It was announced recently that the city of Indianapolis will be giving up to $48.5 million in tax abatements and credits to White Lodging, the parent company of the new JW Marriott Hotel going up with the expanded Convention Center. $48.5 million to a private corporation at a time when the city struggles with an increase in crime, particularly homicides and carjackings.
How can a mayor (in an election year, no less) speak out of both sides of his mouth? Give ANOTHER private entity taxpayer money, then jack up already insane taxes in the name of public safety. The Mayor puts himself in an extremely vulnerable position if not this year, then next year in a gubernatorial bid against Da Guv.
Right now, The Mayor is a bit of an anti-Robin Hood. Take from the middle class and poor, give to millionaires. First, an increased fleecing of Marion and seven of the eight surrounding counties with the food and beverage tax to pay for the new stadium. Then a sweetheart deal where the Colts get virtually all of the monies from the new stadium that they don't own. A few months later, there were fears of more tax increases when the food and beverage taxes levied weren't meeting projections. It continues to degenerate, the stadium will cost $10 million/year extra, now the city is giving the almost $50 million to another private entity!!
All of this when there isn't money to fund public safety, the City-Council wants a 75% pay increase (for gas and dry cleaning, of all things!!) The way I see it, The Mayor does not even have a leg to stand on when it comes to he becomes a millionaire's Robin Hood.
20 January 2007
17 January 2007
Colts Win, City Loses
The Indianapolis Colts are on the brink of the Super Bowl with the Patriots being their only obstacle (again). On a more serious note, Mayor Peterson has more problems than Peyton Manning right now. Da Mayor has a crime rate in the city that is doing nothing but going up. What did he do? He merged the police and sheriff's department, citing a savings to the taxpayers. Now, he's asking the state for a $450 million loan to shore up the pensions of our public safety officials.
My concern is that the state will say no, and in a year of growing property tax fears, he'll raise them. All of this money, and not another officer on the street, not a plan to get the criminals off the street, just more rhetoric and talking up the potential white elephant known as Lucas Oil Stadium, which is being built on the backs of taxpayers, and filling the coffers of Jim Irsay, the Colts owner.
Let it be known I don't hold Irsay responsible completely, but I do think he proved he was just as bad as the woman on welfare with five kids and five different fathers. Sticking his hand out and letting the government take care of him was crazy, but the way the mayor and state legislature bent over backwards to break their constituents' backs was crazy!! Now I'm worried about how the crime rate will affect my property/resale value on my home, and the fact that local government does next to nothing worries me more. Like I said, Colts win, city loses.
PS - Anyone who knows me knows I'm a diehard Bears fan.
My concern is that the state will say no, and in a year of growing property tax fears, he'll raise them. All of this money, and not another officer on the street, not a plan to get the criminals off the street, just more rhetoric and talking up the potential white elephant known as Lucas Oil Stadium, which is being built on the backs of taxpayers, and filling the coffers of Jim Irsay, the Colts owner.
Let it be known I don't hold Irsay responsible completely, but I do think he proved he was just as bad as the woman on welfare with five kids and five different fathers. Sticking his hand out and letting the government take care of him was crazy, but the way the mayor and state legislature bent over backwards to break their constituents' backs was crazy!! Now I'm worried about how the crime rate will affect my property/resale value on my home, and the fact that local government does next to nothing worries me more. Like I said, Colts win, city loses.
PS - Anyone who knows me knows I'm a diehard Bears fan.
It's My Property, Right??
My place of business is a restaurant in Fishers, IN, one of the last bastions of property rights, or so I thought. For those unaware, Fishers is one of the more affluent, faster growing suburbs of Indianapolis, and one of the more socially controlled as well. Signage has to meet strict standards, so strict that retailers have decided to go to other surrounding 'burbs in order to be able to do things how they want.
My restaurant opened for lunch daily six months ago and about three months later, we decided to post a sign on the building announcing it to all instead of doing strictly word of mouth advertising. Not on the fence paralleling the I-69 offramp, not off at the nearby major intersection, on the building proper. The sign was visible across the interstate, and business was improving. My place of employment gets a notice from the Town stating that the sign is out of order as it was not approved. So down goes the sign.
Point of the story is this: How is a free market supposed to truly be free when the government wants to control it?
My restaurant opened for lunch daily six months ago and about three months later, we decided to post a sign on the building announcing it to all instead of doing strictly word of mouth advertising. Not on the fence paralleling the I-69 offramp, not off at the nearby major intersection, on the building proper. The sign was visible across the interstate, and business was improving. My place of employment gets a notice from the Town stating that the sign is out of order as it was not approved. So down goes the sign.
Point of the story is this: How is a free market supposed to truly be free when the government wants to control it?
Seeing Blue
Long time, no post...man you'd think I was a candidate as much as I was out of my own home in the past eight months. My job has really taken off and taken me many places (with more to go), and I couldn't be happier with what has happened to me. I am still happily married to Beth, I'm still a Libertarian and proud of it, and I'm still upset with the fact that Republicans are turning into Democrats and just afraid to publicly come out and say so.
Today was the State of the State. Da Guv was talking of funding full day kindergarten, privatizing the lottery, and "franchising" the Indiana Commerce Connector and Illiana Expressway. All of this while talking of cooperation with his Democrat colleagues across the aisle. Correct me if I'm wrong, but expansion of government education, selling off a profitable state asset, and expanding the reach of the DOT sounds a lot like the speech of a liberal Democrat.
This was considered the one of the reddest states in the Union, but it's slowly turning shades of blue based on the midterm election and actions of the "Republican" government.
Today was the State of the State. Da Guv was talking of funding full day kindergarten, privatizing the lottery, and "franchising" the Indiana Commerce Connector and Illiana Expressway. All of this while talking of cooperation with his Democrat colleagues across the aisle. Correct me if I'm wrong, but expansion of government education, selling off a profitable state asset, and expanding the reach of the DOT sounds a lot like the speech of a liberal Democrat.
This was considered the one of the reddest states in the Union, but it's slowly turning shades of blue based on the midterm election and actions of the "Republican" government.
27 May 2006
Seatbelt Silliness
Sorry for the lag in posts, I was sent to Kansas City for two weeks on work. Looks like I came home at the right time. Time for Click It or Ticket. Of course, I wasn't too happy that the Star told us to buckle up or else, so of course, I wrote back...
"The Star's editorial regarding Click It or Ticket is a bit too Big Brother for some tastes. Seatbelt laws are a waste of taxpayer money.
Instead of tracking down rapists, searching for murderers, and stopping burglaries, police officers and sheriff deputies are ordered to stand watch and ticket those who choose not to wear a seatbelt. All because it's "for our own good."
A better alternative for Click It or Ticket is to have the insurance companies refuse to pay any claim filed if the policyholder wasn't wearing his seatbelt. That should be motivation enough to wear a seatbelt."
Let's see if it's published anytime soon...
"The Star's editorial regarding Click It or Ticket is a bit too Big Brother for some tastes. Seatbelt laws are a waste of taxpayer money.
Instead of tracking down rapists, searching for murderers, and stopping burglaries, police officers and sheriff deputies are ordered to stand watch and ticket those who choose not to wear a seatbelt. All because it's "for our own good."
A better alternative for Click It or Ticket is to have the insurance companies refuse to pay any claim filed if the policyholder wasn't wearing his seatbelt. That should be motivation enough to wear a seatbelt."
Let's see if it's published anytime soon...
04 May 2006
Big Overhead = Big Profits
The Left wants you think the oil companies are gouging citizens at the pump. The Right is pandering to the Left. It's bad when one party is demagoguing, it's exponentially worse when both parties demagogue.
It's quite simple folks, the reason oil profits are at record highs is because the cost of doing business is at a record high. Neal Boortz explained it best (I'm paraphrasing here)...when you have a product that costs $0.80 to produce, you sell it for $1.00, meaning a $0.20 profit and a 20% profit margin. When the product costs $1.60 to produce, what do you sell the product at to maintain that 20% profit margin?? The same thing is true of gas...when prices go up to do business and be profitable, the prices at the pump have to do likewise.
It's quite simple folks, the reason oil profits are at record highs is because the cost of doing business is at a record high. Neal Boortz explained it best (I'm paraphrasing here)...when you have a product that costs $0.80 to produce, you sell it for $1.00, meaning a $0.20 profit and a 20% profit margin. When the product costs $1.60 to produce, what do you sell the product at to maintain that 20% profit margin?? The same thing is true of gas...when prices go up to do business and be profitable, the prices at the pump have to do likewise.
Laying the Hammer Down
NUVO columnist Steve Hammer takes Indianapolis Star columnist to task for his less than glowing article regarding the Libertarian Party of Indiana. Hammer states Tully is upset because he has something to do besides read Republican press releases. The full article is here.
03 May 2006
Primary Concern
Yesterday was the taxpayer-subsidized nominating conventions...err...primaries. The time for me to walk into the Lawrence Fire Station and hear "Republican slate??" and "Democrat slate??" I kindly declined each and walked in and signed in with ID, really not that big of a problem as Marion County Democrat Chair Ed Treacy would like people to think, it's common sense really. I'm upset at the fact he's making a hullaballoo over something that should be done by the respective parties involved.
Primaries are not good at all, honestly. If a candidate is good enough to be slated by a party, then the candidate should be directly placed on the November ballot. None of this springtime posturing and posing. Not only that, voter turnout is anemic at best for a primary. Estimates for Marion County were 10-15% of all eligible voters turned out yesterday.
Another benefit by eliminating primaries is moving school board elections to the fall. The people that make the policies for our children are decided on by a fraction of the populace. The extra six months would give voters a better idea of how their taxes are spent on local education; on a side note, it would hold educational boards more responsible to the taxpayers and parents of the students of the school district.
Less cost, more accountability...where do I sign up??
Primaries are not good at all, honestly. If a candidate is good enough to be slated by a party, then the candidate should be directly placed on the November ballot. None of this springtime posturing and posing. Not only that, voter turnout is anemic at best for a primary. Estimates for Marion County were 10-15% of all eligible voters turned out yesterday.
Another benefit by eliminating primaries is moving school board elections to the fall. The people that make the policies for our children are decided on by a fraction of the populace. The extra six months would give voters a better idea of how their taxes are spent on local education; on a side note, it would hold educational boards more responsible to the taxpayers and parents of the students of the school district.
Less cost, more accountability...where do I sign up??
02 May 2006
The Relevance of Libertarians
Matt Tully, the Indianapolis Star political reporter, wrote an article about how since it's primary time, it's Libertarian Whine time. How we complain about inadequate coverage, and the like. I wrote a letter last week that was published today. Here's the text:
"I have to disagree with Matthew Tully's assessment of Libertarians ("Libertarians whining? It must be election time," April 28).
When he talks of our irrelevance, he fails to see the gains made both inside and outside of Indianapolis.
Libertarians have worked with other fiscal conservatives in the Washington Township Concerned Citizens group, reducing the cost of building projects for the school system.
Libertarians have worked with property owners in Geist to prevent the annexation of homes and businesses into Fishers.
Libertarians in Greenfield have worked with business owners to protect their rights in regard to day-to-day operations.
Libertarians have made gains statewide, winning past elections in Greenfield, Hagerstown, Johnson County, and in Union City. In many local elections, Libertarians provide the only opposition for Republicans and Democrats.
Libertarians in Indianapolis are considered irrelevant in the press because they choose not to cover us, not because we don't do anything."
Fortunately, many local newspapers, like the Noblesville Daily Times, the Muncie Star-Press, the Greenfield Daily Reporter, and the Richmond Palladium-Item include Libertarians in the political talk around town. Libertarians are here, whether the Star wants to report it or not.
"I have to disagree with Matthew Tully's assessment of Libertarians ("Libertarians whining? It must be election time," April 28).
When he talks of our irrelevance, he fails to see the gains made both inside and outside of Indianapolis.
Libertarians have worked with other fiscal conservatives in the Washington Township Concerned Citizens group, reducing the cost of building projects for the school system.
Libertarians have worked with property owners in Geist to prevent the annexation of homes and businesses into Fishers.
Libertarians in Greenfield have worked with business owners to protect their rights in regard to day-to-day operations.
Libertarians have made gains statewide, winning past elections in Greenfield, Hagerstown, Johnson County, and in Union City. In many local elections, Libertarians provide the only opposition for Republicans and Democrats.
Libertarians in Indianapolis are considered irrelevant in the press because they choose not to cover us, not because we don't do anything."
Fortunately, many local newspapers, like the Noblesville Daily Times, the Muncie Star-Press, the Greenfield Daily Reporter, and the Richmond Palladium-Item include Libertarians in the political talk around town. Libertarians are here, whether the Star wants to report it or not.
A Happy Couple
A week and a half ago...I finally tied the knot!!! Thank you Beth for loving me and being willing to put up with my crap for the rest of your life. Now it's time to turn it up into high gear now that the taxpayer-subsidized conventions...errrr....primaries are done.
26 January 2006
Taxes, Schmaxes
It was reported by the Indianapolis Star that the proposed cigarette tax failed to get out of committee, 6-2. The governor's ill-fated attempt to pick and choose his idea of the "unhealthiest" Hoosiers was not a good idea. Last time, I checked he's 0-for-2 in proposed tax increases at his State of the State. There are so many other problems right now, such as cutting the size and scope of government, but neither Republicans or Democrats are interested in them.
Kudos for proposing the bill that limits only emergency medical care to illegal immigrants. It's not the duty of government to care for the sick, but there is a point where you should assist those that can't help themselves, but no more. Opponents of the bill say it's on the businessmen that don't provide healthcare to the immigrants, I say it's a choice made by the employees to work for the employers, fully aware of the risks involved.
Kudos for proposing the bill that limits only emergency medical care to illegal immigrants. It's not the duty of government to care for the sick, but there is a point where you should assist those that can't help themselves, but no more. Opponents of the bill say it's on the businessmen that don't provide healthcare to the immigrants, I say it's a choice made by the employees to work for the employers, fully aware of the risks involved.
25 January 2006
Food Fight
Marion County has outdone itself once again. The 1% food and beverage tax enacted to subsidize the new Indiana Stadium is failing to claim the projected revenues. According to Abdul in the Morning, Marion County is short about $800,000. According to projections, the county will be a couple of million of dollars short towards its share of the stadium funding. No worries yet, but if people aren't careful, the liberal tax and spend Republicrats will have to find more ways to fund the stadium.
19 January 2006
I Smell Bacon...
House Speaker Brian Bosma is finally taking the first steps towards being a fiscal conservative. In a plan proposed this week, the Speaker is eliminating the health benefits received by any representative elected or re-elected in the upcoming 2006 elections. Instead they will pay into the state health plan, like any other public servant.
Some representatives agree with this while Vanessa Summers (D-Indianapolis) said she may retire from the House in order to keep the benefits. The Indianapolis Star story goes on to tell the feelings of the various elected officials.
I applaud Speaker Bosma for his efforts, and I hope that Senate President Pro Tempore Bob Garton (R-Columbus) will do the same thing in his chamber. Subsidizing healthcare for elected officials is not a function of government.
Some representatives agree with this while Vanessa Summers (D-Indianapolis) said she may retire from the House in order to keep the benefits. The Indianapolis Star story goes on to tell the feelings of the various elected officials.
I applaud Speaker Bosma for his efforts, and I hope that Senate President Pro Tempore Bob Garton (R-Columbus) will do the same thing in his chamber. Subsidizing healthcare for elected officials is not a function of government.
13 January 2006
GOP Shakeup
It has been announced that Indiana GOP chair Jim Kittle will be resigning from his post after four years on the job. Kittle, the chairman/CEO of Kittle's Furnishings, is stepping down two days after Governor Daniels' State of the State address, where the governor promoted a plan of consolidating township government to the county level, shrinking the size of government, and eliminating elected positions (ie: township assessors).
The idea doesn't bode well for Marion County GOPers, as they have been steadfast in their resistance to the Indy Works consolidation plan promoted by Indianapolis Mayor Bart Peterson, a Democrat. Indy Republicans have been saying that consolidation is a bad idea; now their governor is saying "go for it." It appears there will be a serious fracture in the local GOP, oppose City Hall, or oppose their governor. It seems that Libertarians will have it a little bit easier in 2006 and 2007, when we'll have the only options to remove government from people's lives.
The idea doesn't bode well for Marion County GOPers, as they have been steadfast in their resistance to the Indy Works consolidation plan promoted by Indianapolis Mayor Bart Peterson, a Democrat. Indy Republicans have been saying that consolidation is a bad idea; now their governor is saying "go for it." It appears there will be a serious fracture in the local GOP, oppose City Hall, or oppose their governor. It seems that Libertarians will have it a little bit easier in 2006 and 2007, when we'll have the only options to remove government from people's lives.
