Dear Editor -- My name is Al Watts and I got involved in the Tea Party movement about a year ago. I was drawn to this group because of my long standing frustration with both state and federal government and the self-serving politicians in Sacramento and Washington. I also liked the fact that these folks were non-partisan. Like me, many of them believed that they had been betrayed by both parties. I knew I had to get involved in order to change things.
During the past year I have taken part in a number of Tea Party events. The theme that I found to be consistent at these gatherings is that change is needed if we hope to restore the greatness of this republic. Don't panic, the change I'm talking about is not in the same dictionary as the one POTUS uses. The people I talked to were looking for a change in the individuals who represent them. They wanted people who stood for something. People who shared their core values and would work to promote those values. Their list included adhering to Constitutional principles, reducing the size of government, lowering taxes, supporting an economy based on free markets, and finally, a commitment to personal responsibility.
The experience I've had this past year has strengthened my belief that there is a renewed spirit of patriotism in this country. I am encouraged and excited about working with others to bring about the changes that will allow this country to grow in strength and to become more prosperous than ever before.
As you read this letter plans are being made to restart a Tea Party group in Porterville. The goals of this group will be to connect with other like minded groups in the central valley to advance the principles of the Tea Party movement. We will also be planning activities throughout the year that celebrate the greatness of America. We the people will have our voices heard and we'll start in Porterville. I know that as the word gets out others stand ready to join with us. If your one of those people please contact me at 535-4946.
A Tea Party meeting is planned for Monday February 8, 2010 at Charlie's starting at 6:00 P.M. If you want to eat they offer pizza, a small salad, and drink for eight dollars plus tax and tip. The meeting will start at 6:30. If you plan to attend please RSVP by Wednesday February 3,2010 to the number listed above. We need to get a count to the restaurant.
From Al Watts -- trebla@pvilleca.com from Porterville Area
