During the holiday season, we are often reminded to give to those that are less fortunate. This time of year, many of us reach into our own pockets to donate to charitable causes that we hold dear. Even in the face of tough economic times, Americans have shown that we are still generous with our hard-earned money. In 2009, Americans voluntarily gave an estimated $307.65 billion to private charities.

Democracy and Power 101:  Government is power  The essence of Government is power; and power, lodged as it must be in human hands, will ever be liable to abuse. James Madison, Speech in the Virginia State Convention of 1829-1830  

On July 24, Congressman Pete Stark (D-Cali) held a town hall meeting in Hayward, California where he responded to questions concerning ObamaCare and the limits of federal government power.