Where There's Smoke, There's Taxes
Governor Daniels gave his second State of the State address on Wednesday, and again the Republican asked the legislature for a tax increase. Instead of punishing those that make six figures, he goes after smokers.
Now I understand that smoking is a problem, and is not a good habit all. However, I believe that he is punishing those that make a personal choice. Daniels said that Hoosiers weigh too much, drink too much, smoke too much, and exercise too little. Then to suggest an increase in the cigarette tax, saying the monies collected will be spent on youth prevention is a bit much for anyone to stomach.
Instead of taxing and reaching further in people's lives (ie: their wallets), promote the options available to quitting the habit. The WhiteLies campaign has been quite successful in the youth market, maybe they can do something along those lines using already available funds, instead of taxing and spending more.
It seems that it's the same ol' game, just a different target.
Now I understand that smoking is a problem, and is not a good habit all. However, I believe that he is punishing those that make a personal choice. Daniels said that Hoosiers weigh too much, drink too much, smoke too much, and exercise too little. Then to suggest an increase in the cigarette tax, saying the monies collected will be spent on youth prevention is a bit much for anyone to stomach.
Instead of taxing and reaching further in people's lives (ie: their wallets), promote the options available to quitting the habit. The WhiteLies campaign has been quite successful in the youth market, maybe they can do something along those lines using already available funds, instead of taxing and spending more.
It seems that it's the same ol' game, just a different target.
11 January 2006
More Nickname Nonsense
Respected George Will wrote a column picked up by the Indianapolis Star on January 5, discussing the NCAA nickname rules, and how the University of Illinois is barred from using the name Fighting Illini in postseason play (ie: college football bowls, March Madness, etc.)
Very simply put, I believe former Oklahoma linebacker Brian Bosworth was right when he wore a shirt calling the NCAA "National Communists Against Athletes." Forcing the schools to change names to be PC is ridiculous. They have said that schools such as Florida State and Utah are allowed to keep their Native American nicknames because the respective tribes approve is OK. Problem with the Illini is that there are very few tribesmen still around, or there not even in Illinois.
The NCAA should let the schools make the decisions for themselves. Enough of this feel-good stuff. It's the University of Illinois, not the University of NCAA.
Very simply put, I believe former Oklahoma linebacker Brian Bosworth was right when he wore a shirt calling the NCAA "National Communists Against Athletes." Forcing the schools to change names to be PC is ridiculous. They have said that schools such as Florida State and Utah are allowed to keep their Native American nicknames because the respective tribes approve is OK. Problem with the Illini is that there are very few tribesmen still around, or there not even in Illinois.
The NCAA should let the schools make the decisions for themselves. Enough of this feel-good stuff. It's the University of Illinois, not the University of NCAA.
09 January 2006
Legislative Wishlist for 06
I realize I post as often as a turtle, however the General Assembly is back, and that means more news than I know what to do with :)...with that said, here's what I want to see accomplished in the short session.
-Eminent Domain Restrictions. The House Judiciary Committee passed the bill (HB 1010, I believe) unanimously, protecting private property (Like the NK Hurst company) from the reach of our government. It will go before the full House soon.
-ISTEP to Spring...my fiance will agree with me on this. Giving students standardized tests just weeks after they return from summer break is a bit ridiculous.
-Return Power to Local Governments. This could be a great thing, if done correctly. If it's not done right, it would go over as well as a "temporary tax increase."
A short list for a short session (adjourned by 14-March). Watch for more posts as the session moves on
-Eminent Domain Restrictions. The House Judiciary Committee passed the bill (HB 1010, I believe) unanimously, protecting private property (Like the NK Hurst company) from the reach of our government. It will go before the full House soon.
-ISTEP to Spring...my fiance will agree with me on this. Giving students standardized tests just weeks after they return from summer break is a bit ridiculous.
-Return Power to Local Governments. This could be a great thing, if done correctly. If it's not done right, it would go over as well as a "temporary tax increase."
A short list for a short session (adjourned by 14-March). Watch for more posts as the session moves on
18 November 2005
Consolidation Chaos
Sherron Franklin is a marked woman now. In 2007, she has the biggest bullseye on the City-County Council. Not from Republicans, but her own party. Standing up for what you believe in can be a big pain sometimes, but that's the price of integrity. She voted for her job, not her party. Have to respect one with principles, I say. Her victory in 2003 was only by a handful of votes, and you have to imagine Ed Treacy is looking for someone in her district to slate that will spout the party mantra, rather than one's own convictions.
I applaud Councillor Franklin for her integrity and honesty. It's a trait that's long lost in politics, and hopefully I'll see more of it in the future as I move to Indianapolis.
On another note, State Sen. Murray Clark (R-Indianapolis) is resigning, looks like City-County Councillor Isaac "Ike" Randolph (R) wants the job. I think he'd do a good job for his district, but some in the district, which stretches into eastern Hendricks County say Ike isn't "conservative enough." Governor Daniels hasn't taken sides, but has inferred through his people that he'd like Ike.
All in all, 2007 shapes up two years early, and you and I get front-row seats. Will Peterson run for a third term? Will he win a third term? Will the Democrats maintain their razor-thin 15-14 margin?? Will a Libertarian get on the Council, throwing the balance of power out the window?? Only way to find out is to get involved!!
I applaud Councillor Franklin for her integrity and honesty. It's a trait that's long lost in politics, and hopefully I'll see more of it in the future as I move to Indianapolis.
On another note, State Sen. Murray Clark (R-Indianapolis) is resigning, looks like City-County Councillor Isaac "Ike" Randolph (R) wants the job. I think he'd do a good job for his district, but some in the district, which stretches into eastern Hendricks County say Ike isn't "conservative enough." Governor Daniels hasn't taken sides, but has inferred through his people that he'd like Ike.
All in all, 2007 shapes up two years early, and you and I get front-row seats. Will Peterson run for a third term? Will he win a third term? Will the Democrats maintain their razor-thin 15-14 margin?? Will a Libertarian get on the Council, throwing the balance of power out the window?? Only way to find out is to get involved!!
29 October 2005
It'll Be a Cold Day in Hell When...
The Democrats are trying to fix the federal budget woes. The Democrat Leadership Council (DLC) is proposing ways of cutting excessive spending from the Republican-controlled budget. Now I didn't think it was possible as the Republican Party is the party is that of "small government." Fiscal conservatives have been suffering through tax and spend policies similar to the ones the Democrats have pushed in previous administrations.
Only the Libertarian Party will talk the talk and walk the walk when it comes to economic matters. It's been proven time and again that people in power only care about one thing...more power. Libertarians want to return your power back to you.
On a side note, I'm on the road for the next week and a half for work. I'll try to post as often as I can.
Only the Libertarian Party will talk the talk and walk the walk when it comes to economic matters. It's been proven time and again that people in power only care about one thing...more power. Libertarians want to return your power back to you.
On a side note, I'm on the road for the next week and a half for work. I'll try to post as often as I can.
18 October 2005
Getting Its Money's Worth?
The first report of the food and beverage taxes from the doughnut counties came in yesterday. According to the Indy Star article, about half of the expected $300,000 came in since the taxes were enacted over the summer.
Johnson County had the highest number, bringing in nearly $70,000, with Hamilton County disclosing $50,000 in collections. The state thinks that businesses aren't paying their taxes, or monies due are in transit (Check's in the mail). I have a gut feeling that people are avoiding going out to eat, or just aren't going as often simply because of the subsequent government-mandated increase in dinner checks. I wonder how much business increased in Morgan County restaurants?? After all, they are the only county that did not enact the tax.
In an interesting twist, the BMV has authorized a Colts license plate. Read here. It looks like it's in the final stages, ready for an early 2006 debut. Now this is an idea I support, because it's personal choice for a project. It's not government-imposed, no dog and pony show, it's very cut-and-dry. Now if this were the initial proposition for the stadium, I'm sure it would have been more warmly received than, "We're authorizing the counties to levy taxes." The counties then say, "We'll 'listen' to constituents before we 'decide' on whether or not we want it, considering we keep half."
The government says it's a minimal tax and no one gets hurt. I disagree with that statement whole-heartedly. Restaurants suffer because of the government-imposed higher prices. Servers make less because people have less money to tip. Trust me, I know firsthand. This does not stimulate an economy that is sluggishly improving at best. What happens if the money does not come in as expected?? What will the liberal Republicans and Democrats do then? Double the tax? Triple it?? Libertarians do not believe in excessive taxation, nor do they believe in limiting the free market. Voting for Democrats and Republicans only means more taxes, fewer freedoms.
Johnson County had the highest number, bringing in nearly $70,000, with Hamilton County disclosing $50,000 in collections. The state thinks that businesses aren't paying their taxes, or monies due are in transit (Check's in the mail). I have a gut feeling that people are avoiding going out to eat, or just aren't going as often simply because of the subsequent government-mandated increase in dinner checks. I wonder how much business increased in Morgan County restaurants?? After all, they are the only county that did not enact the tax.
In an interesting twist, the BMV has authorized a Colts license plate. Read here. It looks like it's in the final stages, ready for an early 2006 debut. Now this is an idea I support, because it's personal choice for a project. It's not government-imposed, no dog and pony show, it's very cut-and-dry. Now if this were the initial proposition for the stadium, I'm sure it would have been more warmly received than, "We're authorizing the counties to levy taxes." The counties then say, "We'll 'listen' to constituents before we 'decide' on whether or not we want it, considering we keep half."
The government says it's a minimal tax and no one gets hurt. I disagree with that statement whole-heartedly. Restaurants suffer because of the government-imposed higher prices. Servers make less because people have less money to tip. Trust me, I know firsthand. This does not stimulate an economy that is sluggishly improving at best. What happens if the money does not come in as expected?? What will the liberal Republicans and Democrats do then? Double the tax? Triple it?? Libertarians do not believe in excessive taxation, nor do they believe in limiting the free market. Voting for Democrats and Republicans only means more taxes, fewer freedoms.
15 October 2005
Why Republicans Are Losing the War at Home
My friends, everyone talks about what Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity have to say, yet those words are similar to what Hannity calls "Clinton Kool-Aid drinkers." Republicans simply are long on rhetoric, short on delivery. That sounds eerily similar to the Democrats of the past.
In 1994, Newt Gingrich offered citizens the Contract with America, a simple way to limit government. The Republican Revolution happened that year, taking both houses of Congress. In 2000, then-Governor Bush campaigned as a "compassionate conservative", which to me means he'll give me a handshake and take my wallet with the other hand.
Many conservatives were thrilled with George W. Bush's election in 2000, with the Congress, Senate, and White House under Republican control. However, it was a short-lived honeymoon. Yes, President Bush did cut taxes (I got my check for a little over $100), but he failed to slash the budget. The federal deficit is nearly $8 trillion now and growing.
On the local level, Republicans have long held the State Senate, and reclaimed the State House of Representatives in 2004, along with the Governor's Mansion. Conservatives that voted for "My Man Mitch" thought voting for Daniels would be the end of the tax-and-spend days of O'Bannon/Kernan. Not even ten days into his new administration, Governor Daniels proposed raising taxes. At the end of the most recent legislative session, he signed off on the $1 billion project to publicly finance a new stadium for the Indianapolis Colts, a private entity, and the Indiana Convention Center expansion.
After the session, Governor Daniels went on a dog and pony show, talking of the benefits of being over-taxed. He sold out his County Councils, who almost (thank you Morgan County) all approved the measure, some unanimously. And they call themselves fiscal conservatives.
All in all, Republicans can huff and puff about what they're doing for the world, much like Democrats huff and puff about what they're doing for the children, but are they really keeping your individual rights and personal freedoms in their best interests?? Probably not. Only Libertarians have been able to do so.
In 1994, Newt Gingrich offered citizens the Contract with America, a simple way to limit government. The Republican Revolution happened that year, taking both houses of Congress. In 2000, then-Governor Bush campaigned as a "compassionate conservative", which to me means he'll give me a handshake and take my wallet with the other hand.
Many conservatives were thrilled with George W. Bush's election in 2000, with the Congress, Senate, and White House under Republican control. However, it was a short-lived honeymoon. Yes, President Bush did cut taxes (I got my check for a little over $100), but he failed to slash the budget. The federal deficit is nearly $8 trillion now and growing.
On the local level, Republicans have long held the State Senate, and reclaimed the State House of Representatives in 2004, along with the Governor's Mansion. Conservatives that voted for "My Man Mitch" thought voting for Daniels would be the end of the tax-and-spend days of O'Bannon/Kernan. Not even ten days into his new administration, Governor Daniels proposed raising taxes. At the end of the most recent legislative session, he signed off on the $1 billion project to publicly finance a new stadium for the Indianapolis Colts, a private entity, and the Indiana Convention Center expansion.
After the session, Governor Daniels went on a dog and pony show, talking of the benefits of being over-taxed. He sold out his County Councils, who almost (thank you Morgan County) all approved the measure, some unanimously. And they call themselves fiscal conservatives.
All in all, Republicans can huff and puff about what they're doing for the world, much like Democrats huff and puff about what they're doing for the children, but are they really keeping your individual rights and personal freedoms in their best interests?? Probably not. Only Libertarians have been able to do so.
14 October 2005
Wolf in Sheep's Clothing
More and more, President Bush has talked liked a conservative, acted like a conservative, yet he hasn't delivered like a conservative. He enacted tax cuts, which is a GREAT thing, yet he hasn't delivered the spending cuts that are requisite. He talked of bringing the government under control, then bloated the domestic (non-military) budget 7-10% annually, with now Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels at the helm of OMB. He says he's a "compassionate conservative," yet he continues to increase the scope of government. Neither compassionate nor conservative if you ask me.
Now he's pushing for Harriet Miers, a well-qualified attorney, to be an Associate Justice on the US Supreme Court, replacing Sandra Day O'Connor. Some conservatives are upset, after taking the Medicare bill, after taking No Child Left Behind, after spending over a quarter of a trillion dollars in Iraq, because Bush has chosen to go down the road of cronyism. Appointing his personal attorney as a Justice merely diminishes the gravitas of the Court.
President Bush wanted a woman, a well-qualified woman at that, to serve on the Court after Justice O'Connor. There were other well-qualified conservatives that have a better record than Ms. Miers. Simply put, this was supposed to be under the radar, but is turning out to be all over the darned thing.
Now he's pushing for Harriet Miers, a well-qualified attorney, to be an Associate Justice on the US Supreme Court, replacing Sandra Day O'Connor. Some conservatives are upset, after taking the Medicare bill, after taking No Child Left Behind, after spending over a quarter of a trillion dollars in Iraq, because Bush has chosen to go down the road of cronyism. Appointing his personal attorney as a Justice merely diminishes the gravitas of the Court.
President Bush wanted a woman, a well-qualified woman at that, to serve on the Court after Justice O'Connor. There were other well-qualified conservatives that have a better record than Ms. Miers. Simply put, this was supposed to be under the radar, but is turning out to be all over the darned thing.
10 October 2005
Changes in Attitudes, Changes in Latitudes
Governor Daniels is at it again. Another liberal tax and spend policy from a "fiscal conservative." Click here for the story on how he wants to give cities and towns the ability to levy income, sales, and food/beverage taxes on individuals.
Now he says he's for the idea if property taxes truly go down, but that's like giving an alcoholic a case of beer. It's been my experience that people in power only want one thing, more power. I highly doubt that property taxes would decrease as a result of other tax increases. That would be the right and decent thing to do of a governmental body.
The only way this law would work is if the municipalities were to concurrently reduce the taxes, not make that an option, but a prerequisite to enacting the other taxes. That would not make it nearly as palatable to legislators because of the zero-sum game principle.
Another way of thinking is the FairTax principle. Make the Indiana tax system consumption based vs. income based. I don't like Uncle Sam or the State of Indiana getting into my wallet before I do. If there is one entitlement program I like, it's that your entitled to your entire paycheck.
Republicans have learned how to govern like Democrats. If you're a voter that believes government should live within its means, the Republican Party will only feed lip service, and waste a vote. Voting Libertarian will ensure your vote is not wasted.
Now he says he's for the idea if property taxes truly go down, but that's like giving an alcoholic a case of beer. It's been my experience that people in power only want one thing, more power. I highly doubt that property taxes would decrease as a result of other tax increases. That would be the right and decent thing to do of a governmental body.
The only way this law would work is if the municipalities were to concurrently reduce the taxes, not make that an option, but a prerequisite to enacting the other taxes. That would not make it nearly as palatable to legislators because of the zero-sum game principle.
Another way of thinking is the FairTax principle. Make the Indiana tax system consumption based vs. income based. I don't like Uncle Sam or the State of Indiana getting into my wallet before I do. If there is one entitlement program I like, it's that your entitled to your entire paycheck.
