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The Ramey Guide To Elective Office For Men, Part 7 By Mike Ramey
https://www.theblacklist.net/profiles/blogs/the-ramey-guide-to-elective-office-for-men-part-7-by-mike-ramey
2019-11-16T15:37:36.000Z
2019-11-16T15:37:36.000Z
Mike Ramey
https://www.theblacklist.net/members/MikeRamey
<div><p></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Here’s my opening quote for our time together: “Politics will improve before the American public, as more and more honorable and upright men fill the ranks of public servants.” I trust that I have given an upright man the inspiration to step into the ring, and run for public office.</span></p><p> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Your fellow citizens need you…especially in these last days.</span></p><p> <span style="font-size:12pt;">One of the best pieces of advice I got in terms of living the Christian life in a fallen society came from the late Pastor E. V. Hill. In one of his messages on the truths of being a Christian, Hill noted that even though one is saved by grace, they were still wrapped up in their own skin, and would not be ‘perfect’ until either they died, or the Rapture of the church. Thus, while one was saved, they would--at times--come up short. Hill reminded his congregation and the audience listening to the broadcast that God was not through with the believer, even in those times when they did not act in a Christian manner. The same may also be said for the Christian entering the realm of politics.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Brother, you will be challenged in ways that you would NOT believe.</span></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">BOLD SINNERS AND WIMPY SAINTS:</span><br /><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Before a man becomes a Christian and after the conversion experience where Jesus Christ becomes Lord of his life; life is going to ‘rub up against’ him, but in a different manner. True, you are still in the same body, but your soul and spirit have been changed. And, as you feed your spirit the Word of God, and grow and mature in the grace of God, you will develop the wisdom needed to meet different types of people where they are, and become ‘salt and light’ to them.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Keep this in mind. There are only two types of people in this world, according to the Bible: Sinners and Saints. Saints are those who have had the conversion experience and yielded themselves to Jesus Christ. Sinners are those who have not yielded themselves to Christ.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> We are living in an age where those sinners who are in their various sins are bold about staying in them. Nevertheless, it is not important where the sinner stands or what they may feel; it is important that you let them know where YOU stand! Do NOT let them convert you; let your light so shine that YOU impact them, and cause them to glorify God.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> There is NO room for compromise. No wimpy Christians allowed. Period.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Brothers, the mockers and scoffers will rage. Read Psalm 1 about it. You are going to be working with and for sinners who are trapped in the sins of homosexuality, adultery, greed, lust, witchcraft, false religions and a variety of other sins. Some of them will be satisfied to remain in their sins, and they will hate YOU for being a righteous man in a firm relationship with God. Some of them may be in your OWN political party. Let your light shine, stand your ground, and let your good works show off the God of your salvation.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> A cartoon once published by the late Jack Chick underscores my point. A line of people were seen in a store run by a Christian businessman. One man remarked to another man in line--which I will paraphrase: “Yeah, I hate this Christian…but he’s the ONLY honest guy in town!”</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Make sure that YOU are on the job for Christ. YOU are his representative in the political arena. Like the old folks used to say: “YOU are the only Bible that many people will ever READ!”</span></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">NOW HEAR THIS: NOT EVERYONE CAN GO WITH YOU:</span><br /><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Here’s another one of ‘those’ points I want to put before us this day, and it is a sore point that needs to be stated. Not everyone who is on your present crew is going to make the trip with you, when God wants to raise you to the next level.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Some of those who won’t be making the trip? Fellow Christians.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> I remember a preacher who had to battle jealousy in the ministry commenting on this same issue a few years back. He was well aware of the fact that fellow preachers-- even fellow Christians--were envious of the growth of his ministry. The preacher put it into perspective: “I’m doing what God told me to do. If YOU were doing what God told YOU to do, you wouldn’t have time to be jealous of me.”</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> I’ll make it plain. Not all of your prayer partners are going to be happy when God gets ready to give you a new vision AND a new field of victory. It might be a new job; a new spouse, or a new career venture--like politics. Be aware that some--if not all--of your old friends may not be making the trip up the ladder with you. Let them go, with genuine Christian love. Be aware of the fact that the Lord will have a new crew ready to head to the next level. He will hand pick them AND they will be encouragers FOR you!