Title: Volunteer Voice 38th Edition Original CoS Document (slug): [[https://conventionofstates.com/volunteer-voice-38th-edition|volunteer-voice-38th-edition]] Login Required to view? No Created: 2023-08-26 19:52:37 Updated: 2023-08-31 22:12:06 Published: 2023-08-31 01:00:00 Converted: 2025-04-14T21:26:43.131325420 ---- **Article V Day: Preserving Liberty through Constitutional Vigilance**\\ \\ By Jim MacDonald\\ \\ Every nation's journey is marked by pivotal moments that shape its destiny. For the United States, September 15, 1787, holds profound significance as the day when George Mason, a staunch advocate of individual liberties, voiced his concerns regarding the potential for federal tyranny and called for a method to amend the Constitution. This day, which we now celebrate as Article V Day, serves as a reminder that the American experiment in self-governance requires continuous vigilance to safeguard the freedoms enshrined in the Constitution. Today, as we reflect on the wisdom of our Founding Fathers, the call-to-action echoes louder than ever, urging Americans to consider invoking Article V and convening a convention of states to address the challenges of our time.\\ \\ Article V of the United States Constitution empowers citizens to initiate a constitutional amendment process to safeguard against an overreaching federal government. George Mason's impassioned plea for a method to revise the Constitution was rooted in the Founders' profound understanding of human nature and the potential for power to corrupt. As history has shown, the framers' foresight was exceptional. They understood that liberty, once secured, must be diligently protected from the encroachments of power and potential tyranny.\\ \\ Two centuries later, our nation faces challenges that demand a renewed commitment to constitutional principles. The debates surrounding states' rights, fiscal responsibility, individual liberties, and the balance of power between federal and state governments underscore the need for a modern-day conversation on constitutional amendments. Article V Day serves as a rallying point for all Americans who believe in the principles of limited government, individual freedom, and the necessity of a balanced system of checks and balances.\\ \\ Today, as we confront complex issues such as the scope of federal regulations, the size of government, electoral reforms, and the protection of individual rights, it is imperative to consider invoking Article V and convening a convention of states. This process, enshrined in the Constitution, allows state representatives to gather and propose amendments that address contemporary challenges.\\ \\ It's important to note that invoking Article V and convening a convention of states is not a decision to be taken lightly. It requires a concerted effort and a broad consensus among states. However, the Founders wisely included this mechanism to ensure that the Constitution remains a living document, capable of adapting to changing times while preserving its core values.\\ \\ The spirit of Article V Day calls for unity beyond political lines. It challenges us to transcend partisan divides and work collectively towards solutions that enhance the principles of liberty and self-governance. By engaging in a meaningful dialogue about the relevance of constitutional amendments in today's context, we honor the legacy of George Mason and the other framers who envisioned a nation where citizens are empowered to shape their destiny.\\ \\ As we celebrate Article V Day, let us reflect on the enduring wisdom of George Mason's call for vigilance against federal tyranny. Let us recognize that our commitment to liberty and preserving constitutional principles requires action, not mere rhetoric. In the spirit of our Founding Fathers, let us rise above differences and engage in a constructive conversation about the challenges we face as a nation. By considering the invocation of Article V and convening a convention of states, we embrace the legacy of those who built this great nation and paved the way for a stronger, more resilient America. {{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72301/72301_original.jpg?300x36}} Alaska Public Media {{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72328/72328_original.jfif?688x346|Alaska Public Media}} **TVA Plans to Build Methane Power Plant in Ashland City, TN.**\\ \\ By Brian Harris\\ \\ The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is moving forward with its intention to build a methane gas power plant in rural Cheatham County, TN. The proposed site is a 286-acre parcel of land that it quietly acquired in 2020. The site, nestled among the rolling hills and farms outside of Ashland City, is adjacent to Sycamore and Spring Creek. Local residents are rightly concerned about the impact of a gas power plant located in their backyard. Water quality, air quality, wildlife, and property values are just some of the things that will be affected.