Republicans have learned how to govern like Democrats. If you're a voter that believes government should live within its means, the Republican Party will only feed lip service, and waste a vote. Voting Libertarian will ensure your vote is not wasted.
06 October 2005
Government Gone Wild
I know that big government is taking over the country, much to my chagrin. But the most blatant example has unfolded over the week. State Sen. Pat Miller (R-Indianapolis) suggested a ban on medical assistance to unmarried couples. What's she really meant was "Keep the gays and single folks from having babies!!" I realize that there are some who think that child-rearing should be in the "traditional" two-parent family that is married with one man and one woman.
My point is I buy into that belief myself, but who am I to stop someone from having a child?? I am a Christian, and have my own personal views about child-rearing, but that does not give me the right to impose my views on others! If two men or two woment want to have a child, then let them. Don't tell them they can't because you don't necessarily agree with it.
Another point, what about the single parents we already have?? What do we do with them?? Do we sterilize them?? Obviously not, because they're doing it naturally! My point is this, we are NOT China! If people want to have children, let them do it, but don't tell them they can't because you think it's immoral. Don't play God, that's His job.
My point is I buy into that belief myself, but who am I to stop someone from having a child?? I am a Christian, and have my own personal views about child-rearing, but that does not give me the right to impose my views on others! If two men or two woment want to have a child, then let them. Don't tell them they can't because you don't necessarily agree with it.
Another point, what about the single parents we already have?? What do we do with them?? Do we sterilize them?? Obviously not, because they're doing it naturally! My point is this, we are NOT China! If people want to have children, let them do it, but don't tell them they can't because you think it's immoral. Don't play God, that's His job.
05 October 2005
Smoke em if you got em....for now
Greenfield is trying to mimic Indianapolis. Sprawling commercial sites right off the interstate. A Wal-Mart Supercenter and Home Depot within walking distance of each other. A Starbucks, an Applebee's, and a smoking ban. Wait a second, did you say loss of property rights??
It looks like the Greenfield City Council is proposing a smoking ban on par with that of the one introduced by the Indianapolis City-County Council earlier this year. A sweeping ban, that would ban smoking in private businesses as well as public places.
Now I understand that some of the land in Greenfield is city-owned, and they have a right to say what will and won't happen on their property. But for the City Council to tell a private businessman, such as a restaurant or a tavern owner, how to run his business, well that's socialism.
What worries me more is that "small-government" Republicans are seriously considering this measure. This ordinance would only increase the role of government in Greenfield. My grandfather gave me some sage advice, if you don't like what someone is doing, get away from it. In a nutshell, if you don't like going to restaurants with smoking, don't go there, or order the food to go and enjoy it at home.
Property rights have been rapidly eroding, and the Democrats and Republicans are doing nothing to protect homeowners (Kelo v. New London) or businesses (smoking bans). Only Libertarians protect citizens from ther overreach of government.
It looks like the Greenfield City Council is proposing a smoking ban on par with that of the one introduced by the Indianapolis City-County Council earlier this year. A sweeping ban, that would ban smoking in private businesses as well as public places.
Now I understand that some of the land in Greenfield is city-owned, and they have a right to say what will and won't happen on their property. But for the City Council to tell a private businessman, such as a restaurant or a tavern owner, how to run his business, well that's socialism.
What worries me more is that "small-government" Republicans are seriously considering this measure. This ordinance would only increase the role of government in Greenfield. My grandfather gave me some sage advice, if you don't like what someone is doing, get away from it. In a nutshell, if you don't like going to restaurants with smoking, don't go there, or order the food to go and enjoy it at home.
Property rights have been rapidly eroding, and the Democrats and Republicans are doing nothing to protect homeowners (Kelo v. New London) or businesses (smoking bans). Only Libertarians protect citizens from ther overreach of government.
HOCKEY'S BACK!!!!
To the relief of myself and Beth, hockey's back!! I was tempted to drive north to see my Blackhawks take on the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, but I have to work Dine for America night, which is definitely worth it. Goto http://www.dineforamerica.org and find a list of participating restaurants that are donating their profits tonight to charities benefiting hurricane victims. Beth will be watching her beloved (to me: despised) Red Wings face off the St. Louis Blues with her family.
02 October 2005
Why I became a Libertarian
Many ask me why I'm not a "moderate Republican"....here's why.
Why I became a Libertarian...good question. I was raised "politically homeless" and split my ticket for several years. Growing up in the Clinton era, I was a big proponent of social issues, protecting civil rights, etc. My mother is very liberal (self-admitted, I'll have you know) and instilled that in me. But at the same time, I despised how he spent money like a drunken sailor. My problem with Republicans was that they spoke of fiscal responsibility, yet failed to deliver, and moral values, but did not exhibit such.
Conservative icons like Rush Limbaugh and Newt Gingrich have fallen from grace a bit to me, with the scandals that have enveloped their personal lives and turned them into hypocrites, in my eyes. I liked their stance on fiscal issues, but I didn't like how they thought the government had the right to tell people how to live their personal lives.
I had heard of the Libertarians mostly due to hearing the name Andy Horning every election, and heard him speak a couple of times and he made a lot of sense. I thought, it's a good idea, but will never win, it's a wasted vote.
In 2003, I wrote a paper on the Libertarians as a Sociology project, and met Phil Miller. Down to earth, then-incumbent City Councilman in Greenfield. We chatted, he gave me the book Libertarianism in One Lesson. It opened my eyes completely. I agreed with almost everything (nothing's perfect) in the book, and I joined shortly thereafter. I ran for Council as the only legitimate fiscal conservative on the ballot. I've been very involved, but now I'm scaling back my activities a bit as I prepare for my wedding in April, and enjoy the soon-to-be married life.
Why I became a Libertarian...good question. I was raised "politically homeless" and split my ticket for several years. Growing up in the Clinton era, I was a big proponent of social issues, protecting civil rights, etc. My mother is very liberal (self-admitted, I'll have you know) and instilled that in me. But at the same time, I despised how he spent money like a drunken sailor. My problem with Republicans was that they spoke of fiscal responsibility, yet failed to deliver, and moral values, but did not exhibit such.
Conservative icons like Rush Limbaugh and Newt Gingrich have fallen from grace a bit to me, with the scandals that have enveloped their personal lives and turned them into hypocrites, in my eyes. I liked their stance on fiscal issues, but I didn't like how they thought the government had the right to tell people how to live their personal lives.
I had heard of the Libertarians mostly due to hearing the name Andy Horning every election, and heard him speak a couple of times and he made a lot of sense. I thought, it's a good idea, but will never win, it's a wasted vote.
In 2003, I wrote a paper on the Libertarians as a Sociology project, and met Phil Miller. Down to earth, then-incumbent City Councilman in Greenfield. We chatted, he gave me the book Libertarianism in One Lesson. It opened my eyes completely. I agreed with almost everything (nothing's perfect) in the book, and I joined shortly thereafter. I ran for Council as the only legitimate fiscal conservative on the ballot. I've been very involved, but now I'm scaling back my activities a bit as I prepare for my wedding in April, and enjoy the soon-to-be married life.
29 September 2005
Major Moves in the Wrong Direction
This week, Gov. Daniels proposed the Major Moves program. He wants to make the I-69 extension from Indy to Evansville a toll road, raise the rates of the Indiana Toll Road and privatize interstates.
I like the privatizing interstates, but if we're raising rates of the Toll Road and making I-69 a toll road, where are the reciprocating spending cuts? To me, it sounds like more of the same rhetoric by Gov. Daniels. He's forgotten it was fiscal conservatives that put him in office, thinking it was the end of tax and spend. All he's done since taking office is raise the taxes in Indianapolis and the surrounding counties, basically cornering the County Councils (all Republican majorities), saying raise taxes and keep 50% of the windfall.
Building a new Colts stadium and expanding the convention center does nothing for my bottom line but shrink it. Increasing taxes on the Toll Road and proposing taxes on the I-69 extension does nothing for my bottom line but shrink it. Anyway, if I'm driving to Evansville, there's always the established route of I-70/US 41 via Terre Haute. It's 12 minutes longer, as well as toll-free.
Republicans have proved once again that they do not care about fiscal responsibility. Liberal tax and spend policies are not the way to balance books. Holding government accountable like a citizen would bring it back in line. Libertarians realize that budgets in government are like those in private life, preset and if the expenses are too great, cuts are made. Republicans have not learned how to say no.
I like the privatizing interstates, but if we're raising rates of the Toll Road and making I-69 a toll road, where are the reciprocating spending cuts? To me, it sounds like more of the same rhetoric by Gov. Daniels. He's forgotten it was fiscal conservatives that put him in office, thinking it was the end of tax and spend. All he's done since taking office is raise the taxes in Indianapolis and the surrounding counties, basically cornering the County Councils (all Republican majorities), saying raise taxes and keep 50% of the windfall.
Building a new Colts stadium and expanding the convention center does nothing for my bottom line but shrink it. Increasing taxes on the Toll Road and proposing taxes on the I-69 extension does nothing for my bottom line but shrink it. Anyway, if I'm driving to Evansville, there's always the established route of I-70/US 41 via Terre Haute. It's 12 minutes longer, as well as toll-free.
Republicans have proved once again that they do not care about fiscal responsibility. Liberal tax and spend policies are not the way to balance books. Holding government accountable like a citizen would bring it back in line. Libertarians realize that budgets in government are like those in private life, preset and if the expenses are too great, cuts are made. Republicans have not learned how to say no.
20 September 2005
Why One Should Vote Libertarian
Now I could rant and rave as to why one should vote for a Libertarian candidate, but there isn't enough tea in China for that post. What I do have to offer are very compelling statements as to why one would check the "L" instead of the "D" or "R".
-In one party counties, Lake and Hamilton counties come to mind quickly, the other "major" party doesn't have a real voice, leaving Libertarians as the primary voice of opposition to the current powers that be. This was the case in Fishers, as the all-Republican Town Council didn't even vote on a motion to raise a one percent food and beverage tax because of a major Libertarian response.
-Smaller, less intrusive government. If you voted Republican because they said they were fiscal conservatives, they lied. If you live in the doughnut counties around Indianapolis, you know that first hand, seeing those one percent taxes popping up like weeds. If you voted for Mitch Daniels because he said he would trim the budget, that was a half-truth. He cut education budgets to create new Departments, thus growing government.
-Individual rights. Libertarians respect that your house is just that, your house. You should be allowed to do what you want in there, so long as you don't infringe another's rights. You should not worry that Wal-Mart will get in the pocket of government and condemn your house for a new SuperCenter. If you're a business owner, Libertarians will let you make decisions about your business, not let the government do it for you.
-More responsibility in government. A Libertarian would work within the confines of what is given to him. No talk of property tax hikes or cuts in public safety. A Libertarian would work in the most efficient manner to make sure the taxpayer gets the most bang for the buck, not how much bucks could be banged in governmental bureaucracy.
These are a few of the many reasons to vote Libertarian. If you want more information, visit http://www.lpin.org and find your county affiliate.
-In one party counties, Lake and Hamilton counties come to mind quickly, the other "major" party doesn't have a real voice, leaving Libertarians as the primary voice of opposition to the current powers that be. This was the case in Fishers, as the all-Republican Town Council didn't even vote on a motion to raise a one percent food and beverage tax because of a major Libertarian response.
-Smaller, less intrusive government. If you voted Republican because they said they were fiscal conservatives, they lied. If you live in the doughnut counties around Indianapolis, you know that first hand, seeing those one percent taxes popping up like weeds. If you voted for Mitch Daniels because he said he would trim the budget, that was a half-truth. He cut education budgets to create new Departments, thus growing government.
-Individual rights. Libertarians respect that your house is just that, your house. You should be allowed to do what you want in there, so long as you don't infringe another's rights. You should not worry that Wal-Mart will get in the pocket of government and condemn your house for a new SuperCenter. If you're a business owner, Libertarians will let you make decisions about your business, not let the government do it for you.
-More responsibility in government. A Libertarian would work within the confines of what is given to him. No talk of property tax hikes or cuts in public safety. A Libertarian would work in the most efficient manner to make sure the taxpayer gets the most bang for the buck, not how much bucks could be banged in governmental bureaucracy.
These are a few of the many reasons to vote Libertarian. If you want more information, visit http://www.lpin.org and find your county affiliate.
18 September 2005
More Katrina Rhetoric and Relief??
President Bush said basically the buck stops here, but whose buck is it that he's spending? Right now, the estimates are $100-$200 billion, depending on what "expert" you talk to. $200 billion for new homesteading and rebuilding "infrastructure." The spending could reach the trillions if you let the government do it for you!! I understand we help those who can't help themselves, but $200 billion with no spending cuts or tax increases worries me. How can we talk of working in a "fiscally conservative" manner when those who write the checks have no idea what that means??
Right now, Tom DeLay needs to review that highway bill, find that missing pork, and send it squealing to the Gulf Coast. That is what needs to be done if there is to be a federal response.
Right now, Tom DeLay needs to review that highway bill, find that missing pork, and send it squealing to the Gulf Coast. That is what needs to be done if there is to be a federal response.
16 September 2005
Hurricane Relief and Rhetoric
Last night, President Bush addressed the nation from New Orleans' Jackson Square. He says the federal government will do whatever it takes to restore the Gulf Coast. My question is at what cost? $50 billion has already been approved for relief, with potentially billions more on the way. Congress has reconvened after their vacation, with over a quarter of a trillion dollars "earmarked" for their home states. $400 million for two bridges in Alaska to connect a handful of citizens stands out greatest. Why can't they shift the focus of bringing home the bacon to helping those who need it most??
Some say that the government dragged their feet. I say they are correct. The failure was at the local and state level initially, then it snowballed into the federal level. Mayor Ray Nagin (D) of New Orleans asked where the federal government was. I ask where was he when everything began?? He had the opportunity to help his citizens, but decided to sit on his hands as a Category 4 storm barreled into the Big Easy.
New Orleans is slowly rising from the waters to become the booming area it was, with the French Quarter bustling, and businesses reopening, but still, there are over 100,000 displaced from their own homes. Nearly $1 billion has been raised in private donations. The effort on the private charities continues next month too. October 5 is Dine for America night. Restaurants across the country will donate their profits that evening to the American Red Cross.
Even sports is realizing the magnitude of the disaster. Atlanta Falcons running back Warrick Dunn, well-known in charitable arenas for building houses for low-income families, has challenged every NFL player except those on the New Orleans Saints to donate $5,000 to the Red Cross. That alone would raise over $8 million, more than the NFL offices donated.
The purpose of this is simple: everyone can say one thing and do another. I encourage you to say and do the same thing.
American Red Cross - http://www.redcross.org 800-HELP-NOW
Salvation Army - http://www.salvationarmyusa.org 800-SAL-ARMY
Catholic Charities USA - http://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org 800-919-9338
Some say that the government dragged their feet. I say they are correct. The failure was at the local and state level initially, then it snowballed into the federal level. Mayor Ray Nagin (D) of New Orleans asked where the federal government was. I ask where was he when everything began?? He had the opportunity to help his citizens, but decided to sit on his hands as a Category 4 storm barreled into the Big Easy.
New Orleans is slowly rising from the waters to become the booming area it was, with the French Quarter bustling, and businesses reopening, but still, there are over 100,000 displaced from their own homes. Nearly $1 billion has been raised in private donations. The effort on the private charities continues next month too. October 5 is Dine for America night. Restaurants across the country will donate their profits that evening to the American Red Cross.
Even sports is realizing the magnitude of the disaster. Atlanta Falcons running back Warrick Dunn, well-known in charitable arenas for building houses for low-income families, has challenged every NFL player except those on the New Orleans Saints to donate $5,000 to the Red Cross. That alone would raise over $8 million, more than the NFL offices donated.
The purpose of this is simple: everyone can say one thing and do another. I encourage you to say and do the same thing.
American Red Cross - http://www.redcross.org 800-HELP-NOW
Salvation Army - http://www.salvationarmyusa.org 800-SAL-ARMY
Catholic Charities USA - http://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org 800-919-9338
13 September 2005
BMV BS
The closure of the BMV branch in Gary is a bit peculiar to me. Gary is the state's fifth largest city, as well as in the center of Lake County, the most Democrat-controlled (and corrrupt, in some eyes) county in the state. The lease is expiring on the main BMV there, and the state isn't renewing it. Many conspiracies and racial divisions are coming forward, but I don't see it that way. I see it as a failure to provide a necessary piece of infrastructure to a broad constituency. Imagine if Joel Silverman said close a BMV office, just one BMV branch in Indianapolis. The outcry would be insane!
I realize that only Texas and California have more license branches than Indiana. I know it's a matter of convenience, but there shouldn't be two license branches in Hancock County. The one in Greenfield is consistently overworked and undermanned. Centralize one branch in each county instead of multiple branches with multiple buildings and staffs. Put it in the county seat for each office, and cut excesses. Now with bigger populations, there should be more offices, I get that. I'm just offering another solution than just throwing darts at the wall and hoping for a bulls-eye every time.