</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Here’s a footnote for preachers especially…not every man who ‘claim’ to be a preacher has a firm relationship with Jesus Christ. By their fruits ye shall know them. Thus, check their walk with Galatians 5; the works of the flesh and the fruit of the spirit. </span> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Yes, it will hurt to lose the familiar. However, it’s on them…not on you.</span></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">MOVING ON: TO DEBATE…OR NOT</span><br /><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Let’s be honest. Challenging the incumbent to a debate is not the wise thing for a challenger to do. Why? They have the advantage. Having them challenge YOU to a debate? They are running scared, and view you as a legitimate threat. Here’s a tip: It is always best to let a third party, such as a local, regional, or even news organization arrange a debate for you. YOU concentrate on your campaign, pressing the flesh, shaking hands and kissing babies.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> IF you wind up in a debate situation with the opposition candidate(s), here are a few tips that might help you:</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> 1. Know the issues, but be yourself. If you get ‘zinged’ remember that you can quickly recover (this is something to plan on).</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> 2. Keep your answers short and sweet. Let your opponent make the simple complex. People admire candidates that can make the complex simple. Doubt me? Listen to Rush Limbaugh’s radio show. Develop your skills as a ‘solutions man’, meaning that you can focus your idea(s) into a concise phrase or information nugget. Men who are about solutions instead of forever talking will get the attention of voters.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> 3. Keep a few issues ‘up your sleeve’, as the moderator may ‘switch’ previously agreed upon topics. Be firm, friendly, polite and clear. Be courageous. Be bold. Know why you have taken the steps to run for your office. Potential voters enjoy a man who knows where HE stands on the issues.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> 4. Enter a debate with the understanding that the moderator or host of the debate may be ‘in the bag’ for your opponent(s). You are not going to get a level or fair playing field. Plan on this, right from the gate.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> 5. A debate is an extension of the political process, NOT the entire process by itself. IF you have done your prayer work, your street work, your campaign work, and have your team in your corner, a good debate will be little more than a mop-up operation.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> 6. Debates usually happen towards the end of the campaign season, including October surprises. Thus, you will have MORE than enough time to get ready for one, should one (or more) arise. The bigger the office, the more the chance that you will be engaged in a debate.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size:12pt;"> 7. Lastly, the Christian man leans on the Scriptures, and the God of the Bible. Some of the best prayers in the Bible between God and his servants contain nuggets of wisdom. Jesus Christ himself mastered debate strategy, timing and tactics. One does not take on the Sanhedrin Council, Kings, and potentates without knowing and understanding their mental makeup and vocal abilities. Be ready to quote favorite Bible characters, principles and verses…when needed.</span></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">INTO THE RING--HAT FIRST:</span><br /><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Back to the action. After two years in the political ‘salt mines’, it was time to make that step up to candidate. Since I had paid my dues, it wasn’t that long before downtown gave me the nod to run for a local council seat on the Republican ticket against a veteran Democrat incumbent whom I knew. It was a two step process. I had to secure the party’s nomination in the primary election, then win the general election in order to win the office that I was seeking. I was tagged as the ‘official’ candidate for my party through a slating process--meaning that I was ‘the one’ who was going to get the party’s support, thus I would be uncontested in the primary. It also allowed me to get more face time within the party ranks, and focus my energies on the upcoming general election.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> I got an education on politics that I did NOT find in a book. And, yes, I did read a LOT of books! I still do! I might as well be plain at this point in time about politics, and being a Christian. The further along you grow into the political life, the MORE that you will likely run into betrayal and ‘the double shuffle’.</span> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">It could come from OUTSIDE of your political party, or INSIDE. Just be ready for it when it comes your way, in your campaign. Someone is going to do you dirty, either by accident--or deliberately. The reason(s) will not matter. You will be scourged by some of the very people to whom you have been giving your own sweat, blood and tears. To whom you have given your loyalty. To whom you may have spent late at night, over coffee, trying to put their lives on the right track.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Oh, those days of betrayal will be brutal. You will be ignored. Your phone calls will go unreturned. Get used to the fact. Success has many fathers; failure is an orphan…and the underdog is not valued very much, until he become a ‘golden achiever’.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> President Donald J. Trump said it best: “Relish the opportunity to be an outsider, because it’s the outsiders who change the world and who make a real and lasting difference.”