Rhode Island Republican Assembly "PORK-U-LUS" Pig Roast

The Rhode Island Republican Assembly PAC

cordially invites you to attend the annual

"PORK-U-LUS" Pig Roast Fundraiser

to support conservative Rhode Island Republican candidates

at the home of

State Representative Doreen & James Costa
39 Dyer Avenue
North Kingstown, RI 02874

on

Saturday, August 6th, 2011
2:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.

featuring catered

Roast Barbecued Pig Served Pulled Pork Style
Accompanied by Baked Beans, Corn, Corn Bread, Cole Slaw, & Desserts
Hamburgers & Hot Dogs available. Soft Drinks provided. "B.Y.O.B."

BBQ Tickets: $35.00 ~ Children 12 & Under: $15.00

Space is limited to 125 guests. Please reserve your tickets today!
Payment by Personal Check or Credit Card is gladly accepted.

To reserve tickets, please mail your request and personal check to:
RIRA-PAC, 19 Bakers Creek Road, Warwick, RI 02886
Credit card payments can be accepted online at http://ri-ra.org/pigroast/.
PayPal payments can be sent directly to paypal@rirapac.org.

Portsmouth Institute Conference on the Catholic Shakespeare

Joining the roster of the Portsmouth Institute's conference on The Catholic Shakespeare?, June 10-12, will be Dennis Taylor, professor emeritus of English and editor emeritus of Religion and the Arts at Boston College. Professor Taylor will speak on "The Tempest and Catholic Exploration of America."

"In the last twenty years," commented Institute director James MacGuire, "There has been an explosion of scholarship on Shakespeare's religion, especially in England, and we thought it timely to bring together leading scholars from our own country and the UK to discuss and illuminate this rich and fascinating subject. Dennis has been a pioneer in this area on our side of the Atlantic, and by so graciously agreeing to participate will enrich the entire weekend, not only with his talk but by contributing to panels and colloquies throughout the conference."

So far the Institute roster includes a number of distinguished speakers, including the Right Reverend Dom Aidan Bellenger, OSB, Abbot of Downside, Dr. Gerard Kilroy of University College, London, Clare Asquith, Rev. Peter Milward, S.J. of Sophia University in Tokyo, Rev. David Beauregard, OMV, dean of studies at Our Lady of Grace seminary, Dr. John Cox of Hope College, Mr. Joseph Pearce of Ave Maria University and Dr. Glenn Arbery of Assumption College.

"Father Milward is the dean of Catholic Shakespeare scholarship," MacGuire continued, "And it will be a privilege to welcome him, Abbot Aidan, Lady Asquith, Professor Taylor and all of our outstanding speakers to Portsmouth Abbey."

In addition to scholarly presentations the Institute will feature dramatic productions based on Shakespeare's plays by Theatre of the Word and other companies. One of these will be in the newly restored Newport Casino Theatre on Bellevue Avenue, originally designed by Stanford White in 1888, which will afford attendees the opportunity to tour some of the treasures of that historic city. There will also be musical concerts featuring music associated with Shakespeare and his time, including William Byrd's Mass for Five Voices.

The Portsmouth Institute is a conference, study, recreation and retreat center for all those interested in Catholic life, leadership and service in the 21st Century. "As with last year's conference on Newman and the Intellectual Tradition," MacGuire said, "In addition to the formal sessions there will be ample time for prayer, sport, music, humor and friendship. We welcome any and all who might be interested in our 2011 Shakespeare conference to join us on our wonderful campus and promise that you will leave Portsmouth Abbey refreshed, edified and inspired."

"We look forward to welcoming old and new friends alike to Portsmouth Abbey and School," said Dr. James DeVecchi, headmaster, "So that they can be better acquainted with the academic and spiritual excellence that has been nurtured here for the past eighty years on the beautiful shores of Narragansett Bay."

The complete conference program and registration information for The Catholic Shakespeare? is available at www.portsmouthinstitute.org, by calling Cindy Waterman at (401) 643-1244, emailing her at cwaterman@portsmouthabbey.org, or writing her at Portsmouth Abbey School, 285 Cory's Lane, Portsmouth RI 02871.

All Saints Academy Spring Fair

All Saints Academy, located at 915 West Main Rd. (behind St. Lucy's) in Middletown, is hosting its annual All American Spring Fair on Sunday, June 5, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Northeast Navy Showband will perform from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with games, crafts, face painting, and food available all day. Children will enjoy an obstacle course by eNVy Gymnastics, of Tiverton, a Touch-a-Truck tour of specialty vehicles, and an inflatable playhouse. Adults can bid on great items in a silent auction and raffle, as well as peruse and purchase autographed sports, music, and entertainment memorabilia. Admission and entertainment are free; various activities require ticket purchases.

All Saints Academy is a Roman Catholic diocesan elementary school offering preschool through grade eight for students from Aquidneck Island and its surrounding communities.

The Northeast Navy Showband is a highly entertaining ensemble that performs jazz, Rock and Roll, and patriotic favorites. Consisting of 17 of the U.S. Navy's finest professional musicians, this versatile group has been a crowd pleaser at public concerts, schools, and major events throughout the Northeast. Under the leadership of Chief Musician Todd Smeltzer, the Northeast Navy Showband personifies the quality and professionalism of today's United States Navy.

eNVy Gymnastics, located at 935 Main Rd., in Tiverton, offers age-appropriate gymnastics lessons and events ranging from non-instructional play with assistance for children five and under to competitive team training.

Auction and raffle items have been donated by a variety of organizations, including (but not limited to) the following:

* Barry's Auto
* Bellevue Car Service
* Flint Audio Video
* Flo's Clam Shack
* Frosty Freez
* Girl Scouts
* Home Depot
* Island Windsurfing
* KJ's
* Newport Athletic Club
* RAM Sports Collectibles
* Staples
* Viking Tuxedo
* West Marine

Portsmouth Institute Shakespearean Concert

Musicians from New England's most prestigious performing ensembles, including the Rhode Island Philharmonic, Boston Pops, Boston Ballet, and Portland and Vermont Symphonies, will gather on Friday evening, June 10, at 6:15 p.m. to present an evening of orchestral music inspired by the indelible writings of William Shakespeare.

The symphony concert will feature Walton's glorious orchestral suite from "Henry V" and Tchaikovsky's moving "Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture." The concert will be conducted by Troy Quinn, music director of the Portsmouth Institute and a prominent young American conductor. Quinn has conducted orchestras and choirs at some of the world's greatest venues, including Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris and Southwark Cathedral in London. He has led such notable ensembles as the Philadelphia Chamber Orchestra and the London Soloists Orchestra, and has upcoming engagements with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra as a conducting fellow. Quinn holds degrees from Manhattan School of Music and Providence College.

The concert will take place during the Portsmouth Institute, a three-day conference being held at Portsmouth Abbey School. The third annual Portsmouth Institute — the topic of which will be "The Catholic Shakespeare?" — will be held on campus from June 10-12. Internationally renowned writers, scholars and commentators will gather to celebrate and explore the life and writings of William Shakespeare. For more information about the Portsmouth Institute, visit: www.portsmouthinstitute.org

The concert is open to the public and free of charge; members of the public who are interested in attending the concert should contact Cindy Waterman at 401/643-1244 or cwaterman@portsmouthabbey.org.

The public may attend the Portsmouth Institute, but registration and a fee are required. To register, please contact Cindy Waterman.

RIRA "Conservative Comedy Night" PAC Fundraiser on Saturday

The Rhode Island Republican Assembly PAC is hosting a "Conservative Comedy Night" fundraiser, featuring "Conservative Liberal Jewish" Californian Comedian Eric Golub on Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 21, 2011. It will be held at the Manville Sportsmen's Rod & Gun Club, at 250 High Street, in Manville (Lincoln), RI 02838. Check-in starts at 6:30 p.m., with the dinner show set to start at 7:00 p.m.

In addition to our featured comedian, we will also be "lightly roasting" the following local politicos: John Robitaille, Rep. Doreen Costa, Rep. Mike Chippendale, Rep. Dan Gordon, and Sen. Beth Moura.

There will be a great Italian buffet dinner featuring roasted chicken, pasta, salad, and dessert, with a cash bar. The cost to attend this fun event is only $35.00 per person or $60.00 per couple. As May 21st is Armed Forces Day, we will be recognizing U.S. Military Veterans. Veterans can attend for $30.00 each.

Your RSVP and payment in advance would be greatly appreciated for planning purposes. Funds generated from this event will be used to support local conservative Republican candidates in Rhode Island.

