and members of the Democrat party supporting Jerry Lewis. He is rightly seen as an effective administrator, a good listener and a consensus maker. I am fully committed to Jerry Lewis. He will work hard to build bridges to all of the residents in our district, and it is time we built something in LD 18.
Diogenes Lantern posted at 9:26 am on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
Interesting that Randy Parraz was testifying at the legislative IRC committee meeting yesterday to not fire Mathis and to keep the gerrymandered maps. Conservatives felt that the timing of the Pearce Recall and the Final new maps was just too coincidental.
Randy Parraz makes $118k a year by the unions as a rabble rouser promoting class warfare (read about the IAF)-the polite term is Community Organizer.
The Pearce Recall/Lewis campaign and Strategic Telemetry/Gerrymandered Maps are being funded by the GANG OF FOUR that took over Colorado-read the book Blueprint. This same PAC, Public Campaign Action Fund, is funding the anti-Pearce flyers costing $28,940.29. The AZ shadow group on the flyers -Campaign Money Watch is then funded by PCAF. Read Gilbert Watch for more information.
The funders for the Lewis campaign and the Redistricting TakeOver is Pat Stryker, multi-millionaire,, Move.On.org, NEA Union, SEIU, Tides Foundation (Soros) and Common Cause.
Mathis was fired because of her illegal tactics getting Strategic Telemtry hired. ST's main clients are MoveOn.org, SEIU, AFL-CIO and other mob-controlled unions.
Please read the book Blueprint and learn that this SUPER PAC moved from Colorado to Arizona for Take0ver #2. Also read David Horowitz's Shadow Government (Soros is the Shadow) connect the dots with this SUPER PAC and the Lewis Campaign and the Redistricting Mess and help us in our fight of taking back our country and state.
Mesa voter posted at 9:26 am on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
http://www.azpbs.org/horizonte/detailvid.php?id=782
We've heard Lewis admit he was "forced out at gunpoint" when he worked for Quorum. Did he just admit in the video above that he was also fired from the development company after just a year on the job? lol
So, he's been fired from at least half of his jobs that we know about and he's supposed to be smart enough to conduct the business of our STATE?
Oh, and he was not a TEACHER in a PUBLIC SCHOOL! He even admitted to not having a teaching certificate. Only some "emergency" (temporary) one. He "taught" seminary. Hardly the same thing as knowing what the needs of a public school are and those of teachers as well.
bobunf posted at 10:28 am on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
No, we haven't heard Lewis admit he was "forced out at gunpoint."
No, he didn't "just admit in the video above that he was also fired from the development company after just a year on the job."
If you actually listen, the answer is no.
Typical Pearce smear. That goes with the lying, cheating and stealing in the Cortes scandal. With the name calling. With running against Randy Parraz instead of Lewis.
The problem is Pearce and his disastrous policies.
Mesa voter posted at 12:34 pm on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
You haven't, Bob Unferth?
Here you go. See 3:30
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDuX2f40fFA&feature=related
"There were a few others with him. They had weapons. They had riffles. And they came into my office. The guards stood outside the door and said, 'You are now being replaced.' "
Talk about being "fired"
Mesa voter posted at 12:36 pm on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
"Outside "interests" have largely fueled Pearce's campaign "
ROTFL!!!
And what would you consider CBA and Campaign Money Watch?
Hypocrite.
Rational Human posted at 1:02 pm on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
The rhetoric will continue to escalate and the tone more fierce as the election draws near. It's funny to read what Pearce's detractors have to say about him while never mentioning the gorilla in the room, SB1070, or the real reasons they want him out. The end draws near.
Masterrogue666 posted at 11:15 pm on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
CooperG wrote the following:
1. "@Rouge - higher level thinking isn't your strong suit is it?" -- My response: Gee CopperG, spelling isn't yours, is it? If you wish to shorten my screenname, fine, but try spelling it correctly like "ROGUE" instead of "ROUGE" BEFORE questioning the person's intellect. Because when you don't (as in your case), then all you do is make yourself look like a COMPLETE FOOL! [beam]. Please don't claim you meant it as an insult that I wear makeup, it will only make you seem even more foolish. Further, if you check my statement, UNLIKE YOU, I didn't "ATTACK" Sherwood, all I did was state that I disagree with his "INTERPRETATION". When you attempt personal attacks, all it shows is your inability to argue your viewpoint like an adult, which only further demeans yourself.
2. "There is plenty of evidence pointing to the plain and simple fact that Pearce supporters, including his brother and nieces shilled for Cortes." -- My response: Did you even bother TO READ ANYTHING I WROTE? I stated that the Cortes thing WAS A TRICK, but LEGAL. However, my POINT was that "The recall was started BEFORE that incident." If you READ Sherwood's article, the way he referred to it was that the "Cortez shame" was PART OF THE REASON for the recall. That is IMPOSSIBLE since the recall HAD TO BE STARTED BEFORE Cortes could even become a candidate. This shows YOUR INABILITY TO THINK LOGICALLY (and Sherwood's), by the way. In any event, YOU CLAIM that someone "broke the law" with what been called the "Cortez shame". As I told Sherwood, that is WRONG. A JUDGE has already ADVISED THAT NOTHING ILLEGAL was done. As I stated BEFORE, was it a trick? Yes, but ALSO LEGAL.
