Public Safety??

I know, I know, people are grumbling of a corrupt police force and pointing fingers at Mayor Ballard. Now, Mayor Ballard took office in January, and took control of the police force shortly thereafter. When it comes to the recent rash of police improprieties and homicides, I'm of the turn the other cheek mode. Mayor Ballard is a decent man trying to pick up the pieces left by the Peterson administration, and every naysayer is looking for an excuse to give him heartburn.

Personally, I think Mayor Ballard has done a good job given the circumstances, and look forward to the first budget HE submits before I go Chicken Little on him. No blaming Peterson or Sheriff Anderson, that's just unfair and out of line. However...if he starts cutting public safety in the name of a pet project, then the gloves are off.

I Deserve It…

I heard of some of the rumblings of those hit hardest by the flooding in southwest-central Indiana. They got "only" $1,000 or $2,000 from a charitable trust run by their employer. The thought they "deserved" more was appalling to me. If I were in that situation, I wouldn't be saying give me money because I "deserve" it. I'd be saying, "OK, I'm up a creek (no pun intended), now what can I do to get out of the situation?"

What needs to come into focus is the mentality of some that look to Big Brother for everything, financial support, housing, medical assistance, etc. Now as a Libertarian, I despise most of those concepts. However, as a human being, I get that sometimes government should help those that can't help themselves for a short term. Nothing more than a year, or else the helpless individual starts to become addicted to the taxpayers' dime.

The moral of the story here is when people get used to the morphine of government money, the withdrawals can be painful.

Careful What You Wish for…

The Star is reporting that several drug cases are going out the window because of the arrests of two Narcotics officers gone bad. Proof that throwing more money at the problem only grows the problem, it doesn't solve it…now if we can only get on that whole property tax and health care situation…

From the "What the..." Files

Everyone knows now that Doris Minton-McNeill (D), a City-County Councillor, was arrested for assaulting a police officer and resisting arrest. She replaced Andre Carson, who was elected to
Congress. He replaced Patrice Abduallah, who served one district, yet lived in another, in violation of the law. Do you see the common thread?

The Democrat precinct captains, in my opinion, are not thoroughly vetting their candidates. It's more about keeping the seat (which Republicans rarely contest). More often than not, no matter what part of the political spectrum, if you knowingly select and elect undesirable candidates, you get what you pay for in the end. As if Mike O'Connor needed anymore headaches.

Grand Old Goofup

Jon Elrod is either a smart guy or a pansy, depending on your thought process. He lost a special election in March to Andre Carson for the late Rep. Julia Carson's seat, won the primary in May, now with only a few days before the filing deadline, he withdraws his name for the congressional race. He now wants to retain his Statehouse seat which was not contested in the GOP primary.

What this tells me is that, as much as I don't want to admit it, Greg Garrison is right. As long as the district is drawn as it is, Democrats will win the congressional races here. That's a given, as many credible Republicans have come and gone against the Carson machine. I just never thought that one of them would throw up the white flag before it even started.

Remembering Russert

Meet the Press moderator Tim Russert passed away yesterday of an apparent heart attack at the age of 58. It really shocked me and reminded me dearly of my parents who are of the same age. Russert, like my father an Irish Catholic, wrote the bestsellers Big Russ and Me and Wisdom of Our Fathers: Lessons and Letters from Daughters and Sons.

The book's talk of fathers (the first by Russert on his father) resonates with many (including this blogger) of a father who did whatever it took to support and raise his family. I, personally, did not always appreciate as a younger person what my dad did, but it shaped me into who I am today, and I couldn't be happier. My dad is a great man who gave of himself freely for his family, and that is something I will never forget.

Tim Russert will be missed in many political circles, but the stories of father and son will live on for generations. If that is his legacy, then Tim Russert is a better man. May the angels say to him upon his arrival to Heaven, "Cead Mile Failte."

The Revolution Will Be Recognized

Last year, Andy Horning helped make headlines for his property tax rally on the Fourth of July in front of the Governor's Mansion. That was only the beginning. This year, if you want a government that applies the Constitution as it is written, not as it's "interpreted"...join Andy and other like-minded individuals on Independence Day at the Governor's Mansion to hold our elected officials accountable for themselves and their actions!

Dodging Common Sense

The Toll Road lease has been one of the most polarizing projects in the state of Indiana. All of northern Indiana reviles the governor for "selling out." The governor counters with the billions of dollars brought into the state's coffers. It's been this way for a few years now.