As the event will be held this Saturday, payment by mail is discouraged. However, you may conveniently pay for your tickets by credit card or electronic check via the drop-down menu at http://ri-ra.org/comedynight/ or by sending funds directly to RIRA-PAC via PayPal to: paypal@rirapac.org.

For any inquiries about this event or RIRA, you may contact RIRA President Raymond T. McKay at (401) 487-2514 or by e-mail at: president@ri-ra.org.

RIRA "Conservative Comedy Night" PAC Fundraiser on May 21

The Rhode Island Republican Assembly PAC will be hosting a "Conservative Comedy Night" Fundraiser, featuring "Conservative Liberal Jewish" Californian Comedian Eric Golub on Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 21st, 2011.

The fundraiser will be held at the Manville Sportsmen's Rod & Gun Club, at 250 High Street, in Manville (Lincoln), RI. Check-in begins at 6:30 p.m. The dinner show will begin at 7:00 p.m.

In addition to our featured comedian, we will also be "lightly roasting" the following local politicos: John Robitaille, Rep. Doreen Costa, Rep. Mike Chippendale, Rep. Dan Gordon, and Sen. Beth Moura. Additionally, a great Italian buffet dinner will feature roasted chicken, pasta, salad, and dessert, with a cash bar.

The cost to attend this fun event is only $35.00 per person or $60.00 per couple. As May 21st is Armed Forces Day, we will be recognizing U.S. military veterans, who can attend for $30.00 each.

Your RSVP in advance would be appreciated for planning purposes. Funds generated from this event will be used to support local conservative Republican candidates. Please make checks payable to "RIRA-PAC." To reserve your tickets today, please mail your request and personal check to:

RIRA-PAC, 19 Bakers Creek Road, Warwick, RI 02886

You may also pay for your tickets by credit card using the drop-down menu at http://ri-ra.org/comedynight/ or by sending funds to RIRA-PAC directly through PayPal to: paypal@rirapac.org.

For any inquiries about this event, please contact RIRA President Raymond T. McKay at (401) 487-2514 or by e-mail, at president@ri-ra.org .

The Case for Israel: Democracy's Outpost

The URI College Republicans and the Narragansett and South Kingston Republican Town Committees, tomorrow night, are screening The Case for Israel, a feature-length documentary film, followed by a Q&A session with executive producer, Gloria Greenfield.

In the film, Harvard Law School Professor Alan Dershowitz offers a vigorous case for Israel — for its basic right to exist, to protect its citizens from terrorism, and to defend its borders from hostile enemies. He engages leading political, judicial and academic leaders from Israel and North America in objective and intelligent discourse on the critical challenges facing Israel and the West.

The showing will be on Wednesday, May 4, at 7:00 p.m. in URI's Swan Hall Auditorium, 60 Upper College Rd., Kingston. Suggested admission: $10/public, $5/student.

Rhode Island Republican Assembly: Sixth Annual Christmas Dinner Party

The RHODE ISLAND REPUBLICAN ASSEMBLY cordially invites all of our fellow RI Conservatives (you don't have to be a Republican to enjoy it!) and their family members to attend our SIXTH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS DINNER PARTY, which will be held on SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18th, 2010, at the R.I. Shriners Imperial Room, at One Rhodes Place, in Cranston, RI 02905.

Please join us for a "family friendly" evening of fun, great food and drink, live musical entertainment, award presentations, and special guests, at the biggest and best local GOP party this holiday season! Hors d'heuvres and cocktails will be available from 6:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M., and a great buffet-style dinner beginning at 7:00 P.M., with the festivities continuing for the rest of the night. Live musical entertainment will be provided by the band "Wing It," and there will be a cash bar available throughout the evening.

An RSVP is required for dinner. Tickets are only $35.00 PER PERSON and only $10.00 for Children 10 & under. Tables of eight are available for $280.00. The great buffet features chicken montello and baked stuffed sole, along with salad, roasted potatoes, other vegetables, and chocolate cake. The menu for Children 10 & under features chicken fingers and french fries. Special dietary needs (vegetarian, diabetic, kosher, etc.) can be accommodated with advance notice — just include a note with your payment.

To REGISTER BY MAIL, please send your ticket request ASAP along with your check payable to "Rhode Island Republican Assembly" to: RIRA, 19 LAKESIDE DRIVE, Smithfield, RI 02917. You can also quickly and securely REGISTER & PAY ONLINE by credit card or e-check directly through the RIRA web site at president@ri-ra.org or (401) 487-2514 or NFRA Northeast Region Vice President Will Ricci at NEVP@ri-ra.org. Seating is limited. For planning purposes, we must receive your RSVP by December 8th.

We look forward to seeing you at the party on Saturday, December 18th!

Conservatively Yours,

Raymond T. McKay
President, RIRA

Toward Changing the Conversation in Rhode Island

Last night, Matt and I discussed the DREAM Act, NEA dirty politics, and Anchor Rising's ability to change the political conversation on the Matt Allen Show. Stream by clicking here, or download it.

Again, please email or call (401-835-7156) me to pledge financial support — as subscriptions, donations, or advertising — for 2011. We've still got a long, long way to go.

A Right-Reform Fly on the Wall

Remember when a raucous School Committee meeting in East Providence gave reason to hope that the game might be up for the National Education Association's unchallenged control of Rhode Island education? If so, odds are that Anchor Rising plays in that memory. We liveblogged, photographed, recorded, and analyzed. And it made a difference.

Two days later, East Providence union president Valerie Lawson and NEA lawyer John Liedecker were on the Dan Yorke show, with Jim Hummel filling in. Lawson was explaining that the teachers would never shout down a member of the public who held the microphone; rather, teachers were a little overenthusiastic in cheering for the next person in line to speak. Hummel played a clip of audio from the recordings linked, above, that proved Lawson to be lying, and Liedecker had to jump into the conversation to change the subject.

The point is that we were there, and because we were there, people had access to the truth about what happened. That is why it's so important that Rhode Islanders who want to pull the state back from the brink help us to create a full-time job within Anchor Rising. So that we'll be there when it matters.

Please email or call (401-835-7156) Justin to pledge support for 2011. We're still a long way off, but pledges only commit you to payment if we achieve our goal.

Who's Leaving and How to Stop Them

I called in, again, to the Matt Allen Show on Wednesday to remind his listeners about the sort of research that Anchor Rising has done purely out of intellectual curiosity and to encourage them to help us make it a bit more than a hobby. Stream by clicking here, or download it.

Again, please email or call (401-835-7156) me to pledge financial support — as subscriptions, donations, or advertising — for 2011. We've still got a long, long way to go.

A Mission to Figure Out What's Happening

A few years ago, the common wisdom on the right was that Rhode Island was driving out wealthy people with its tax and spend policies, and the response from the left was to come up with other reasons that wealthy people might leave. In February 2008, Anchor Rising changed the terms of the debate. To be sure, our findings showed a net loss of taxable resident income:

But the people leaving weren't the wealthy. Rather, Rhode Island has been driving out motivated upward-movers — those seeking to advance and improve their situations. Those who do the most work to drive an economy forward.

We honed in on the point revisiting the data the following year:

And now the common wisdom is that Rhode Island's population loss is a matter of absent opportunity — although those in the State House apparently didn't get the message, as shown by their shifting of the tax code to place more burden upon the demographic that's been leaving and to end high-end tax breaks (flat tax and capital gains tax) that had clearly been working. On the latter count, it's a shame that Anchor Rising's reach isn't broader, because we also found that tax revenue had actually gone up among the wealthy after the tax breaks had been passed:

With that, we arrive at the point of this pitch: Anchor Rising has been very effective at affecting the public debate in Rhode Island, even if we've remained somewhat hidden behind the faces of those whose minds we've changed. Imagine what we could do if we were able to do more research and spend more time pushing it out into the public awareness. By the 2012 election, we might even manage to explain to a critical mass of voters what's been going wrong and what needs to be done to fix it.

Please email or call (401-835-7156) Justin to pledge financial support — as subscriptions, donations, or advertising — for 2011. We're still a long, long way away from being able to fund a full-time job, and the beauty of pledging is that we won't ask for the money unless we actually achieve that goal. (Note, too, that we're not non-profit, so while you'll get no tax break for your contribution, you also won't end up on any publicly filed list.)

Prognostication and Remedy

I used our Wednesday call to the Matt Allen Show to connect our current pledge drive with the dire prognostication for the state. Stream by clicking here, or download it. Anchor Rising has been critical in the opposition movement (so to speak) over the years, and there would be tremendous value in helping us to expand our activities rather than watch them retract, as has already begun to happen, given economic reality.