I'm aware the of the GEOGRAPHIC breakdown of Lewis's contributors. However, I would like the know the MONETARY breakdown (direct and indirect for BOTH candidates) per supporter. In other words, you could have 1,000 people in LD 18 give $1 each, but have an outside source contribute MILLIONS. You could claim that the majority of contributors came from LD 18 (and be statistically correct), but the majority of FINANCIAL SUPPORT would have come from outside LD 18.
For instance, Lewis reported he received $68,837 in DIRECT contributions. However, Citizens for a Better Arizona (which ORGANIZED the recall) spent $141,024 INDEPENDENTLY. Common sense tells me that they aren't in LD 18. Perhaps you missed that FACT in all those news reports you mentioned. BOTH SIDES have outside supporters. However, it seems that Lewis supporters are loathe to state THAT FACT. IMHO, I think both sides should provide a detailed report of all direct and independant support they receive, and a detailed report as to WHOM those supporters are, but not if they are an individual citizen (although the total amount collected from individual citizens should be reported as well). This should be done not for just recall elections, but any/all elections.
3. "What is a "fake postcard?" The cards were accurate." -- My response: Again, did you read my article? I SUGGESTED if you doubt me, do a Google search for "Citizens United for Progress postcards". Did you do such a search? Did you FOLLOW the link? Did you READ the article? Perhaps you missed: "Presently, the Secretary of State, Ken Bennett, is investigating it as an illegal mailer. Even though it was sent by Citizens United for Progress (a leftist organization) and they are NOT directly connected with the Lewis campaign, it will probably be found illegal resulting in the group being fined. But it reinforces the claim that the left is backing Lewis at any cost including violating campaign finance laws as Lewis turns a blind eye and refuses to condemn illegal behavior." So, it CLEARLY STATES that it will probably be found to be ILLEGAL, and what group is behind it. The article's FIRST SENTENCE states: "falsely pretends to be from Helen Purcell as an official communication from the Maricopa County Recorder’s Office." As I stated, FAKE. So, it seems that the only side that is doing something ILLEGAL (so far, of course) is LEWIS's side.
As for freedom of speech, even though I may disagree with your opinion(s), I would fight FOR YOUR RIGHT to freedom of speech just like any other CITIZEN of the United States. However,you should avoid making accusations in areas that you have NO KNOWLEDGE about. Because if you go too far, and can't prove your statement, you could be sued for libel. Unlike you, I usually will back up my statements with some correlating information, and avoid making broad, poorly thought out statements. In fact, since you have been wrong about so many things, I actually PREFER that you express yourself. It only helps weaken your argument, and strengthen mine. [wink]
4. Regarding your "tens of thousands" comment. -- My response: Good, you know how to add to ten. However, your WEAK POINT is spelling (mentioned earlier). There is a difference in "Ten" and "Tens". The word "TEN" is SINGULAR. The word "TENS" is PLURAL (by the way, my kid in 2nd grade KNOWS the difference, FYI), meaning MORE THAN ONE. Ergo, since you seem to know about basic math, I guess that you'd know that the word "tens" (when employed CORRECTLY) would actually be a MINIMUM amount of 20, and technically, could be much more. I did state that I THOUGHT it was several thousand. I've read that the total was 10,365. My POINT is that a "reporter" should write in a more clear, conscise, ACCURATE manner. A better way of stating it would have been either: "Over ten thousand" or "Over 10,000", or the exact amount itself.
Please bear in mind that I did not (but could, if you'd like me to) go into detail of the MANY positions Jerry Lewis has failed at, and some of his more "questionable" past actions. What's sad is that the liberals portray him as "squeaky clean". I wonder, are they blind to facts, or just using smoke and mirrors on themselves as well....
Masterrogue666 posted at 11:17 pm on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
Slabside: You beat me to it, but I came up with my own retort. Like it? [beam]
Masterrogue666 posted at 11:30 pm on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
I was curious as to how many voters are registered in LD 18. I think I've found it:
From July's 2011 "STATE OF ARIZONA REGISTRATION REPORT":
Legislative District 18, Maricopa
Precincts Democratic Green Libertarian Republican Other TOTAL
51 18,724 136 638 26,891 24,026 70,415
Masterrogue666 posted at 11:34 pm on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
Sorry, the "tabs" seemed to be copied, but were not:
Legislative District 18, Maricopa
Precincts Democratic Green Libertarian Republican Other TOTAL
51 18,724 136 638 26,891 24,026 70,415
Hopefully, it works this time...
Masterrogue666 posted at 11:37 pm on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
OK, the hard way.
Legislative District 18, Maricopa
Precincts: 51
Democratic: 18,724
Green: 136
Libertarian: 638
Republican: 26,891
Other: 24,026
Total: 70,415
Masterrogue666 posted at 11:58 pm on Wed, Nov 2, 2011.
