Scott Farrell Congress '06

Bush Cuts and Runs from Diplomacy

2006-07-22T07:25:00.000-07:00

Bush Cuts And Runs From Diplomacy

By SCOTT FARRELL

Published: Jul 21, 2006

Since Israel's inception in 1948, 10 successive U.S. Presidents, Democrat and Republican, have understood our pivotal diplomatic role in the Middle East. This consistent policy of diplomatic engagement has led to a marked reduction in violence in the region.

Unfortunately, the present administration of George W. Bush decided to end this policy in 2005. The Bush administration's ill-timed exit from an active diplomatic role in the region could not have come at a worse time.

In early 2005, the Bush administration, with the help of the international community, orchestrated the removal of Syrian troops from Lebanon. This development would have been good news for the region if the administration had remained engaged in the peace process. Instead, the Bush administration's subsequent disengagement in the region allowed Iranian-sponsored terrorist organization Hezbollah to fill the power void in Lebanon created by the exit of Syrian troops. As a result, Lebanon, a country that had just recently regained its former grandeur as the "Pearl of the Middle East" following the cessation of a bloody 15 year civil war in 1989, once again has been torn apart by regional violence.

The Bush administration's short-sighted policy of disengagement has also allowed Iran to become directly involved in the affairs of Lebanon, a dangerous development that could have direct repercussions for the United States.

In a post 9/11 world it is difficult for the United States to pressure Israel to use restraint. Would we use restraint if al-Qaida had set up missile basis in Mexico and was firing Katusha rockets into cities in California, Texas or the Sunshine State?

Now the Bush administration has little choice but to turn to the organization it so publicly loathes, the United Nations. This situation could have been avoided if the Bush administration had remained engaged in the peace process. Diplomacy is heavy lifting. It's time for the Bush administration to start doing some heavy lifting and accept the responsibilities that come with being the World's lone remaining superpower.

Scott Farrell is a Democratic candidate for Congress in Florida's 11th District

4th of July, Old Glory and Our Constitution

2006-07-03T14:25:00.000-07:00

The 4th of July is great time to remember and rejoice in why the United States and our form of government continue to be the envy of the world.

It is manifested each year when we hang Betsy Ross' Old Glory on our front porch, whether it be June 14 (Flag Day) or the 4th of July.

What we are celebrating is not the red, white and blue fabric, but a document that has yet to be equaled -- The Constitution of United States.

A document that is purposely brief, yet incredibly far reaching in scope.

If you have a chance, take a minute to read the Consitution -- (we have provided it below)

Have a Great 4th of July from all of us at Scott Farrell for Congress.

Scott Farrell
www.FarrellForFlorida.com
Democratic Candidate - Florida's 11th Congressional District

Constitution of the United States

We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

Article. I.Section. 1. All legislative Powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and House of Representatives.

Section. 2. The House of Representatives shall be composed of Members chosen every second Year by the People of the several States, and the Electors in each State shall have the Qualifications requisite for Electors of the most numerous Branch of the State Legislature.No Person shall be a Representative who shall not have attained to the Age of twenty five Years, and been seven Years a Citizen of the United States, and who shall not, when elected, be an Inhabitant of that State in which he shall be chosen.[Representatives and direct Taxes shall be apportioned among the several States which may be included within this Union, according to their respective Numbers, which shall be determined by adding to the whole Number of free Persons, including those bound to Service for a Term of Years, and excluding Indians not taxed, three fifths of all other Persons.]1 The actual Enumeration shall be made within three Years after the first Meeting of thc Congress of the United States, and within every subsequent Term of ten Years, in such Manner as they shall by Law direct. The number of Representatives shall not exceed one for every thirty Thousand, but each State shall have at Least one Representative; and until such enumeration shall be made, the State of New Hampshire shall be entitled to chuse three, Massachusetts eight, Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations one, Connecticut five, New-York six, New Jersey four, Pennsylvania eight, Delaware one, Maryland six, Virginia ten, North Carolina five, South Carolina five, and Georgia three. When vacancies happen in the Representation from any State, the Executive Authority thereof shall issue Writs of Election to fill such Vacancies. The House of Representatives shall chuse their Speaker and other Officers; and shall have the sole Power of Impeachment.

Section. 3. The Senate of the United States shall be composed of two Senators from each State, [chosen by the Legislature thereof,]2 for six Years; and each Senator shall have one Vote. Immediately after they shall be assembled in Consequence of the first Election, they shall be divided as equally as may be into three Classes. The Seats of the Senators of the first Class shall be vacated at the Expiration of thc second Year, of the second Class at the Expiration of the fourth Year, and of the third Class at the Expiration of the sixth Year, so that one third may be chosen every second Year; [and if Vacancies happen by Resignation, or otherwise, during the Recess of the Legislature of any State, the Executive thereof may make temporary Appointments until the next Meeting of the Legislature, which shall then fill such Vacancies.] 3No Person shall be a Senator who shall not have attained to the Age of thirty Years, and been nine Years a Citizen of the United States, and who shall not, when elected, be an Inhabitant of that State for which he shall be chosen. The Vice President of the United States shall be President of the Senate, but shall have no Vote, unless they be equally divided. The Senate shall chuse their other Officers, and also a President pro tempore, in the Absence of the Vice President, or when he shall exercise the Office of President of the United States. The Senate shall have the sole Power to try all Impeachments. When sitting for that Purpose, they shall be on Oath or Affirmation. When the President of the United States is tried, the Chief Justice shall preside: And no Person shall be convicted without the Concurrence of two thirds of the Members present. Judgment in Cases of Impeachment shall not extend further than to removal from Office, and disqualification to hold and enjoy any Office of honor, Trust or Profit under the United States: but the Party convicted shall nevertheless be liable and subject to Indictment, Trial, Judgment and Punishment, according to Law.

Section. 4. The Times, Places and Manner of holding Elections for Senators and Representatives, shall be prescribed in each State by the Legislature thereof; but the Congress may at any time by Law make or alter such Regulations, except as to the Places of chusing Senators. The Congress shall assemble at least once in every Year, and such Meeting shall be [on the first Monday in December,]4 unless they shall by Law appoint a different Day.

Section. 5. Each House shall be the Judge of the Elections, Returns and Qualifications of its own Members, and a Majority of each shall constitute a Quorum to do Business, but a smaller Number may adjourn from day to day, and may be authorized to compel the Attendance of absent Members, in such Manner, and under such Penalties as each House may provide. Each House may determine the Rules of its Proceedings, punish its Members for disorderly Behaviour, and, with the Concurrence of two thirds, expel a Member. Each House shall keep a Journal of its Proceedings, and from time to time publish the same, excepting such Parts as may in their Judgment require Secrecy; and the Yeas and Nays of the Members of either House on any question shall, at the Desire of one fifth of those Present, be entered on the Journal. Neither House, during the Session of Congress, shall, without the Consent of thc other, adjourn for more than three days, nor to any other Place than that in which the two Houses shall be sitting.