It occurs to me to clarify, by the way, that we're seeking pledges for the entire year. We won't be knocking on doors expecting the checks in their full amounts the moment we hit the threshold at which one of us can focus on Anchor Rising full-time. Monthly, quarterly, semiannual, and periodic payments would be wonderful. We just need to line up the support that will enable our leap and then manage the books to ensure that enough is coming in on a regular basis to keep our employee above water.

Anchor Rising Looks Ahead

There's no denying that the election results in Rhode Island were disappointing. Even during a Republican surge year featuring the Tea Party movement, right leaning reformers made modest gains in the General Assembly and came up empty-handed in other state government offices.

But this is Rhode Island, and hope is not irrational. Republicans running for the offices of governor and the first congressional district seat did much better than would have been expected under normal circumstances. The Democrat Secretary of State barely held his office. In some municipal elections (notably in Tiverton), reformers' years of efforts are beginning to yield offices and fresh candidates to begin climbing the ladder of public office.

All of this is to say that there is a base for our message. Not every Rhode Islander who has woken up to the necessary changes in the state's operations has fled in despair. Change can still come to the Ocean State and may be more likely once the General Assembly has taken full advantage of the negative opportunities that our new governor will present to pull government policy in the wrong direction.

Of course that "may" in the previous sentence is still necessary. Change will take work in shoring up the reform movement and making the case to those who've not given civic matters much thought. And that's where Anchor Rising comes in.

Over the coming weeks and months, we'll be reviewing some of the positive effects that we've had, so far, even as a gang of hobbyists experimenting with new media. Our research, our videos and audio, and our outside-the-RI-box commentary have all had a visible effect on the civic conversation.

Unfortunately, we simply can't keep up those activities that make blogging more than a pastime any longer. Oh, we'll keep blogging, because we've caught the bug, but unless we can manage to fund at least one full-time job, we cannot be as active as we've been in fostering, promoting, and reporting on the movement and conservative ideas.

Knowing how critical the next two years — and the election that follows — will be, we're making a push for advancement rather than stasis. So, we're asking Anchor Rising readers and supporters to pledge support for 2011. Email or call (401-835-7156) Justin with the amount — in subscriptions, in donations, in advertising — that you're willing and able to contribute for the year, and when we hit the threshold at which one of us can make a living from it, we'll ask you to convert those pledges into money. For some perspective, it's going to take about ten times our usual annual revenue, but the good news is that even ten times the money is still not all that much, in the scheme of politics and media.

Over the last six years, we've done a lot of great work, steadily grown our audience, and had a substantial effect on politics in Rhode Island; imagine what we could accomplish with more than a couple of hours per day to devote to the project. We'd broaden and deepen our reading and commentary on issues relevant to Rhode Island and the individual cities and towns that make it up. We'd highlight and cover more events relevant to Rhode Island's reform. We'd expand the niches into which our message reaches.

Again: pledging to help Anchor Rising will cost you nothing until we can actually deliver on the promise of a full-time effort. We're not non-profit, so the privacy of donors will be absolute. Please, consider how much you can afford to donate (and how much you can afford not to) and email or call (401-835-7156) Justin.

Rhode Island Republican Assembly Endorsements & GOTV

We find ourselves one day away from one of the most important elections in this generation.

American conservatives and other like-minded voters throughout our state and nation now realize that our government can no longer be sustained at its current levels and that structural changes must be made at all levels of government and by all citizens.

Waking up in the morning and expecting money from the government is not the American way, nor is it what made this country great. Rhode Island's budget shortfalls these past several years, which have been plugged by federal money, not by changes in Rhode Island government, is proof that our state and municipal governments' way of doing business is broken and that we need and must demand change.

Zebras do not change the colors of their stripes, nor will the one-party system we have in the General Assembly change itself overnight for the betterment of the people. Time and time again, the Democrats in the General Assembly have sided with unions and those looking for handouts, not with those looking to create prosperity in Rhode Island.

The answer to our financial problems is certainly NOT to increase state taxes. We must embrace one nation, one people, one language — for "United We Stand" a strong American People. Divided, we shall surely fall into a world of socialism that will wipe out the middle class.

Change must start on many levels, from the Congress, to our statewide offices, to the General Assembly, and all the way down to the local level.

We must all sit with our friends and family to Get Out The Vote for change. While this is one communication, it does not reach the approximately 600,000 possible voters in Rhode Island. For real change to take affect, YOU MUST become a grassroots activist and encourage your family and friends over the next day and a half to vote the Right Way this Tuesday. The polls are open from 7:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. Everyone should be able to find time within that fourteen hour span to vote for the Right Change.

The following individuals were nominated and endorsed at the Rhode Island Republican Assembly's Biennial Endorsement Convention back on June 12, 2010. They were endorsed based on our bylaws, which require a two-thirds vote of those members present and eligible to vote. To the best of our knowledge — and we pay close attention — NO candidate listed has compromised his or her standing throughout the campaign season for RIRA to consider revoking their endorsement.

The 2010 RIRA endorsed candidates are:

U.S. Congress, District 1: JOHN LOUGHLIN

U.S. Congress, District 2: MARK ZACCARIA

R.I. Governor: JOHN ROBITAILLE

R.I. General Treasurer: KERNAN "KERRY" KING

R.I. Attorney General: ERIK WALLIN

RHODE ISLAND STATE SENATE:

Steve Gerling - District 18
Dawson Hodgson - District 35
Beth Moura - District 19
Dr. Chris Ottiano - District 11

RHODE ISLAND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:

Representative Brian Newberry - District 48
Representative Joseph Trillo - District 24
Donald Botts - District 16
Timothy Burchett - District 34
Giovanni Calise - District 25
Michael Chippendale - District 40
Thomas Clupny - District 62
Doreen Costa - District 31
Phil Duquette - District 33
Daniel Gordon - District 71
William Grapentine - District 69
Michael Grossi - District 58
Matthew Guerra - District 46
James Halderman - District 35
Jennifer Hirons - District 44
Michael Picillo - District 39
Daniel Reilly - District 72
Erich Sturn - District 4

In closing, I again ask that you please sit with your family and friends over the next day and a half and discuss voting for a new lease on life by voting for the above candidates. YOU and your vote can make the change! YOU are the activist! YOU must get your friends and family out to vote so that their votes, along with yours, will ensure that change happens!

Thank you for your time and attention to this important issue.

God's speed and blessings to you, your family, friends, and our hard working candidates and all their volunteers and staff.

Conservatively Yours,

Raymond T. McKay
President, Rhode Island Republican Assembly
president@ri-ra.org

Something Fun for Kids, Tomorrow

All Saints Academy on West Main Rd. in Middletown (behind St. Lucy's) will tomorrow (Saturday) be hosting its first annual Spooktacular event, from 1pm to 4pm, featuring pumpkin picking and painting, a maze, and trunk-or-treating (with candy handed out from decorated car trunks). There will also be various games and treats and music.

If you've got children of grammar-school age, consider stopping by. The blisters on the hands of the fella who built the maze still haven't healed, and the laughter and fun of many children is sure to be the best balm. Costumes are not required, but are encouraged, especially for the kids.

Portsmouth Institute's 2011 Conference: The Catholic Shakespeare?

Portsmouth Abbey School, America's premier Catholic boarding school, has announced its third annual Portsmouth Institute, a conference program focused on issues pertaining to Catholic life in the 21st century.

The 2011 Portsmouth Institute conference will be held June 10-12, on The Catholic Shakespeare?

"In the last twenty years," commented Institute director James MacGuire, "There has been an explosion of scholarship on Shakespeare's religion, especially in England, and we thought it timely to bring together leading scholars from our own country and the UK to discuss and illuminate this rich and fascinating subject."

So far the Institute roster includes a number of distinguished speakers, including the Right Reverend Dom Aidan Bellenger, OSB, Abbot of Downside, Dr. Gerard Kilroy, Head of English at King Edward's School, Bath, Clare Viscountess Asquith, Reverend Peter Milward, S.J. of Sophia University in Tokyo, distinguished archivist The Honorable Georgina Stonor, Reverend David Beauregard OMV, dean of studies at Our Lady of Grace seminary, Dr. John Cox of Hope College, Mr. Joseph Pearce of Ave Maria University, and Dr. Glen Arbery of Assumption College. The list of speakers is still in formation, and updates will be provided on a regular basis.

In addition to scholarly presentations, the Institute will feature dramatic productions based on Shakespeare's plays by Kevin O'Brien's, Theatre of the Word, and other companies. One of these productions will be performed in the newly restored Newport Casino Theatre on Bellevue Avenue, originally designed by Stanford White in 1888, which will afford attendees the opportunity to tour some of the treasures of that historic city. There will also be concerts featuring music associated with Shakespeare and his time, including William Byrd's Mass for Five Voices.