</span> <br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> From a biblical point of view Jesus Christ called the twelve apostles, and KNEW that one of them was a devil. His name was Judas. Not only did Judas walk with the Lord and watch the miracles performed and the gospel preached…he had a prominent part IN the ministry. Judas sold our Lord out for 30 pieces of silver. Don’t think that someone along the political road won’t do the same to you--and for a lot less. Some of them may actually be a part of the body of believers, and will be working for the other side--or themselves. Another piece of advice from Pastor Hill: “Be prayerful…but be careful.” KNOW with whom you are on the battlefield of politics.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Above all, do NOT be surprised…when enemies surface off the port bow.</span></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">FIRE IN THE BELLY:</span><br /><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Here are a few reasons why one should NOT run for political office:</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> 1. You have a lust for power, money, fame, or the opposite sex.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> 2. You feel ‘entitled’ to the position because of your works for the party.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> 3. You have a big bank account.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> 4. You are surrounded by ‘yes men’ or ‘yes women’ who say you should run.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> 5. You have NOT checked with God.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Running for elective office, especially for the Christian man, is a marathon, not a sprint. You MUST have a sustained ‘fire in the belly’ in order to run. What do I mean by this? Simply stated, you--as an office seeker--must believe deep down that you have a solid platform of ideas and proposals to do the job you for which you are running.</span> <br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Yes, it is far easier to candidate rather than to govern. Yes, it is easier to dig up dirt on your opponent and fling mud like an artist. Yes, it is easier to tell what the incumbent is NOT doing, rather than what you CAN do. However, in order to WIN at the polls (and in your own campaign) there is going to come a time in your evaluation process where you are going to have to have a solid, plain vision of what you want to accomplish on the WAY to the office AND once you WIN the office.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> People WANT to vote FOR someone, rather than AGAINST someone. IF you can summarize your reasons for running for office in a few short paragraphs and a few lines that are easy to remember, it makes your candidacy more exciting, and your message clearer to understand.</span></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">LOSERS WANTED--FOR EXPERIMENTATION:</span><br /><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Now, IF you are a minister, pastor, or a regular Christian, you are going to have to weigh your steps carefully. Politics and the pulpit are two different animals. Nevertheless, let it be understood that ministers and pastors USED to be very much involved in the politics of the nation, state, or local city. We have been hoodwinked to believe--mainly due to the unsaved and sinners in our midst--that all Christians should do is keep their mouths shut, pay their taxes, and relegate their ‘religion’ to church services. “Let someone else run the affairs of state.” We are told.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> How’s THAT been working out, bunky? Higher crime, higher taxes, and higher immorality. Yes, I believe that the pagans have gotten what they have wanted--freedom FROM religion--but they have also gotten freedom from God’s blessings, AND are trying to make the Church and Christians feel ashamed for telling the world what was going to happen IF they decided to kick God out of their business.</span> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">In short? The world wants the Christian to clean up its mess, and not complain.</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Please remember this brothers: “What God does not control, He will not bless.”</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> One of my previous careers was that of being a Probation Officer with my county juvenile court. I was a part of a unit that I called: “The Bounty Hunters Squad”. In short, when WE had clients who violated the terms of their probation, they were heading to ONE place…upstate to Boys or Girls School, and the Indiana Department of Corrections.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Oh, you should have heard some of the complaints that I got from some of my clients about ‘being all up in their business’. “Well,” I used to explain, “had YOU not committed any crimes, I wouldn’t be mandated by the court to be sitting here going over your probation paperwork.”</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> YOU, brother, determine who gets into your campaign, and who does not.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> YOU are the gatekeeper.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> One of the risks that a candidate will have to take once they go public and aim for party support is that the political powers-that-be (and others) will attempt to saddle you with advisors and staff who will want to ‘run’ your campaign, in exchange for financial backing. A word of advice: WATCH whom you let into your political campaign! God will send you the workers AND the funds for the office that you seek, IF you remember to place HIM squarely first, spend the time in prayer and keep in the Word.