Section. 6. The Senators and Representatives shall receive a Compensation for their Services, to be ascertained by law, and paid out of the Treasury of thc United States. They shall in all Cases, except Treason, Felony and Breach of the Peace, be privileged from Arrest during their Attendance at the Session of their respective Houses, and in going to and returning from the same; and for any Speech or Debate in either House, they shall not be questioned in any other Place. No Senator or Representative shall, during the Time for which he was elected, be appointed to any civil Office under the Authority of the United States, which shall have been created, or the Emoluments whereof shall have been encreased during such time; and no Person holding any Office under the United States, shall be a Member of either House during his Continuance in Office.

Section. 7. All Bills for raising Revenue shall originate in the House of Representatives; but the Senate may propose or concur with Amendments as on other Bills. Every Bill which shall have passed the House of Representatives and the Senate, shall, before it becomes a Law, be presented to the President of the United States; If he approve he shall sign it, but if not he shall return it, with his Objections to that House in which it shall have originated, who shall enter the Objections at large on their Journal, and proceed to reconsider it. If after such Reconsideration two thirds of that House shall agree to pass the Bill, it shall be sent, together with the Objections, to the other House, by which it shall likewise be reconsidered, and if approved by two thirds of that House, it shall become a Law. But in all such Cases the Votes of both Houses shall be determined by Yeas and Nays, and the Names of the Persons voting for and against the Bill shall be entered on the Journal of each House respectively. If any Bill shall not be returned by the President within ten Days (Sundays excepted) after it shall have been presented to him, the Same shall be a Law, in like Manner as if he had signed it, unless the Congress by their Adjournment prevent its Return, in which Case it shall not be a Law. Every Order, Resolution, or Vote to which the Concurrence of the Senate and House of Representatives may be necessary (except on a question of Adjournment) shall be presented to the President of the United States, and before the Same shall take Effect, shall be approved by him, or being disapproved by him, shall be repassed by two thirds of the Senate and House of Representatives, according to the Rules and Limitations prescribed in the Case of a Bill.

Section. 8. The Congress shall have Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States; but all Duties, Imposts and Excises shall be uniform throughout the United States To borrow Money on the credit of the United States; To regulate Commerce with foreign Nations, and among the several States, and with the Indian Tribes; To establish an uniform Rule of Naturalization, and uniform Laws on the subject of Bankruptcies throughout the United States; To coin Money, regulate the Value thereof, and of foreign Coin, and fix the Standard of Weights and Measures; To provide for the Punishment of counterfeiting the Securities and current Coin of the United States; To establish Post Offices and post Roads; To promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries; To constitute Tribunals inferior to the supreme Court; To define and punish Piracies and Felonies committed on the high Seas, and Offenses against the Law of Nations; To declare War, grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal, and make Rules concerning Captures on land and Water;To raise and support Armies, but no Appropriation of Money to that Use shall be for a longer Term than two Years; To provide and maintain a Navy; To make Rules for the Government and Regulation of the land and naval Forces; To provide for calling forth the Militia to execute the Laws of the Union, suppress Insurrections and repel Invasions; To provide for organizing, arming, and disciplining, the Militia, and for governing such Part of them as may be employed in the Service of the United States, reserving to the States respectively, the Appointment of the Officers, and the Authority of training the Militia according to the discipline prescribed by Congress; To exercise exclusive Legislation in all Cases whatsoever, over such District (not exceeding ten Miles square) as may, by Cession of particular States, and the Acceptance of Congress, become the Seat of the Government of the United States, and to exercise like Authority over all Places purchased by the Consent of the Legislature of the State in which the Same shall be, for the Erection of Forts, Magazines, Arsenals, dock-Yards and other needful Buildings;--And To make all Laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into Execution the foregoing Powers, and all other Powers vested by this Constitution in the Government of the United States, or in any Department or Officer thereof.

Section. 9. The Migration or Importation of such Persons as any of the States now existing shall think proper to admit, shall not be prohibited by the Congress prior to the Year one thousand eight hundred and eight, but a Tax or duty may be imposed on such Importation, not exceeding ten dollars for each Person. The Privilege of the Writ of Habeas Corpus shall not be suspended, unless when in Cases of Rebellion or Invasion the public Safety may require it. No Bill of Attainder or ex post facto Law shall be passed. No Capitation, or other direct, Tax shall be laid, unless in Proportion to the Census or Enumeration herein before directed to be taken.5 No Tax or Duty shall be laid on Articles exported from any State. No Preference shall be given by any Regulation of Commerce or Revenue to the Ports of one State over those of another: nor shall Vessels bound to, or from, one State, be obliged to enter, clear, or pay Duties in another. No Money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law; and a regular Statement and Account of the Receipts and Expenditures of all public Money shall be published from time to time. No Title of Nobility shall be granted by the United States: And no Person holding any Office of Profit or Trust under them, shall, without the Consent of the Congress, accept of any present, Emolument, Office, or Title, of any kind whatever, from any King, Prince, or foreign State.

Section. 10. No State shall enter into any Treaty, Alliance, or Confederation; grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal; coin Money; emit Bills of Credit; make any Thing but gold and silver Coin a Tender in Payment of Debts; pass any Bill of Attainder, ex post facto Law, or Law impairing the Obligation of Contracts, or grant any Title of Nobility; No State shall, without the Consent of the Congress, lay any Imposts or Duties on Imports or Exports, except what may be absolutely necessary for executing it's inspection Laws: and the net Produce of all Duties and Imposts, laid by any State on Imports or Exports, shall be for the Use of the Treasury of the United States; and all such Laws shall be subject to the Revision and Controul of the Congress. No State shall, without the Consent of Congress, lay any Duty of Tonnage, keep Troops, or Ships of War in time of Peace, enter into any Agreement or Compact with another State, or with a foreign Power, or engage in War, unless actually invaded, or in such imminent Danger as will not admit of delay.