The Portsmouth Institute will feature leadership and participation by Portsmouth Abbey's resident Benedictine monks and faculty of the Portsmouth Abbey School, including retired English Department Chairman, Dom Damian Kearney O.S.B., current English Department Chairman, Dr. Michael Bonin, and Portsmouth Institute Music Director, Troy Quinn. Institute programs are designed to offer attendees frequent opportunities for informal discussion as well as access to recreational opportunities on the School's campus and at Carnegie Abbey. In keeping with its mission, the Institute's yearly sessions will also provide opportunities for attendance at Mass, the Divine Office, and "mini-Retreat" sessions centered around the Abbey's landmark Church of St. Gregory the Great.

The Portsmouth Institute is a conference, study, recreation and retreat center for all those interested in Catholic life, leadership, and service in the 21st Century. "As with last year's conference on Newman and the Intellectual Tradition," MacGuire commented, "in addition to the formal sessions, there will be ample time for prayer, sport, music, humor, and friendship. We welcome any and all who might be interested in this year's Newman conference to join us on our wonderful campus and promise that you will leave Portsmouth Abbey refreshed, stimulated, and inspired."

"We look forward to welcoming old and new friends alike to Portsmouth Abbey and School," said Dr. James DeVecchi, headmaster, "So that they can be better acquainted with the academic and spiritual excellence that has been nurtured here for the past eighty years on the beautiful shores of Narragansett Bay."

About Portsmouth Abbey School:

Portsmouth Abbey School is a coeducational boarding and day school for students in grades 9-12. Founded in 1926 by a community of English Benedictine monks, the school is located on a 500-acre campus along the picturesque shores of Rhode Island's Narragansett Bay.

The Portsmouth Abbey education is grounded in the Western intellectual tradition, from ancient Greece and Rome and continuing into this century. This classical curriculum is balanced by a focus on spirituality, science, athletics, the arts and fun.

The School's mission encompasses the importance of reverence for God and the human person, respect for learning and order, and responsibility for the shared experience of community life.

For More Information:

The complete conference program as well as registration information for The Catholic Shakespeare? are available at www.portsmouthinstitute.org, by calling Cindy Waterman at (401) 643-1244, emailing her at cwaterman@portsmouthabbey.org, or writing her at Portsmouth Abbey School, 285 Cory's Lane, Portsmouth RI 02871.

Additional queries may be addressed to James MacGuire at jmacguire@portsmouthabbey.org.

An August Appeal, with Emphasis

Some revenue that we reasonably expected did not materialize, this month, which puts Anchor Rising in a precarious position, with our anual Web hosting bill due at the end of the month. Even with the usual summer lull, readership has been strong, though, so a little generosity, on your part, could surely relieve the financial pressure.

As this year's critical election season shifts into higher gear, we'll be poised to continue offering news and commentary from a conservative (and right) perspective.

Subscriptions of $0.25 per day (payments of $7.60 per month) and donations of any size may be made using credit cards via PayPal (no PayPal account is necessary) by clicking the following:

Those who would prefer the more direct route of checks or money orders can make them out to Anchor Rising and send them to:

Anchor Rising
P.O. Box 751
Portsmouth, RI 02871

For advertising, whether along the sides of the blog or as one of these here Community Crier posts, email Justin.

July Appeal

As we head toward the heart of summer, minds will surely tend to drift to other matters than the political, but Anchor Rising remains focused on keeping readers well informed and well stocked with ideas to distract the mind from the heat and the rolling summer clouds. Please take a moment to consider the value of our work and to start a voluntary subscription or to donate a one-time shot of monetary encouragement.

Subscriptions of $0.25 per day (payments of $7.60 per month) and donations of any size may be made using credit cards via PayPal (no PayPal account is necessary) by clicking the following:

Those who would prefer the more direct route of checks or money orders can make them out to Anchor Rising and send them to:

Anchor Rising
P.O. Box 751
Portsmouth, RI 02871

For advertising, whether along the sides of the blog or as one of these here Community Crier posts, email Justin.

Real Estate on Anchor Rising

With party nominations making campaign season more or less officially begun, we expect there to be no shortage of topics (and events) to cover in the coming months. There is, however, a shortage of time, on our part, but that can be partly remedied through the conversion of dollars into minutes.

For that purpose, Anchor Rising is considering adding a banner ad to the top of the blog — next to and alternating with the very familiar picture of Matt Allen. The location and the order in which items download to readers' computers makes that a very prominent spot well worth consideration by anybody who's got something to promote or sell. Please contact Justin if you fall into that category.

Even if a banner ad would be beyond your means — or needs — please consider supporting us in our work.

Subscriptions of $0.25 per day (payments of $7.60 per month) and donations of any size may be made using credit cards via PayPal (no PayPal account is necessary) by clicking the following:

Those who would prefer the more direct route of checks or money orders can make them out to Anchor Rising and send them to:

Anchor Rising
P.O. Box 751
Portsmouth, RI 02871

For advertising, whether along the sides of the blog or as one of these here Community Crier posts, email Justin.

Campaign Season Appeal

I've tended to post this sort of content under our Community Crier contributor, but my reasoning is a bit more personal, this time around, so my own face and name seemed more appropriate.

You wouldn't know it to observe the electorate, but election seasons, in Rhode Island, have been of increasing importance, and this year is critical. I'd be lying if I rolled a veneer of optimism on my expectations, but even with the darkest of prognoses, we must strive to do all that we can.

Unfortunately, this dire need for attention and action corresponds with a languishing economy, and honesty compels me to admit that my positioning was particularly poor at the time that things went sour. My household was in the process of digging itself out of the hole that past errors had created when the Great Recession hit, and preventing a backslide has become about all that we've been able to achieve for the past couple of years.

These are personal matters, but they become relevant to Anchor Rising in that I'm at the point of having to consider such actions as canceling high-speed Internet in the home — a luxury, to be sure, but one that makes operating a Web site quite a bit more efficient (especially when it comes to audio and video). Taking unpaid days off from work for Anchor Rising purposes is entirely out of the question, at this point. Similarly, expanding the liberties that AR's resources allow me to offer other contributors isn't currently conceivable.

We'll all continue to do what we can in our capacity as hobbyists, but most of you will agree, I think, that the times call for considerably more. So please, if you're able, help us to draw that extra effort from our busy schedules and tight budgets. Every penny helps maintain what we've built, and larger windfall gifts could bring us to another level of activity.

Subscriptions of $0.25 per day (payments of $7.60 per month) and donations of any size may be made using credit cards via PayPal (no PayPal account is necessary) by clicking the following:

Those who would prefer the more direct route of checks or money orders can make them out to Anchor Rising and send them to:

Anchor Rising
P.O. Box 751
Portsmouth, RI 02871

For advertising, whether along the sides of the blog or as one of these here Community Crier posts, email Justin.

Rhode Island Republican Assembly Biennial Endorsement Convention

This Saturday, June 12th, our state's largest Conservative organization — the Rhode Island Republican Assembly — will hold its Biennial Endorsement Convention. The Convention will also serve as a family-friendly fundraiser to benefit state Republican candidates, many of whom will be present. All Republicans and Conservatives in Rhode Island are invited to attend. The Convention will be held from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. in the Rotunda of the Crowne Plaza Hotel, at 801 Greenwich Avenue, in Warwick. Registration will be from 12:00 noon to 12:30 p.m., with the Convention to be called to order promptly at 12:30 p.m.

The theme for the Biennial Convention will be "2010: The Conservative Comeback."

Working toward making that a reality, a number of federal and state Republican candidates have been invited to address the RIRA delegates and our special guests. Confirmed speakers include:

John Loughlin, First District Candidate for Congress
Mark Zaccaria, Second District Candidate for Congress
William Clegg, Second District Candidate for Congress
John Robitaille, Candidate for Governor
Victor Moffitt, Candidate for Governor
Erik Wallin, Candidate for Attorney General
Kernan "Kerry" King, Candidate for General Treasurer

The Convention will start with a fundraiser for the Rhode Island Republican Assembly State Political Action Committee (RIRA-PAC). RIRA-PAC is the only political action committee in Rhode Island specifically devoted to aiding Conservative Republican candidates for office. The event will feature speeches by the above Republican candidates; a fantastic selection of hot and cold hors d'oeuvres will be served; and there will be a cash bar available. For your enjoyment, Live Musical Entertainment will be provided throughout the afternoon by the easy-listening band Wing-It

Candidate speeches, as well as brief question and answer periods for each, will probably last until 2:30 p.m. RIRA Delegates will then vote by secret ballot on candidate endorsements. RIRA endorsements require two-thirds super majorities and may be made in federal, statewide, and RI House and Senate races. In addition, delegates will consider Resolutions on several issues of current importance.