@ arizonapride: Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Edward Burke actually wrote (Quoted from the New Times):
"Burke wrote:
Although the court finds that Cortes was "recruited" to run by Western, at the behest of Pearce supporters, to divert votes from Lewis for Pearce's benefit, this court is not convinced that courts should examine and be the final arbiter of the motives political candidates may have for running for election, unless they jump out at one...Mediating against a finding of fraud is that at least the paid petition circulators were clear about their intent when asked how signing the petition would affect Pearce. The fact that nothing was hidden by theses petition gatherers makes it difficult for the court to find fraud."
"Ummmm", not fraud, so LEGAL, at least thus far, as I haven't read of an appeal/new judgement.
@ Secret Combinations: I like your style!!! [wink]
bobunf posted at 12:06 am on Thu, Nov 3, 2011.
The real reasons over 20,000 voters in Mesa gave their name, address and signature to strangers to recall Pearce are that he has damaging the state and the people in it:
> Pearce co-sponsored a bill that would require victims to get a court hearing and present a police report before they could be granted an order of protection.
> He was the lone vote against a bill that would increase the sentence for anyone convicted of beating a pregnant woman.
> He voted against a bill that would eliminate the fees for orders of protection.
> He appointed Terry Decker to the Arizona Child Support Board. Terry Decker, the violent felon who is unemployed and has received social security disability benefits for the last five years because of mental health issues.
> He appointed Dan Shooter chairman of one of the most important legislative committees in Arizona. The same Dan Shooter who showed up to vote on unemployment benefits wearing a sarape, sombrero, and a half-filled bottle of tequila. The one whose total legislative experience consists of ten months in the Arizona State Senate.
> He's run a fake twitter account, a fake candidate; he lies, cheats and steals. All with an utter lack of ethics and near complete incompetence. The fake candidate couldn't even walk her dog in public.
> He advocated the un-American intimidation and crackdown of a police state in his speech to the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce on May 7 of this year.
> Pearce has Arizona accepting charity from the Indians to preserve our state treasures, while he stole the money left to the state park in a lady's will. What a message to send to future potential donors.
> He stiffed the Governor, and the people of Arizona- in an act beyond common sense - on the unemployment extension. Anybody in their right mind is astonished at the refusal to accept $100 million in federal money. A gift that would have helped many of our citizens, benefited the state economy, and enhanced state revenue.
> Pearce scored 3% on environmental issues with the Arizona League of Conservation Voters, who said of the Arizona State Legislature "the worst performance of the millennium."
> Then there's the Fiesta Bowl scandal, the towing scandal, the MVD scandal.
> The East Valley Chamber rankied him next to last for "a business-friendly attitude" and 61 CEO's of the largest employers in Arizona told him to stop harming the state's economy.
> And all of that, and more, overshadowed by the even more substantive issues of his legislative performance in the areas of education, health care and job creation.
> Pearce is un-American, inept, extreme and corrupt. That's why he is the first and only Arizona legislator ever to be recalled in a hundred years; the only State Senate President ever to be recalled int he history of the United States.
CooperG posted at 6:23 am on Thu, Nov 3, 2011.
@rouge or @rogue, who cares. Either way you're still distorting reality and you're still wrong.
Cortes is a shill candidate, who may have been "legally" on the ballot, but the purpose for getting her there is ILLEGAL and a Class 5 Felony under Arizona Revised Statute 16-1006 for "either directly or indirectly . . . defraud an elector by deceiving and causing him to vote for a different person for an office or a different measure than he intended or desired to vote for."
http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/arizona/politics/article_93b41f30-eedd-11e0-a684-001cc4c002e0.html
http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/news/articles/2011/09/28/20110928roberts0928-pearces-rival-mythical-creature.html
The Pearce family, supporters and campaign advisor's fingerprints are all over this mess and the legal challenges to it aren't over as Ken Bennett, the REPUBLICAN Secretary of State, is investigating Cortes and may charge her and East Valley Tea Party President Greg Western with felonies, that if convicted will, ironically, remove their right to vote for life.
You repeat the lie that "an outside source contribute MILLIONS" but have zero proof either in campaign filings or physical proof like mailers, TV ads, newspaper ads, billboards, robocalls, radio spots, anything that could show Russell Pearce is worth millions of anything. So, rouge, or rogue or whatever, put up the proof that "MILLIONS" have been spent or shut up.
Finally, as for being blind to facts, I and others need no more proof than Pearce's own campaign mailers. He says tourism is up, but the tourism industry says he's wrong:
http://www.azcentral.com/news/election/azelections/azfactcheck/fact-story.php?id=332
His latest slander on Jerry Lewis is a despicable sign that makes baseless and disproven claims so terrible that former House Speaker Kirk Adams has called them "reprehensible."
http://www.azcentral.com/members/Blog/LaurieRoberts/147594
So while you insist on attempting to distract people's attention by bashing citiznes who want a change for the better, we will focus on your Home Boy Russell's incompetence, corruption and lies.