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Your inner circle should be composed of people who are Christians, whom you trust and are already on board with your vision. No one whom you do not vet personally should be allowed to pass the gates of your campaign (or your business, ministry, etc.). If I may, the scriptures hold that there are times to share your vision with people, and a time when you share your vision with God alone. There is a season to talk, and a season to shut up.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> The key? Know what season that you are in!</span></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">JUST YOU AND THE LORD:</span><br /><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Nehemiah, in his efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem is a case in point. He had to spend time with the Lord daily, in order to get the plan in place for the successful completion of his assignment. In fact, when he first arrived to survey the damages to Jerusalem, Nehemiah spend time alone with his donkey, just surveying, and praying…making mental notes as to what needed to be done.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Brother, do YOU have that time of insight for your campaign…away from the polls and the hangers-on? Can YOU clearly state why you are running for office? Are YOU prepared to do that marathon, even though you may be running by yourself for a part of the election season? One of the things that I have observed over the years is that all political parties will oftentimes ‘recommend’ people of leadership to ‘take the reins’ of new campaigns and new candidates. IF the new candidate loses then the ‘plant’ gets the experience, and the candidate gets the blame. IF by a miracle the new candidates wins, the ‘plant’ and downtown get the credit for the victory, even though the candidate did all of the heavy lifting. It’s kind of like the old joke: “The operation was a success…even though the patient DIED!”</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> A good friend of mine once quipped: “It is far better to learn the LESSON of the Crash Test Dummy, rather than BEING the Crash Test Dummy.” Let the Lord send along the help that you need. HE will open doors and give you favor that you never imagined possible. Prayerfully, you can take what you have read about in this series and move on to victory! As John Quincy Adams once said: “Duty is ours…Results are God’s”! More to come.</span><br /> <br /><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Mike Ramey is a Minister, Modern Street Gangs Specialist, Political Consultant and Syndicated Columnist who lives in Indianapolis, Indiana. “Ramey‘s Guide To Elective Office For Men” is one of a variety of columns that Ramey has in cyberspace. His address is still the same: manhoodline@yahoo.com. ©2019 Barnstorm Communications. (7)</span></p></div>
Ramey's Guide To Elective Office For Men by Mike Ramey (5)
https://www.theblacklist.net/profiles/blogs/ramey-s-guide-to-elective-office-for-men-by-mike-ramey-5
2019-10-31T01:18:42.000Z
2019-10-31T01:18:42.000Z
Mike Ramey
https://www.theblacklist.net/members/MikeRamey
<div><p></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> A true story to lead off in our batting cage warm-up session.</span></p><p><br /><span style="font-size:12pt;"> A young man, out for his first political office, won the primary and defeated his challenger from within his party by a two-to-one margin. He was looking forward to taking a few weeks off and resting up for the campaign trail to the general election in November. Life--and his party--had other plans. The incumbent of his party that held the seat he was campaigning for suddenly resigned, and vacated the seat.</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Remember how I mentioned in an earlier writing of the importance of the Precinct Committeemen? PCs have an additional function…THEY are the ones who meet in caucus to select candidates to fill any elective office vacancies held by their party.</span> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Our young man was selected by the party PCs to fill the vacancy. Now, instead of running as a ‘candidate’, he would be coming into the general election as an incumbent AND candidate. He will be able to know the office that he is running for, and have a ‘leg up’ on his competition.</span></p><p><br /><span style="font-size:12pt;"> In politics, you have to ready when the Lord opens that door for you to enter.</span><br /> <br /><span style="font-size:12pt;">TIME IN THE STUDY:</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> If one is serious about any venture, there needs to be time spent in the study.</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Winston Churchill, that masterful statesman and lecturer of yesteryear reportedly spent roughly eight hours researching and writing just to get one line perfect in his speeches. The legendary Vince Lombardi held a workshop for coaches once, where he spent eight hours explaining one play that was the mainstay for the Green Bay Packers.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> By the way, Lombardi’s one play--the power sweep--revolutionized football forever.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Charles H. Spurgeon--the prince of preachers--had a library of 6,000 books, and re-read several of these books a year, including Pilgrims Progress by John Bunyan, in addition to his regular devotions, Bible study and for sermon preparation.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> The late C. A. W. Clark, a masterful preacher of the modern era once told me: “A call to ministry is a call to preparation”. The late E. V. Hill, another one of my preaching heroes, spent some time in politics AND was the Pastor of his church. He made sure that he and his members--when government money was involved--were good stewards of the Word and of their time. He was also a great man to talk with, as he broke things down for common consumption.