Winners declared in the fight for RAMP funds By Katie M. Ellis Correspondent Article One, Section Eight of the Constitution gives Congress the power to collect taxes for the purpose of paying debts and providing for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. Two years ago, Weber County voters granted their leaders additional taxing power and encouraged more government spending by approving an increased sales tax called RAMP or Recreation, Arts, Museums and Parks. Cities and nonprofit organizations now vie each year for RAMP money to fund their artistic and recreational programs and projects. The tax is one-tenth of l percent of each purchase in Weber County, or one penny for every $10. According to Mike Caldwell, Weber County's RAMP coordinator, after its first year RAMP collected $3.1 million and awarded over 100 grants to cities and nonprofit organizations. Most city grants went to park and trail improvement but projects also included sports programs and city celebrations. Non-government recipients included the Ogden Symphony Ballet, Treehouse Museum, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and others for their productions, facilities and heritage celebrations. The RAMP Committee reviewed applications and awarded grants. Committee members applied through Weber County and were selected based on a history of volunteerism, experience and their location in the county. Committee members represent various areas and serve one-, two- or three-year terms. Caldwell said the committee gives preference to projects that will receive additional "collaborative"