The suggested minimum contribution for the Conservative candidates' fundraiser is only $25.00 per person. However, you are certainly encouraged to donate much more, if it's within your means! All funds raised in excess of our costs will be used to directly support RIRA-endorsed state candidates.

Your RSVP by Facebook or by email would be appreciated for planning purposes, but it is not required to attend... just bring your personal check for $25.00 or more with you on Saturday! Tickets may be paid for in advance or at the door. Personal or PAC checks may be made payable to "RIRA-PAC."

You may securely pay for your tickets online with by credit card or electronic check through our Website at http://ri-ra.org/convention. If you would like to make a contribution to the PAC by mail, the address is:

Rhode Island Republican Assembly PAC, 19 Bakers Creek Road, Warwick, RI 02886

All event tickets will be held at the door. For any inquiries, you may contact RIRA President Raymond T. McKay at 487-2514 or by e-mail at: president@ri-ra.org. Media is welcome to attend.

We look forward to seeing you on Saturday!

Conservatively Yours,

Raymond T. McKay
President, RIRA
Chairman, RIRA-PAC

About RIRA: Founded in 2001, the Rhode Island Republican Assembly is a private membership organization of conservative Republican activists who work at the grassroots level to promote conservative values and ideals within the framework of the Republican Party of Rhode Island. Although an independent organization, many RIRA members are also officers or members of the Rhode Island Republican State Central Committee and/or the various city and town Republican committees throughout the state.

Rhode Island Republican Assembly: "2010: The Conservative Comeback"

The fifth Biennial Endorsement Convention of the Rhode Island Republican Assembly - our state's largest Conservative organization - will be held this Saturday, June 12th, 2010, from 12 Noon to 4:00 PM. The Convention will be held under the Rotunda of the Crowne Plaza Hotel, at 801 Greenwich Avenue, in Warwick, RI 02886.

The theme for the Biennial Convention will be "2010: The Conservative Comeback."

Working towards that goal, several federal and state Republican candidates have been invited to address the RIRA delegates and our guests. Confirmed speakers include:

John Loughlin, Candidate for Congress (First District)
Mark Zaccaria, Candidate for Congress (Second District)
William Clegg, Candidate for Congress (Second District)
John Robitaille, Candidate for Governor
Victor Moffitt, Candidate for Governor
Erik Wallin, Candidate for Attorney General
Kernan 'Kerry' King, Candidate for General Treasurer

All Republicans and Conservatives in Rhode Island are welcome to attend this event. Suggested minimum contribution for the PAC fundraiser is $25.00 per person or only $15.00 for R.I. Young Republicans (of course, individuals may choose to donate much more!). Reserved "Tables of 6" are available for $150.00 each (a great option for candidates!). All funds raised in excess of our costs will be used to support RIRA endorsed state candidates. Check-in and Registration will be from 12 Noon to 12:30 PM, with the Convention to be called to order promptly at 12:30 PM.

The Convention will kick-off with a great fundraiser for the Rhode Island Republican Assembly State Political Action Committee, featuring speeches by Republican candidates seeking our organization's endorsement. A great selection of hot and cold hors d'oeuvres will be served, and there will be a cash bar available. For your enjoyment, live musical entertainment will be provided throughout the afternoon by the band, Wing-It.

Candidate speeches, as well as brief question and answer periods for each, will likely last until about 2:30 PM. Immediately thereafter, RIRA Delegates will vote on candidate endorsements. All nominations will be made from the floor. Endorsements may be made in federal, statewide, as well as in R.I. House and R.I. Senate races. Per our bylaws, RIRA endorsements require a two-thirds affirmative vote of those eligible RIRA Delegates present. All voting in contested races will be conducted by secret ballot. In addition, Delegates will also consider several important resolutions.

RSVP in advance by Facebook or by e-mail would be greatly appreciated for planning purposes, but is not required. Tickets may be paid for in advance or at the door. Personal or PAC checks should be made payable to "RIRA-PAC." To reserve your tickets by mail today, please send your request and payment ASAP to:

Rhode Island Republican Assembly PAC
19 Bakers Creek Road
Warwick, RI 02886

You may also quickly and securely pay for your tickets online with a credit card or electronic check via http://ri-ra.org/convention/. All prepaid tickets will be held at the door. For any inquiries, you may contact RIRA President Raymond T. McKay at (401) 487-2514 or by e-mail at: president@ri-ra.org.

Portsmouth Institute Conference on Newman and the Intellectual Tradition

Registration for the upcoming conference on Newman and the Intellectual Tradition is still open with the Portsmouth Institute, at the Portsmouth Abbey School:

This year’s Portsmouth Institute conference will be held June 10-13, on Newman and the Intellectual Tradition. The conference will be held just months prior to Cardinal Newman’s beatification, which is now expected to be presided over by Pope Benedict XVI personally, during his official visit to England next September. ...

So far our roster includes a number of distinguished speakers. Fr. Ian Ker of Oxford University, author of the definitive intellectual biography of Newman, will speak on “Newman’s (and Pope Benedict XVI’s) Hermeneutic of Continuity;” Professor Peter Kreeft of Boston College will speak on Newman’s great poem, The Dream of Gerontius; Dr. Paul Griffiths of Duke University will speak on Newman’s The Grammar of Assent; Father George Rutler, Pastor of the Church of Our Saviour in Manhattan, will speak on “The Anglican Newman and Recent Developments;” and Edward Short, whose book on Newman and his contemporaries will be published next year, will speak on “Newman and the Americans.” Deacon John Sullivan of the Boston Archdiocese will preach about his miraculous healing after praying to John Henry Newman. Patrick Reilly, the president of the Cardinal Newman Society, will speak on "Newman and the Renewal of Catholic Identity in American Catholic Higher Education", and Father Paul Chavasse of the Birmingham Oratory will speak at dinner Friday evening on the Newman cause for canonization, of which he is the former postulator.

Musical Director Troy Quinn is planning a Saturday evening concert featuring major sections of Elgar’s monumental The Dream of Gerontius as well as a shorter concert on Friday evening. Although the main body of the conference will be Friday and Saturday, there will be recreational opportunities at Carnegie Abbey and elsewhere on Thursday afternoon, a welcoming cookout at Green Animals Thursday evening, and a closing Mass and brunch on Sunday morning for all who wish to attend these additional events.

Several Anchor Rising contributors attended events at last year's conference on William F. Buckley and found it to be a wonderful way to spend a few days.

Registration and additional information can be found on the Portsmouth Institute's Web site.

Not a Telethon, Just a Note

We know as well as anybody that times continue to be difficult — financially harrowing, even — and we're not going to make a daily habit of begging for your limited resources. But please do consider helping us keep up the fight. A great deal of work goes into Anchor Rising each day, and the comprehensiveness of its content is only limited by time, which in turn is only limited by our need to put food on the table.

Please, if you have the means, consider supporting us in our work.

Subscriptions of $0.25 per day (payments of $7.60 per month) and donations of any size may be made using credit cards via PayPal (no PayPal account is necessary) by clicking the following:

Those who would prefer the more direct route of checks or money orders can make them out to Anchor Rising and send them to:

Anchor Rising
P.O. Box 751
Portsmouth, RI 02871

For advertising, whether along the sides of the blog or as one of these here Community Crier posts, email Justin.

There is Still Time to Register for Operation Clean Government's Candidate School, and Become Part of One of the Biggest Sessions Ever!

This year, Operation Clean Government's will host its 5th-biannual Candidate School session. The Candidate School was originated in 2002 by Bruce Lange, founding chairman of Operation Clean Government, and has been conducted in every election year since. Governor Donald Carcieri and former Cranston Mayor Steve Laffey attended the inaugural session. Providence Mayor David Cicilline is an alum, along with Cranston Mayor Alan Fung. Independent Senator Ed O'Neill, who won an upset victory over Senate President Joseph Montalbano in the last election, was a 2008 attendee, along with Republican Representative Brian Newberry and Democrat Representative Deborah Ruggerio. They also beat incumbents in 2008. This year all three will be members of a panel in the afternoon session, How to Beat an Entrenched-Incumbent, a first time offering on the curriculum.

Like OCG, the Candidate School is non-partisan with a focus on local and state office races. It is suited for both candidates and campaign workers.