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Time in the study is just as important as time in the weight room.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> The quarterback who wants to be good at their position spends hours going over game footage. The doctor spends time in his medical journals. Even Scotty from the old “Star Trek” TV series spent time in his technical manuals to keep the starship Enterprise working at peak efficiency.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Politics is no different. It involves serious preparation. The successful office holder of today MUST learn how to read, study, research and digest information of not only yesterday…but yesteryear from successful office holders of the past. In addition, the man involved in politics MUST have or develop the ability to teach others, from his staff, to volunteers, to his voters.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> In politics, there is a LOT of background clutter one must learn how to filter out to put forth a concise and uncluttered message. However, filtering out your voters…those whom you serve…is something that you have to fight. You must teach many of them!</span> <br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> You must dance with the ones who brung ya! You ALSO must make your voters PROUD to have brought you to the ‘political dance’.</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Remember when we were in high school and went to a dance? You may have not been that much to look at, but IF you made your date feel like a Queen, many of them returned the favor and made you feel like a King, when they were on your arm.</span></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">TIME IN THE BOOKS (AND ON LINE):</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Here are some of the resources that helped me during my days in politics and beyond. Feel free to expand upon this list with your own additions:</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">1. The KJV Bible. Daily with The Book of Psalms and The Book of Proverbs.</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">2. The Drudge Report. Daily on line media resource.</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">3. The Constitution of your state and the United States of America.</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">4. The Election Laws of your county and state. These WILL serve you well.</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">5. “Roberts Rules of Order” plus rule books of your local/state elective bodies.</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">6. “Black Lies, White Lies” by Tony Brown</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">7. “In The Trenches” and “Fighting the Good Fight” by Reggie White</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">8. “Failing Forward” by John Maxwell</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">9. “Doing Business by the Good Book” by David L. Steward</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">10. “Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty” by Harvey Mackay</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">11. “See You At The Top” by Zig Ziglar</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">12. “Uncommon” by Tony Dungy</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">13. A good book on political quotes (for speeches)</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">14. Any local books on the political makeup/history of your city.</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">15. Lastly, any books on the Christian application to political issues.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Contrary to popular belief, reading REAL books is still essential. In addition to using tech, flipping pages is a passion that those in politics have nurtured and developed. Especially those quality books connected with political history.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> This next point is crucial for your campaign. Build your team of prayer warriors well in advance and keep in touch with them monthly, weekly, if not daily, when prayer needs arise. Have an inner circle of prayer warrior advisors to bounce things off of, and special spiritual needs. Also, have a stable church you are attending and have sunk your membership in AND seek your Pastor early and often for prayer and consultation.</span></p><p> <span style="font-size:12pt;">In addition, you will also have to spend time in meetings and training sessions, both with your political team and with your political leadership. The OLDER you are and the LONGER you have spent in the political game, you will have to teach others where you stand, and have them carry the torch and the battle to the front lines for you.</span></p><p> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Time management is essential, as well as sharpening your people skills.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Also remember…the local bookstore is your friend; with a wealth of information from days past. A good film (video) can do wonders in addition to books. “Mr. Smith Goes To Washington” starting Jimmy Stewart is a good political thriller. It may be dated by today’s standards, but old truth is still truth. It gives one a true picture of political power and political machines, in a black and white format.</span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">If you can, pick up some audio tapes on past political speeches and learn from them. Brevity IS the sole of wit…and politics. Learning the particulars of public speaking will aid you, and help you in your bid for elective office.