In government, sometimes legislators are offered perks. Maybe a dinner here, a game there. It's called lobbying. The latest perk is a bit much and arrogant. According to the Indianapolis Star, Cintar-Macquarie, the Spanish-Australian consortium responsible for the operation of the Toll Road, gave the iZoom transponders to all legislators in northern Indiana, then offered them to all legislators. The transponders charge vehicles at the original rate, whereas the rates at toll booths have gone up considerably.

In the spirit of equity, most legislators rejected the perk, saying they're no better than their constituents, especially with gas at $4/gallon. I said most legislators. Reps. Dick Dodge (R-Pleasant Lake) and Chet Dobis (D-Merrillville) have gone on record saying they will use their transponders, basically telling their constituents to go fly a kite.

How out of touch are these fellas...jobs are leaving the region (I know, I lived in South Bend as a child, until my dad got a better job in Indy. His old job in SB was gone in two years), gas is going up, and nothing new is going there. Voters up there should give both of these guys the boot in the fall.

Finally...

Finally can mean many things. Finally, the Stanley Cup finals (Go Pens). Finally, it stopped raining. In this case, finally means we have our prizefight contenders from the R's and D's. Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) has been the presumptive GOP nominee for some time now, laying back and quietly going about his business. Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL) has enough delegates and convention superdelegates to clinch the nomination.

The question I'm asking now is, who's number two? No not the quiet man with an eyepatch who runs the legitimate side of things, but the VP slot? Sen. Clinton (D-NY) seems to be eyeing the veep position, but I ask my liberal friends how can you support a candidate who is running on a platform of change then have a running mate who ran her campaign on experience?? Not only that, but the thought of having four more years of President Bill Clinton around the White House is a bit unsettling, for more than one reason.

As for the GOP side, I'm betting either former Gov. Mitt Romney (R-MA), or current Gov. Bobby Jindal (R-LA) get the spot for the Republicans. McCain is more known as a maverick, not what the "conservative" GOP might really want. Either Romney or Jindal bring those credentials to the convention, but Jindal would be better served because he would balance the ticket in the South, and honestly, if I were Romney, I'd lay low for four years, knowing that McCain probably won't win, and he can run in 2012 as the "true conservative."

Since there are no concrete running mates, where do you weigh in?

Presidential Prospects

The primary season is almost over. We have the Democrats and Republicans...let's size them up.

Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-NY)'s campaign is on life support waiting for the universal health care to cut it off. Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL) disowns a man he says he could disown no more than he could his racist white grandmother, then says Rev. Wright wasn't really a spiritual adviser.

Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) was a "foot soldier" for President Reagan, then was considered a maverick on the Hill, now he tries to carry the conservative mantle for the GOP. I never met a conservative that is for global warming legislation, campaign finance reform, and forced cooperation from the private sector.

Neither party really has a candidate that is for freedom and liberty, both personal or economically. One side wants to take away your opportunity to choose your own doctors, double your taxes, and remove your individuality. The other side wants to limit your speech, monitor your lives, and tell you who you can and can't be with.

Libertarians believe in a smaller, friendlier, more efficient government. If you want sole dominion of your life and your wallet, the Libertarian Party may be for you!!

Barr/Root for President, and Other Thoughts

It's been a week now and I've heard people both for and against the ticket chosen by the national convention state why it's either a good or bad idea. Proponents say this brings national name recognition and a "balanced" ticket (Rep. Barr from Georgia, Root from Vegas), as well as giving true conservatives one more legitimate reason to not vote for Senator McCain. Opponents say it's a move to become GOP lite or a more socially conservative LP, selling out the idealist soul of the party for a higher vote total.

I think that while we have the "north pole" libertarians, we have to be willing to accept the people that want liberty and freedom that come from other parties. Not everyone is a Libertarian at birth, Lord knows I wasn't. I came from a family of a fairly liberal mother, and a conservative-leaning father. I was a Democrat through the Clinton years, then when I went on my own, I realized that taxes were just insane, etc. I didn't vote Republican because of the Religious Right hypocrisy on the death penalty. I became a Libertarian because I agree 90% of the time, only one real issue I have, which I won't discuss in this forum.

I think Rep. Barr is still very socially conservative, but he's realized that government can't legislate morality (my big thing), and that Root, for the Reagan Republican he was raised, is bent on getting government out of the lives and laptops of people.