Article. II.Section. 1. The executive Power shall be vested in a President of the United States of America. He shall hold his Office during the Term of four Years, and, together with the Vice President, chosen for the same Term, be elected, as follows Each State shall appoint, in such Manner as the Legislature thereof may direct, a Number of Electors, equal to the whole Number of Senators and Representatives to which the State may be entitled in the Congress: but no Senator or Representative, or Person holding an Office of Trust or Profit under the United States, shall be appointed an Elector. [The Electors shall meet in their respective States, and vote by Ballot for two Persons, of whom one at least shall not be an Inhabitant of the same State with themselves. And they shall make a List of all the Persons voted for, and of the Number of Votes for each; which List they shall sign and certify, and transmit sealed to the Seat of the Government of the United States, directed to the President of the Senate. The President of the Senate shall, in the Presence of the Senate and House of Representatives, open all the Certificates, and the Votes shall then be counted. The Person having the greatest Number of Votes shall be the President, if such Number be a Majority of the whole Number of Electors appointed; and if there be more than one who have such Majority, and have an equal Number of Votes, then the House of Representatives shall immediately chuse by Ballot one of them for President; and if no Person have a Majority, then from the five highest on the List the said House shall in like Manner chuse the President. But in chusing the President, the Votes shall be taken by States, the Representation from each State having one Vote; A quorum for this Purpose shall consist of a Member or Members from two thirds of the States, and a Majority of all the States shall be necessary to a Choice. In every Case, after the Choice of the President, the Person having the greatest Number of Votes of the Electors shall be the Vice President. But if there should remain two or more who have equal Votes, the Senate shall chuse from them by Ballot the Vice President.]6The Congress may determine the Time of chusing the Electors, and the Day on which they shall give their Votes; which Day shall be the same throughout the United States. No Person except a natural born Citizen, or a Citizen of the United States, at the time of the Adoption of this Constitution, shall be eligible to the Office of President; neither shall any person be eligible to that Office who shall not have attained to the Age of thirty five Years, and been fourteen Years a Resident within the United States. [In Case of the Removal of the President from Office, or of his Death, Resignation, or Inability to discharge the Powers and Duties of the said Office, the Same shall devolve on the Vice President, and the Congress may be Law provide for the Case of Removal, Death, Resignation or Inability, both of the President and Vice President, declaring what Officer shall then act as President, and such Officer shall act accordingly, until the Disability be removed, or a President shall be elected.]7The President shall, at stated Times, receive for his Services, a Compensation, which shall neither be increased nor diminished during the Period for which he shall have been elected, and he shall not receive within that Period any other Emolument from the United States, or any of them. Before he enter on the Execution of his Office, he shall take the following Oath or Affirmation:--"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States."

Section. 2. The President shall be Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States, and of the Militia of the several States, when called into the actual Service of the United States; he may require the Opinion, in writing, of the principal Officer in each of the executive Departments, upon any Subject relating to the Duties of their respective Offices, and he shall have Power to grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offenses against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment. He shall have Power, by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, to make Treaties, provided two thirds of the Senators present concur; and he shall nominate, and by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, shall appoint Ambassadors, other public Ministers and Consuls, Judges of the supreme Court, and all other Officers of the United States, whose Appointments are not herein otherwise provided for, and which shall be established by Law: but the Congress may by law vest the Appointment of such inferior Officers, as they think proper, in the President alone, in the Courts of Law, or in the Heads of Departments. The President shall have Power to fill up all Vacancies that may happen during the Recess of the Senate, by granting Commissions which shall expire at the End of their next Session.

Section. 3. He shall from time to time give to the Congress Information of the State of the Union, and recommend to their Consideration such Measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient; he may, on extraordinary Occasions, convene both Houses, or either of them and in Case of Disagreement between them with Respect to the Time of Adjournment, he may adjourn them to such Time as he shall think proper; he shall receive Ambassadors and other public Ministers; he shall take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed, and shall Commission all the Officers of the United States.

Section. 4. The President, Vice President and all civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Article. III.Section. 1. The judicial Power of the United States, shall be vested in one supreme Court, and in such inferior Courts as the Congress may from time to time ordain and establish. The Judges, both of the supreme and inferior Courts, shall hold their Officer during good Behaviour, and shall at stated Times, receive for their Services, a Compensation, which shall not be diminished during their Continuance in Office.

Section. 2. The judicial Power shall extend to all Cases, in Law and Equity, arising under this Constitution, the Laws of the United States, and Treaties made, or which shall be made, under their Authority, --to all Cases affecting Ambassadors, other public Ministers and Consuls; --to all Cases of admiralty and maritime Jurisdiction, --to Controversies to which the United States shall be a Party; --to Controversies between two or more States, --[between a State and Citizens of another State;]8 between Citizens of different States, --between Citizens of the same State claiming Lands under Grants of different States, [and between a State or the Citizens thereof, and foreign States, Citizens or Subjects.]9 In all Cases affecting Ambassadors, other public Ministers and Consuls, and those in which a State shall be Party, the supreme Court shall have original Jurisdiction. In all the other Cases before mentioned, the supreme Court shall have appellate Jurisdiction, both as to Law and Fact, with such Exceptions, and under such Regulations as the Congress shall make. The Trial of all Crimes, except in Cases of Impeachment; shall be by Jury, and such Trial shall be held in the State where the said Crimes shall have been committed but when not committed within any State, the Trial shall be at such Place or Places as the Congress may by Law have directed.

Section. 3. Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort. No Person shall be convicted of Treason unless on the Testimony of two Witnesses to the same overt Act, or on Confession in open Court. The Congress shall have Power to declare the Punishment of Treason, but no Attainder of Treason shall work Corruption of Blood, or Forfeiture except during the Life of the Person attainted.

Article. IV.Section. 1. Full Faith and Credit shall be given in each State to the public Acts, Records, and judicial Proceedings of every other State; And the Congress may by general Laws prescribe the Manner in which such Acts, Records and Proceedings shall be proved, and the Effect thereof.

Section. 2. The Citizens of each State shall be entitled to all Privileges and Immunities of Citizens in the several States. A Person charged in any State with Treason, Felony, or other Crime, who shall flee from Justice, and be found in another State, shall on Demand of the executive Authority of the State from which he fled, be delivered up, to be removed to the State having Jurisdiction of the Crime. [No Person held to Service or Labour in one State, under the Laws thereof, escaping into another, shall, in Consequence of any Law or Regulation therein, be discharged from such Service or Labour, but shall be delivered up on Claim of the party to whom such Service or Labour may be due.]10

Section. 3. New States may be admitted by the Congress into this Union; but no new State shall be formed or erected within the Jurisdiction of any other State; nor any State be formed by the Junction of two or more States, or Parts of States, without the Consent of the Legislatures of the States concerned as well as of the Congress. The Congress shall have rower to dispose of and make all needful Rules and Regulations respecting the Territory or other Property belonging to the United States; and nothing in this Constitution shall be construed as to Prejudice any Claims of the United States, or of any particular State.