Your tactics only work with people like yourself and Pearce's base. Sticking to the facts works with the independents, Democrats, and Republicans who want to take their party back from the lunatic fringe.
CooperG posted at 9:30 am on Thu, Nov 3, 2011.
As for the rants of "Secret Combinations," innuendo, distortions and ad hominem attacks are just par for the course in politics and certainly in anything related to Russell Pearce because that's all he knows.
As for "Secret Combination" or "SC" claims. Here goes the rebuttal.
Balanced Budget - SC quotes Sylvia Allen? Really? Wow, no bias there and not a fact included. If you want to see the games, I suggest you check out
http://sunshinereview.org/index.php/Arizona_state_budget.
A little sunlight on politicians is a good thing.
SB1070 bills - SC cites a blog as a source, but dismisses a national organization who has tracked state legislation for years. And he/she/it believes the blog? Sure. Okay.
Economic troubles in SB1070 copycat states: sorry, those projections were written BEFORE any of the bills were passed.
Georgia link 1/13/2011 - law signed 5/13/11.
Alabama link 3/19/11 - law signed 7/9/11.
South Carolina link 2/17/11 - law signed 7/27/11.
Indiana link "Winter 2010" - Iaw signed 5/10/11.
Nice try, but they're not omniscient. Read these, more current, articles:
GA "Georgia's economy has lagged the national economy and 2011 is shaping up to be a challenge," and " The job market remains flat, echoing the state's flat growth profile." https://www.chase.com/online/commercial-bank/document/Georgia.pdf
UA economists see grim fourth quarter in Alabama - http://blog.al.com/businessnews/2011/09/ua_economists_see_grim_fourth.html
Prison populations: can't SC find any recent data? November 2008 and June 2010? Please. If your goal is to highlight the impacts of SB1070, you can't use data that was collected two years before the bill became law.
Education budget - thanks, SC for proving Sherwood's point. At the same time period you cite, Pearce was chairman of the House and then Senate Appropriations Committees. It's HIS budget that led to tuition increases. As for other states, it's irrelevant, because Arizona's Constitution says a university education should be "as close to free as possible." But I guess that's just another one of those Constitutional clauses we get to ignore because you love your kids, but hate our kids. I dunno, maybe you hate your kids, too.
Pearce was recalled by LD18 residents. Who cares who shows up at a press conference or in a video? What matters is the simple, undeniable fact that the Maricopa County Recorder and the Arizona Secretary of State and Governor Jan Brewer certified the signatures of LD18 residents, who by the way, are the ONLY people who can force a recall, and it is on the ballot.
Finally, people who post these rants who live outside of LD18 really don't get to say who represents those who DO live in LD18. The fact that 4% of all of Russell Pearce's campaign money came from LD18 and 48% of Jerry Lewis' funds came from LD18 speaks volumes. The fact that Russell Pearce and his cronies slander at will, distort facts at will and will stoop to possible Class 5 felonies to remain in power also speaks volumes and demonstrates a need for change.
If LD18 wants more of the same, they'll vote for Pearce. If not, they'll vote for Lewis. I think people are tired of Pearce's tactics and he'll be recalled and that will be a good day.
Masterrogue666 posted at 10:58 am on Thu, Nov 3, 2011.
@ bobunf: Actually, the REPORTED TOTAL was 10,365. I'm curious where you got your "over 20,000 voters" from. Or, perhaps it's wishful thinking on your part. You've a "laundry list" of complaints against Pearce, yet nothing about Lewis's failures and questionable actions, I'm curious as to why...
Masterrogue666 posted at 11:31 am on Thu, Nov 3, 2011.
@ CooperG: Haven't you had enough? I don't think you read articles very carefully. In any event, I believe that there has to be this thing called "PROOF" that Pearce encouraged Cortez PERSONALLY! Let say I wanted to run, but a family member of mine "thought" that someone might be a better candidate, and suggested to that person to try and run for the office. Sorry, NOT ILLEGAL. Remember that little thing called "Freedom of choice". Also, In July, when Republican Jerry Lewis announced that he would run, he already was the third to signal a run against Russell Pearce. The others were Independent Tommy Cattey and Republican Olivia Cortes. Therefore, Cortes stated her desire BEFORE Lewis.
As for your statement: 'You repeat the lie that "an outside source contribute MILLIONS"'. OBVIOUSLY YOU DIDN'T READ IT VERY CAREFULLY!! My statement included the words: "you could have". In other words, it was a FOR INSTANCE, NOT A CLAIM OF "FACT"! MY POINT was how easy it is to use STATISTICS to show some SPECIFIC information (in this case where the "support" was coming from), while hiding where the GREATEST VOLUME OF SUPPORT (in this case TOTAL VALUE OF DONATION given from organizations such as Citizens for a Better Arizona) is coming from. You claim to understand math. My understanding is that DIRECT contributions totaled $68,837 . Citizens for a Better Arizona spent at least $141,024 on this recall. THAT WAS MY POINT, AND THOSE AMOUNTS HAD BEEN MENTIONED AS WELL.