All in all, Mary Ruwart was a good candidate, but some of her past statements could marginalize the party in November. Rep. Barr has a gravitas and name recognition that resonates with conservatives and libertarians alike. As for Root, anyone that listens to sports radio knows his voice as well. I like the ticket overall, and I think those that want to be a freer society, this ticket is their best bet.

Favre and Away

Over the past few years, I regularly write about politics, but there is more to life. Growing up a Chicago Bears fan, Brett Favre was the thorn in the side of my team for the better part of two decades. His gunslinging, throw caution to the wind, freewheeling style of football enamored fans and won many games for his Packers, including Super Bowl XXXI against the Patriots. He retired today, and twenty one starting quarterbacks later, Chicago fans have a reason to smile.

Congressional Controversy

Yes, I am alive and well...surprise! Anyway, my hopes for a new and improved Lawrence were put on hold one month into Mayor Ricketts' term when there was the proposal of a $15,000 raise. Mr. Mayor did the right thing only after there was an uproar from the citizenry. Then this past week, in the midst of a winter weather advisory, his office issued a statement urging citizens to stay off the roads unless necessary because the city DPW is almost out of salt. Grr....but I digress.

Now onto the issue of the day. March 11 presents Indiana voters with an intriguing opportunity for an election. No straight ticket, just pick one of three. It's local Libertarian activist Sean Shepard against City-County Councillor Andre Carson (D) and State Representative Jon Elrod (R).

Shepard is the only pro-family, pro-business, pro-FairTax candidate I can see. He's the most well-spoken, and provides many solutions facing the country. Now Elrod is seen as an electable Republican in a Democrat stronghold. I think he may be too liberal for most conservatives, and doesn't come across as very communicative, especially when talking about foreclosure. However, he's won elections in heavily Democrat districts, and is renowned for hitting the pavement. Carson is running in his first contested election. The grandson of the late Congresswoman, Carson is painting himself as tough on national security and as a tolerant man. However, with ties to the Nation of Islam, and a former job as an Excise Officer (88th of 89 in his class), his rhetoric and accusations of nepotism may be his undoing. That, or the fact he can't take heat from constituents.

This will be an interesting race, and then the primary is six weeks after that...then the real fun begins!

Seventh Heaven

Who isn't a candidate for the 7th Congressional District next year? Aside from those outside the district, the field appears to be wide open. Republican State Rep. Jon Elrod threw his name in this week, forgoing a second term in the State House for a chance at an opportunity to ride the GOP wave for another year (he hopes). Former Congressman, and current Rep. Julia Carson's mentor, Andy Jacobs (D), supports Carson's grandson, current CCC member Andre Carson, who has all of a summer of public service. Then there's other Dems looking at the jump to DC. Outgoing Mayor Peterson could make the jump (Hudnut did it in the 70's), State Rep. Carolene Mays, or even former Deputy Mayor and Marion County Prosecutor candidate Melina Kennedy, heck Rep. Carson could say she's better and run for another term.

Point blank, keep your eyes and ears open for announcements in the next couple of months, maybe even an outsider with inner circle ties could throw his or her hat in the ring, and make things really interesting!!!

Property Tax Plans

I was listening to Steve Simpson (WIBC-AM) tonight and he said that Sen. Luke Kenley (R-Noblesville), the point man on taxes in the Senate, has devised a plan as part of the blue ribbon panel for permanent property tax reform. The plan, to be tomorrow, will cut the taxes by 50%, even more than the 1/3 decrease stated by Gov. Daniels. What are your thoughts??

Shades of Gray

Outgoing CCC President Monroe Gray is out of touch and out of his mind. Following the stinging defeat of the Democrat majority, mostly attributed to Gray's ongoing ethical inquiries, Sweet Pea has announced he wants to be Minority Leader in the next Council. The CCC's VP, Joanne Sanders, the only Democrat to win an at-large seat, wants the same position.

The Marion County Democrats are a fractured machine at best. When Rozelle Boyd, a Councillor from pre-Unigov, is defeated soundly, there is no hope for them it sounds like other than being in the minority for a while. Yes, politics is cyclical, but when the machine that produced so many elected officials (Congresswoman Carson, Senator Bayh, Mayor Peterson, Councillor Gray) is now responsible for the downfalls of many of them as well (pushing through a 65% county income tax increase in an election year, going negative in an airtight mayoral race against an underfunded candidate with a better message), the people operating the machine need to step back and evaluate the situation.