Section. 4. The United States shall guarantee to every State in this Union a Republican Form of Government, and shall protect each of them against Invasion; and on Application of the Legislature, or of the Executive (when the Legislature cannot be convened) against domestic Violence.

Article. V.The Congress, whenever two thirds of both houses shall deem it necessary, shall propose Amendments to this Constitution, or, on the Application of the Legislatures of two thirds of the several States, shall call a Convention for proposing Amendments, which in either Case, shall be valid to all Intents and Purposes, as Part of this Constitution, when ratified by the Legislatures of three fourths of the several States, or by Conventions in three fourths thereof, as the one or the other Mode of Ratification may be proposed by the Congress; Provided that no Amendment which may be made prior to the Year One thousand eight hundred and eight shall in any Manner affect the first and fourth Clauses in the Ninth Section of the first Article; and that no State, without its Consent, shall be deprived of it's equal Suffrage in the Senate.

Article. VI.All Debts contracted and Engagements entered into, before the Adoption of this Constitution, shall be as valid against the United States under this Constitution, as under the Confederation. This Constitution, and the Laws of the United States which shall be made in Pursuance thereof; and all Treaties made, or which shall be made, under the Authority of the United States, shall be the supreme Law of the Land; and the Judges in every State shall be bound thereby, any Thing in the Constitution or Laws of any State to the Contrary notwithstanding. The Senators and Representatives before mentioned, and the Members of the several State Legislatures, and all executive and judicial Officers, both of thc United States and of the several States, shall be bound by Oath or Affirmation, to support this Constitution; but no religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States.

Article. VII.The Ratification of the Conventions of nine States, shall be sufficient for the Establishment of this Constitution between the States so ratifying the Same. Done in Convention by the Unanimous Consent of the States present the Seventeenth Day of September in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Eighty seven and of the Independence of the United States of America the Twelfth In Witness whereof We have hereunto subscribed our Names,

A Harbinger of the Future -- Are you Listening Congress?

2006-06-23T12:20:00.000-07:00

Today on the way to lunch from my campaign headquarters in Tampa's Historic Ybor City I ran across this scene --- A gasoline tanker that had spilled its contents at the corner of 7th Ave and 22nd St. I spoke with a fireman at the scene. He said they were working to limit the spread of the spill.

The irony... today courageous Democrats, together with a number of courageous Republicans, are fighting to contain yet another attempt by Big Oil to drill off Florida's coast.

Over the last 10 plus years of partisan warfare between Florida's Democrats and Republicans, one constant unifying issue has remained, blanket opposition to drilling off Florida's coast.

Unfortunately, that ended last week when Republican Representative Adam Putnam, from land-locked Polk County, caved into pressure from Big Oil and got behind a bill to allow drilling just 50 miles off Florida's Coast.

If this legislation passes it will be a sad day for all Floridians, not just those who live on the Gulf Coast. Floridians on Florida's East Coast will also lose.

Why, because the Gulf Stream will most likely take oil from any spill in the Gulf and push it up Florida's East Coast, fouling the only coral reef on the Continental United States, as well beaches from Miami to Amelia Island.

Call Adam Putnam at 202-225-1252 and tell him that Floridians don't want Big Oil drilling off our beaches.

Also, if you have a chance, visit one Florida's pristine beaches this 4th of July and remember why we live in the Sunshine State.

It's Time for a Change in Congress

Tell me what you think at http://www.FarrellForFlorida.com/guestblog.php

Scott Farrell
www.FarrellForFlorida.com
Democratic Candidate
Florida's 11th District

People Started Oil Dependency, People Can Stop Oil Dependency

2006-06-09T11:37:00.000-07:00

If you’re over 35 like I am you probably would recognize a very special Indian named Iron Eyes Cody.

The name may not ring a bell... but you know him. No he wasn't a regular on F-Troop. You don't remember his lines either, because he never said a word. Yet you remember him...

Why? Because he was instrumental in changing American public opinion.

Iron Eyes Cody starred as the Crying Indian in one of the most successful advertising campaigns in television history, the 1974 Stop Litter Campaign titled “People Start Pollution, People Can Stop it.” - a wildly successful campaign that placed the need to clean up America’s highways and byways into the public consciousness.

Today, a group headed by Californian Chris Wolfe is trying to do the same thing with a problem that is every bit as important to Americans as litter, our dependence on foreign oil.

Why is Chris Wolfe, a retired executive, putting his money and time into an advertising campaign to educate Americans on the need to act today to end our dependence on foreign oil.
Because Chris Wolfe, like many of you reading this blog, woke up one day and decided that fighting wars to secure oil for this country is not a patriotic endeavor that is required if our republic is to survive...

Chris also knew that America needed to act today, not tomorrow, if America is to address this threat. He grew up during the space race. He knows what American ingenuity can do when the country is committed. Chris Wolfe also knows that the secret to success in moving public opinion is keeping the issue in front of the American People on an ongoing basis.

That’s why Chris Wolfe founded a 501(c)(3) non-profit called Americans for Energy Independence. Under Chris Wolfe's leadership, www.ei2025.org has worked with the
University of California at Berkeley to propose real solutions to our oil dependence. More importantly, Chris and the gang are spending considerable dollars in magazine, newspaper, billboards and radio advertisements that remind us daily that oil crisis doesn't end when gas dips below $2.50 a gallon.

Sure, Chris Wolfe has been financially successful, but he is not wealthy enough to take on Big Oil alone. Please consider logging on to www.ei2025.org and contributing to make sure that our addiction to oil stays on the front burner with Americans.

Public pressure is the only thing greater than Big Oil.

Don't let this opportunity slip away.

Scott Farrell
www.FarrellForFlorida.com
Democratic Candidate for Congress
Florida's 11th District

Thank You To America's Bravest

2006-05-29T14:54:00.000-07:00

I had the honor a number of years ago of participating in my grandfather's burial at Arlington National Cemetery.

On that day, I also had the opportunity to walk the rows of headstones of thousands of other fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives for our continued freedom.

Neither film nor television can begin to convey the sense of loss and sacrifice that is contained in those hills just below the Custis-Lee Mansion.

Please take the opportunity to visit Arlington or another military cemetery to see for yourself
the enormity of the sacrifice that so many have made for our country.

Also, please remember to thank men and women in uniform for their service when you see them.

Scott Farrell
www.FarrellForFlorida.com
Candidate for Congress, Florida's 11th District

"You Want Change" released today

2006-05-25T16:12:00.000-07:00

..."Without a song the day would never end, without a song the road would never bend"--Elvis Presley, 1971

Every grassroots campaign needs a song.

Today the Scott Farrell for Congress Campaign releases its campaign theme song: "You Want Change!"