I realize that only Texas and California have more license branches than Indiana. I know it's a matter of convenience, but there shouldn't be two license branches in Hancock County. The one in Greenfield is consistently overworked and undermanned. Centralize one branch in each county instead of multiple branches with multiple buildings and staffs. Put it in the county seat for each office, and cut excesses. Now with bigger populations, there should be more offices, I get that. I'm just offering another solution than just throwing darts at the wall and hoping for a bulls-eye every time.
07 September 2005
Logistical Nightmares
I'm taking a moment away from politics to talk of another passion, sports. Right now, two major sports leagues have had their schedules thrown into a state of flux, to be generous.
The New Orleans Saints were to have opened their home season in the Superdome on the 18th against the New York Giants. Now, the Superdome is nothing more than a leaky pile of squalor surrounded by a toxic moat. The Giants are now hosting the game, moved to Sept. 19th. The Giants are being gracious hosts, donating money and time to the relief efforts of the Gulf Coast. But the problem does not end there. What of the other seven home games scheduled in the Big Easy?? The Saints are temporarily setting up shop in San Antonio, Texas, which is about 500 miles, or 9 hours, west of N'Awlins. There is also talk of them playing at LSU in Baton Rouge, or at the Houston Astrodome. Worst case scenario, 16 road games, making the Saints the NFL version of the Montreal Expos, a team without a home city.
The New Orleans Hornets play next door at the New Orleans Arena, surrounded by the same toxic moat. The Hornets are based in Houston temporarily and holding training camp at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO. Fortunately, they have about six weeks to plan ahead, versus just days. Oklahoma City has stepped up to the plate with a NBA-caliber facility, also LSU is a possibility. I doubt they'll play 82 games on the road.
I just feel bad for the fans of these two teams. I find it hard to root for the home team when they don't have a home.
The New Orleans Saints were to have opened their home season in the Superdome on the 18th against the New York Giants. Now, the Superdome is nothing more than a leaky pile of squalor surrounded by a toxic moat. The Giants are now hosting the game, moved to Sept. 19th. The Giants are being gracious hosts, donating money and time to the relief efforts of the Gulf Coast. But the problem does not end there. What of the other seven home games scheduled in the Big Easy?? The Saints are temporarily setting up shop in San Antonio, Texas, which is about 500 miles, or 9 hours, west of N'Awlins. There is also talk of them playing at LSU in Baton Rouge, or at the Houston Astrodome. Worst case scenario, 16 road games, making the Saints the NFL version of the Montreal Expos, a team without a home city.
The New Orleans Hornets play next door at the New Orleans Arena, surrounded by the same toxic moat. The Hornets are based in Houston temporarily and holding training camp at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO. Fortunately, they have about six weeks to plan ahead, versus just days. Oklahoma City has stepped up to the plate with a NBA-caliber facility, also LSU is a possibility. I doubt they'll play 82 games on the road.
I just feel bad for the fans of these two teams. I find it hard to root for the home team when they don't have a home.
06 September 2005
What It Takes to Win an Election
As I have found out in the past, it takes more than a message to win an election. I tried that approach last year, and did shockingly well. Earning six percent in a five-way race is quite a feat! But it wasn't a victory. Lessons learned, indeed.
I spent a sizable amount of money (to me at least), nearly $500 in donations from various friends and my own pocket. The Lions Club Fair in New Palestine, walking the 4-H Parade, participating in candidate forums and various meet-n-greets, walking neighborhoods were all part of trying to get my name out. But I didn't really have a name recognition to everyone in the county. Sure I got some attention from the local paper as a "third-party" candidate. I got attention because I was 23. I got attention because I was forcing the Republicans and Democrats to give my words serious consideration.
Right now, serious and legitimate local Libertarian candidates should start their campaigns (e.g. County Council/Commissioners). Get those fundraisers going. Start knocking on doors. Talk to people about the issues that are affecting them most, then offer them a libertarian solution to the problem. We need to move from a position of promoting the party, to going out and showing people why we should be in office.
Taxes/Budgets - With a Libertarian in office, cutting spending, NOT increasing it is the first order of business. Taxing restaurants an additional 1% is not a good idea, as the town of Fishers has found out. Bond issues would not be a dime a dozen. Spending should be limited to necessities, such as public safety and sewers, not administration buildings that look like college campuses.
Property Rights - A Libertarian would work with local and state bodies to make sure that Kelo v. New London doesn't happen in your backyard. A Libertarian would allow the small business owner to make his own rules in his business, not let the government dictate what can and cannot go on inside said establishment.
Also, when talking to voters, take this bit of advice:
Be Brief - You only have really thirty seconds to a minute to get someone's attention. Remember three key ideas, and hand the voter a palmcard that describes your platform. There is no need to hand them a manifesto the size of a small phonebook. That's just a new doorstop.
Be Polite - Offer a firm handshake and introduce yourself.
Be Memorable - I'm not saying make a mockery of yourself, or show up in a clown suit. I'm saying be professional, be presentable, realize your audience. (Walking the neighborhood: golf shirt and khakis, Fundraiser: shirt and tie minimum)
Find Common Ground (if time permits): In my experience, I got a lot of support because of my neighbors. When I told them of what I was doing, first they asked, "Are you serious??", then asked, "Why?" When I told them, they could relate to what I was talking about.
This is just some ideas from a guy who has been there before, and wants to do it again sometime.
I spent a sizable amount of money (to me at least), nearly $500 in donations from various friends and my own pocket. The Lions Club Fair in New Palestine, walking the 4-H Parade, participating in candidate forums and various meet-n-greets, walking neighborhoods were all part of trying to get my name out. But I didn't really have a name recognition to everyone in the county. Sure I got some attention from the local paper as a "third-party" candidate. I got attention because I was 23. I got attention because I was forcing the Republicans and Democrats to give my words serious consideration.
Right now, serious and legitimate local Libertarian candidates should start their campaigns (e.g. County Council/Commissioners). Get those fundraisers going. Start knocking on doors. Talk to people about the issues that are affecting them most, then offer them a libertarian solution to the problem. We need to move from a position of promoting the party, to going out and showing people why we should be in office.
Taxes/Budgets - With a Libertarian in office, cutting spending, NOT increasing it is the first order of business. Taxing restaurants an additional 1% is not a good idea, as the town of Fishers has found out. Bond issues would not be a dime a dozen. Spending should be limited to necessities, such as public safety and sewers, not administration buildings that look like college campuses.
Property Rights - A Libertarian would work with local and state bodies to make sure that Kelo v. New London doesn't happen in your backyard. A Libertarian would allow the small business owner to make his own rules in his business, not let the government dictate what can and cannot go on inside said establishment.
Also, when talking to voters, take this bit of advice:
Be Brief - You only have really thirty seconds to a minute to get someone's attention. Remember three key ideas, and hand the voter a palmcard that describes your platform. There is no need to hand them a manifesto the size of a small phonebook. That's just a new doorstop.
Be Polite - Offer a firm handshake and introduce yourself.
Be Memorable - I'm not saying make a mockery of yourself, or show up in a clown suit. I'm saying be professional, be presentable, realize your audience. (Walking the neighborhood: golf shirt and khakis, Fundraiser: shirt and tie minimum)
Find Common Ground (if time permits): In my experience, I got a lot of support because of my neighbors. When I told them of what I was doing, first they asked, "Are you serious??", then asked, "Why?" When I told them, they could relate to what I was talking about.
This is just some ideas from a guy who has been there before, and wants to do it again sometime.
02 September 2005
Waxing Poetic
My friends, one cannot help but see what has happened and is currently happening in the Gulf Coast. I myself, along with many others, have been to New Orleans. I remember it very clearly, in 1999.
My sister's club volleyball team advanced to the National Championships at the New Orleans Convention Center, and I was a team chaperone. It's a huge building, making the Indiana Convention Center look like a popsicle stand. I remember walking the French Quarter with the parents, going into Pat O'Brien's and drinking the world-famous Hurricanes they made, along with the beer stand called simply "Huge Ass Beers."
I am simply writing of my fond memories of The Big Easy, and on Saturday, at the LPHanC Tax Freedom Rally, we will have a donation site for the American Red Cross. All monies collected will go to the Red Cross for relief efforts in the Gulf Coast.
I ask everyone of all walks of life to pray for the refugees who have survived, and help our fellow Americans in their darkest hour.
http://www.redcross.org - American Red Cross
http://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org - Catholic Charities USA
My sister's club volleyball team advanced to the National Championships at the New Orleans Convention Center, and I was a team chaperone. It's a huge building, making the Indiana Convention Center look like a popsicle stand. I remember walking the French Quarter with the parents, going into Pat O'Brien's and drinking the world-famous Hurricanes they made, along with the beer stand called simply "Huge Ass Beers."
I am simply writing of my fond memories of The Big Easy, and on Saturday, at the LPHanC Tax Freedom Rally, we will have a donation site for the American Red Cross. All monies collected will go to the Red Cross for relief efforts in the Gulf Coast.
I ask everyone of all walks of life to pray for the refugees who have survived, and help our fellow Americans in their darkest hour.
http://www.redcross.org - American Red Cross
http://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org - Catholic Charities USA
26 August 2005
FairTax Thoughts
I bought and read Neal Boortz and Rep. John Linder (R-GA)'s new book, The FairTax Book, and was impressed for the most part. It detailed the history of the income tax and withholdings, as well as the "embedded" taxes consumers pay on everyday items.
It showed how by removing withheld taxes (ie: Social Security and income), prices will go down, plus with the FairTax of 23%, prices will remain almost constant, plus monthly "prebates" for necessities of life (food, shelter, etc.)
Overall, I think the FairTax is a good idea for both business and consumers because everyone's on a level playing field, whether you make $10,000 or $10 million. Not only that, it's a consumption tax, so if you don't want to spend your money, you're not going to be taxed. I like that :).
For more info, go to www.fairtax.org
It showed how by removing withheld taxes (ie: Social Security and income), prices will go down, plus with the FairTax of 23%, prices will remain almost constant, plus monthly "prebates" for necessities of life (food, shelter, etc.)
Overall, I think the FairTax is a good idea for both business and consumers because everyone's on a level playing field, whether you make $10,000 or $10 million. Not only that, it's a consumption tax, so if you don't want to spend your money, you're not going to be taxed. I like that :).
For more info, go to www.fairtax.org
25 August 2005
NCAA Nonsense
All of this garbage over a mascot??
POP QUIZ...
Illinois Fighting Illini, Central Michigan Chippewas, Wake Forest Demon Deacons, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Florida State Seminoles. Which three are most offensive??
Well, according to Myles Brand, yes that Myles Brand, Illinois, Central Michigan, and Florida State could not use their nicknames in NCAA postseason play or hold any type of postseason tournament games, because their nicknames are offensive to Native Americans. What about Providence Friars, does that embarrass American Catholics, or Notre Dame, saying all Irish-Americans are looking for a brawl with someone??
This type of buffoonery is typical of a City Council, saying whether or not you can allow smoking in your business. Now what happens if Illinois takes their men's basketball team to the Final Four again?? It's not the Fighting Illini anymore, just the University of Illinois.
Florida State threatened legal action against the NCAA, saying that the Seminole tribes in Florida endorsed the nickname. The NCAA concurred, and that issue was dropped. Some tribes, such as the Illini are extinct. The state was named for them, why can't they be honored in a matter such as this??
The real irony is that the NCAA is based in Indianapolis, Indiana. How apropo is that? Myles Brand should have more important things to do, such as root out pay-for-play schemes, than tell a school what they can and can't name their mascots. If schools don't want to be named for something, they'll change it on their own. The decision should not be made for them.
POP QUIZ...
Illinois Fighting Illini, Central Michigan Chippewas, Wake Forest Demon Deacons, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Florida State Seminoles. Which three are most offensive??
Well, according to Myles Brand, yes that Myles Brand, Illinois, Central Michigan, and Florida State could not use their nicknames in NCAA postseason play or hold any type of postseason tournament games, because their nicknames are offensive to Native Americans. What about Providence Friars, does that embarrass American Catholics, or Notre Dame, saying all Irish-Americans are looking for a brawl with someone??
This type of buffoonery is typical of a City Council, saying whether or not you can allow smoking in your business. Now what happens if Illinois takes their men's basketball team to the Final Four again?? It's not the Fighting Illini anymore, just the University of Illinois.
Florida State threatened legal action against the NCAA, saying that the Seminole tribes in Florida endorsed the nickname. The NCAA concurred, and that issue was dropped. Some tribes, such as the Illini are extinct. The state was named for them, why can't they be honored in a matter such as this??
The real irony is that the NCAA is based in Indianapolis, Indiana. How apropo is that? Myles Brand should have more important things to do, such as root out pay-for-play schemes, than tell a school what they can and can't name their mascots. If schools don't want to be named for something, they'll change it on their own. The decision should not be made for them.
Fiscally Conservative in Fishers??
Looks like the town of Fishers is next on the chopping block for a 1% food and beverage tax increase. Seeing as I now work in Fishers in a restaurant, I'm looking at an approximate 14% increase in the amount that is taxed on a guest check, or a 33% increase since the beginning of the year, depending on how you want to look at it. All of this so Fishers can continue to have their what I consider "extras". Those include designer lightposts, over-sized administration buildings, and custom signage. Granted, some may say, well it's Fishers, they can afford to pay more. My question in return is, why should they have to pay extra when they're already being overtaxed in the first place??
24 August 2005
Throwing the Book at Them
It never amazes me. The Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library is asking for a tax increase to pay for the overrun for the renovation of the Central Branch downtown. Originally to reopen this year, at a cost of $103 million, the library will now be projected to reopen two years behind and $40 million over budget. Kudos to City-Council member Isaac Randolph for questioning the audacity of the Library Board to ask for a tax increase when the current budget proposed by Mayor Peterson has cuts in public safety.
Louis Mahern, the library board president, said that without the tax increase, major cutbacks will occur in the library renovation. He said that either the renovation is suspended or outlying branches are closed. Property tax increases keep the library in business. The annual budget is listed at $44 million, with over 75% coming from property tax monies. Mahern notes that the increase results in an extra $5 on a home with a value of $100,000.
Another solution would be to sell the library to private investors, let them deal with the renovation, thus taking taxpayers off the hook for another white elephant in the name of progress. How about shrinking that line off the budget completely to boot? It's just a thought.
Louis Mahern, the library board president, said that without the tax increase, major cutbacks will occur in the library renovation. He said that either the renovation is suspended or outlying branches are closed. Property tax increases keep the library in business. The annual budget is listed at $44 million, with over 75% coming from property tax monies. Mahern notes that the increase results in an extra $5 on a home with a value of $100,000.
Another solution would be to sell the library to private investors, let them deal with the renovation, thus taking taxpayers off the hook for another white elephant in the name of progress. How about shrinking that line off the budget completely to boot? It's just a thought.
22 August 2005
Hancock County LP Tax Freedom Rally
I'm proud to announce that Saturday, September 3 is the first Libertarian Party of Hancock County Tax Freedom Rally. It's from 1-5 at Greenfield's Riley Park pavilion. Secretary of State candidate Mike Kole is the featured speaker. There will be charcoal provided by LPHanC, everyone brings the rest. For more information, call 317.709.3179, or email cjharrison@iquest.net
19 August 2005
Apologies Are Necessary
I know I haven't posted in many months, that is due to a major shift in life. I'm getting married next April, and this summer has been murder on my schedule. New job, vacation, wedding planning, plus school's back this week, so it's insane to say the least.
In the past few months, the food and beverage taxes went up like weeds in my backyard, now it's time to hold Republicans accountable in both rhetoric and cold hard facts. Seven of the eight counties involved implemented, with only Morgan County holding out. That after the "let them eat soup" comment from Mayor Buskirk of Martinsville, a Republican.
Mayor Peterson's budget is another laughable attempt at being a fiscal conservative. Cut public safety and keep the parks?? Where is the rationale?? Then to charge citizens when their lives are in danger to the tune of hundreds of dollars!! He says that people's medical insurance will cover it. NEWS FLASH MAYOR!!! Not all of us have medical insurance right now!! Making pools more important than human life proves you are NOT fit for office, and I for one cannot wait until next year to see who runs against you.
Electing Libertarians will result in logical public safety, fewer taxes, more efficient spending, and more accountability. Tell me who else can do that??
In the past few months, the food and beverage taxes went up like weeds in my backyard, now it's time to hold Republicans accountable in both rhetoric and cold hard facts. Seven of the eight counties involved implemented, with only Morgan County holding out. That after the "let them eat soup" comment from Mayor Buskirk of Martinsville, a Republican.
