Local Tea Party Plans To Raise Profile

The Johnston Tea Party met on June 30 at for their monthly meeting, and Chairman addressed several issues facing the town, state, and country.

Golomboski began by addressing state matters. In regards to the state budget, he said he isn't happy.

"They're just kicking the can down the road. We definitely disapprove of the budget," said Golomboski.

As for binding arbitration, Golomboski is concerned.

"I think it's horrible for the state obviously, especially with the state being cash strapped," he explained. "Sen. Frank Lombardo (D-Dist. 25) ended up voting no on the floor, but voted it out of committee. He's as much to blame for it as anyone else."

At the local level, Golomboski sees more bad news. He cited an article by GoLocalProv.com which ranked Johnston 34th out of 39 on a list of Rhode Island communities.

"Just go down Hartford Ave and see the lack of businesses," said Golomboski.

The Tea Party chairman also offered a critique of the new town budget, which was recently approved by the Town Council.

"The cuts weren't being made in some areas," Golomboski said. "The 3 1/2 percent increase is kicking the can down the road. The Johnston Tea Party wants the town to be friendlier to businesses."

Later in the meeting, Golomboski discussed recent ad buys on Facebook, his on JohnstonPatch, and an attempt to publish editorials in local newspapers.

"This is a great opportunity for the Johnston Tea Party to get out its message," said Golomboski.

The Johnston Tea Party is also planning a barbecue at Johnston Memorial Park in early August, explained Golomboski, who added that the group has also been approached by Glenn Beck's staff about hosting a viewing party for his trip to Israel.

For more about the Johnston Tea Party, visit their website here. You can also read Golomboski's recent blog entry here.