The song captures what Scott's campaign is all about - a commitment to progressive change that uses new ideas and solutions to solve issues that our current elected officials are unwilling to confront - the need for rapid development and distribution of renewable energy, healthcare reform, real homeland security, and improved educational and job opportunities for all Americans.

Click onto http://www.farrellforflorida.com/ and hit the You Want Change button to preview
the song.

Feel free to sing along, it's common practice here at the office.

In addition, you can view a video of Scott explaining the conversion of our campaign bus to run on clean, renewable, domestic fuels. It's available for download to your iPod, so take a copy and share it with your friends; it's a great way to get the word out about Scott. You can download at http://www.farrellforflorida.com/video.php.

Finally, as part of our district-wide canvassing campaign, you can visit the lower right-hand corner of every page to view the "Meet Scott" section. Here you can easily view the areas of the district Scott will be visiting this week. Check back frequently to see when we will be visiting your neighborhood.

As always, be sure to use our "Tell A Friend" feature to tell your friends about Scott and his campaign. You can start now by visiting http://farrellforflorida.com/tell-a-friend.php.

Tyler Vann-Campbell

Scott Farrell for Congress

Mark Down September 5th on Your Calendar

2006-05-12T15:34:00.000-07:00

It's official, we just received word from the Florida Secretary of State that we have qualified and will be on the ballot for the Democratic Primary on September 5, 2006.

Normally this is not a newsworthy event, but as most of you know, anything to do with elections can be somewhat nerve racking here in the Sunshine State.

Thanks to all of you who have helped get our campaign on the ballot.

And to all of you who always thought about volunteering in a true grassroots campaign, please consider joining our volunteer team. It's fun. You'll make lasting friendships, and you can play a big part in bringing progressive change to Congress.

Click here to find out more. www.FarrellForFlorida.com

All My Best,

Scott Farrell

Democratic Candidate for Congress
Florida's 11th District

An Earth Day Wish

2006-04-23T08:55:00.000-07:00

CLEAN AIR.

CLEAN WATER.

CLEAN ELECTIONS.

Scott Farrell
www.FarrellForFlorida.com
Democratic Candidate for Congress
11th District, Florida

Gone With the Wind -- The Real Bush Energy Agenda

2006-02-24T20:13:00.000-08:00

Just when you thought that President George "Trust Me" Bush and the Republican Party have finally gotten "it" when it comes to the need for ending our addiction to oil, domestic and foreign, comes this classic "Enron" style legislative proposal. Oil soaked - Alaskan Congressman Don Young has sponsored a bill that would ban off-shore wind generation on all United States' coasts.

In an effort to kill one of the most promising clean, domestic fuels, wind power -- Representative Young has proposed a bill that would ban wind farms from being built within 1.5 miles of any shipping lane. That's 7,22o feet away from any shipping lane.
If at first blush that makes sense to you from a safety perspective -- consider this -- today Big Oil is permitted to build "off shore" oil drilling platforms within 5o0 feet of shipping lanes....
It's time for a change!

This Tuesday (February 28), 10 of us will drive the Farrell Campaign Bus --- powered by Biodiesel and waste oil gathered from my friends at local Tampa area restaurants --- to meet up with 9 time Grammy Award Winning Artist Bonnie Raitt to raise awareness about the need to adopt a Patriotic Energy Policy in Congress. Bonnie does more than talk the talk. She also powers her campaign buses with Biodiesel.

It's time to put America before Exxon and Halliburton.

Visit http://www.farrellforflorida.com/ to find out more about Biofuels and your chance to make a difference.

Scott Farrell- Democratic Candidate for Congress -- Florida -- 11th Congressional District

It's Time to Stop Giving Our Veterans Lip Service

2006-02-14T11:26:00.000-08:00

The Iraq War has brought about the return of those ubiquitous "Support Our Troops" yellow ribbons, which dot cars, front doors, and just about anything else that is made of metal. Unfortunately the Bush Administration and the Republican majority in Congress have not gotten the message. The Bush Administration has proposed CUTTING approximately $1 Billion in funding to Military Veterans in its most recent budget. At a time when we should be increasing funding to make sure that we keep our promise to those who serve in the defense of freedom, the Bush White House and the Republican majority have turned their back on America's true heroes.

If you happen to watch the cable channel MSNBC you may have seen the recent public announcements by hosts Chris Mathews and Don Imus asking for contributions for the "Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund." The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund is being used to build a "state-of-art" rehabilitation center for veterans who have lost limbs in the Iraq War. The rehabilitation center is being built with $20 million dollars in private funds because the President and Congressional Leaders did not find this project a priority in their latest $400 Billion dollar Defense Budget.

As the son and the grandson of military officers, I find this deplorable. At a time when we should be looking for ways to enhance the GI Bill, to send more veterans to school, and provide increased opportunities for home ownership for veterans, it sad that the President and Congress can't even give veterans they dignity they deserve when the return injured from the battlefield.

Veterans Deserve Better

Scott Farrell --- Democratic Candidate for Congress --- Florida -- 11th Congressional District

Bush's Alternative Fuels Program --- All Hat and No Cattle

2006-02-09T15:11:00.000-08:00

Before you get too excited about our current President's apparent transformation from Texas Oilman to Mr. Green -- take a look at the facts --- According to the New York Times, the President's 12 Step Program for ending our addiction to Middle East Oil centers around committing a whopping $150 million dollars for the commercial development of biofuels.

If you are keeping score at home --- that's approximately $30 million dollars LESS than this country spends EACH DAY in Iraq. And here is the kicker --- it's $50 million dollars LESS than he proposed in his budget the year before -- when his solution of the month was to drill our way out of dependence off Florida's coast and in ANWR.

Let's hope the American People see through the President's latest Carbon Free Smokescreen.

Cross posted at http://blog.charitybuzz.com/congress/wp-trackback.php?p=3

Martin Luther King, Jr. - A Legacy of Nonviolence

2006-01-15T13:39:00.000-08:00

In a time when the use of force is looked at by many in this country as the only viable path for achieving goals, each January we are reminded that the decision not to raise one's hand in anger when injustice is present can often be more powerful than the use of force.

Martin Luther King, Jr. did what most people would find unthinkable. When he was verbally or physically assaulted he chose not to strike back. He recognized that striking back would weaken his ability to reach his goal of civil rights for all in this country.

In his Pulitzer Prize winning book, "Why We Can't Wait," King summed up his reasons for using nonviolent means,

"Nonviolence is a powerful and just weapon which cuts without wounding and ennobles the man who wields it. It is a sword that heals."