\\ \\ The proposed plant is part of the TVA’s decarbonization plans. As they shut down coal-fired facilities, they need to develop electricity from other sources. The proposed plant will also require the construction of a 12-mile pipeline, as the gas to be used at the plant will come from remote sources. Property owners could lose out to eminent domain. Interestingly, only a small portion of the 286-acre site is slated for the methane plant, and it is suspected that a modular nuclear reactor could be built on the site in the future.\\ \\ Also, a sore spot for locals is that the ultimate recipient of the power generated from the proposed plant will be residents of Nashville.\\ \\ Local government and residents are starting to band together in an effort to stop the TVA plan. The Ashland City Council and Cheatham County Commission have adopted resolutions opposing the construction of this methane plant. The Town of Pleasant View also passed a unanimous resolution opposing the plant. These measures are mostly symbolic but are a sign of solidarity. Last summer, Governor Lee signed into law bills (SB2077/HB2246) that would prohibit local governments from stopping this type of development. Whose interests are being served by the passage of such a law?\\ \\ All customers within the TVA footprint should be concerned about what TVA plans to do in their communities. From what I can gather it appears that the TVA is in debt to the tune of around $20 billion dollars. The TVA operates off of the sale of electricity as well as the sale of institutional bonds. If one were to dig into the bondholders, you may find an explanation for some of the questionable policies that the TVA has adopted. Net zero carbon emissions by 2050, DEI, and ESG are buzzwords that can be found when browsing the TVA website.\\ \\ The proposed Cheatham County methane plant is one of many that TVA intends to build across the state. You need to investigate what the TVA has in store for your community and take action. {{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72302/72302_original.jpg?300x36}} **{{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72339/72339_original.jpg?647x409}}** **Overcoming a Corrupt Two-Tier Justice System through Convention of States**\\ \\ By Jim MacDonald\\ \\ In the tapestry of our collective conscience, the threads of justice and righteousness are woven with timeless significance. Amid the present circumstances in the United States, the echoes of Amos 5:24, Proverbs 21:15, and Isaiah 61:8 reverberate urgently, demanding that justice surges as water and righteousness flow ceaselessly. However, the stark reality of an entrenched two-tier justice system has cast a cloud over the nation’s ideals, posing a threat of unprecedented magnitude.\\ \\ Proverbs 21:15’s proclamation of justice as a joy to the righteous and a terror to evildoers has transformed into a haunting reminder of the nation’s state. The alarming rise of a two-tier justice system—one for the connected elite and another for the marginalized—has entrenched corruption, eroded public trust, and undermined the foundational principles of fairness and accountability.\\ \\ The stark contrast between those who desire to “fundamentally change America” and the America-loving patriots in legal proceedings has eroded faith in the very institutions designed to uphold justice.\\ \\ //“For I, the Lord, love justice; I hate robbery and wrongdoing…”—//Isaiah 61:8\\ \\ As Isaiah 61:8 resounds against robbery and injustice, the nation grapples with a justice system that favors those with influence while failing to protect and empower the non-desirables adequately.\\ \\ The corroding effects of a two-tier justice system have potentially catastrophic consequences for the nation. It ruptures the very fabric of the social contract that binds citizens and government, eroding the essence of the American experiment. The glaring injustice of unequal treatment—where the connected elites escape unscathed while ordinary citizens face the full brunt of the law—fans the flames of division and resentment, pushing the nation perilously close to the brink of turmoil.\\ \\ Faced with the gravity of a compromised justice system, the imperative to reclaim the nation’s integrity grows urgent. Enter Convention of States—a powerful mechanism embedded within the Constitution to reassert the sovereignty of states and recalibrate the balance of power between the federal and state governments. This constitutional remedy offers a ray of hope in the darkness, potentially enabling a reset of the federal government to its original intent. For instance, amendments could be written to reduce the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, reducing or eliminating many factions of the deep state. Amendments placing term limits on the lifetime appointed judges could weed out many of the corrupt judges. Amendments imposing fiscal restraints could reduce the bankroll of corrupt politicians.     