Finally, isn't it IRONIC that in one statement you wrote: "What are you afraid of if others exercise their rights granted to them under the U.S. Constitution?" and in another wrote: 'So, rouge, or rogue or whatever, put up the proof that "MILLIONS" have been spent or shut up.' So with one sentence you: 1. Continued your childish attempts at insults (thanks for proving my point yet again, by the way). 2. You made ANOTHER broad statement claiming I stated something, but in truth DID NOT (Thanks, again). 3. Told me to "shut up". I guess you don't want me to exercise MY FREEDOMS (I guess three times is a charm!).
Now, is there anything else I need to EXPLAIN to you again?
CooperG posted at 1:11 pm on Thu, Nov 3, 2011.
Okay class, here's what we have learned from the sign of the beast:
1. He actually wants us to believe that a brother and nieces would actually think a totally unknown woman with no political history, with no knowledge of the issues, who needed to pay people to get her signatures could actually beat an "elected 16 times" family member with such a "stellar conservative track record" they would actually go out and collect signatures for her and that is "Freedom of choice." Yeah, sure that's the ticket. What color is the sky in your world?
How stupid does he think we are?
2. He tries to inject fear, uncertainty and doubt by suggesting that the real dollar edge in outside contributions is with Lewis and CBA when he knows that isn't the case. He does this because he doesn't mention the $230,282 the Pearce campaign raised (96% from outside LD18), or the $72,611 from Citizens Who Oppose The Pearce Recall (98% from outside of LD18), which according to my calculator totals $402,893, or $109,832 MORE than Lewis and CBA raised combined.
So looking at the TOTAL VALUE OF DONATION: $9,334 out of the $230,282 donated to Patriots for Pearce came from 84 people in LD18. The VALUE of the outside contributions for Pearce is $220,948 or 96% while the GREATEST VOLUME OF SUPPORT also comes from outsiders. Lewis, on the other hand, raised more money from LD18 residents, but also raised fewer total dollars. Lewis collected 46% of his $68,837 from LD18 residents, which beats Russell Pearce's GREATEST VOLUME OF SUPPORT by 42% using raw percentages and three times as much in actual dollars.
3.He actually believes that questioning his claims and asking him to provide proof or to "shut up" about it has anything to do with HIS FREEDOMS, when it actually has to do with wasting people's time with specious arguments.
I would hope that people see through his ad hominem attacks on me and look at the facts and see that Russell Pearce will stoop to any level, will attack any LD18 resident, will use every dirty trick in the book to hang on to power. Is this what we want for our children? Is this what we want to teach them politics is all about?
It's time to send Pearce packing and bring honor and intelligence to the state legislature.
Masterrogue666 posted at 7:53 pm on Thu, Nov 3, 2011.
So, since I've got "666" as part as my screen name, I'm "the beast". So, in essence, you are seemingly JUDGING ME based on your religious beliefs and LABEL ME as if I was the "Devil". How "Christian" of you (based upon the reference YOU labeled me with)!
Now, CooperG, try to stay with me on this one. I'm going to use another FOR INSTANCE, or an EXAMPLE. Please DON'T BELIEVE that I'm claiming it's fact. What if I was a member of the Kabbalistic Judaism faith? What you wrote probably would have been considered a grave insult because the number 666 represents the creation and perfection of the world. The world was created in 6 days, and there are 6 cardinal directions (North, South, East, West, Up, Down). 6 is also the numerical value of one of the letters of God's name, according to their belief. HOWEVER, I AM NOT A MEMBER OF THAT FAITH (I hope he saw the previous sentence).
The reason I chose 666 is so simple, even you may be able to understand why. Supposedly, the numbers 3 and 6 are considered my "Lucky" numbers. Now, I could have use 333333 (lots of extra typing, though), or 18 (but 2X9 equals 18 also). So, I decided that the number 6 three times would work best for me. I don't expect you to believe me because you have already demonstrated (numerous times) how close minded you are. But it is enough for me to have stated it.
In fact, if I desired a more devilish sounding title, I would have picked something like "Devil666". In truth, I don't know if that would be blocked, but I've no doubt other names like "Mr. Scratch", "Old Nick" (Funny thing, that makes me think of Santa Claus), or some other benign name would not be blocked.
Now, about your comments posted at 1:11 pm on Thu, Nov 3, 2011:
As to your first point: My statement that a person can vote for a candidate, instead of their brother is a true and accurate statement, however unlikely.
As to your second point: Inject fear? Is wanting to know what group gave how much monetary support for BOTH CANDIDATES (as previously stated), what's wrong with that? How does that "inject fear"? I admit, I don't follow your "logic" in that statement, and think that you are the only person that can.
The facts of the matter are really very simple. 1. Both candidates are NOT the best choice either side could hope for. 2. This have ALWAYS BEEN about ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION. Both candidates are very similar until it comes down to that particular issue. Conservatives have not problem stating the primary reason why the support Pearce. Liberals lack the INTEGRITY to do so.
I will always vote for THE BEST AVAILABLE candidate that with attempt to end the status quo that has become Obama's immigration policy.