In a country where domestic abuse and violence among the young are at epidemic levels, the words of Martin Luther King, Jr. are every bit as instructive and powerful as they were when he penned them in 1964.

Scott Farrell

Candidate for Congress - Florida - 11th Congressional District

President Bush does it again

2006-01-08T13:56:00.000-08:00

You would think the President would have learned his lesson with Brownie (former FEMA Head Michael Brown) and the Hurricane Katrina Disaster --- Ambassadorships to the British Virgin Islands or the Bahamas are appointments fit for wealthy donors and cronies, positions that affect the health and safety of the American people are not.

It is clear that President Bush has NOT learned his lesson, and he is continuing to put his political health ahead of the safety of the American People. Mr. Bush, aware that he was headed for yet another bruising confirmation battle with his own party and Democrats over his choice of Julie Myers as head of the bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, chose this week to use a recess appointment to again bypass qualified applicants for a sensitive high-level homeland security position and put a friend of a friend in a position that could jeopardized the future safety of the American people.

President Bush's appointee, Julie Myers, is right out of the Michael Brown playbook. Her management experience at the federal level consists of managing 170 people as an assistant secretary at the Department of Commerce. She has no law enforcement experience. She has very limited experience with immigration issues. She currently holds a staff position in the Bush White House.

So how could she get this job? For one, she happens to be married to the current chief of staff for Department of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff. Second, her uncle happens to be recently retired Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Richard Myers.

What is awaiting Julie Myers? The Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, ICE for short, has 15,000 employees and an annual budget of $4 billion dollars. ICE is at the forefront of homeland security.

The American People deserve better.

Scott Farrell

Candidate for Congress - Florida - 11th Congressional District

New Congressional Priority -- Homeland Insecurity

2006-01-08T12:27:00.000-08:00

The Department of Homeland Security -- the people that brought you long lines at airports and senseless searches of 80 year old women like my Great Aunt-- receives nearly $40 billion dollars a year from Congress to make sure that we are safe here at home.

You would think that $40 billion dollars would provide DHS with enough money to make sure that the next time a hurricane hits Tampa Bay, or in the event of a terrorist attack, Tampa/Hillsborough County Police and Fire Departments would have the proper communications equipment to be able to communicate with St. Petersburg/Pinellas County Police and Fire Departments to insure a coordinated response.

In a move that illustrates just how little Washington knows about "homeland" security, Congress cut funding for the Urban Area Security Initiative, which was earmarked to pay for much needed upgrades to communications systems in Tampa Bay and other metropolitan areas to ensure seamless between Police and Fire Departments in various cities and municipalities.

Unfortunately Congress would rather spend that money on top priorities like recently committing to spend $100,000 to purchase recycled Vietnam era designed jeeps that retail for $15,000. According to a recent article in the newspaper, USA Today, Congress has authorized the purchase of 400 of these unarmored "back to the future" jeeps, nicknamed the Prowler. It is estimated that Congress will spend up to $290 million on the Prowler Project.

It's time to spend our tax dollars on true homeland security.

Scott Farrell
Candidate for Congress - Florida - 11th Congressional District

Day 5 - Real American Values Tour rolls into Biodiesel Triangle

2005-12-09T10:41:00.000-08:00

Wednesday evening (December 7) the Real American Values Tour rolled into Memorial Hall on the Campus of the University of North Carolina to join Bonnie Raitt for our second consecutive night. UNC is located in North Carolina's Research Triangle. The Research Triangle is at the forefront of Patriotic Energy Research. It also has an abundance of Biodiesel distributors.

For the second straight night Bonnie recognized Scott from the stage for his effort to promote the use and development of Patriotic Fuels. Before the concert the Team managed to collect over 150 additional signatures for Scott's Patriotic Energy Petition.

Before hitting the road for Orlando, Scott and the Team spent some time with Bonnie and thanked her for all the hospitality they had received from Bonnie and her team the prior two nights. Bonnie invited Scott to join the tour again when they make their Florida swing in late February.

From there it was over to Raleigh on Thursday morning to pick some additional Freedom Fuel from our good friend Morgan Crawford.

The Team drove through the night on Thursday evening, arriving in Tampa at around 5am for a few hours of sleep -- before heading to Orlando on Friday to participate in the Florida Democratic Convention.

The Real American Values Team.

www.RealAmericanValues.com

Day 4 - Bonnie Raitt Rocks The Real American Values Tour

2005-12-06T22:10:00.000-08:00

The Real American Values Tour rolled up to the front door of D.C.'s Constitutional Hall on Tuesday to join Bonnie Raitt for her concert. Bonnie was gracious enough to recognize Scott upon taking the stage -- telling the crowd make sure to stop by to talk to Scott about his support of Biofuels.

Before the concert the Real American Values Tour team fired up the deep fryer to hand out concert goers our homemade fries. Of course, after the concert we turned on our pump and vacuumed up the used fry oil to instantaneously create another batch of Freedom Fuel.

The Team also managed to collect over 450 signatures for our Patriotic Energy Petition.

Now it's on to the University of North Carolina to join Bonnie for tomorrow night's concert at Memorial Hall.

The Real American Values Tour

www.RealAmericanValues.com

Day 3 -- Real American Values Tour 2 -- Mother Nature 0

2005-12-05T21:04:00.000-08:00

Day 3 of the Real American Values Tour sent us head-on into one the largest early season snow storms in recent history in the Carolinas, Virginia and D.C. But a flat tire on the Virginia/North Carolina border, and 6 feet snow in the Farrell family's hometown of Alexandria, V.A. couldn't stop the Real American Values Tour from rolling into the Nation's Capital on Monday evening.

Luckily Scott's father-in-law John, the Tour's chief mechanic and #2 driver, was able to keep the big rig on the road after the blow-out long enough to get us to Exit 10 and the gang at Redwine International Truck Repair. While marooned with our new friends at Redwine we even managed to collect a couple more signatures for our Patriotic Energy Policy Petition. Gene, Mike B. and the rest of the team at Redwines were happy to help out and put us back on the road with a brand new left rear tire.

But the day wasn't over --- the next 160 miles to D.C. saw the Tour taking on a snow storm, the likes of which have not been seen in Virginia for over 20 years in early December. With over 6 inches falling, and squalls making visibility nearly impossible from Richmond to Quantico, we powered through before arriving at Scott's Aunt's house in Old Town Alexandria. The whole way, the RV leaving a trail of chicken wing smell in its wake, as we burned through another 30 gallons of waste vegetable oil garnered from a small sports bar in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Tomorrow it's on to Constitutional Hall to hook up with Bonnie Raitt.