Amidst the sad realities, the Convention of States emerges as a clarion call to action. It signifies the nation’s resolve to counteract the corrosive influence of a two-tier justice system and restore the values that once defined it. By harnessing this constitutional tool, citizens can initiate the rebirth of a system that embodies fairness, accountability, and the spirit of the Constitution.\\ \\ The scriptures that have guided humanity’s moral compass for centuries beckon us to confront the present disarray with unflinching resolve. The specter of a two-tier justice system looms as a gathering storm, threatening to tear apart the very essence of the nation. Convention of States Action stands as a beacon of hope, offering a means to dismantle the chains of corruption and reinstate justice’s impartial flow.\\ \\ The urgency is unmistakable. The system’s corruption is a force that could undermine the very foundations of the United States. In our hands lies the power to rewrite this bleak narrative. The Convention of States Action holds the potential to restore justice and redefine it, ensuring that it remains a driving force of unity, strength, and integrity. Let justice surge like an unwavering torrent, sweeping away the taint of corruption and revitalizing the nation’s promise. {{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72303/72303_original.jpg?300x36}} **{{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72340/72340_original.jpg?583x610}}** **Money - The Root of All Evil?**\\ \\ By Dana Ives\\ \\ Man was destined to embrace a monetary system. In a civil society that isn’t based on a slave economy, some form of exchange is necessary so that the farmer could sell the food he grew to purchase the plowshare that he lacked the skills to build himself. A government that seeks to protect its citizens from invasion shops the market for military hardware that is the “best bang for the buck.” Ordinary working stiffs who specialize in technical careers have to purchase food because they’re lousy farmers (me). A monetary system embraced by everyone in our modern world is critical to maintaining freedom, stability, and peace. Without a stable monetary system, chaos would reign, especially considering the advancements in technology we’ve experienced. Various factions now manipulate the monetary system to their advantage. The Federal Reserve, Nixon (going off the gold standard in 1971), the CCP, Nigeria, Russia, and the EU are all manipulating fiat currency (paper money without ANY intrinsic value only has value if laws back it). To avoid currency value fluctuations without forsaking the use of a convenient fiat currency, the consumer only had one alternative, and that was to use a barter system…until a decentralized currency called Bitcoin came along. I’m not going to go into the mechanics of Bitcoin or any other digital currency but suffice it to say digital currencies are viable alternatives to traditional monetary systems.\\ \\ Back to a fiat currency for a moment. An underpinning of a fiat currency’s stability is the user’s FAITH in the currency’s stability. Inherent to using cash for financial transactions was a certain amount of privacy that most people don’t appreciate these days. If an Argentinian thinks his native currency’s getting pretty shaky, and assuming his government doesn’t prevent it, he can purchase US dollars with a slightly better history of maintaining value. Do you have faith in the US dollar? Do you think it will retain its value over the years? Well, you may not like this, but today’s US dollar is now only worth 2⅔ cents compared to its value in 1900. But, using cash still carries a certain level of privacy.\\ \\ Decreasing purchasing power (value) is one issue with fiat currency. While fiat currency allowed the convenience of rapid transactions, a second issue arose when people carrying a large amount of cash became robbery targets. A convenient alternative was then offered during the mid-20th century in the form of a credit card, and it became a rapidly growing means to pay for goods while offering the safety of not having to carry any cash. Credit cards are issued by various financial companies that incidentally collect a vast amount of personal information on the credit card user. The financial status of the credit card holder, purchase date, location, amount, good(s) paid for, etc., allowed purchasing patterns of the credit card user to be gleaned and used for marketing purposes.