Like they say, better the "DEVIL" you know!!! [beam]
Masterrogue666 posted at 7:58 pm on Thu, Nov 3, 2011.
Darn, I didn't proof read, and correct my typos. Go ahead, CooperG, blast me with them! At least, THIS TIME, it's warranted. LOL!
CooperG posted at 9:03 am on Fri, Nov 4, 2011.
Spin it all you want, homie, but "666" to most people is the mark of the beast. You chose the handle, pirate skull and swords and "rogue" to identify yourself, so what did you expect? You chose poorly.
You still miss the point: this isn't about you. As narcissistic as you may be, this is about Russell Pearce's failures as a legislator and as a leader and the damage he has personally done to our state. I understand he's as much of a narcissist as you, probably more so, and you may be as much of a "victim" as he certainly claims to be, but at the end of the day, what has he done for Mesa and what has to Arizona?
So let's review:
1. Arizona's business reputation has been poisoned for years to come.
2. Business closures in Mesa are higher than ever
3. Home foreclosures in Arizona are some of the highest in the nation
4. Schools are more crowded than ever
5. There are fewer school teachers
6. College tuition is higher than ever
7. The state owes more money than ever ($8.5B)
8. He voted to raise Mesa property taxes
9. He lied about LDS support of 1070
10. He lied about crime rates dropping because of 1070
11. He lied about tourism growth (conferences are booked three years in advance and no one is calling)
On top of this, he lied on Horizon about nearly every issue they discussed. He's unethical, pathological, is owned by outsiders and is therefore unworthy of public office. Mesa deserves better than the likes of Russell Pearce. Everyone deserves better.
Masterrogue666 posted at 12:37 pm on Fri, Nov 4, 2011.
CooperG: You poor sap. I ALMOST feel sorry for you, but your arrogant attitude towards ANYONE that disagrees with you prevents it.
CooperG wrote:
"Spin it all you want," -- Didn't I say he wouldn't believe me? Right again....
"You still miss the point: this isn't about you." -- Interesting that you'd state that since, in EVERY ONE of your entries, you'd attempted to insult me in some manner. So, YOU are the one that is RESPONSIBLE for making it about "me" and not the issue at hand. Are you saying that I'm not permitted to make counter statements regarding the article, or to counter the FALSEHOODS you've stated about me? I thought I covered this already in my "freedom of speech" comment. I recall that you mentioned it as well. However, your mannerisms have readily shown that you want it for yourself, but not for others. You have only yourself to blame. MY FIRST COMMENT was directed at Sherwood. Whom made you his protector? You made it about me when YOU directed YOUR FIRST COMMENT at me. Most logical people would expect a direct response, but I've already stated how you are deficient in logic and reasoning skills. If you don't want a direct response, don't direct it a particular person.
As for your "points":
1. That's your OPINION. Only time can answer that. I've heard both positive and negative "opinions" in this particular area.
2. No argument. It's expected when a mass exodus of CRIMINALS leave an area. It will take some time to rebound, but I do expect it to happen, and we'll be stronger for it because there won't be as many (hopefully) entitlement minded criminals draining tax dollars away from the US CITIZENS that such support IS MEANT FOR.
3. Blame those in control of the Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac Loans. Whom was that? On yea, DEMOCRATS. They gave loans to people that really should not have received loans INCLUDING ILLEGAL ALIENS!!! Housing prices peaked in early 2006, started to decline in 2006 and 2007. Was PEARCE IN CHARGE of giving out those loans? NO. Place blame where it RIGHTFULLY belongs.
4. Interesting. Where did you get that from? I've seen a drop in attendance myself, since a multitude of ILLEGAL ALIENS fled with their children in fear of SB1070. I recall reading about one family moving to PA. The had at least five kids, if I remember correctly.
5. If I'm correct, then if you have fewer students, you need fewer teachers. It helps to BALANCE THE BUDGET that way.
6. EVERY YEAR that I went to college (and Graduate studies) three things increased: Tuition; cost of books; housing. Does PEARCE have direct control over such things? NO! Again, place blame where it RIGHTFULLY belongs.
What's sad about you, CooperG, is that your HATRED for Pearce is so great that you are blaming him for something he has NO CONTROL over. What's sadder still is you inability to see that FACT! You are right, this isn't about me, it's about YOUR BLIND HATRED....
Masterrogue666 posted at 1:29 pm on Fri, Nov 4, 2011.
Also forgot:
3. SB1070 wasn't passed until 2010. So, it DIDN'T START the housing crisis. It did intensify if for AZ, but a little pain now leads towards a lot of prosperity later. Otherwise, we'd continue in our downward spiral and end up with a financial crisis similar to California, A PRO ILLEGAL STATE. Tell me, if ILLEGAL ALIENS are such a benefit, why is California having financial difficulties?
In_God_We_Trust posted at 10:20 am on Sat, Nov 5, 2011.
Well put Masterrogue666. We are well on our way to recovery as Mexifornia continues to circle the drain. They will of course expect us to pay our taxes to support their lack of planning. Imagine that, they have one of the largest economies in the world yet are financialy strapped while have balance our budget. We can thank Pearce and the other conservative legislatures for this accomplishment.