</span></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">THE WORK LOAD INCREASES:</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> When we last left our hero (yours truly) he had won his first political contest and was elected GOP Precinct Committeeman. No joke. However, with the job came more work and more responsibility.</span> <br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Every municipality political organization has first lieutenants to serve as part of the field management team of the local party. Now, in the military, second lieutenants are often called ‘90 day wonders’. First lieutenants have more experience, but still are learning the ropes of command, including the top sergeants in their political party. Successful Precinct Committeemen know they can command more in the way of respect as they have more in the way of proven experience.</span></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> However, as I learned, the wise PC MUST have enough sense to know that they must rely on the established precinct machinery to allow their polls to run smoothly.</span> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">I learned NOT to run into a new situation desiring to make changes. I learned to observe and let those who were in positions of authority and responsibility under my watch to do their jobs. They were on the job before I got there, and would still be on the job after I left.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Your party bosses have the power to appoint you to a good precinct (as they have faith in you, as the polls practically run themselves) or, to ‘Ice Station Zebra’ (a bad precinct with high poll worker turn over and a lot of personnel problems, often punctuated with clashes with the other political party).</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Your ability to get along with people will determine where you land.</span></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">THE NEXT STEP UP: WARD CHAIRMAN</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> After proving myself as a GOP Precinct Committeeman, the next step up quickly arrived. Praise God I was ready for it. Downtown--again based upon the recommendation of my Township Chairman and others (after they saw my work in the field), presented me with the opportunity to serve as a GOP Ward Chairman…one who would be appointed by the party to be placed in charge of a GROUP of Precinct Committeemen--and their poll workers--in a particular portion of my county.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> It was a promotion from First Lieutenant, to Captain, in military terms.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> I drew a GOP ward that had half of its Precinct Committeemen and poll workers in a majority Democrat area. I knew that I had a major league challenge on my hands. I also knew that downtown was watching to see whether or not I would rise to the challenge that they presented.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Make no mistake about it: The game of politics is all about challenge and solving problems. Challenges to maintain your devotional time with God and the KJV Bible. Challenges to make time for wife and family. Challenges to make time to find poll workers. Challenges to keep up with the reading and current events. Challenges to work your day job. Challenges to manage your time in order to choose which potential candidates to talk with, which candidates to avoid, and what fires to put out. Challenges to work with the opposition party, while keeping a smile on your face, and NOT compromising your beliefs and party platform.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> While growing up, I used to get a kick out of the old ‘Ed Sullivan Show’. One of the acts that I enjoyed was the guy who managed to keep all the plates spinning on those thin, spindly sticks. At any moment, one plate could fall, and throw off the entire act.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> The miracle? Keep all the plates spinning…and not letting one fall to the ground.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> If you want to get into the political arena, brothers…this is what you will have to not only learn, but master. How to keep all the plates of your life in the air, without allowing them to come crashing to the ground.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> One other suggestion. IF there are certain skills that you lack, don’t worry. Just figure out your weaknesses, and LEAN on God to bring you those people and situations to can help you to fix your lack.</span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> More to come!</span></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Mike Ramey is a Minister, Modern Street Gangs Specialist, Nationally-Known Political Consultant and Syndicated Columnist who lives in Indianapolis, Indiana. “Ramey‘s Guide To Elective Office For Men” is one of a variety of columns that Ramey has in cyberspace. His address is still the same: manhoodline@yahoo.com. ©2019 Barnstorm Communications (5).</span></p></div>
ThinkZILLA Consulting Expands Firm with Strategic Move to Atlanta
https://www.theblacklist.net/profiles/blogs/thinkzilla-consulting-expands-firm-with-strategic-move-to-atlanta
2016-06-06T01:05:15.000Z
2016-06-06T01:05:15.000Z
VELMA TRAYHAM
https://www.theblacklist.net/members/VELMATRAYHAM