\\ \\ Coincidentally, and should it be deemed necessary, the government could access those records to build a prosecution case against a criminal suspect. Federal laws restrict the use of this information, but privacy is almost non-existent these days.\\ \\ Okay, the credit card companies have all this information waiting to be exploited. But the government has to have just cause to access that information before the credit card companies have to reveal it. A tyrannical government certainly cannot be denied that information; how would it be able to control its deplorable, unwashed, ignorant country bumpkin citizens? And what is a government that supposedly adheres to principles of equal application of the law to do? Let me introduce to you the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).\\ \\ The World Economic Forum is a group led by Professor Klaus Schwab who happens to hold several degrees (economics, engineering, and public administration). One of the goals of the WEF is to convince national governments of the wisdom of adopting a CBDC. Concurrent with the WEF’s goal, is the World Health Organization’s push for a digital health card that keeps track of one’s vaccinations. The link goes to a document that suggests resources for “implementers.” This digital ID (DID) can then be used by authorities to allow or deny the citizen access to public transportation, public facilities, government offices and services, etc.\\ \\ Now, it needs not to be said, but I’m saying it anyway: There is a boatload of data on these two items (CBDC and the DID) will contain that is incredibly invasive. I submit these two items alone will grant unprecedented access into the private lives of ALL citizens. Here are just a few ways these two Tyrannical powers can use innocuous items: (I’ll start with the CBDC and then the DID):\\ \\ **CBDC** * Purchasing choices - health clubs, alcohol, puppies, restaurants, food types, veterinary services, vacations, fuel type of car (are you taking steps to limit your personal carbon footprint?), flatulent cattle, weapons where you made the purchase, body armor, computer repair services, fireworks, prescription drugs… * Wealth status, net worth * Tax burden and income * Donations to charities and political action groups * Education goals, books, music * Home purchases All of the above can be cataloged by requiring citizens to use the CBDC. And since it’s centrally controlled by the government, the government can establish the value of the tokens that comprise the CBDC. With a mere line of computer code, the government can devalue at will, can confiscate at will (with no remorse, the Canadian government froze protesters’ assets last year), freeze your assets if thou “protesteth” too much. And can ruin your life by denying you access to your MONEY, even when you need it most, to pay a lawyer to defend you because you were arrested at a protest in front of an abortion clinic while exercising your 1st amendment right.\\ \\ **DID** * Verify you’re in compliance with vaccine mandates * Control your travel, be it domestic or international * Limit your interactions with the public (home lockdown) - don’t scoff; the Australians did it, and the CCP did it even as people starved to death Don’t forget that the CCP has adopted Social Credit Scores through various means. The CBDC and the DID are probably the most treacherous and seductive ways of controlling citizens. The WEF seeks to dictate WORLD policy to subservient national governments. The WHO seeks to dictate WORLD policies on health, all in the name of making the planet a safer place. No matter how it’s painted by the WEF and WHO, they’re not benevolent - it’s POWER they seek.\\ \\ Our efforts and commitment to Convention of States can defend against these assaults on our God-given rights. Keep up your energy and your dedication. The COSA is the only non-violent choice to effect change in our federal government’s policies. {{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72305/72305_original.jpg?300x36}} {{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72335/72335_original.jpeg?658x383}} **Unveiling the Heart of Change: Claire Root’s Inspiring Journey with Convention of States**\\ \\ By Jim MacDonald\\ \\ In a world beset by uncertainty and division, some individuals stand as beacons of hope, fighting for change with unwavering determination. One such individual is Claire Root, a passionate soul who has dedicated her life to the cause of the Convention of States. With a heart aflame with love for her country and an unyielding commitment to its betterment, Claire’s journey is a testament to the power of one person’s conviction to spark a movement that can shape the future of a nation.