2010 is shaping up to be an extraordinary election year. The rise of the Tea Party movement, the disastrous economy, high unemployment figures, the surprise win by Scott Brown in Massachusetts and the overall anti-incumbent mood just about everywhere have awakened the people, motivating action to change the direction in which our state and country is moving. Already OCG has double the applicants to Candidate School than at the same time two years ago -- and that was before the bulk of the registrations which usually happen in the last week prior to the event, so record turnout is expected, especially since there may be more primary contests in 2008. There are many first-time participants in the political arena ready to take an active roll in changing government in Rhode Island.

Citizens new to the political process can be overwhelmed at first by the requirements and challenges involved in seeking office. Our program gives these citizen activists the tools they need to run a successful campaign, with topics ranging from the nuts and bolts of filing, to setting up the structure of a campaign and raising funds, to background on key issues, to developing a message and using the media, the web and social networking to deliver that message and target potential voters. Two workshops are dedicated to minority and women candidates.

The registration fee is $95 which includes a full breakfast, lunch, coffee breaks and a comprehensive manual on campaign know how. The Date is Saturday, March 6, all day at the Quonset 'O' Club in North Kingstown. Registration closes on February 28. Click on the link here to learn more details and sign up on line.

Portsmouth Institute Second Annual Conference: Newman and the Intellectual Tradition

The Portsmouth Institute, at the Portsmouth Abbey School, has unveiled the topic and initial itinerary for the follow-up conference to its very successful event exploring "the Catholic William F. Buckley":

This year’s Portsmouth Institute conference will be held June 10-13, on Newman and the Intellectual Tradition. The conference will be held just months prior to Cardinal Newman’s beatification, which is now expected to be presided over by Pope Benedict XVI personally, during his official visit to England next September. ...

So far our roster includes a number of distinguished speakers. Fr. Ian Ker of Oxford University, author of the definitive intellectual biography of Newman, will speak on “Newman’s (and Pope Benedict XVI’s) Hermeneutic of Continuity;” Professor Peter Kreeft of Boston College will speak on Newman’s great poem, The Dream of Gerontius; Dr. Paul Griffiths of Duke University will speak on Newman’s The Grammar of Assent; Father George Rutler, Pastor of the Church of Our Saviour in Manhattan, will speak on “The Anglican Newman and Recent Developments;” and Edward Short, whose book on Newman and his contemporaries will be published next year, will speak on “Newman and the Americans.” Deacon John Sullivan of the Boston Archdiocese will preach about his miraculous healing after praying to John Henry Newman. Patrick Reilly, the president of the Cardinal Newman Society, will speak on "Newman and the Renewal of Catholic Identity in American Catholic Higher Education", and Father Paul Chavasse of the Birmingham Oratory will speak at dinner Friday evening on the Newman cause for canonization, of which he is the former postulator.

Musical Director Troy Quinn is planning a Saturday evening concert featuring major sections of Elgar’s monumental The Dream of Gerontius as well as a shorter concert on Friday evening. Although the main body of the conference will be Friday and Saturday, there will be recreational opportunities at Carnegie Abbey and elsewhere on Thursday afternoon, a welcoming cookout at Green Animals Thursday evening, and a closing Mass and brunch on Sunday morning for all who wish to attend these additional events.

Registration and additional information can be found on the Portsmouth Institute's Web site.

Promotions and the Like

Because I've gotten tripped up by this a couple of times myself recently, we're all getting a quick refresher course.

Following are ways to promote your business, your ideas, your candidacy, your event on the "premier conservative webblog in the state of Rhode Island". (Hey, I'm just quoting someone else.)

Sidebar Ad

$30 per week | $55 for two weeks | $100 for a month | $280 for three months.

A Community Crier Post

Good for:

- Event announcements

- Regular newsletters/roundups

- Press releases

- Advertisements

- Advocacy

- Any other content that would benefit from thousands of page views per day

Rates:

$50 for 1 post = $50 | $45 per for 7 posts = $315 | $40 per for 14 posts = $560 | $35 per for 30 posts = $1,050 | $20 per for 90 posts = $1,800 | $15 per for 182 posts = $2,730 | $10 per for 365 posts = $3,650

More info here.

Last but definitely not least, if you simply enjoy Anchor Rising, consider a subscription. (This also makes an appropriate gift, Christmas and year 'round, for that political junkie who otherwise seems to have everything.) This accrues no premium other than the knowledge that you are supporting a "premier conservative webblog" with our gratitude; on the bright side, you will have done your bit to save the planet as no trees have to be felled for an A.R. subscription.

John Loughlin: Resolutions for the Holiday and Beyond

The holiday season is a great time to reflect on changes we would like to see in the next session of Congress - and resolve to work in the coming year to make those changes a reality. In keeping with that spirit, here are a few items on my Christmas list and, I hope, on yours.

"CHECKING IT TWICE..."
I believe all members of Congress should be required to read legislation before voting, and given sufficient time to do so.

"AND IF YOU EVER SAW IT..."
I will make sure all legislation is posted in final form for a minimum of 72 hours before it can eligible for a vote.

"NO STOCKING STUFFERS..."
I want to limit all legislation to one discrete subject per bill, outlawing the practice of tagging on unpopular and unrelated legislation to bills that must pass.

"I'M TELLING YOU WHY..."
I believe all legislation must contain a statement of the enumerated constitutional authority which allows the legislation. If our Constitution does not specifically allow Congress to make a specific law or regulation, they shouldn't be allowed to pass it.

"WHO'S NAUGHTY OR NICE..."
I want to make sure Congress will no longer vote themselves pay raises. Congressional pay will rise by the lower of CPI or 3% and even then by two-thirds, on-the-record, roll-call vote.

"SILVER BELLS... NOT GOLDEN PARACHUTES..."
There should be no elite congressional pensions: Members of Congress can contribute to their own retirement plan like rest of us.

"DO YOU HEAR WHAT I HEAR?"
I believe Congress must equally abide in all laws they impose on the American people. No congressional exemptions from the laws they pass on the rest of us.

"GOD BLESS US ALL... EVERYONE!"
I want Congress to lose their current health care system and participates in the same health care system as the American people.

"AND TO ALL, A GOODNIGHT..."
I believe in Term Limits: The next Congress must enact legislation to make a constitutional change, to be ratified by the states, limiting the terms of all Senators and Representatives in Congress.

State Representative John J. Loughlin II is running for the First Congressional District of Rhode Island.

http://www.johnloughlin.org/

A Personal Appeal

I brought our "blegathon," asking for donations, to Wednesday night's Matt Allen Show: Stream by clicking here, or download it.

Going on the radio regularly and participating in all of the events and activities that Anchor Rising affords us the opportunity to attend are unambiguous perks of the occupation. More than simple interest and enjoyment, observing interactions and personal behavior across a deep swath of human society is pricelessly edifying for somebody who, like me, should probably confess to being a writer before all else. This is not to suggest that those whom I meet should expect (or fear) to be recast as thinly disguised fictional characters in some future novel, but that a broad experience with humanity enhances authorial sympathy, enabling art to reflect life and the artist to perceive the brilliance of Creation.

Such familiarity cannot be gained, of course, without the periodically painful pinch of contrast. Rubbing shoulders with moguls and masters, politicians and professors, inheritors, icons tends to bring into sharp relief the poorly hidden stitches in one's own tattered suit. (No doubt, some of the aforementioned have noticed worn shoes and loose buttons.) My financial difficulties are mostly of my own doing. They are also edifying, in their way, and a sense of humor rooted in religious faith makes their burden not entirely bereft of enjoyment. But they exist and they require answer each month in a stack of unpayable bills.

The plain reality is that Anchor Rising now lacks the resources to free me from any more mornings or days away from the construction site. At my own current trajectory, 2010 may find me unable to afford the gasoline to traverse the state in the evening. It would not surprise me on any given morning to awake and find that the high-speed Internet that makes posting video a matter of minutes, not hours, has been cut off. That's just the way it is. It's embarrassing, to be sure, and it's perhaps too easy to find experiential value in such a state of being, as well. An author will always be inclined to have the most sympathy for his or her own situation. But as romantic as the notion might be, it simply wouldn't be plausible to pen Anchor Rising on assorted papers and hop upon cargo trains to travel from one event to the next. It's all well and good to jot the bulk of a blog post on a fingerjointed and preprimed scrap of one-by-ten, but if that's where the words remain, the storage costs would quickly become astronomical.

With that, we end our week of financial appeals. Please help it to have been a success.