Mayor Peterson's budget is another laughable attempt at being a fiscal conservative. Cut public safety and keep the parks?? Where is the rationale?? Then to charge citizens when their lives are in danger to the tune of hundreds of dollars!! He says that people's medical insurance will cover it. NEWS FLASH MAYOR!!! Not all of us have medical insurance right now!! Making pools more important than human life proves you are NOT fit for office, and I for one cannot wait until next year to see who runs against you.
Electing Libertarians will result in logical public safety, fewer taxes, more efficient spending, and more accountability. Tell me who else can do that??
26 May 2005
Let Them Eat Soup
Indeed, let them eat soup. Republicans in Martinsville has enacted a food and beverage tax of one percent. So when you go to Martinsville drive through and get a Big Mac, an extra tax is tacked on to that tasty treat. Mayor Buskirk, when asked about it, said if people don't like it, they can stay at home and have a can of Campbell's Soup. That is indeed, a case of grande huevos. The tax is egregious enough, then to insult the citizens?!?! If people don't want to pay stupid taxes, stay at home and eat the soup!! Who knows, maybe we could have a Soup Revolution on our hands in Morgan County. A Libertarian, with donations from Progresso or Campbell's, could repeal this ridiculous tax and focus more on infrastructure, like the courthouse.
Republicans don't care about small government or individual rights, they just care about cramming their beliefs down your throat while they take your money incrementally. Democrats want to protect everyone from themselves and take your money hand over fist. Libertarians want to protect your wallet and your life from the government. Remember, there is always Option C.
Republicans don't care about small government or individual rights, they just care about cramming their beliefs down your throat while they take your money incrementally. Democrats want to protect everyone from themselves and take your money hand over fist. Libertarians want to protect your wallet and your life from the government. Remember, there is always Option C.
05 May 2005
Time to Reload
It's been a month, I know, my friends. Finals were this week, and I had to prioritize. Sorry. I realize a lot has happened in the past month, mostly on the state level. Legislature is adjourned till 2006, and many new proposals went through. I have a bit of a report card on them.
Budget: D-. This is because the budget did increase, more tax increases were put in, especially with the Colts stadium downtown. More millionaire welfare. Fiscal conservatives, my ass! The GOP is "fiscally responsible", which is a buzz term for "I'll balance the budget, but taxes are going up as a trade."
DST: A+. IT'S ABOUT TIME!!!! As my friend Abdul from WXNT said, HALLELUJAH!!! I don't care if we're on Eastern (New York) time or Central (Chicago) time, I'm just glad my family on the coasts know what time it is here.
Education: D. I realize that Hoosier children are constitutionally guaranteed a free education, so my problem is with taking money from poorer districts (ie:IPS) and re-distributing it into wealthier districts (ie: Hamilton Southeastern). A simple formula could solve this. Take all the students in the state, and the amount of money appropriated for education, divide it, and BAM, equal money for all. That, and maybe eliminate some educational bureaucracy, focus on education, not athletics, or a $136 million bond issue (That means you, Mt. Vernon {Hancock} Community School Corporation.)
Voter ID: B+. I say it's a good idea and that the law is meant to prevent identity theft, which is more and more prevalent each year. You have to show ID to write a check at Kroger, so what's the fuss about showing it to cast your ballot every November??
I also want to say congratulations to the Mt. Vernon Taxpayers (http://www.mvtaxpayers.org) who remonstrated against the bond issue that would have raised property taxes 60-85%!! A job well done to all involved in the school district!!!
Keep your eyes and ears open, hope to post soon!!!
Budget: D-. This is because the budget did increase, more tax increases were put in, especially with the Colts stadium downtown. More millionaire welfare. Fiscal conservatives, my ass! The GOP is "fiscally responsible", which is a buzz term for "I'll balance the budget, but taxes are going up as a trade."
DST: A+. IT'S ABOUT TIME!!!! As my friend Abdul from WXNT said, HALLELUJAH!!! I don't care if we're on Eastern (New York) time or Central (Chicago) time, I'm just glad my family on the coasts know what time it is here.
Education: D. I realize that Hoosier children are constitutionally guaranteed a free education, so my problem is with taking money from poorer districts (ie:IPS) and re-distributing it into wealthier districts (ie: Hamilton Southeastern). A simple formula could solve this. Take all the students in the state, and the amount of money appropriated for education, divide it, and BAM, equal money for all. That, and maybe eliminate some educational bureaucracy, focus on education, not athletics, or a $136 million bond issue (That means you, Mt. Vernon {Hancock} Community School Corporation.)
Voter ID: B+. I say it's a good idea and that the law is meant to prevent identity theft, which is more and more prevalent each year. You have to show ID to write a check at Kroger, so what's the fuss about showing it to cast your ballot every November??
I also want to say congratulations to the Mt. Vernon Taxpayers (http://www.mvtaxpayers.org) who remonstrated against the bond issue that would have raised property taxes 60-85%!! A job well done to all involved in the school district!!!
Keep your eyes and ears open, hope to post soon!!!
01 April 2005
SNAFU City
Mayor Bart Peterson is in a bit of a pickle. Late last year, he announced that the Colts would stay for 30 years with a new stadium that won't raise income, sales, or property taxes. HOORAY!! A new casino would be built downtown to pay for the stadium. Faster than you could say interception, new House Speaker Brian Bosma (R-Indianapolis) shot that idea down, saying he wouldn't allow a new casino in Indy. Alternative ideas pitched by other GOP legislators involving gambling were also shot down. Instead, Sen. Luke Kenley (R-Noblesville) suggested a 1% tax on all services in Marion County. Taxation without representation indeed! Now, the governor has weighed in on how to finance the stadium/convention center expansion. Raise taxes!!
The governor has pitched the idea of a 1% food and beverage tax for seven of the eight surrounding counties to fund the stadium. When the current RCA Dome was built, a "temporary" 1% tax was enacted on restaurants to pay for the dome, with the tax to be eliminated when the dome was paid off. The interest rate must be horrible on the loan, because that tax is still here, over 20 years later.
Point is, nothing's changed that Republicans are in control. Citizens' tax dollars are still wasted, and the Libertarians are the still the only ones looking out for your life and your wallet.
The governor has pitched the idea of a 1% food and beverage tax for seven of the eight surrounding counties to fund the stadium. When the current RCA Dome was built, a "temporary" 1% tax was enacted on restaurants to pay for the dome, with the tax to be eliminated when the dome was paid off. The interest rate must be horrible on the loan, because that tax is still here, over 20 years later.
Point is, nothing's changed that Republicans are in control. Citizens' tax dollars are still wasted, and the Libertarians are the still the only ones looking out for your life and your wallet.
19 March 2005
St. Patrick's Update plus My Bracketology
Hello one and all, hope everyone had a great St. Patty's Day :). My day was pretty fun, did the Shamrock Run in the morning, limped my out of shape butt around five miles in about 52 minutes. It's not a good idea to run five miles and rehydrate with stout. I digress. A fun lunch with my friend Brad, talking politics and relaxing, watching the NCAAs. Stopped by my friend Dan's new house he bought, had more beer, and more politics LOL. Now it's poker time, finished 12th, saw my friend Mike, talked more politics, and had a blast.
It was a great day, even though my legs felt like cinder blocks, and a few upsets were had with March madness. Illinois will win the tournament I think, but if they don't I want Duke.
Talk to you soon.
It was a great day, even though my legs felt like cinder blocks, and a few upsets were had with March madness. Illinois will win the tournament I think, but if they don't I want Duke.
Talk to you soon.
11 March 2005
Congratulations Are in Order
I usually quibble over stuff most people find disinteresting. I'm going to take time out to congratulate some of the top brass in the LPIN. Don't mistake my kindness for brown-nosing (this means you Mike LOL).
In 2000, a major change was made in the infrastructure. Brad Klopfenstein became Executive Director, and Mark Rutherford was named LPIN Chair. In those five years, the name Libertarian became something more than "fringe". We now hold the Democrats and Republicans accountable for their actions, and give voters a true, legitimate option to the two parties. Most of that credit goes to Brad and Mark.
Brad is the public face for the party. As president of the Indianapolis Press Club, he talks with reporters on a regular basis for the libertarian position on an issue. Five years ago, that would not have been possible. Mark is a quiet man who captains the ship, for lack of a better term. It's with his guidance and rationale that keeps the LPIN on a course that is true.
OK, enough kindness/brown-nosing. I'm still pissed off at the fact that the Republicans spend like Democrats, the Democrats only care about themselves, and that neither one of them offers an ideology that promotes personal freedoms and individual responsibility.
In 2000, a major change was made in the infrastructure. Brad Klopfenstein became Executive Director, and Mark Rutherford was named LPIN Chair. In those five years, the name Libertarian became something more than "fringe". We now hold the Democrats and Republicans accountable for their actions, and give voters a true, legitimate option to the two parties. Most of that credit goes to Brad and Mark.
Brad is the public face for the party. As president of the Indianapolis Press Club, he talks with reporters on a regular basis for the libertarian position on an issue. Five years ago, that would not have been possible. Mark is a quiet man who captains the ship, for lack of a better term. It's with his guidance and rationale that keeps the LPIN on a course that is true.
OK, enough kindness/brown-nosing. I'm still pissed off at the fact that the Republicans spend like Democrats, the Democrats only care about themselves, and that neither one of them offers an ideology that promotes personal freedoms and individual responsibility.
08 March 2005
Two Birds with One Stone
Sunday was a good day at the office on some fronts. Although Duke lost to UNC, and Illinois lost to Ohio State, the message of liberty was spread not once but twice.
As I was waking up Sunday morning, I opened the Focus section as I always do, and read the op-eds. I was published about how the Dems walking out failed the state. I then turned the page and saw my friend and fellow Libertarian, Mike Kole, talking about how the city of Indianapolis shouldn't be spending taxpayers' money to lobby the Statehouse. If even 100 people read both of these letters, it should have a ripple effect I only dream of :)...good dreams LOL.
Anyway, if you like what you're reading go to http://www.helpuswin.org and join the club!!
As I was waking up Sunday morning, I opened the Focus section as I always do, and read the op-eds. I was published about how the Dems walking out failed the state. I then turned the page and saw my friend and fellow Libertarian, Mike Kole, talking about how the city of Indianapolis shouldn't be spending taxpayers' money to lobby the Statehouse. If even 100 people read both of these letters, it should have a ripple effect I only dream of :)...good dreams LOL.
Anyway, if you like what you're reading go to http://www.helpuswin.org and join the club!!
03 March 2005
Finally, an Update!!
Greetings, one and all!! It's been a little bit since my last post, but that's not from lack of information or frustration. Going to school, working two jobs (again), being a pseudo-politico, plus a personal life is a bit...laundry is almost not an option LOL. But I digress.
This week has certainly been an interesting one. I was named new Chair of the Hancock County LP on Monday. This will be an interesting leadership :). I look forward to working with fellow libertarians and others from both sides of the aisle to move our county in a more libertarian direction.
The big kahuna this week was the walkout of House Democrats on Monday and Tuesday. On Tuesday, all bills on the House floor either had to pass into the Senate or die. Frustrated on two bills, one requiring ID at the polling places (good idea), and the other creating a post of inspector general (also a good idea). House Minority Leader B. Patrick Bauer (D-South Bend) decided it would be a good idea to pull the ranks and lose quorum in the chamber.
What Bauer did was kill 132 bills, including some his own party was pushing, like the bill that gave public money to the Colts (grr), the DST issue (good idea, FINALLY), and capped caseloads for social workers (a GREAT idea). All of this because he wants to protect "poorer people" who couldn't afford ID cards. Republicans amended the bill to provide free ID cards to those who couldn't afford them. As for the inspector general, I'm afraid to see what he would have turned up after the BMV fiasco.
My point is, is that Democrats put their faith in a man who is a hypocrite. Last year, as Speaker, he refused to bring up the issue of gay marriage at the request of House Republicans, who then walked out. He said that was not the way for legislators to act. My question to Rep. Bauer, is it the way for them to act now?? I say it is not. A Libertarian legislator would work with the GOP and the Dems to find a reasonable middle ground on the issues. In 2006, when you walk into the booth to vote, remember Democrats don't care what you want, it's what Pat Bauer wants. Libertarians care about what you want, because it's your choice.
This week has certainly been an interesting one. I was named new Chair of the Hancock County LP on Monday. This will be an interesting leadership :). I look forward to working with fellow libertarians and others from both sides of the aisle to move our county in a more libertarian direction.
The big kahuna this week was the walkout of House Democrats on Monday and Tuesday. On Tuesday, all bills on the House floor either had to pass into the Senate or die. Frustrated on two bills, one requiring ID at the polling places (good idea), and the other creating a post of inspector general (also a good idea). House Minority Leader B. Patrick Bauer (D-South Bend) decided it would be a good idea to pull the ranks and lose quorum in the chamber.
What Bauer did was kill 132 bills, including some his own party was pushing, like the bill that gave public money to the Colts (grr), the DST issue (good idea, FINALLY), and capped caseloads for social workers (a GREAT idea). All of this because he wants to protect "poorer people" who couldn't afford ID cards. Republicans amended the bill to provide free ID cards to those who couldn't afford them. As for the inspector general, I'm afraid to see what he would have turned up after the BMV fiasco.
My point is, is that Democrats put their faith in a man who is a hypocrite. Last year, as Speaker, he refused to bring up the issue of gay marriage at the request of House Republicans, who then walked out. He said that was not the way for legislators to act. My question to Rep. Bauer, is it the way for them to act now?? I say it is not. A Libertarian legislator would work with the GOP and the Dems to find a reasonable middle ground on the issues. In 2006, when you walk into the booth to vote, remember Democrats don't care what you want, it's what Pat Bauer wants. Libertarians care about what you want, because it's your choice.
18 February 2005
Statehouse Shenanigans and Some Other Stuff
It appears as if the legislature is frozen from the budget to work on cell phone bans and Indianapolis Works. First, the cell phone ban. Rep. Vanessa Summers (D-Indianapolis) wants to ban using a cell phone without a hands free device if you're driving unless it's an emergency. It didn't get out of committee *sigh*. Does an officer know what constitutes an emergency to me?? I doubt it.
Next, about Indianapolis Works. Mayor Peterson's proposal to further merge under Unigov. It would combine the fire departments between IFD and the townships, the Sheriff's Department and IPD, eliminate township government, etc. It's shrinking government, which I like. Granted, I'm not a Bart Peterson admirer, but the plan received high marks from Beurt SerVaas, the former Republican president of the City-County Council. Right now, I'm thinking it's a ploy to have the Republican legislature make Mayor Peterson, a Democrat, look bad two years out from the mayoral elections in 2007.
I'm posting this to show you what the General Assembly is doing right now as well: IGNORING THE BUDGET!!
On a side note, I've been getting involved in a poker tournament at Barley Island in Noblesville every Thursday. LPIN Secretary of State Candidate (and Hamilton County Chair) Mike Kole is there as well. It's a good time, good beer, and the best part is...it's free! No buy-in!
Next, about Indianapolis Works. Mayor Peterson's proposal to further merge under Unigov. It would combine the fire departments between IFD and the townships, the Sheriff's Department and IPD, eliminate township government, etc. It's shrinking government, which I like. Granted, I'm not a Bart Peterson admirer, but the plan received high marks from Beurt SerVaas, the former Republican president of the City-County Council. Right now, I'm thinking it's a ploy to have the Republican legislature make Mayor Peterson, a Democrat, look bad two years out from the mayoral elections in 2007.
I'm posting this to show you what the General Assembly is doing right now as well: IGNORING THE BUDGET!!
On a side note, I've been getting involved in a poker tournament at Barley Island in Noblesville every Thursday. LPIN Secretary of State Candidate (and Hamilton County Chair) Mike Kole is there as well. It's a good time, good beer, and the best part is...it's free! No buy-in!
15 February 2005
Stupid Solutions for a Simple Problem
Ladies and gentlemen, Mayor Bart Peterson looks like a fool, the House Republicans are trying to make him look like a bigger fool, and will try to take the citizens of this state as fools as well. All of this fooling around is due to the failure to secure funding for a new stadium to house the Indianapolis Colts. Late last year, Mayor Peterson and Colts owner Jim Irsay announced they had a deal to keep the Colts in town for 30 years. Money for this would come from a downtown casino, which has to go through the legislature. Looks like Peterson forgot to talk with the General Assembly about it.
New House Speaker Brian Bosma said that there would be no new downtown casino on his watch, because of the moral reprecussions, more or less. That led two prominent Republican lawmakers Reps. Mike Murphy of Indianapolis, and Luke Messer, to offer alternatives. They looked to expand the gaming at the state's two horse tracks in Anderson and Shelbyville. Those proposals failed to get out of committee or generate any support.
