For years the United States government has been expanding its power, gradually creating a top-down structure in which it rules over the states. This is the exact opposite of how our “We the People” republic was originally designed. The incremental approach of the federal government has been successful for a number of reasons, but ultimately because the governed have not stood up to defend the freedom lawfully granted them under the United States Constitution.

A parent group in Chesterfield County has scheduled seven rallies in the next three weeks to show support for public education in these tough economic times. The Chesterfield Citizens for Excellence in Education will kick off the events with their first rally at Harrowgate Elementary School today at 7 p.m. “We encourage all parents to attend these rallies to voice their support for public education in Chesterfield,“ Stella Y. Edwards, president of the County Council of PTA/PTSAs, said in a statement. “We cannot afford to sit idly by as our children’s future is affected by decisions made today.“

With the 2009 General Assembly session just days away, community activists and organizers gathered yesterday for what they called a People’s Assembly, strategizing on making sure their voices are heard. About 75 to 100 people concerned about workers’ rights, immigration, education, U.S. involvement in war, health care and prisoners’ rights met for the daylong event at Asbury United Methodist Church in Richmond’s Church Hill neighborhood.