Subscriptions of $0.25 per day (payments of $7.60 per month) and donations of any size may be made using credit cards via PayPal (no PayPal account is necessary) by clicking the following:

Those who would prefer the more direct route of checks or money orders can make them out to Anchor Rising and send them to:

Anchor Rising
P.O. Box 751
Portsmouth, RI 02871

For advertising, whether along the sides of the blog or as one of these here Community Crier posts, email Justin.

An Update on Response

With Thursday comes an irresistible urge toward honesty: None of our previous "blegathons" asking for donations have broken the bounds of "meager," and this week would probably best be described as "pitiful" (which, the conservative optimist must admit, is better than "utter failure" and "death.") And yet our readership continues to expand.

The economy surely accounts for the lion's share of that discrepancy, but a couple of other factors, unique to us, might come into play. For one thing, as a content base grows on the Internet (as Anchor Rising's archives grow every day), an increasing percentage of traffic likely comes by way of search engines and the ripples of links spreading out into cyberspace. Transient readers, like brand new readers, aren't likely to become instant sponsors.

Conversely, in certain cases, familiarity might lead to a hesitance to offer financial support. It would be a suspicious outcome, indeed, if readers didn't find somewhere, at some level, to disagree with us, and to do so very strongly. We're not here to hit some middle line of conservative thought (let alone Rhode Islander thought), making the occasional off-putting stand an inevitability.

But the fact is that a significant number of people read this site on a regular basis. Whether the motivation is political ammunition, enlightenment, a chance for rhetorical battle, or even just mild entertainment during a coffee break, please consider answering our voluntary work with a voluntary donation.

Subscriptions of $0.25 per day (payments of $7.60 per month) and donations of any size may be made using credit cards via PayPal (no PayPal account is necessary) by clicking the following:

Those who would prefer the more direct route of checks or money orders can make them out to Anchor Rising and send them to:

Anchor Rising
P.O. Box 751
Portsmouth, RI 02871

For advertising, whether along the sides of the blog or as one of these here Community Crier posts, email Justin.

A Continuous Growth Curve

It's been encouraging to watch, over the past month, our visitor statistics recover from the typical summer doldrums, which this year followed upon some post-election exhaustion. (Although astonishing government activity served to mitigate that dip.) Thus has it been every year and every election cycle: ups and downs, but a continuously upward trend line.

Many of you make it part of your routine to stop by Anchor Rising and often to participate, and from our perspective, that is really the most significant thing that you can do to keep the site going. If, however, you have the means, we ask you to consider keeping it going in that additional — financial — way. Maintenance is not so inexpensive or light of workload as it used to be, and every amount, large or small, helps and encourages.

Subscriptions of $0.25 per day (payments of $7.60 per month) and donations of any size may be made using credit cards via PayPal (no PayPal account is necessary) by clicking the following:

Those who would prefer the more direct route of checks or money orders can make them out to Anchor Rising and send them to:

Anchor Rising
P.O. Box 751
Portsmouth, RI 02871

For advertising, whether along the sides of the blog or as one of these here Community Crier posts, email Justin.

In a Necessary Niche

We're on all the mailing lists, of course, so we're aware of the dozen or so groups in Rhode Island with similar objectives and related activities to ours, and we support them all. That said, we're all looking for big donors, small donors, grants, advertisements, subscribers, and members, and it's a relatively small field that we're attempting to sow.

Among these right-leaning harvesters, however, Anchor Rising is unique in method and in focus, and there's clearly a necessary role that we strive to fulfill. As made evident by our continued posting, we're not in this for the money and will continue as long as we're able, and as long as we seem to be having a net positive effect. But the more time we're able to compensate from our lives, the more equipment we're able to procure, and the more expenses we're able to cover, the better we'll be armed to fill gaps in knowledge and to analyze the myriad issues that Rhode Island (and the country) must resolve in order to turn itself around.

Subscriptions of $0.25 per day (payments of $7.60 per month) and donations of any size may be made using credit cards via PayPal (no PayPal account is necessary) by clicking the following:

Those who would prefer the more direct route of checks or money orders can make them out to Anchor Rising and send them to:

Anchor Rising
P.O. Box 751
Portsmouth, RI 02871

For advertising, whether along the sides of the blog or as one of these here Community Crier posts, email Justin.

Anchor Rising Making the Autumn Ask

Times are tough, and in Rhode Island, they're going to get tougher. Everybody is fully justified in keeping their wallets closely held, no matter how much politicians and media types strain to cast it as a sort of civic duty to make sure consumer spending (and debt) doesn't drag government redistributors and wealthy investors down. It is only more fitting, therefore, that we make our appeal as it ought to be made: on the merits.

It has been through donations and some limited advertising that Anchor Rising has been able to expand its offerings and capabilities. We've bought technology. Paid our way into events, as necessary. Reimbursed pay lost in the name of AR-related activities. It doesn't take a multi-million-dollar infusion of earmarked pork to make such things possible, but frankly, financial realities may soon begin to restrict what we're able to do — just as what we do becomes more critical.

So, here's the pitch: We don't hold back for political reasons, we don't deceive, and we don't "play ball" (as tense emails and conversations with opponents and allies alike would amply prove). We just learn for learning's sake and offer our opinions. We seek out that which we believe we need to know and share it with you — in the form of reportage, of data, of video, of audio — allowing you to respond. Inasmuch as we all work full-time and are involved in other activities, our limits are ever before us, but that is what we do.

We ask you to support us in the effort — to maintain and continue to expand our capacity to dash around this teetering ship of a state pulling, tugging, and shouting so as to right it... or at least to prepare for rescue should it sink.

Subscriptions of $0.25 per day (payments of $7.60 per month) and donations of any size may be made using credit cards via PayPal (no PayPal account is necessary) by clicking the following:

Those who would prefer the more direct route of checks or money orders can make them out to Anchor Rising and send them to:

Anchor Rising
P.O. Box 751
Portsmouth, RI 02871

For advertising, whether along the sides of the blog or as one of these here Community Crier posts, email Justin.

Rhode Island Republican Assembly: Saturday's "Victory Over Statism" Day BBQ

This is a reminder that the RHODE ISLAND REPUBLICAN ASSEMBLY PAC will be hosting a big "Victory Over Statism" Day barbecue event outdoors at the Buttonwoods — Masonic Shriners' Family Center, located at 116 Long Street in Warwick, on SATURDAY, August 15th, from 1:00 P.M. until at least 4:00 P.M.

Like many of you, we are deeply concerned with the direction that our nation, and especially our struggling state is heading in. We've had enough of one-party rule in Rhode Island and all the ills that go with it. We want to do something about it, but to do that, we need your support. Through this and other outreach efforts, we will be working to support the growth of a robust conservative coalition in Rhode Island. We welcome the participation of all pro-freedom and pro-Constitution individuals, as well as other local conservative groups. We want to emphasize that this is not a "Republican only" event. All conservatives are welcome.

There will be plenty of Barbecued Chicken, Angus Hamburgers, Ball Park Hot Dogs, Kosher Hot Dogs, Corn-on-the-cob, various side dishes, and all the fixings for you and your family to enjoy. Besides acres of well-kept park land and walking paths with a great view of Narragansett Bay, the Buttonwoods — Masonic Shriners' Family Center has volleyball courts, tennis courts, basketball, horseshoes, swimming pools, swing sets, and other amenities for you and your whole family to enjoy. In addition to all the food and fun, we will have a great speaking program of conservative leaders who will share their thoughts about what we can do to become more engaged in the political process. Confirmed speakers currently include:

HELEN GLOVER, Local Radio Personality
REP. JOHN LOUGHLIN, Candidate for United State Congress (Dist. 1)
MARK ZACCARIA, Candidate for United State Congress (Dist. 2)
ERIK WALLIN, Candidate for Rhode Island Attorney General
COLLEEN CONLEY, President of the Rhode Island Tea Party
TERRY GORMAN, Founder of Rhode Islanders for Immigration Law Enforcement
BARTH BRACY, Executive Director of Rhode Island Right to Life
JOHN ROBITAILLE, Communications Director for Governor Carcieri
BILL FELKNER, Executive Director of the Ocean State Policy Research Institute
TRAVIS ROWLEY, Chairman of the Rhode Island Young Republicans

TICKETS: We have made every effort to keep this event affordable. Tickets for the "VS-DAY" event are only $25.00 per person; Children 12 & Under are only $10.00 each; Children 5 & Under get in for FREE!

PAY ONLINE: If you would like to quickly and securely pay for your BBQ tickets online by credit card or electronic check, please use the "check out" on the RIRA-PAC Web site.