Upon the failures to get any type of gaming going, now it looks like Murphy wants to penalize those that commute to Indianapolis for work. People like myself, would be facing double taxation and taxation without representation. The money would be removed from my paycheck, like my county taxes (double taxation), and then be used in Marion County, where I don't live (taxation without representation).
Irsay should be taking a page from his neighbors to the north, the Green Bay Packers. In 1997, they sold shares of non-voting stock for $200 apiece in an effort to raise funds for renovations to Lambeau Field. The team raised $80 million in a month. Imagine the possibilities, Irsay sells say, 1 million shares, similar price, BAM!! $200 million for a new stadium's construction! No tax increases, no gambling, no welfare for a multimillionaire, all privately financed! Scary proposition, the free market working!! It's not fair for the gun to be put to taxpayers' heads to finance a private entity. That's a simple libertarian solution that won't affect the lives of people that don't want to pay for a new stadium. For more ideas like this, click some of the links on the right.
New House Speaker Brian Bosma said that there would be no new downtown casino on his watch, because of the moral reprecussions, more or less. That led two prominent Republican lawmakers Reps. Mike Murphy of Indianapolis, and Luke Messer, to offer alternatives. They looked to expand the gaming at the state's two horse tracks in Anderson and Shelbyville. Those proposals failed to get out of committee or generate any support.
Upon the failures to get any type of gaming going, now it looks like Murphy wants to penalize those that commute to Indianapolis for work. People like myself, would be facing double taxation and taxation without representation. The money would be removed from my paycheck, like my county taxes (double taxation), and then be used in Marion County, where I don't live (taxation without representation).
Irsay should be taking a page from his neighbors to the north, the Green Bay Packers. In 1997, they sold shares of non-voting stock for $200 apiece in an effort to raise funds for renovations to Lambeau Field. The team raised $80 million in a month. Imagine the possibilities, Irsay sells say, 1 million shares, similar price, BAM!! $200 million for a new stadium's construction! No tax increases, no gambling, no welfare for a multimillionaire, all privately financed! Scary proposition, the free market working!! It's not fair for the gun to be put to taxpayers' heads to finance a private entity. That's a simple libertarian solution that won't affect the lives of people that don't want to pay for a new stadium. For more ideas like this, click some of the links on the right.
10 February 2005
Social and Fiscal Responsibility
President Bush said in his State of the Union that the government must spend more wisely, showing fiscal restraint...HOGWASH!!! All the president is doing is spending slightly more than last year, and putting the money into white elephants, mostly the war in Iraq. Instead of focusing on protecting our citizens with police grants (money to help local departments hire more officers), he's investing in discretionary (ie: defense) spending. All in all, it's $2.5 trillion for the year, and that doesn't even include the $80 billion he has asked for the Iraq war.
Now don't get me wrong, democracy in Iraq is a wonderful thing. On March 15, 2003, I blared "Bombs Over Baghdad" (a killer OutKast song, BTW), but the toll is enough. Over a quarter of a trillion dollars has been spent there, when he could have better used it inside our borders. Bush's legacy is foreign policy, no doubt about it. What worries me though, is how can he "help" other countries when there is so much to do here??
The war on terror is just like the war on drugs to me. Lots of money spent, lots of rhetoric, but little, if any, concrete results. President Bush should focus more on crony capitalism, protecting the lives of Americans, and not be a man that focuses on imperialism. Under Bush's watch, the USA Patriot Act stripped citizens of the civil liberties. Now he's for a Constitutional amendment on same-sex marriages. What's next, he's gonna tell me when I get married, I'm only allowed one child, and it must be male??? This does reek of authoritarianism, and it disgusts me. The only good things he's done (in my eyes) was the tax cuts (but without the necessary spending cuts), trying to reform the tax code, and privatize a portion of Social Security.
Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld talked of the "shock and awe" strategy in Iraq. Send a shock and awe to the government by standing up for personal freedom and fiscal responsibility in the voting booth. You ask "how?" I say: VOTE LIBERTARIAN!
Now don't get me wrong, democracy in Iraq is a wonderful thing. On March 15, 2003, I blared "Bombs Over Baghdad" (a killer OutKast song, BTW), but the toll is enough. Over a quarter of a trillion dollars has been spent there, when he could have better used it inside our borders. Bush's legacy is foreign policy, no doubt about it. What worries me though, is how can he "help" other countries when there is so much to do here??
The war on terror is just like the war on drugs to me. Lots of money spent, lots of rhetoric, but little, if any, concrete results. President Bush should focus more on crony capitalism, protecting the lives of Americans, and not be a man that focuses on imperialism. Under Bush's watch, the USA Patriot Act stripped citizens of the civil liberties. Now he's for a Constitutional amendment on same-sex marriages. What's next, he's gonna tell me when I get married, I'm only allowed one child, and it must be male??? This does reek of authoritarianism, and it disgusts me. The only good things he's done (in my eyes) was the tax cuts (but without the necessary spending cuts), trying to reform the tax code, and privatize a portion of Social Security.
Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld talked of the "shock and awe" strategy in Iraq. Send a shock and awe to the government by standing up for personal freedom and fiscal responsibility in the voting booth. You ask "how?" I say: VOTE LIBERTARIAN!
03 February 2005
State of the Union
My friends, last night President Bush told Congress the State of the Union. He is pushing for reform on the tax code and Social Security. Both are long overdue. The tax code is hard to understand to Joe Schmo (ie: me) and goes on worse than a Democratic filibuster. But I digress.
Social Security is in need of a major overhaul now, or we're all screwed. The figures do not lie. In 2018, SS will pay out more than it takes in, and according to figures, will be completely bankrupt in 2042. I'll be 61 then (God-willing), but still it's an out-dated system in need of a modern makeover.
Democrats say all is well with SS, that the "trust fund" will be there for Americans. The "trust fund" is nothing more than a shoebox under someone's desk that has a load of IOU's in there. President Bush is using the political capital he won to push for the reform of SS. Democratic Congressional Leaders Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi, say that they will block the reforms. Reid and Pelosi, both as long on rhetoric as W, have no legit solutions.
People need to realize that it's their money being legally taken from them. We want our money back!!!
Social Security is in need of a major overhaul now, or we're all screwed. The figures do not lie. In 2018, SS will pay out more than it takes in, and according to figures, will be completely bankrupt in 2042. I'll be 61 then (God-willing), but still it's an out-dated system in need of a modern makeover.
Democrats say all is well with SS, that the "trust fund" will be there for Americans. The "trust fund" is nothing more than a shoebox under someone's desk that has a load of IOU's in there. President Bush is using the political capital he won to push for the reform of SS. Democratic Congressional Leaders Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi, say that they will block the reforms. Reid and Pelosi, both as long on rhetoric as W, have no legit solutions.
People need to realize that it's their money being legally taken from them. We want our money back!!!
31 January 2005
Monday, Monday...plus a Super pick
Whoo, what a day! Getting published, doing homework, talking politics, and getting a new cell phone all in one day can cramp one's style. I must move on.
As I mentioned earlier, I was in attendance for the "Talk of the Town" meeting at the Statehouse last week. I was frustrated at the lack of talk over shrinking the state government. So like any reader who wants his side heard, I wrote a letter to the editor, and it was published...link here:
http://www.indystar.com/articles/0/218677-9870-022.html
Tonight was the monthly Hancock County LP meeting, and we were joined by LPIN Political Director Brad Klopfenstein and Secretary of State candidate Mike Kole. I have formally endorsed Mike in the race, because I believe if he can serve Libertarians well, then the state should be just as fortunate to have him serve them.
Anyway, I digress...the Super Bowl is on the way and I'm calling for *sigh* another Patriots win. I don't know what it is, but Bill Belichick has a plan for everyone. Catch you on the flipside.
As I mentioned earlier, I was in attendance for the "Talk of the Town" meeting at the Statehouse last week. I was frustrated at the lack of talk over shrinking the state government. So like any reader who wants his side heard, I wrote a letter to the editor, and it was published...link here:
http://www.indystar.com/articles/0/218677-9870-022.html
Tonight was the monthly Hancock County LP meeting, and we were joined by LPIN Political Director Brad Klopfenstein and Secretary of State candidate Mike Kole. I have formally endorsed Mike in the race, because I believe if he can serve Libertarians well, then the state should be just as fortunate to have him serve them.
Anyway, I digress...the Super Bowl is on the way and I'm calling for *sigh* another Patriots win. I don't know what it is, but Bill Belichick has a plan for everyone. Catch you on the flipside.
27 January 2005
Open Forum, eh??
Two days ago, a local TV station and the local newspaper hosted a town hall meeting at the Indiana Statehouse, inviting all to attend to present their thoughts to some of the state's legislators. Many pertinent topics were discussed, mostly the new terrain I-69 and Medicare/Medicaid.
My friends from the Green Party were the muscle behind bringing I-69 to the immediate forefront. For those that don't know what I'm talking about, the state is going to spend $3 billion to extend I-69 from Indianapolis to Evansville through Bloomington, which will save only 12 minutes. TWELVE STINKING MINUTES!!! Currently the route is I-70 west to Terre Haute, then US 41 south onward to Evansville. Money to pay for the project would be diverted from the state, so counties would be left high and dry to maintain their own roads.
Medicaid was also brought up, with potential waivers being eliminated. A ten-year old girl talked about her autistic brother, and it reduced me to tears. The state has a responsibility to help those that cannot legitimately help themselves, and should not eliminate this program that helps middle-income families. However, I do not advocate increasing spending on this program because right now, the state's fiscal situation is a huge shit sandwich, and everyone's taking a bite.
Gay marriage was also mentioned, and the libertarian solution to that is removing the government from marriage altogether. I know Dan Carpenter of the Star called that issue the slab of red meat sitting in the fridge for the GOP, but people need to realize, that once again, morality cannot be legislated.
A libertarian solution, which I've said all along, involves a current flatline of the budget, no new taxes (income or sales), staying away from the gay marriage issue, and upgrading the I-70/US 41 for Evansville at a savings of almost $2 billion to the state. If you agree with this, I suggest you go to the next Libertarian Party meeting. The link to the state site is over on the right, and you can go from there. Talk to you soon.
My friends from the Green Party were the muscle behind bringing I-69 to the immediate forefront. For those that don't know what I'm talking about, the state is going to spend $3 billion to extend I-69 from Indianapolis to Evansville through Bloomington, which will save only 12 minutes. TWELVE STINKING MINUTES!!! Currently the route is I-70 west to Terre Haute, then US 41 south onward to Evansville. Money to pay for the project would be diverted from the state, so counties would be left high and dry to maintain their own roads.
Medicaid was also brought up, with potential waivers being eliminated. A ten-year old girl talked about her autistic brother, and it reduced me to tears. The state has a responsibility to help those that cannot legitimately help themselves, and should not eliminate this program that helps middle-income families. However, I do not advocate increasing spending on this program because right now, the state's fiscal situation is a huge shit sandwich, and everyone's taking a bite.
Gay marriage was also mentioned, and the libertarian solution to that is removing the government from marriage altogether. I know Dan Carpenter of the Star called that issue the slab of red meat sitting in the fridge for the GOP, but people need to realize, that once again, morality cannot be legislated.
A libertarian solution, which I've said all along, involves a current flatline of the budget, no new taxes (income or sales), staying away from the gay marriage issue, and upgrading the I-70/US 41 for Evansville at a savings of almost $2 billion to the state. If you agree with this, I suggest you go to the next Libertarian Party meeting. The link to the state site is over on the right, and you can go from there. Talk to you soon.
19 January 2005
State of the State
Ladies and gentlemen, Mitch Daniels has been governor for eight days. In this week-plus he's been in office, he's created more layers of government, cancelled collective bargaining contracts with state employees, visited flood-stricken areas of the state, and now, proposed a tax increase.
The way I understand it, Gov. Daniels wants a one-year, one percent increase on income taxes of individuals and businesses making over $100,000 a year. Some of you are thinking, they're rich, they can afford it. My question is, what about the small-business owner who's struggling to meet government regulations as it is, and now will have to pay at least an extra $1,000?? That could mean that Small Businessman X goes out of business, and the economy suffers. Gov. Daniels says that the money generated from this temporary revenue adjustment (don't ya love the spin on that) will balance the books for the state and he can begin his economic plan.
Once again, a "slash and burn" Republican is acting like his "tax and spend" Democrat counterparts. A libertarian solution, flatlining or a uniform cut in spending (ten percent is a good start), is much more palatable to everyone versus raising taxes. I hope Governor Daniels realizes this isn't a budget spread over 295 million people, but only five or six million, so the effects of his plan will hit home a lot harder. 27 lawmakers, 25 of them Republican, signed a no new taxes pledge. It will take more than the Republican name to push this legislation through a GOP Assembly. Let's see if those 27 can make the stand they said they would.
The way I understand it, Gov. Daniels wants a one-year, one percent increase on income taxes of individuals and businesses making over $100,000 a year. Some of you are thinking, they're rich, they can afford it. My question is, what about the small-business owner who's struggling to meet government regulations as it is, and now will have to pay at least an extra $1,000?? That could mean that Small Businessman X goes out of business, and the economy suffers. Gov. Daniels says that the money generated from this temporary revenue adjustment (don't ya love the spin on that) will balance the books for the state and he can begin his economic plan.
Once again, a "slash and burn" Republican is acting like his "tax and spend" Democrat counterparts. A libertarian solution, flatlining or a uniform cut in spending (ten percent is a good start), is much more palatable to everyone versus raising taxes. I hope Governor Daniels realizes this isn't a budget spread over 295 million people, but only five or six million, so the effects of his plan will hit home a lot harder. 27 lawmakers, 25 of them Republican, signed a no new taxes pledge. It will take more than the Republican name to push this legislation through a GOP Assembly. Let's see if those 27 can make the stand they said they would.
14 January 2005
What a Week!
The title sums it up right there! A new governor, school's started again, and there's a new affiliate in the LPIN!!
Mitch Daniels was finally sworn in as Indiana's 49th governor, and true to his word, got right to work. He signed 13 executive orders on his first day, and toured flood-stricken areas yesterday. Between now and then, he also rescinded the Executive Order providing for the collective bargaining agreement with state employees. Another hot-button issue was the DST situation we have, and it looks like we'll be switching our clocks (FINALLY!!!)
As far as school goes, it's 15 hours....GRRR
A new member came into the LPIN family tonight. Madison County (Anderson) was affiliated this evening by three Libertarians who are as committed to the cause as anyone! I look forward to the good things to come from my neighbors to the north!
Mitch Daniels was finally sworn in as Indiana's 49th governor, and true to his word, got right to work. He signed 13 executive orders on his first day, and toured flood-stricken areas yesterday. Between now and then, he also rescinded the Executive Order providing for the collective bargaining agreement with state employees. Another hot-button issue was the DST situation we have, and it looks like we'll be switching our clocks (FINALLY!!!)
As far as school goes, it's 15 hours....GRRR
A new member came into the LPIN family tonight. Madison County (Anderson) was affiliated this evening by three Libertarians who are as committed to the cause as anyone! I look forward to the good things to come from my neighbors to the north!
05 January 2005
Think Big
My Man Mitch becomes My Governor Mitch on Monday, January 10. Gov.-elect Daniels has a big challenge ahead of him, mostly on the budget, but also how to run one-party rule. As a Libertarian, my wish list of his administration has potential of happening, only if he sticks to his "small-government" roots.
-Shrinking the deficit and actual spending in the Statehouse.
---The $800 million deficit is staggering to anyone, and a flatline/10% reduction in spending is necessary to make this state financially solvent again. Daniels says that nothing is off the table...I don't like the sound of that :(
-Adopting Daylight Savings Time (DST) across the state
---As I mention time and time again, my own family doesn't know what time I'm on here in the Hoosier State. Putting us on Chicago (Central) time puts us on a clock that makes more sense culturally and economically. Daniels has already pledged this :)
-Avoiding the gay marriage issue
---We don't need to legislate morality, PERIOD. If they can legislate that, then they can turn around and take away my rosary and Bible, no frickin way!! The government does not need to be in an individual's bedroom. Daniels is against gay marriage, so it's kind of : on this
-Charter schools
---Mitch agreed with Our Guy Gividen about charter schools. Charters are out of government control, and in control of the parents. It also doesn't cost government because the money is private. :)
-Crane Naval Warfare Center
---One of the largest military installations in the world is headquartered about 30 minutes south of Bloomington. This brings in jobs, and money for this area in southwestern Indiana. The federal government is considering closing it and I hope Daniels fights for this key base to remain open as much as his predecessor did. Closing Crane would further depress southwest Indiana, right as I-69 is being built (BOO) :(
That's my wish list for Mitch Daniels. Some of it is pipe dream, some of it can become reality. Let's see if he truly represents all Hoosiers.
-Shrinking the deficit and actual spending in the Statehouse.