The Real American Values Tour

www.RealAmericanValues.com

Day Two - Real American Values Tour

2005-12-04T14:21:00.000-08:00

The Real American Values Tour stopped in Charleston, S.C. late Saturday night to let Scott's mom join the Tour. Before leaving on Sunday morning the team took time out to show Scott's niece and nephew just why Uncle Scott's RV smells like Popcorn when he hits the pedal formerly know as the "Gas Pedal."

After picking up Scott's mom, it was off to see our good friend Morgan Crawford in Raleigh, North Carolina, where we took time out to pump over 40 more gallons of Freedom Fuel (waste vegetable oil) into the tank. The Tour happily passed over 100 gas stations on its way to Raleigh without stopping at a one. Now it's onto the Nation's Capital!

The Real American Values Tour
www.RealAmericanValues.com

Real American Values Tours Hits the Road

2005-12-03T05:30:00.000-08:00

This morning (December 3, 2005) the Real American Values Tour hits the road for Washington, D.C. in the RV. The RV has been converted to run on Freedom Fuel - a combination of Biodiesel and Vegetable Oil - both made from crops grown in the fields of American Farmers, not pumped from middle east oil fields. Scott believes it's time to stop talking about taking back our energy independence and start doing something about it.

The tour joins Bonnie Raitt on Tuesday, December 6th for a concert at Constitutional Hall in D.C. Bonnie has been an outspoken proponent of Freedom Fuels. She powers her tour bus on Freedom Fuel.

From there the tour heads to Duke University for a tour of the Nichols School of the Environment to see the latest developments in Freedom Fuels. On the night of Wednesday, December 7, 2006 the tour will hook back up with Bonnie Raitt for a concert on the campus of the University of North Carolina.

Then its off to Atlanta for a tour of the Martin Luther King Center, where Scott will be the guest on Atlanta-based CafeCentral television talk show (www.cafecentraltv.com). The Real American Tour winds up on December 10th at the Florida Democratic Convention in Orlando.

Along the way we will be collecting signatures for our Patriotic Energy Petition, which asks Congress to adopt a Patriotic Energy Policy focused on development of domestically produced, clean, renewable fuels.

Look for updates on the blog from Scott as the tour progresses.

The Real American Values Tour Team
www.RealAmericanValues.com

An Insult to Veterans

2005-11-11T11:47:00.000-08:00

Today I join all Americans in recognizing the sacrifices millions of Americans have made on battlefields at home and far away in defense of freedom. Veteran's Day was originally created to thank the over 2 million men and women who served the United States in World War I. November 11, 1918 marks the Armistice of the Great War. Today it is estimated that no more than 50 of World War I's bravest remain living.

Unfortunately the Bush Administration has chosen to insult all Veterans on this sacred day by welcoming with open arms a suspected Iranian Spy to our Nation's Capital. Ahmed Chalabi, you may remember his name as the source of fabricated tales of Weapons of Mass Destruction in Iraq, is scheduled to meet later today with Vice President Dick Cheney at an undisclosed location. On Wednesday he appeared at the State Department for a press conference.

At the same time Chalabi is touring DC at the invitation of the Bush Administration, the FBI is investigating Chalabi for his role in leaking top secret information to Iran about US Code breaking activities.

Veterans deserve better.

Scott Farrell - Candidate for Congress - 11th Congressional District

Read My Lips II

2005-10-10T09:07:00.000-07:00

Govenor Jeb Bush and a number of Republican Congressman are looking more and more like they represent the interests of Texas, not Florida. After years of bi-partisan support for banning drilling close to Florida's beaches, it looks as though Big Oil has finally gotten to Jeb and a number of the Republican Congressional delegation. Or maybe hurricane Katrina was just the event Jeb and company needed to flip-flop on an issue that has united Floridians from all walks of life for generations. How clear can it be --- Floridians don't want drilling off their coast....

Do you know why locals who go to beaches on the coast of Texas wear dark bathing suits? If you guessed that it's because the oil that washes daily on Texas beaches looks pretty bad on any bathing suit that's not black -- you are right.

That's not something Floridians should have to worry about.

If Congress spent its time looking for real answers to our energy problems instead of finding ways to squeeze the last few barrels of crude oil off the coast of Florida's beautiful beaches -- this country would be headed to true security...

True Patriotism is finding a way to end our country's addiction to Mideast oil --- an addiction that annually sends billions of American dollars to Mideast countries who spend that money to train terrorists whose sole intent is to destroy this country and our way of life.

It's time for true leadership in Congress.

Scott Farrell
Candidate for Congress - 11th Congressional District

PRIVACY - BUSH STYLE - THE JUSTICE O'CONNOR LESSON

2005-09-20T20:53:00.000-07:00

I couldn't help but notice the response this weekend from our Governor regarding the weekend arrest of his youngest son - John Ellis Bush - the third of his three children to run afoul of the law (the others - daughter Noelle - a prescription drug bust, and his son George P. - breaking a window and doing donuts in the lawn of a spurned South Florida girlfriend ).

When asked by reporters about his son's weekend arrest in Texas for public drunkenness and resisting arrest, Governor Bush responded:

"My son is doing fine. It's a private matter. We will support him. We are sad for him. But I am not going to discuss it on the public square with 30 cameras", the governor told reporters.

Funny, when its someone else's family like the Schiavo's, the Bush rules of engagement are different.

Two weeks ago I had the great fortune to attend the dedication of the Lawton Chiles Legal Information Center at the University of Florida College of Law. The keynote speaker was Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. In that speech, Justice O'Connor took time to point out that she and others on the bench are getting death threats on a daily basis because of the inflammatory statements of House Majority Leader Tom Delay and others. Her message was simple -- the independence of our judicial branch is key to the furtherance of Democracy in this country.

According to Justice O'Connor, DeLay's repeated calls for mass impeachments of judges who don't agree with his current right-wing ideology is a threat to the bulwark of our democracy. Independent to the end, Justice O'Connor took the time to single out the courageousness of Judge George Greer in the Schiavo case. As Justice O'Connor pointed out, Judge Greer faces daily death threats due in large part to the actions of the legislative and executive branches of the State of Florida. To Justice O'Connor, this is unacceptable.

If only Governor Bush had been in attendance in Gainesville for Justice O'Connor's speech. Then maybe he would have finally understood the true meaning of privacy and the rule of law.

Justice O'Connor is correct -- threatening Judges with impeachment for political reasons is unacceptable.

Scott Farrell
Candidate for Congress - Florida - 11th Congressional District

Farrell Victory Countdown Update

2005-09-02T08:02:00.000-07:00

368 Days to go until Primary Day!

Join the campaign at www.FarrellForFlorida.com!

SEC = Southeastern Congress?