\\ \\ Claire’s voyage into the world of the Convention of States began with a book – Mark Levin’s “The Liberty Amendments.” The ideas within its pages struck a chord with her, resonating deeply with the principles she held dear. Her alignment with these principles extended beyond politics, as she deeply connected with her husband in their political views and religious beliefs. Their bond remained steadfast until her husband’s passing in August 2014, leaving her to carry on their shared passion alone.\\ \\ In December of the same year, Claire’s commitment crystallized as she signed the Convention of States petition. This initial step led her to a pivotal meeting in Nashville, where she crossed paths with like-minded patriots, including Toni Clay and Norman Bobo. In that room, Claire’s heart found a new home amidst the camaraderie and shared ideals. Convention of States became more than a cause; it became a purpose.\\ \\ What sets Claire apart is her dedication and ability to envision a greater impact. Fueled by the belief that frequent gatherings could unite advocates more effectively than infrequent statewide meetings, Claire became an{{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72336/72336_original.jpeg?290x154}} advocate for more regular and widespread events. She embodied the spirit of collaboration, attending every meeting she could and engaging with leaders like Norman Bobo. Her persistence paid off when she was appointed a district captain in April 2015, a testament to her tenacity and leadership.\\ \\ Before her journey with the Convention of States, Claire’s life had already overflowed with accomplishments. She pursued Animal Science studies at Mississippi State University for 2.5 years before graduating from the University of Georgia with a degree in Mathematical Statistics. Her professional journey led her to a 30-year stint as a General Engineer for the Army Missile Command and Missile Defense Command, embodying the spirit of service in a different capacity.\\ \\ Through the highs and lows of life, Claire remained steadfast. After her first husband’s passing, she embraced the role of a single mother, raising her children for eight years before finding love again with her second husband, Denis. Claire’s love knows no bounds, as she is a mother to her own children and a stepmother to others. With 15 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, her family is a testament to her nurturing spirit.\\ \\ But there’s more to Claire than her roles as a mother and engineer. Her heart beats for the land as she proudly proclaims herself a farmer. Agriculture has always been her passion; she has tended to a cattle business even as a single mother. Today, Claire cares for five horses of her own and another as a boarder. This deep connection to the earth echoes her commitment to the principles she fights for through the Convention of States.\\ \\ Ask Claire about her hobbies, and she’ll smile and say, “COS.” But her dedication extends beyond this noble cause. She is an active member of {{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72337/72337_original.jpeg?254x197}}her church, devoting her time to its various missions. Claire’s faith and activism intertwine, exemplifying her holistic approach to life and her commitment to making a positive impact wherever she goes.\\ \\ When questioned about the state of America, Claire’s wisdom shines. She acknowledges the nation’s history of resilience but notes a shift in recent times. Her concerns touch upon societal values and the importance of freedom. Taking the Bible out of schools marked a turning point for Claire, emphasizing the need to rekindle moral foundations. Her solution is simple yet profound: standing by the First Amendment and reintroducing the Bible to schools, a step she believes is crucial in rediscovering the nation’s compass.\\ \\ Claire’s heart beats in sync with the Convention of States movement. Her enthusiasm is infectious, spreading awareness wherever she treads. Her rallying cry? She has a fervent desire to repeal the 17th Amendment and amend the 16th while also voicing her desire to see Woodrow Wilson’s influence diminished. After years of dedicated service, Claire remains as passionate as ever, holding her role as a District Captain close to her heart and cherishing the collaborative spirit of her team, especially fellow volunteer, Joyce Reed.\\ \\ Yet, Claire’s involvement doesn’t stop at conventions and meetings. Her commitment extends to nurturing the next generation. She supports the{{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72338/72338_original.jpeg?286x177}} 917 Society, a testament to her belief in educating young minds about their constitutional rights. She has delivered Constitutions to 8th graders for several years, planting the seeds of awareness and empowerment in their minds.\\ \\ As the dream of a Convention of States nears reality, Claire’s vision for a better America remains unwavering. Her aspirations are grand: term limits, salary reductions for leadership, and the dissolution of public employees’ unions. Her dreams resonate with her commitment to a nation built on accountability and fiscal responsibility principles.