DavidNichols posted at 12:40 pm on Sat, Nov 5, 2011.
Russel Pearce and his following of Blind "Saints" must truly be proud of the Posts on this article.
Look at the Pearce's Strongest Viral Supporter; Masterrogue666?
How "Latter Day Saint".
I guess it is about the same as Pearce's Neo Nazi Pals.
What an appropriate following for Pearce.
P.S. For every Good, Hard Working Immigrant Deported since January 2008 America has lost over four times as many Jobs, and look at the Disaster Area called Mesa Arizona.
Mesa has been dubbed "The epicenter of Foreclosures in America."
Vacated Immigrant dwellings have Crashed America!
Wake up America, Wake up LDS18!
"Saints"? Yeh Right.
DavidNichols posted at 12:44 pm on Sat, Nov 5, 2011.
666?
Russell Pearces E-verify triggered and Caused the "Foreclosure Crisis, it began January 2008 at the exact same time as "The Worst Recession in U.S. History".
The rest of the World is now payoing for Russell Pearce and his Hate mImmigrant Laws.
Fact:
Masterrogue666 posted at 4:00 pm on Sat, Nov 5, 2011.
DavidNichols wrote: "Look at the Pearce's Strongest Viral Supporter; Masterrogue666? "
My response: Thanks for proving yet again that liberals just can't seem to confine themselves to just the topic, and instead think it's necessary to attempt to insult their opponents with inane chldish insults. What is laughable is that they all seem to be using the same "Playbook of Insults"! It just goes to show you that liberals can't come up with an original idea on their own. They need it supplied to them, since it is clear that they can't think for themselves. Or, DavidNichols, did you expect me (seemingly like CooperG) NOT to attempt to support my point of view ON THE SUBJECT? Further, are you stating that I shouldn't counter the falsehoods written about me that CooperG (and now you) seem so willing to able to me in error? What about my Freedom of Speech? I know you already know MY POSITION regarding that.
Now, regarding you comments about the TOPIC:
You wrote: "Russell Pearces E-verify triggered and Caused the "Foreclosure Crisis, it began January 2008"
1. Russell Pearce did not create E Verify. He did sponsor the "Legal Arizona Workers Act" back in 2007. The Federal Government started the Basic Pilot for E Verify back in 1997. However, the Federal Government didn't seem to concern it become used until around September, 2009. In any event, since it was FEDERAL LAW, why shouldn't it be inforced?
2. If by January 2008, you are referring to E Verify being required by Arizona (by the Legal Workers Act), then you need to dig SOMEWHAT deeper. First, it only applied to NEWLY HIRED EMPLOYEES. Those already employed had no cause for concern. Second, only 5.6% of ALL ARIZONA businesses had been signed up at that time. You seem to blame ONLY Pearce, but is he the only person that voted "Yes"?
3. Actually, if you bother to do any REAL RESEARCH about this Housing Crisis you'd learn that SEVERAL things caused it. Here's what I found:
"The crisis can be attributed to a number of factors pervasive in both housing and credit markets, factors which emerged over a number of years. Causes proposed include the inability of homeowners to make their mortgage payments (due primarily to adjustable-rate mortgages resetting, borrowers overextending, predatory lending, and speculation), overbuilding during the boom period, risky mortgage products, high personal and corporate debt levels, financial products that distributed and perhaps concealed the risk of mortgage default, bad monetary and housing policies, international trade imbalances, and inappropriate government regulation. Three important catalysts of the subprime crisis were the influx of moneys from the private sector, the banks entering into the mortgage bond market and the predatory lending practices of the mortgage lenders, specifically the adjustable-rate mortgage."
I do know that the MAJORITY of loan loss came from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans (Around 50%). Funny thing, E Verify or the Legal Arizona Workers Act wasn't mentioned. I ALREADY WROTE that SB 1070 may have intensified Arizona's housing problem, but NEITHER LAW CAUSED the housing crisis.
I've listed FACTS above. What YOU wrote is Fiction!
By the way, Phoenix, Arizona was "dubbed" the "Kidnap Capital of the USA. Phoenix placed SECOND when all the cities on the Earth was considered. Guess what , MEXICO CITY TOOK FIRST PLACE. FACT!
Masterrogue666 posted at 4:04 pm on Sat, Nov 5, 2011.
DavidNichols wrote: "In God We Trust? It looks like the truth is in 666 you Trust?
Get a room?" Is this yet another attempt at an insult?
[beam]
Masterrogue666 posted at 4:06 pm on Sat, Nov 5, 2011.
@ DavidNIchols: I was thinking, the way you came to CooperG's defense, and the way he came to Sherwood's defense, perhaps the THREE OF YOU should get a room together? Perhaps you could compare "notes".....
LOL
bobunf posted at 12:39 am on Mon, Nov 7, 2011.
Rogue asked where I got a figure of "over 20,000 voters in Mesa gave their name, address and signature to strangers to recall Pearce."