---The $800 million deficit is staggering to anyone, and a flatline/10% reduction in spending is necessary to make this state financially solvent again. Daniels says that nothing is off the table...I don't like the sound of that :(
-Adopting Daylight Savings Time (DST) across the state
---As I mention time and time again, my own family doesn't know what time I'm on here in the Hoosier State. Putting us on Chicago (Central) time puts us on a clock that makes more sense culturally and economically. Daniels has already pledged this :)
-Avoiding the gay marriage issue
---We don't need to legislate morality, PERIOD. If they can legislate that, then they can turn around and take away my rosary and Bible, no frickin way!! The government does not need to be in an individual's bedroom. Daniels is against gay marriage, so it's kind of : on this
-Charter schools
---Mitch agreed with Our Guy Gividen about charter schools. Charters are out of government control, and in control of the parents. It also doesn't cost government because the money is private. :)
-Crane Naval Warfare Center
---One of the largest military installations in the world is headquartered about 30 minutes south of Bloomington. This brings in jobs, and money for this area in southwestern Indiana. The federal government is considering closing it and I hope Daniels fights for this key base to remain open as much as his predecessor did. Closing Crane would further depress southwest Indiana, right as I-69 is being built (BOO) :(
That's my wish list for Mitch Daniels. Some of it is pipe dream, some of it can become reality. Let's see if he truly represents all Hoosiers.
04 January 2005
Up in Smoke (Part 2)
As some of you know, Morgan County, located southeast of Indianapolis, enacted a smoking ban on all restaurants and bars on January 1st. This is another form of government control if you ask me. I don't think it's necessary for government to legislate morality on any level. It's simply a matter of personal choice. I voiced my opinion and was published in the Indianapolis Star today. The link is as follows:
http://www.indystar.com/articles/2/206762-5052-022.html
I was short and sweet, to the point really. It takes taxes away from businesses and forces them back on the individuals. Kind of unfortunate really, seeing that Morgan County is mostly Republican, supposedly the party of smaller government. Seeing this, true conservatives can only look one way for a government that trusts them with their personal choices, that being the libertarian way.
http://www.indystar.com/articles/2/206762-5052-022.html
I was short and sweet, to the point really. It takes taxes away from businesses and forces them back on the individuals. Kind of unfortunate really, seeing that Morgan County is mostly Republican, supposedly the party of smaller government. Seeing this, true conservatives can only look one way for a government that trusts them with their personal choices, that being the libertarian way.
03 January 2005
What Do I Look Like...a Bank??
Hey everyone, hope we had a good Christmas season and a safe and happy New Year! The tsunami has everyone around the world focused on southeast Asia and the aftermath that continues to unfold. Jan Egeland, the United Nations (there's an oxymoron) Emergency Relief Coordinator, said that the USA's initial pledge of $10 million was not enough! So Bush upped the ante to $35 million, and there was still grumbling, then outgoing Secretary of State Powell said it was now at $350 million. That appeased the world. It doesn't appease me. If the government is going to spend $350 million, why not take care of the problems in their own country??
It has always been America's "duty" to help those that can't be helped, but I find it easier to stomach donating $20 to the Red Cross to help (which I did), rather than see money I work for taken from me involuntarily to help someone else. What if I needed that money to feed myself or pay for my shelter?? The US is not the world's ATM, contrary to popular belief. Can I apply for federal aid when I get a flat tire on my way to work?? Will I get money for running out of gas?? The answer to those two questions is obviously no.
Private charities come into this equation immensely, such as the Red Cross/Red Crescent, Doctors Without Borders, etc. It's those organizations that specialize in emergency support and aid dispersal, not some bureaucrat in Washington, DC. When 9/11 happened, millions of dollars in private donations came into the coffers to help those traumatized. Now money is re-entering those coffers, not because people are forced to give via the government, but through the goodness of their hearts. Get the government out of foreign aid, and get it back to getting this nation on track.
It has always been America's "duty" to help those that can't be helped, but I find it easier to stomach donating $20 to the Red Cross to help (which I did), rather than see money I work for taken from me involuntarily to help someone else. What if I needed that money to feed myself or pay for my shelter?? The US is not the world's ATM, contrary to popular belief. Can I apply for federal aid when I get a flat tire on my way to work?? Will I get money for running out of gas?? The answer to those two questions is obviously no.
Private charities come into this equation immensely, such as the Red Cross/Red Crescent, Doctors Without Borders, etc. It's those organizations that specialize in emergency support and aid dispersal, not some bureaucrat in Washington, DC. When 9/11 happened, millions of dollars in private donations came into the coffers to help those traumatized. Now money is re-entering those coffers, not because people are forced to give via the government, but through the goodness of their hearts. Get the government out of foreign aid, and get it back to getting this nation on track.
13 December 2004
An Eye for an Eye
Now I may upset some of you, but I expect as much. Just 40 minutes ago, a jury of his peers recommended the death penalty for Scott Peterson. I agree with that decision for him. I know that a lot of it was circumstantial evidence, and there was no murder weapon, but there were just too many coincidences for it not to be, in my opinion. I know my faith preaches for me to turn the other cheek, but how could I do that when a man kills not only his wife, but his unborn son as well.
For the most heinous crimes, the most heinous punishment is necessary. I don't believe necessarily in an eye for an eye, but this is a definite exception to this rule. I couldn't justify what he did to anyone, and I don't think many people could. His life should not be spared, but I have a gut feeling he wouldn't last long in the hole (see Jeffery Dahmer).
I believe in live and let live, but in this case that rule goes right out the window. Scott Peterson is getting what he deserves.
For the most heinous crimes, the most heinous punishment is necessary. I don't believe necessarily in an eye for an eye, but this is a definite exception to this rule. I couldn't justify what he did to anyone, and I don't think many people could. His life should not be spared, but I have a gut feeling he wouldn't last long in the hole (see Jeffery Dahmer).
I believe in live and let live, but in this case that rule goes right out the window. Scott Peterson is getting what he deserves.
08 December 2004
Channeling Our Frustrations
In today's media, there are numerous sources of entertainment. It's a 500-channel digital world, with something for everyone it seems. ESPN, CNN, Discovery Channel, the list goes on and on. What irks me is that there is a group that is responsible for seemingly every "outrage" over what's considered indecent on the air. The Parents Television Council (PTC) goes up in arms over every little tidbit they consider wrong. Now I understand Nipple-gate at the Super Bowl was a bit much, and some action needed to be taken about it. However, I don't think that gives them the right to tell the general public what should and shouldn't be broadcast over the airwaves.
My parents always told me, if I don't like something on television, buy my own TV, or simply don't watch what's on. So I did just that. Besides, if I don't watch a show, that's one less viewer, which means less money spent for advertising on said program. That in turn could lead to a show going off the air. If you've seen Field of Dreams, you understand. If you watch it, they will come. They being the advertisers. Conversely, if you don't watch it, they won't come.
As I said on Abdul in the Morning, it's really simple. What's good for you may not be good for me, so don't make that choice on my behalf, because I may not agree with it. It's a very simple free-market idea that involves personal choice. Hmmm, how libertarian of me! If you want to watch Sex and the City, Sportscenter, or the Crocodile Hunter, that's cool. I'll be here, watching my Law and Orders, and totally content with the fact that I have the ability to do just that. That's my choice.
My parents always told me, if I don't like something on television, buy my own TV, or simply don't watch what's on. So I did just that. Besides, if I don't watch a show, that's one less viewer, which means less money spent for advertising on said program. That in turn could lead to a show going off the air. If you've seen Field of Dreams, you understand. If you watch it, they will come. They being the advertisers. Conversely, if you don't watch it, they won't come.
As I said on Abdul in the Morning, it's really simple. What's good for you may not be good for me, so don't make that choice on my behalf, because I may not agree with it. It's a very simple free-market idea that involves personal choice. Hmmm, how libertarian of me! If you want to watch Sex and the City, Sportscenter, or the Crocodile Hunter, that's cool. I'll be here, watching my Law and Orders, and totally content with the fact that I have the ability to do just that. That's my choice.
07 December 2004
Bureaucracy in Baseball
That's right...the federal government gets in your pocket, wants to get in your bedroom, now it wants in on the national pastime. Senator John McCain (R-AZ), considered one of the more moderate Republicans in Washington, wants to form legislation cracking down on steroid use in baseball. I think that's a bit much considering they have more of a time passing legitimate intelligence reform or a balanced budget.
If Barry Bonds wants to inject himself full of roids, so be it. It's his body, he is the one dealing with the consequences of his choices. Also, Senator McCain should focus on more pressing issues, such as the issues I mentioned earlier. It's not the government's job to interfere in a private venture, unless the greater good was being infringed upon. People still pay big bucks to see Bonds, fellow juicer (ALLEGED) Jason Giambi, and others play a child's game.
If baseball wants to let their guys blow up like Goodyear blimps, that's fine. They're doing it to themselves. The best way to send the game a message is simply not to watch them play.
If Barry Bonds wants to inject himself full of roids, so be it. It's his body, he is the one dealing with the consequences of his choices. Also, Senator McCain should focus on more pressing issues, such as the issues I mentioned earlier. It's not the government's job to interfere in a private venture, unless the greater good was being infringed upon. People still pay big bucks to see Bonds, fellow juicer (ALLEGED) Jason Giambi, and others play a child's game.
If baseball wants to let their guys blow up like Goodyear blimps, that's fine. They're doing it to themselves. The best way to send the game a message is simply not to watch them play.
06 December 2004
Lefty Libertarians???
A misconception about libertarians is that they're pissed off Republicans, far right wingers. That may be a group within the party, but there are others like myself who come from the left side of the aisle. Those that abhor the Patriot Act, hate seeing the destruction of what government control does to the very Earth we live on. I despise the war in Iraq because it was initiating force to achieve a socio-political objective. If two people of the same sex want to get married, it's not my time or place to say it's wrong. It's your private decision, as long as you don't infringe on the rights of another person.
Friends of mine who are liberal in their beliefs look at me and think I'm a kook, but when we're sitting down over a beer (which we usually are), and I explain that I'm more socially accepting than most Democrats, they look at me with a newfound respect. What this boils down to, is if you think that Democrats are more and more out there, and won't support your personal choices, look to libertarians. It's your life, your choice.
Friends of mine who are liberal in their beliefs look at me and think I'm a kook, but when we're sitting down over a beer (which we usually are), and I explain that I'm more socially accepting than most Democrats, they look at me with a newfound respect. What this boils down to, is if you think that Democrats are more and more out there, and won't support your personal choices, look to libertarians. It's your life, your choice.
Where Do We Go From Here??
Right now is the political hangover season. The election's over, and the decisions are being made for the next term. In the 24 hour world we live in where you can instantly get information (like the blog you're reading), there is a risk of overload. Ignoring the situation will get it out of the mindset of some, but the situation is still there.
Currently, Gov.-elect Daniels is putting together his team for the next four years. I think he has his heart in the right place, and I think the results will be better than the previous administration. I don't think that he'll achieve everything I'd like to see, but the challenge before him and the General Assembly is very intimidating. Legislators will be making tough decisions on how to compensate for the $800 million structural deficit facing Indiana.
If my family didn't have the money for extras in our life, we simply tightened our belt and made do. That could have meant no vacation, but looking back, it was the right thing to do. If that means no porkbarreling for a couple of years, a legislator can look back and say, "I did my part to shrink the size of the government for my constituents." I respect that. Legislator X stood up and realized these are indeed tough times, and sacrifices have to be made for the greater good of the state.
I understand that Indiana did suffer worse than the nation when the recession hit in the early part of the decade, and we're just now recovering. In order to keep the recovery going, the General Assembly, and Gov.-elect Daniels are going to have to make the tough choices necessary to show the people of Indiana that they made the right choices November 2.
On the federal level, with Republicans in the White House, and in both chambers of Congress, federal spending increased domestically 7-10% in Bush's first term. Let's see if My Man Mitch, Speaker Bosma, and the Republicans in the General Assembly can give our state a 7-10% reduction in spending. That is my challenge to the Indiana GOP. You say you're the party of small government, so put your money where your mouth is.
Currently, Gov.-elect Daniels is putting together his team for the next four years. I think he has his heart in the right place, and I think the results will be better than the previous administration. I don't think that he'll achieve everything I'd like to see, but the challenge before him and the General Assembly is very intimidating. Legislators will be making tough decisions on how to compensate for the $800 million structural deficit facing Indiana.
If my family didn't have the money for extras in our life, we simply tightened our belt and made do. That could have meant no vacation, but looking back, it was the right thing to do. If that means no porkbarreling for a couple of years, a legislator can look back and say, "I did my part to shrink the size of the government for my constituents." I respect that. Legislator X stood up and realized these are indeed tough times, and sacrifices have to be made for the greater good of the state.
I understand that Indiana did suffer worse than the nation when the recession hit in the early part of the decade, and we're just now recovering. In order to keep the recovery going, the General Assembly, and Gov.-elect Daniels are going to have to make the tough choices necessary to show the people of Indiana that they made the right choices November 2.
On the federal level, with Republicans in the White House, and in both chambers of Congress, federal spending increased domestically 7-10% in Bush's first term. Let's see if My Man Mitch, Speaker Bosma, and the Republicans in the General Assembly can give our state a 7-10% reduction in spending. That is my challenge to the Indiana GOP. You say you're the party of small government, so put your money where your mouth is.
20 November 2004
Brad and Mike in the Morning
What a day! Abdul on WXNT called in to see the dentist, but it was Klop and Kole to the rescue!! Libertarian radio all morning in Abdul's stead, and it was fun, informative, and definitely interesting. Notable libertarians on all morning, from presidential candidate Michael Badnarik (who I finally realized is a kook), former congressional/mayoral/gubernatorial candidate Andy Horning, LaPorte County Chair Greg Kelver, as well as Republican Secretary of State Todd Rokita, and others.
Mike Kole, LP Hamilton County Chair, and Brad Klopfenstein, LPIN Executive Director were on the air from 6-9 this morning talking politics, and having a blast on the mic. They took all calls, chatted with guests, even had time to poke fun at themselves. Hell even "President Clinton" called in to talk with the guys.
I think the end result of the guys getting on for three hours was a good thing, expressing good values of the party, and promoting us in the "we're just like everyone else" light.
On a non-political note...the Pacers-Pistons game was a trip!!! I couldn't believe that happened tonight!!!
Mike Kole, LP Hamilton County Chair, and Brad Klopfenstein, LPIN Executive Director were on the air from 6-9 this morning talking politics, and having a blast on the mic. They took all calls, chatted with guests, even had time to poke fun at themselves. Hell even "President Clinton" called in to talk with the guys.
I think the end result of the guys getting on for three hours was a good thing, expressing good values of the party, and promoting us in the "we're just like everyone else" light.
On a non-political note...the Pacers-Pistons game was a trip!!! I couldn't believe that happened tonight!!!
17 November 2004
A New Era
Hello everyone, I'm back. A self-imposed moratorium on virtually all politics for 15 days is definitely a good thing. Most of the election dust has settled, and people have made their choices. Indiana is now a one-party state, electing Mitch Daniels, and giving the House back to the GOP. For years, the Republicans have said that if we elect them, they'll make it happen, it being shrinking the size of the state government. I find this hard to believe.
An $800 million budget deficit has to be dealt with somehow. During the campaign, the evil phrase "tax increase" was rarely uttered. It was "cut this, cut that." Now that the election is over, the "cut this, cut that" mentality is switching to "all options are on the table." Now, as a idealist living in the real world *sigh*, I would rather them raise the sales tax 1% with a sunset provision on there that would end in either 2006 or 2008, that way it falls in an election year, holding the entire legislature accountable, be it Democrats or Republicans. That money collected would have to go towards paying off the state's debt, not for some pet project.
Enough about taxes. Another subject picking up steam as the General Assembly reconvenes is the issue about Daylight Savings Time (DST). I personally think that Indiana should be on Central Standard Time (CST), or Chicago time. We are geographically and culturally closer to Chicago than that of New York, Boston, or Washington, DC. I realize that there are several counties on the Ohio River and in southeastern Indiana that observe Eastern time year-round, and that would not change. This just puts the state in line with the rest of the country. My rationale on this is I have family on both coasts, and they forget that Indiana does not "change their clocks."
The issue of gay marriage will likely come to the forefront of Indiana politics again. I just don't think that marriage should be an issue in government. To me, marriage is a sacred and holy institution officiated by an ordained minister of faith. If that denomination accepts two men or two women in matrimony, so be it. A personal choice shouldn't be left to government to decide. To me, it's the same as saying that certain people should not be allowed to have children. It also reminds me of the "black codes" I've studied in American History, including the one where no free-black could marry a white person because they were "inferior." Nowadays, it's common, so what's the big deal???