PAY BY CHECK: Please make your personal check payable to "RIRA-PAC." Due to the short time left until "VS-DAY," please e-mail Ray McKay at chair@rirapac.org to RSVP. You can bring your check with you to the event on Saturday. It would greatly help us for planning purposes to know that you're coming!

Funds raised in excess of our costs will go towards helping the Rhode Island Republican Assembly Political Action Committee (RIRA-PAC) support conservative state and local candidates in 2010. Of course, even if you cannot attend this event, we still welcome your financial support! RIRA-PAC is neither affiliated with, nor endorsed by the Rhode Island Republican State Central Committee or any Masonic organization.

Please visit http://rirapac.org/victory for more details or to Register Online ASAP. For all event inquiries, please contact RIRA-PAC Chair Raymond McKay at chair@rirapac.org or (401) 487-2514.

Stepping Outside of Life for The Portsmouth Institute's Catholic William F. Buckley Conference

From Justin:

Back when I was a catechumen in the process of joining the Roman Catholic Church, a priest giving a Holy Week lecture in Fall River spoke of the need to step outside of life periodically in one's search for a closer relationship with God. The lesson applies beyond we who are explicitly religious: The noise of our habits and routines can disguise universals and drown out the wonder of life.

As I recall, the priest was talking about physical dislocation into the desert, but one needn't travel far for the same (or similar) effect. Indeed, I'm expecting much the same opportunity to arise from taking two days off from work and one off from errands this week to attend a conference at the Portsmouth Abbey School hosted by the newly formed Portsmouth Institute, with the help of a list of familiar personages who will address William F. Buckley's work and life and the role of Roman Catholics in intellectual society:

• Rev. George Rutler, Pastor of Our Saviour Church NYC
• Maggie Gallagher, author and nationally syndicated columnist
• Joseph Bottum, Editor, First Things
• Roger Kimball, author and editor of The New Criterion
• E.J. Dionne, author and syndicated columnist
• Kathryn Lopez: Editor, National Review Online
• Lee Edwards, The Heritage Foundation
• Tony Dolan, chief speechwriter for President Ronald Reagan

Other activities during the June 18-21 event include meals, tours of the school's church and wind turbine, and classical concerts by pianist Lawrence Perelman and Portsmouth Abbey faculty. Register online.

The Portsmouth Institute's Catholic William F. Buckley Conference

From Justin:

Next week's highlight, for me and many other attendees, will be the three-and-a-half day conference hosted at the Portsmouth Abbey School by the newly formed Portsmouth Institute. The opportunity to invest some time in the life of the mind is something that most folks who work must normally squeeze into spare moments and is often accomplished in solitude — with a book, on a computer, or in front of the television.

A conference is more of a community event: in this case, listening to and having a chance to meet the roster of speakers who will address William F. Buckley's work and life and the role of Roman Catholics in intellectual society:

• Rev. George Rutler, Pastor of Our Saviour Church NYC
• Maggie Gallagher, author and nationally syndicated columnist
• Joseph Bottum, Editor, First Things
• Roger Kimball, author and editor of The New Criterion
• E.J. Dionne, author and syndicated columnist
• Kathryn Lopez: Editor, National Review Online
• Lee Edwards, The Heritage Foundation
• Tony Dolan, chief speechwriter for President Ronald Reagan

Other activities during the June 18-21 event include meals, tours of the school's church and wind turbine, and classical concerts by pianist Lawrence Perelman and Portsmouth Abbey faculty. Register online.

Perhaps the key reason to attend, however, remains the fact that we don't see these sorts of events that often in Rhode Island, and the founders of the Portsmouth Institute intend to make a regular practice of them. The best way to ensure that they do so — and that other organizations pursue similar offerings — is simply to respond to the opportunity for edification.

The Portsmouth Institute's Catholic William F. Buckley Conference Approaches

From Justin:

We're less than two weeks away from the three-and-a-half day conference hosted at the Portsmouth Abbey School by the newly formed Portsmouth Institute. There's been one change to the roster of speakers who will address William F. Buckley's work and life and the role of Roman Catholics in intellectual society; unable to make an appearance, Christopher Buckley has provided his slot to Tony Dolan, who was a friend of his father's and a speechwriter for President Reagan:

• Rev. George Rutler, Pastor of Our Saviour Church NYC
• Maggie Gallagher, author and nationally syndicated columnist
• Joseph Bottum, Editor, First Things
• Roger Kimball, author and editor of The New Criterion
• E.J. Dionne, author and syndicated columnist
• Kathryn Lopez: Editor, National Review Online
• Lee Edwards, The Heritage Foundation
• Tony Dolan, chief speechwriter for President Ronald Reagan

Other activities during the June 18-21 event include meals, tours of the school's church and wind turbine, and classical concerts by pianist Lawrence Perelman and Portsmouth Abbey faculty. Register online.

As I've said, we don't see these sorts of events that often in Rhode Island, and the founders of the Portsmouth Institute intend to make a regular practice of them. The best way to ensure that they do so — and that other organizations pursue similar offerings — is simply to respond to the opportunity for edification and attend.

Hosting Matters: Reliable, Reasonable Web Hosting

From Justin:

Knowing little about the functioning of the Internet when I entered the online game back at the turn of the millennium, for my first Web host, I went with a company associated with a popular computer brand. The world was less trusting of online correspondence, then, so the availability of phone support was the other key factor in my choice.

I soon learned that a brand name has little to do with reliable uptime, and telephone support typically means long, stressful conversations with lower-tier "specialists" who know how to solve basic problems that you're not having. Sometimes it would take several late-night hours to finally come across somebody who actually had the knowledge to advise on a critical problem.

Soon thereafter, I took the recommendation of another blogger and switched to Hosting Matters. The company offers reasonable, easily expandable packages offering more features than I've yet found reason to explore. When we at Anchor Rising do find something new that we'd like to try, I've always found that the function is already supported. More importantly, the service is very rarely down, and problems with the Web site almost always originated somewhere else in the chain.

Most importantly, the email-based technical support has always produced rapid responses, no matter the urgency level that I claim, and the people who respond — usually the same two women with whom I've been dealing for years — quickly find the problem and know how to fix it. If the "problem" is actually my own lack of knowledge about how to accomplish something, the host's forums and knowledge base often have the answer, and if they don't, the technical support help desk does.

The options for Web hosting are virtually unlimited. The nature of the medium is such that one can go with a company from pretty much anywhere, and there are few obvious reasons to choose one over the other. But there are many reasons that Anchor Rising has remained on the servers at Hosting Matters and is happy to recommend the provider to others.

The Portsmouth Institute's Catholic William F. Buckley Conference

From Justin:

Among the highlights of my summer is likely to be the three-and-a-half day conference hosted at the Portsmouth Abbey School by the newly formed Portsmouth Institute. Taking William F. Buckley as the unifying theme, a series of familiarly named speakers will address Mr. Buckley's work and life and the role of Roman Catholics in intellectual society:

• Rev. George Rutler, Pastor of Our Saviour Church NYC
• Maggie Gallagher, author and nationally syndicated columnist
• Joseph Bottum, Editor, First Things
• Roger Kimball, author and editor of The New Criterion
• E.J. Dionne, author and syndicated columnist
• Kathryn Lopez: Editor, National Review Online
• Lee Edwards, The Heritage Foundation
• Christopher Buckley, author

Other activities during the June 18-21 event include meals, tours of the school's church and wind turbine, and classical concerts by pianist Lawrence Perelman and Portsmouth Abbey faculty. Register online.

At least to my experience, we don't see these sorts of events that often in Rhode Island, and the founders of the Portsmouth Institute intend to make a regular practice of them. The best way to ensure that they do so — and that other organizations pursue similar offerings — is simply to respond to the opportunity for edification and attend.

Introducing the Community Crier

To provide some company for Engaged Citizen, Anchor Rising herewith introduces Community Crier — your opportunity to publish paid content to the site as direct posts. The feature is particularly well suited for:

• Event announcements
• Regular newsletters/roundups
• Press releases
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• Any other content that would benefit from thousands of page views per day

Regular Community Crier rates are as follows:

• $50 for 1 post = $50
• $45 per for 7 posts = $315
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• $20 per for 90 posts = $1,800
• $15 per for 182 posts = $2,730
• $10 per for 365 posts = $3,650

Contact us with any inquiries.

Notes:

• Content and length to be approved on a case-by-case basis.
• All purchased posts to be utilized within a one-year period.
• Limit of one post per day.
• Posts to remain in Anchor Rising's archives until such time as Anchor Rising deems it prudent or necessary to remove them.
• Anchor Rising reserves the right to decline content for any reason.
• Bartering available at Anchor Rising's discretion.