\\ \\ In Claire’s eyes, the path forward is clear: America must awaken, unite, and embrace the potential for change that the Convention of States offers. Reflecting on the recent years of turbulence, she emphasizes the need for awareness and understanding. Claire Root stands as a living testament to the power of one individual to catalyze change. Her journey is a reminder that every voice matters, every effort counts, and every heart ignited can contribute to the transformation of a nation. {{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72307/72307_original.jpg?300x36}} **Tennessee on the Move...** Patriot from Ashland City, TN. {{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72593/72593_original.jpg?376x233}} Patriots from Dayton, TN.  {{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72342/72342_original.jpg?300x139}}{{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72343/72343_original.jpg?300x136}}{{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72344/72344_original.jpg?300x149}}{{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72346/72346_original.jpg?300x203}} Patriots from Hixson, TN.  {{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72345/72345_original.jpg?300x237}} Patriots from Sevierville, TN. {{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72347/72347_original.jpg?300x194}} Patriots from Shelbyville & Fayetteville, TN {{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72485/72485_original.jpeg?400x219}} Patriots from Tullahoma, TN.  {{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72348/72348_original.jpg?300x409}} Patriots from White House {{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72349/72349_original.jpg?300x286}} {{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72308/72308_original.jpg?300x36}} **Upcoming Meetings and Events** **Ashland City, TN.** Tuesday, September 12th, 2023, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Bethlehem Community Center,1506 SR-12 N. Ashland City, TN. 37015, Debbie MacDonald **Dayton, TN.** Thursday, September 14th, 2023, from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. at Monkey Town Brewery 287 1st Ave., Dayton TN. 37321 Jay Walling\\ \\ **Decatur, TN.** Saturday, September 23rd, 2023, from 10:45 to 12:15 p.m. at the Decatur Family diner 17315 SR-58, Decatur, TN. 37322 Meet & Greet with Jay Walling \\ \\ **Hixson, TN.** Friday, September 22nd, 2023, from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. at the Rib & Loin Restaurant, 5435 Hwy 153, Hixson, TN. 37343 - Meet and Greet - Jay Walling \\ \\ **Jamestown, TN.** Saturday, September 9th, 2023, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at Fentress County Courthouse, 101 N. Main St, Jamestown, TN. Larry Wilke\\ \\ **Loudon, TN.** 1st Wednesday of every month at the Chota Rec Center 145 Awohili Dr., Loudon, TN 37774, Room D from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. - Call Terri Hult for more information: 865-304-6997 \\ \\ **McMinnville, TN.** Saturday, September 9th, 2023, from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. at Magness Library COS Meeting, 118 W. Main St. McMinnville, TN. 37110, Doug Hill & Jay Walling \\ \\ **Murfreesboro, TN.** Saturday, September 16th, 2023 from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Unity Freewill Baptist 1901 Florence Rd. Murfreesboro TN. 37129 Richard and Linda Black\\ \\ **Powell, TN.** Saturday, September 9th, 2023, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. at Shoney’s on Emory Rd. Powell, or second Saturday of each month, Anne Martin and Dan Mobley \\ \\ **Sevierville, TN.** Saturday, September 9th, 2023 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. Block Walking, Call Christine Solomon for location 832-868-3674\\ \\ **Sevier County, TN.** Saturday, September 16th, 2023 from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. Sevier County CourtHouse, Live Reading of the Constitution \\ \\ **Sevierville, TN.** Saturday, September 16th, 2023 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. King Family Library 408 High St. Sevierville, call Christine Solomon at 832-868-3674 for more information\\ \\ **Shelbyville, TN.** Saturday, September 23rd, 2023, 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Shelbyville-Bedford County Library, 220 South Jefferson St., Shelbyville, TN 37160 Claire Root and Joyce Reed\\ \\ **BattleCry,** Join Mark Meckler for the BattleCry every Sunday night at 8:00 p.m. EST on Facebook and Rumble. \\ \\ For the most up to date schedule, go to the calendar on our Tennessee website: www.conventionofstates.com/tennessee \\ \\ {{https://content.conventionofstates.com/cosaction-prod/public/content/images/72309/72309_original.jpg?300x36}}