Remember this, in the first debate between Gov.-elect Daniels, outgoing Gov. Kernan, and Kenn Gividen, Daniels agreed with Gividen five times. He now has four years to prove he won't maintain the status quo for the state.
An $800 million budget deficit has to be dealt with somehow. During the campaign, the evil phrase "tax increase" was rarely uttered. It was "cut this, cut that." Now that the election is over, the "cut this, cut that" mentality is switching to "all options are on the table." Now, as a idealist living in the real world *sigh*, I would rather them raise the sales tax 1% with a sunset provision on there that would end in either 2006 or 2008, that way it falls in an election year, holding the entire legislature accountable, be it Democrats or Republicans. That money collected would have to go towards paying off the state's debt, not for some pet project.
Enough about taxes. Another subject picking up steam as the General Assembly reconvenes is the issue about Daylight Savings Time (DST). I personally think that Indiana should be on Central Standard Time (CST), or Chicago time. We are geographically and culturally closer to Chicago than that of New York, Boston, or Washington, DC. I realize that there are several counties on the Ohio River and in southeastern Indiana that observe Eastern time year-round, and that would not change. This just puts the state in line with the rest of the country. My rationale on this is I have family on both coasts, and they forget that Indiana does not "change their clocks."
The issue of gay marriage will likely come to the forefront of Indiana politics again. I just don't think that marriage should be an issue in government. To me, marriage is a sacred and holy institution officiated by an ordained minister of faith. If that denomination accepts two men or two women in matrimony, so be it. A personal choice shouldn't be left to government to decide. To me, it's the same as saying that certain people should not be allowed to have children. It also reminds me of the "black codes" I've studied in American History, including the one where no free-black could marry a white person because they were "inferior." Nowadays, it's common, so what's the big deal???
Remember this, in the first debate between Gov.-elect Daniels, outgoing Gov. Kernan, and Kenn Gividen, Daniels agreed with Gividen five times. He now has four years to prove he won't maintain the status quo for the state.
03 November 2004
Post-Election
Man, am I beat!!! Yesterday was the biggest day in my young life, as I was a candidate for the very first time. Getting to my home precinct at 5:45 AM, I was welcomed with a line that wrapped around the firehouse, and pouring rain. I jumped out and proceeded to convince people to vote for me for County Council. It was fun, talking with voters, handing out palmcards letting voters know where I stand, yada yada yada. I was there with two people from the GOP side. We talked and joked, and I think that it made the morning go fairly quickly.
I finally voted at about 9 AM, after waiting in line 30 minutes. I was so busy at the precinct that I ran out of palmcards to hand out. Thankfully, LPIN Chair Mark Rutherford was coming from another precinct, and he gladly picked up more for me. At 6 PM, I packed up, tired and water-logged and made my way to Indy for the post-election party.
In Indy, it was a who's who of libertarians. We all kicked back, ate and drank, watching poll numbers come in statewide and nationally with the presidential race. I found out that I pulled 6% in a 5-way race for three seats. Usually a Libertarian candidate pulls 2-3% in a 3-way, but I did much better than I ever dreamed of doing. I joked if I received 10%, I'd do an Irish jig, but everyone was spared of my Riverdance routine (thankfully).
I want to especially thank Phil Miller, for his guidance and support, as well as showing me one year ago that there are people like me that believe in personal freedom and small government. I want to thank the support from a lot of great people, so numerous I'll probably forget one or two. Brad Klopfenstein, Mark Rutherford, Sam and Jame Goldstein, Rebecca Sink-Burris, Sheri Sharlow, Mike Kole, Rob Place, Margaret Fette, Paul Ehrstein, the list goes on and on, thank you very much for believing in me this year. I plan to win in 2006.
I finally voted at about 9 AM, after waiting in line 30 minutes. I was so busy at the precinct that I ran out of palmcards to hand out. Thankfully, LPIN Chair Mark Rutherford was coming from another precinct, and he gladly picked up more for me. At 6 PM, I packed up, tired and water-logged and made my way to Indy for the post-election party.
In Indy, it was a who's who of libertarians. We all kicked back, ate and drank, watching poll numbers come in statewide and nationally with the presidential race. I found out that I pulled 6% in a 5-way race for three seats. Usually a Libertarian candidate pulls 2-3% in a 3-way, but I did much better than I ever dreamed of doing. I joked if I received 10%, I'd do an Irish jig, but everyone was spared of my Riverdance routine (thankfully).
I want to especially thank Phil Miller, for his guidance and support, as well as showing me one year ago that there are people like me that believe in personal freedom and small government. I want to thank the support from a lot of great people, so numerous I'll probably forget one or two. Brad Klopfenstein, Mark Rutherford, Sam and Jame Goldstein, Rebecca Sink-Burris, Sheri Sharlow, Mike Kole, Rob Place, Margaret Fette, Paul Ehrstein, the list goes on and on, thank you very much for believing in me this year. I plan to win in 2006.
27 October 2004
It'll Be a Cold Day in Hell When....
Right now it's a little chilly down there, considering Boston just won the World Series. I think that was the 7th Sign of the Apocalypse, so if you hear horsemen, RUN! Sports can be such a release for people (like me right now) that have all this political drama in their life. One state, two state, red state, blue state. I'm glad that something as simple as a child's game can give the nation a well-deserved reprieve from the frantic, often chaotic week before a presidential election.
I know I'm supposed to talk about Libertarian news and views on this, but it was an amazing feat. Now, it'll be a cold day in Hell if I win on Tuesday!
I know I'm supposed to talk about Libertarian news and views on this, but it was an amazing feat. Now, it'll be a cold day in Hell if I win on Tuesday!
21 October 2004
Debate Drama
Today I had a couple of candidate forums. Being the novice in this arena, I expected to vomit on my mic. Thankfully, that didn't happen, but I was extremely nervous to those who witnessed it. The topics were simple and easy, and I did my best to stay on message. I was most concerned with the little red light on the camera glaring at me. According to others (who are very friendly) I came off very well, with just a hint of the jitters. I wanted to just puke everywhere. Politics is a strange game, you think you know how something will pan out, and BAM, you are a deer in the headlights!
I did enjoy myself, the other candidates were extremely nice, especially one of the incumbents, Walt Waitt. He reminds me of my grandfather, firm but exceptionally friendly. He always had a little joke for me, just to keep things light. It is county council, not ruler of the known universe. We discussed the fairgrounds, I stated my message that I don't think penny one of the taxpayers' money should be spent on a private project. The government is a referee, not a player when it comes to the private sector. I did state that roads are of paramount importance to the well-being of the county, and should take priority when it comes to spending. I know I've said it before, but YOU HAVE TO HAVE ROADS.
I said that while a comprehensive plan for the county is a good thing to have, private property owners' rights should come first. Bond issues are not an option when people have been taxed to death, one citizen told her story of how property taxes are breaking her financially. It is a sad day when the government takes someone out of her home in the name of "progress."
All in all, a good day, an interesting day, but another day in the life.
I did enjoy myself, the other candidates were extremely nice, especially one of the incumbents, Walt Waitt. He reminds me of my grandfather, firm but exceptionally friendly. He always had a little joke for me, just to keep things light. It is county council, not ruler of the known universe. We discussed the fairgrounds, I stated my message that I don't think penny one of the taxpayers' money should be spent on a private project. The government is a referee, not a player when it comes to the private sector. I did state that roads are of paramount importance to the well-being of the county, and should take priority when it comes to spending. I know I've said it before, but YOU HAVE TO HAVE ROADS.
I said that while a comprehensive plan for the county is a good thing to have, private property owners' rights should come first. Bond issues are not an option when people have been taxed to death, one citizen told her story of how property taxes are breaking her financially. It is a sad day when the government takes someone out of her home in the name of "progress."
All in all, a good day, an interesting day, but another day in the life.
18 October 2004
Gone Muddin'
Last night at the gubernatorial debate at IU-Southeast, Mitch Daniels and Joe Kernan were just slinging the mud all around. No topic was really sacred. IPALCO, prescription drugs, jobs, the economy, property tax, etc. The two weren't jabbing each other, they were going for the KO. In the middle was not a referee, it was Kenn Gividen.
Kenn was honestly sick of the personal attacks, making that clear numerous times. He took the high road, commending the other two candidates on their character and integrity. It boiled down to if you're sick of hearing the D's and R's point fingers and blame each other, don't vote for them. Vote for someone who wants to get the state back on track, with good jobs and less intrusion, vote Libertarian.
Kenn was honestly sick of the personal attacks, making that clear numerous times. He took the high road, commending the other two candidates on their character and integrity. It boiled down to if you're sick of hearing the D's and R's point fingers and blame each other, don't vote for them. Vote for someone who wants to get the state back on track, with good jobs and less intrusion, vote Libertarian.
14 October 2004
Crunch Time
It's 19 days out from an election. The most critical times will soon be upon us. Debates on the local level will start to wind down. Yard signs will be going up like weeds. Last minute meetings, shaking hands and kissing babies, the whole nine yards. Before we know it, November 2 will be upon us.
It brings a smile to my face seeing people walk into the precinct and cast a ballot. That means they care enough about their futures that they want a say in it. That is why people run for office too. I care enough about keeping spending down, I'm trying to do something about it. It breaks my heart to hear, "Oh Chris, you're a Libertarian. You'll never win." If everyone who said that pulled the lever by my name, I'd win in a landslide.
The point is, don't vote for the name next to the name. If you believe in a candidate, vote the candidate, vote your conscience. But don't let others vote for you. It is then that you've truly lost.
It brings a smile to my face seeing people walk into the precinct and cast a ballot. That means they care enough about their futures that they want a say in it. That is why people run for office too. I care enough about keeping spending down, I'm trying to do something about it. It breaks my heart to hear, "Oh Chris, you're a Libertarian. You'll never win." If everyone who said that pulled the lever by my name, I'd win in a landslide.
The point is, don't vote for the name next to the name. If you believe in a candidate, vote the candidate, vote your conscience. But don't let others vote for you. It is then that you've truly lost.
13 October 2004
A Day in the Life
What a whirlwind! I apologize for not posting that regularly, it's a very busy time for me. School full-time, work full-time, my campaign, plus helping with Our Guy Gividen is really an exhausting task. The past 48 hours has been an absolute roller-coaster of emotions. I found out about 8pm on Monday that Kenn Gividen, Libertarian candidate for governor, was to be excluded from the debates this Sunday in New Albany.
I wake up yesterday, on my way into class, all I hear on WXNT is how we (LPIN) are getting the shaft on the debates. It was basically a three hour pulpit to show how R's and D's were picking on the little guy. Each side was tripping over each other, but that's politics sometimes. Kip Tew, state Democrat chair, said it was Mitch Daniels' side. Bill Oesterle, Mitch Daniels' campaign manager, said it was Kernan's camp keeping Kenn out.
I got out of class, grabbed lunch, and met up with other libertarians on Monument Circle. LPIN Executive Director Brad Klopfenstein went on offense completely, with many prominent people standing up and believing that, "YES! WE CAN!" put Kenn in the debates. From there, it's lunch time (for everyone else), while I just grab a Diet Coke. The press came out for this one, WISH, WTHR, WXNT-AM, Network Indiana, and the Indianapolis Star, plus others sent reporters to hear our polite outrage over this.
By this time, it's now about 1:30 in the afternoon. I met a local pizza shop owner at the City Market. Really nice guy, he believes that it's time for a change, and the LPIN is the best option for that change. I gave him some yard signs, bumper stickers, literature, etc.
Time for the roadie :)....LaPorte here we come! Riding in the Kenn-mobile, I got a first-hand look at how busy this man really is. Before we even get from the LPIN offices to the interstate, he's doing a radio interview for a station in Chesterton. Kenn knows his stuff inside out! Along the way, he did an interview with the Indy Star, plus got confirmation that he would be in the debate! YAY!
When we got to LaPorte, I couldn't have been any happier, or so I thought, since Kenn was back in the debate. But we got to LaPorte for the opening of the new county party HQ there, and I see this big sign in downtown LaPorte that says VOTE LIBERTARIAN! That floored me! Greg Kelver LPLP Chair, Doug Barnes, Jack Lemley (who lets us use this building, thank you Jack), and others have really invested a lot of time, energy and care into making LaPorte County a thriving Libertarian stronghold.
Brad was there along with LPIN Chair Mark Rutherford, LPIN State Secretary (and Secretary of State candiate for 2006) Mike Kole, and Justin Kempf . We brought the heat from Indy along with us. Greg put on a great show, with ribbon cutting from the mayor, a live remote from a local radio station for 90 minutes, good food, good people, and a great cause!
What a day! I couldn't even stay awake on the ride back. I got home safe and sound and went right to sleep. Just another day in the life.
I wake up yesterday, on my way into class, all I hear on WXNT is how we (LPIN) are getting the shaft on the debates. It was basically a three hour pulpit to show how R's and D's were picking on the little guy. Each side was tripping over each other, but that's politics sometimes. Kip Tew, state Democrat chair, said it was Mitch Daniels' side. Bill Oesterle, Mitch Daniels' campaign manager, said it was Kernan's camp keeping Kenn out.
I got out of class, grabbed lunch, and met up with other libertarians on Monument Circle. LPIN Executive Director Brad Klopfenstein went on offense completely, with many prominent people standing up and believing that, "YES! WE CAN!" put Kenn in the debates. From there, it's lunch time (for everyone else), while I just grab a Diet Coke. The press came out for this one, WISH, WTHR, WXNT-AM, Network Indiana, and the Indianapolis Star, plus others sent reporters to hear our polite outrage over this.
By this time, it's now about 1:30 in the afternoon. I met a local pizza shop owner at the City Market. Really nice guy, he believes that it's time for a change, and the LPIN is the best option for that change. I gave him some yard signs, bumper stickers, literature, etc.
Time for the roadie :)....LaPorte here we come! Riding in the Kenn-mobile, I got a first-hand look at how busy this man really is. Before we even get from the LPIN offices to the interstate, he's doing a radio interview for a station in Chesterton. Kenn knows his stuff inside out! Along the way, he did an interview with the Indy Star, plus got confirmation that he would be in the debate! YAY!
When we got to LaPorte, I couldn't have been any happier, or so I thought, since Kenn was back in the debate. But we got to LaPorte for the opening of the new county party HQ there, and I see this big sign in downtown LaPorte that says VOTE LIBERTARIAN! That floored me! Greg Kelver LPLP Chair, Doug Barnes, Jack Lemley (who lets us use this building, thank you Jack), and others have really invested a lot of time, energy and care into making LaPorte County a thriving Libertarian stronghold.
Brad was there along with LPIN Chair Mark Rutherford, LPIN State Secretary (and Secretary of State candiate for 2006) Mike Kole, and Justin Kempf . We brought the heat from Indy along with us. Greg put on a great show, with ribbon cutting from the mayor, a live remote from a local radio station for 90 minutes, good food, good people, and a great cause!
What a day! I couldn't even stay awake on the ride back. I got home safe and sound and went right to sleep. Just another day in the life.
04 October 2004
The Debate about Debates
One thing that makes America great: the right to choose. Coke or Pepsi, paper or plastic, white or wheat. One thing that isn't great is the bi-partisan Commission on Presidential Debates. They say only Democrats and Republicans can debate. The only way another party gets on there is if the candidate is polling 15% nationwide on a consistent basis. The last time that happened was in 1996 when Ross Perot participated, and that was when the non-partisan League of Women Voters ran the debates.
This is supposed to be the country where freedom of choice is supreme. Why doesn't the League of Women Voters reclaim the debates or make the rules a bit more relaxed. If a candidate is on enough state ballots to theoretically claim the White House, then the candidate is in. That would include Michael Badnarik (L), Michael Peroutka (C), and Ralph Nader (I). David Cobb (G) would be on the outside looking in, along with Roger Calero, the Socialists' Workers Party. Calero cannot even be President according to the Constitution, simply because Calero isn't even a citizen of the United States.
This would give citizens the opportunity to hear all of the candidates, not just a joint press conference as I like to call it. But I got a better chance of seeing Johnny Cash in concert tomorrow than I do of seeing this debate commission come to its senses.
This is supposed to be the country where freedom of choice is supreme. Why doesn't the League of Women Voters reclaim the debates or make the rules a bit more relaxed. If a candidate is on enough state ballots to theoretically claim the White House, then the candidate is in. That would include Michael Badnarik (L), Michael Peroutka (C), and Ralph Nader (I). David Cobb (G) would be on the outside looking in, along with Roger Calero, the Socialists' Workers Party. Calero cannot even be President according to the Constitution, simply because Calero isn't even a citizen of the United States.
This would give citizens the opportunity to hear all of the candidates, not just a joint press conference as I like to call it. But I got a better chance of seeing Johnny Cash in concert tomorrow than I do of seeing this debate commission come to its senses.
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