2005-08-26T12:47:00.000-07:00

Former Tennessee Volunteers QB Heath Shuler has officially launched his campaign for Congress, joining our very own UF Alum Scott Farrell. Besides a love for football, what else do these two southern Democrats have in common? Both are running for a District 11 seat. Check out Heath's website here.

Social Security - 70 years old and still making life better for average Americans...

2005-08-14T12:26:00.000-07:00

I remember the day my Grandmother finally decided to retire... A child of the depression and a single mother, she had spent over 40 years in various capacities in the retail clothing business... In other words, she had spent a majority of her life on her feet. Like many women of her generation (as well as many women today) she earned considerably less than her male counterparts in the clothing business. Her pension was not enough for her to live on in retirement. Luckily, she reminded me that she still had social security to make up the difference.

Thanks to a stroke of the pen by FDR seventy years ago today my grandmother and millions of other hard working Americans have been given the opportunity to retire with dignity. It is important to remember that without social security benefits 13 million additional American seniors would be living under the poverty line today.

It is also important to realize that social security does more to lift children out of povery than any other government program. Today nearly 4 million children receive benefits from social security. It is also one of the most efficient government programs, requiring a scant 0.6 percent of the trust fund to cover adminstrative costs of the program.

Social Security works... We owe it to our most vulnerable Americans to make sure it is not privatized or dismantled...

-- Scott

From the Candidate...

2005-08-13T22:04:00.000-07:00

Tonight was a late night, as it often is on the campaign trail. My wife Sam and I started the evening off at 5:30pm at the Hillsborough County Democratic Black Caucus of Florida Banquet, where over 240 people gathered for the organization's first annual fundraising dinner. The event was packed with candidates, including most of my opponents. (The only Congressional Candidate CD 11 who was not in attendance was Kathy Castor) I want to personally express my thanks to HCDBC President H. Bruce Miles, Vice President Dianne Hart, Secretary Ida Campbell and Treasurer Emily Echols for hosting such a great event. Special thanks to Monroe Mack for making sure all of us got to the event.

After that it was off to the amphitheatre for Earth Wind and Fire and Chicago. If you grew up in the Seventies like I did... you surely remember the excitement and pure soul of EWF's Philip Bailey's vocals. Rest assured he still has the pipes to carry it off... It is fitting that EWF performed one of their most popular songs "September" tonight --- as September 5, 2006 is election day for our campaign -- "D-Day" as my campaign volunteers fondly call it.

From there it was off to the Beer Can in Downtown Tampa... to be exact, the abandoned cube at the foot of the Beer Can Building (f/k/a Bank of America Plaza). The abandoned Cube was sponsoring the Avante Garde Art Benefit... If you haven't been to the abandoned Cube, you should. Hands down it is the most impressive former retail bank branch in North America... With 80 foot ceilings and massive concentric windows, it is one of the most inspiring buildings in Downtown Tampa. Hint-Hint, it would make a great modern art museum...

Talk to you soon, Scott

"Buchman Square", the Reality Show?

2005-08-12T14:04:00.000-07:00

Three candidates, One congressional seat, One campaign office, less than 400 days to go...

From the Candidate...

2005-08-11T12:45:00.000-07:00

Great news! Next week we plan on opening our new campaign office, which is located in Buchman Square at 2109 Palm Avenue East in historic Ybor City. Just take the elevator to the third floor and make a left -- Suite 303.

Don't get nervous if you spot the names of two of my opponents on the sign in the lobby. All three of us are in the same building. Should make for some lively trips to the watercooler. --Scott

TKO...Tampa KnockOut

2005-08-08T15:14:00.000-07:00

The Scott Farrell Congress '06 Campaign congratulates St.Petersburg's own, Jeff Lacy, on his big win this past weekend at the forum.

All in the Family

2005-08-07T05:59:00.000-07:00

Interesting BUZZ this Sunday in the St.Petersburg Times.

"I sure hope the $700 I gave to Betty's senate campaign didn't make it's way to my opponent's account."

YOU GOT FARRELL FEVER?

2005-08-05T10:25:00.000-07:00

THEN SHOW IT.....
Vote in the Best of the Bay survey!
Scott Farrell for Best Local Politician!

Back at Buchman

2005-08-03T19:14:00.000-07:00

Our campaign has finally landed and it seems we've come full circle. Readers of the St.Petersburg Times might remember this article, which detailed our campaign's almost move into Ybor City's Buchman Square located on Palm Avenue. Well, to make a long posting short, we're back at Buchman! It's not quite the picturesque storefront location in Seminole Heights we flirted with, but it offers A LOT of other advantages that we're excited about. I'll let you know as soon we begin posting from our new locale!

From the Candidate....

2005-08-02T10:53:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to check in from the campaign trail and say hello. Your early support has been a great boost to the campaign.

Let's keep our fingers crossed that our fellow Democrat Paul Hackett is successful today in his quest to turn Ohio's 2nd Congressional District Blue. Together we can take the House back one seat at a time.

I look forward to reading your comments and will be in touch.

-- Scott

No Progress on Energy

2005-08-01T19:58:00.000-07:00

The St.Pete Times weighed in on Monday with this........

"Given the time and fuss Congress put into writing a national energy policy, Americans might have expected a more energetic plan. The 1,700-page bill passed Friday does little to address the two most pressing problems: high gasoline prices and dependence on foreign oil."

A few days prior to the energy bill being passed, Scott attended a press conference/rally at Vinoy Park in St.Petersburg, where a mock oil rig was displayed by the Florida Public Interest Research Group (FPIRG). A few cameras were on hand but only the Pinellas News dedicated any ink to the event. They quoted Scott in their recent weekly edition:

"Congress should spend more time encouraging development of alternate fuel sources to secure national security and spend less time helping big oil companies make a profit at the expense of our environment," said Farrell.

This is an important issue to Scott and one you'll be hearing quite a bit about throughout his District 11 travels.

Seminole Heights

2005-08-01T08:08:00.000-07:00

Want to formally thank David over at Seminole Heights blog for his coverage of Scott last month. You can read it here if you haven't already. We are still looking toward having our campaign headquarters in SH and will keep everyone posted.

Out of Site

2005-07-29T11:59:00.000-07:00

If you haven't done so already, be sure to check out our campaign website. It's the easiest way to learn about Scott, read the latest press coverage, get involved, or make a financial contribution.

Scott and Sam Featured in City Times

2005-07-29T11:08:00.000-07:00

"For the second time, Sam Nagel is helping Scott Farrell with a political race. In the middle of that first campaign, he proposed." Great read for both politicos and romantics!

Scott Farrell Congress '06 Blog is now online!

2005-07-29T08:14:00.000-07:00

Here we Go!