There were over 10,300 signatures that were verified by the County Recorder and the Secretary of State. 8,000 signatures were disqualified for many reasons which do not reflect the signer's right to vote in the recall election. For instance:
The notarization wasn't done properly
The handwriting of the voter or the notary couldn't be read
The date was not properly written by the voter or the notary
The zip code was not properly written by the voter or the notary
You don't have to do any of those things to vote, and you don't need a notary
Some people weren't registered in the district. You can be sure that problem has been resolved over the last four months.
Some of the petitions didn't get turned into the Secretary of State on time.
There was another recall effort by Dee Dee Base, which gave up after three months when they realized Citizens for a Better Arizona would reach the goal and they wouldn't. By then they had gathered several thousand signatures.
Easily over 20,000.
But go ahead a whistle past the graveyard.
Rational Human posted at 7:17 am on Mon, Nov 7, 2011.
DavidNichols, if your argument that the beginning of the illegal alien deportations caused our economies meltdown why don't we move all 400,000 illegal aliens here in Arizona to California? California could really use the help as they are on the verge of collapse and will no doubt have to be bailed out by our federal tax dollars, AKA borrowed from China money. Imagine that, all those hard working illegal aliens working to build California back as the most vibrant economy since Mexico? lol
Masterrogue666 posted at 10:46 am on Mon, Nov 7, 2011.
bobunf: Actually, YOU ARE WRONG! I got this information FROM RANDY PARRAZ's (Citizens for a Better Arizona, so much for LD 18 area support only) own mouth from a You tube video.
A total of 10,000 had been processed signatures out of just over 18,000 signatures total. Out of those, 6,067 have been found valid for a validity rate of 61%. Parraz rounded up, it was more like 60.67. The reason I mention it is because I've have Pro ILLEGAL ALIEN supporters complain about my calculations to even two decimal points.
Expectations were that there will be around 10,000 valid signatures all together. Only 7,756 are required.
So, at NO TIME was the total OVER 20,000. FACT!
Masterrogue666 posted at 12:34 pm on Mon, Nov 7, 2011.
I saw a poster with the following website address:
meetjerrylewis.com
Just type that into the web browser address and hit enter.
On the left side of the page, about 2/3 of the way down on the first page there's a link called "Jerry Lewis Legal Scandals". It gives great detail on Jerry's "business history" and indirectly his personal integrty.
Links to back up the information is provided. Please, check it out for yoursefl.
A few final thoughts: Isn't it ODD that a "REPUBLICAN" candidate is receiving so much support from LIBERAL DEMOCRATS? Isn't it MORE ODD that these same liberals DON'T mention Lewis's past failures listed about?
DavidNichols posted at 5:38 pm on Mon, Nov 7, 2011.
Once again Mr. Sherwood Good Article.
666 or who ever the little pirate is, of the 66 posts on this article 18 seem to be yours?
Keep going , and you may have 666 Posts?
DavidNichols posted at 5:42 pm on Mon, Nov 7, 2011.
Rational?
Fact: January 2008 was both the start of the I.C.E. Deportations, and the "Worst Recession in U.S. History."
Fact: For every Good, Hard Working Immigrant the U.S. has Deported since the January 2008 start of I.C.E. Deportations/This Recession, America has lost over four times as many Jobs.
Sorry Rational, these are the Hard Rational Facts.
To: Liberty.
In_God_We_Trust posted at 8:07 pm on Mon, Nov 7, 2011.
DavidNichols?
Fact: Today when I went to start my car, it wouldn't turn over.
Fact: I got out and kicked the tire, and when I tried to start it again it turned over.
Sorry DavidNichols, these are the Hard Rational Facts.
Kicking your tire will make your car start, and YOU ARE AN IDIOT!
k33j88 posted at 8:16 am on Tue, Nov 8, 2011.
Mr. Sherwood: Please explain your logic of the "crime statistics don't support the data" to that child who lost her father to that "hard-working immigrant". How many more police will die performing their "oath" and "pledge"? Senator Pearce has my support.
Masterrogue666 posted at 2:56 pm on Tue, Nov 8, 2011.
DavidNichols: Actually, it's more like 74 total posts when you wrote your last one. My posts were directed back to the THREE persons that had made comments directly to me. My count of those total comments were 5, 8, and 3. ALSO, technically 3 of my comments stated the same thing because I couldn't it some facts to display the way I wanted.
In any event, I HAVE EVERY RIGHT to post in this (OR ANY) article I wish, AS OFTEN AS I WISH! You don't want to read so many of my posts? Then I'd suggest that you, CooperG, and bobunf stop directing comments directly at me. Don't forget that ORIGINALLY, my post was directed at Sherwood, so you only have yourselfs to blame!!!
Your comment is suppose to be about the ARTICLE, not YOUR OPINION that I post too often. I defy anyone of you to ATTEMPT to stay on topic and debate the points of the article ONLY. However, all three of you have proven time and again that you either lack the will or the intellect to do so....
Rational Human posted at 4:50 am on Wed, Nov 9, 2011.
Very good one IGWT. he is an idiot.