<div><p align="center"><i>Public Relations, Event Management and Business Consulting Leader Sets Sights on Atlanta’s Faith-Based Market and Growing Community of Startups</i></p><p> </p><p>ATLANTA, Ga. – ThinkZILLA Consulting, a fast-growing public relations, corporate event management and business consulting firm headquartered in Houston, announced today its expansion with the opening of a new Atlanta office. Led by founder and chief executive officer Velma Trayham, the company aims to help Atlanta area faith-based organizations, start-ups and entrepreneurs to revamp their outreach strategies, increase visibility and generate mass media awareness.</p><p> </p><p>“This is an exciting milestone for ThinkZILLA Consulting,” said Aizeline Davis, media assistant “This strategic move will allow us to further solidify our presence throughout the southeast, provide a higher level of service to our clients on the east coast and embark on new relationships with ministries, faith leaders, start-ups and other entities in Atlanta that we feel we can help take to the next level.”</p><p> </p><p>ThinkZILLA Consulting’s past and present client roster includes the Go DJ Awards, Houston’s largest hip hop and entertainment awards show, Checkered Flag Run Foundation, The Bridge Summit, The Lighthouse Church, Pastor Keion Henderson, child star Iyanni Pradia, <i>Houston Forward Times</i> and Bishop T.D. Jakes “Destiny Empowerment Seminar”, among others. The firm is committed to innovation, high growth execution and to ensuring the success of its clients.</p><p> </p><p>In 2013, The Lighthouse Church joined ThinkZILLA Consulting’s client roster with the goal of building greater awareness in the Houston community and expanding its congregation. ThinkZILLA’s cutting edge strategies and flawless execution helped increase church membership by 1,000 percent. The firm secured media coverage and placements with media outlets boasting nearly 200 million potential unique visitors. The firm facilitated strategic partnerships, provided comprehensive event management services, and secured sponsorship for the church’s First Annual Lighthouse Church Easter Festival and Expo covering 95 percent of the event’s total budget. Additionally, the firm effectively positioned the church’s pastor, Keion Henderson, as a dynamic faith leader through placements of insightful op-eds, interviews with national outlets, including the Yolanda Adams Morning Show, and by securing awards and other opportunities.</p><p> </p><p>“If our clients aren’t successful, we aren’t successful,” said Trayham. “We are not just a publicity firm. Our goal is to help our clients to develop and enhance their brands, resulting not only in increased visibility and awareness, but a stronger, larger and more loyal audience and increased revenue as well.” </p><p> </p><p>For more information about ThinkZILLA PR & Consulting, to schedule a consultation or to inquire about interviews or partnerships with a ThinkZILLA Consulting client, visit <a href="http://www.itsthinkzilla.com/">www.itsthinkzilla.com</a> or call (888) 509-1145. </p></div>
The gun and ship of enslavement
https://www.theblacklist.net/profiles/blogs/the-gun-and-ship-of
2009-04-14T15:30:00.000Z
2009-04-14T15:30:00.000Z
Ari Merretazon
https://www.theblacklist.net/members/AriMerretazon
<div>The gun and ship of enslavement[<b>"Like a machine it transformed the lives of Africans and Europeans alike. Europeans came to America freely with a design of a new way of life in their hearts and minds." Africans were kidnapped and shipped in chains with their life design already made, in the hearts and minds of Europeans. So terrifying was this technology that it forced Africans to worship Christianity/Jesus Christ."</b>]The ruling classes of Western Europe were able to conquer the world between 1400 and 1700 because of two distinct and soon powerfully combined technological developments; the gun and the ship of enslavement. These two developments combined to produce the cast iron cannon and ships for the sea.According to Marcus Rediker, in his book Slave Ship, A Human History, the ship of enslavement was “the historic vessel (engine) for the emergence of capitalism, a new an unprecedented social and economic system that remade large parts of the world beginning in the late 15th century. The historical record shows it as the first major engine of capitalism that restructured the division of labor and wealth, and thereby, the world. Ships mounted with cannons were the vessel of terror.Like a machine it transformed the lives of Africans and Europeans alike. Europeans came to America freely with a design of a new way of life in their hearts and minds.” Africans were kidnapped and shipped in chains with their life design already made, in the hearts and minds of Europeans. So terrifying was this technology that it forced Africans to drop their indigenous religions and accept Christianity.No other metal product of African enslavement was of more great consequence, ruthless or irreversible than the gun. Firearms of all types were mass-produced to the standards of that period. The end result developed what is now the U.S. high-tech multi-billion-dollar weapons industry which has no equal. Africa was the most important overseas target of guns from Europe and America. Guns in Africa were used to kill, capture, and enslave.Over the course of the 18th century, the Gold Coast was de-populated of untold millions of Africans. It was the distribution of guns amongst the different groups of Africans that led to quarrels and subsequent capture and trade to European enslavers. These quarrels were called wars, and the word war was a euphemism for the organized theft of human beings.Walter Rodney observed in his history of the Upper Guinea Coast that local ruling groups made law “into the handmaid of the trade of enslavement. When it comes to guns and the domestic deaths of Americanized Africans, America is just as hostile. As conspiratorial as it may sound, there is a lot of similarity to the use of guns during African enslavement and the illegal guns that now saturate our communities. I am not a conspiracy theorist, but just look at the facts in time and space, only the faces and places have changed.</div>