In order to clear up the misconceptions that some people have, the following are the core beliefs of the Tea Party.

The Tea Party believes in fiscal responsibility. A failing economy, unsustainable entitlement programs, lack of transparency and accountability and a financial crisis awakened people to the need for fiscal responsibility in our government.

We traveled to Clayton, Ga., last week to attend a presentation featuring “The Transition Movement.” This movement started in Ireland, spread to the U.K. and is now being discussed in the U.S. Transition Towns are those that promote reduced energy consumption and less outside dependence on goods such as food and clothing. Victor Harris of Long Creek, S.C., was the presenter. He showed excerpts from the movie “The End of Suburbia” and then led a discussion on weaning ourselves from oil. There is consensus that oil has “peaked.” He asked for suggestions on what we as concerned citizens should do to facilitate a more sustainable community.

The Staff and Board of Directors of the Franklin Chamber of Commerce wants to thank everyone who helped to make the 3rd Annual Mountain High BBQ Festival and Car Show such a huge success.

Our sponsors continue to support us each year. This festival would not be possible without your support. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Now that our schools in western North Carolina are underway, it is time to take a look at the devastating impact of the Republican-led state budget on public education in our region. It is also important that a challenge be rendered to the rhetoric advocated by the Republican leadership and particularly by the State Senator from this district, Jim Davis.