The Marion County GOP worked the big-tent angle to perfection, and with the presidential, congressional, and gubernatorial races, not to mention state legislators up for election next year, will the Dems look at the errors made this election, and correct them for the next time? The Democratic Party used to stand for equal opportunity and social justice, but do those principles only apply to those that have the juice??

It's Finally Over

It's been a long time overdue on this place...way overdue. As we all know there was a bit of a Republican Revolution in Marion County. Both Indianapolis and Lawrence elected GOP mayors, and the CCC went from 15 D-14 R to 17 R-12 D. I was involved as the Libertarian candidate for Lawrence mayor, so I had front-row seats to all of the drama involved, quite literally.

With four candidates running, I knew this would be an interesting race from the get-go. The incumbent Deb Cantwell (D), former township assessor Paul Ricketts (R), independent Ron Ryker, and myself. I wanted smaller government, free of partisan bickering and moving forward for Lawrence. Cantwell alienated the police and fire departments (the latter her former employer), then pulled a shady waterworks deal only Tom Schneider could appreciate three weeks from the election. She made her bed, now she's sleeping in it.

As far as the rest of the county goes, what genius thinks that they can pass a 65% income tax increase and get away with it?? Apparently that genius was Mike O'Connor, and he got bit in the butt for it. Losing both the CCC and the Mayor's office is something that only pure arrogance does. O'Connor was purely arrogant, looking past Council President Monroe Gray's ethical problems, the income tax increase, and a demoralized police force, running ads painting Indianapolis as a worry-free city. Too bad it was false advertising.

The next four years will be very interesting. I want to see what Ballard and a relatively green CCC will do, and, more importantly, I'm interested in what Lawrence will become in the next four years; will it be a return to the old guard, a continuation of business as usual, or will the city keep moving forward? Only time will tell.

Redevelop This!

Sounds like the Town Council in Fishers wants to create their utopian downtown and at any cost. 125 properties would be razed and new shoppes, housing, and offices would be built. Bye Bye Nickel Plate, hello strip mall. Those little independent small businesses and offices would be out like a fat kid in dodgeball.

The Council even would go so far as using eminent domain to force people out of their homes to achieve this beautiful monument to their egos and arrogance. There is a way to stop this besides hardballing the negotiating for "fair market value"...this is an election year in Fishers, all Councillors are up for re-election in an at-large setting. Choosing a Libertarian that respects property rights and taxpayers is the only way these councillors will get a clue.

Statehouse Shenanigans

I'm back in the saddle...for now. Having been in Florida the past month has kept me out of the loop unfortunately. It was more of skimming the Star online and peeking at a blog here and there.

The budget passed late last night, beating the midnight deadline as required by law. The budget, to be signed by Governor Daniels does almost nothing to shrink the size and scope of the state government. The only thing guaranteed by the new budget is that the nanny state is strengthened and that individuality is shrank.

The budget passes a law increasing the cigarette tax by 44 cents per pack, in order to fund health insurance for those that can't afford it. While the idealist in me says it's ok...but it's nothing more than robbing Peter to pay Paul.

Who wants slots?? The horse tracks did, and they got them this time. 2,000 slot machines will go in to the two tracks in Shelbyville and Anderson, respectively. This bill was usually a hot-button issue, but with the gay marriage amendment on the table, the slot bill slid under the noses of most social conservatives.

Property tax relief?? Relief to me means cutting the tax or eliminating it...not raising it only to decrease it later, because it's still a net increase. The slots at the tracks will offset the increase in property taxes, so instead of a 24 percent increase, it will be ONLY eight percent or so.

Even seatbelts get on this, it's now required for all passengers to wear seatbelts in cars. Common sense if you ask me, but you can't teach stupid. I digress.

On a lighter note, the legislature passed one important measure: the official beverage of the state is now water.

You Thought the City-County Council Was Bad Before...

Council President Monroe Gray (D) is using and abusing his "juice." Instead of being transparent (like a higher-profile politician should be), he's hiding behind administrative and bureaucratic BS designed to keep his sorry patoot in office, and unaccountable. Republicans introduced a proposal for an inquiry into his business dealings, and if there was a conflict of interest. The problem was the R's are the minority, and the vote failed on party lines. The matter was furthered on to an Ethics Board, which is stacked with Democrats.

Enter a new variable: Gray's personal attorney is also the Council's counsel, further intertwining the two.

Solution: Stealing a page from Abdul, there should be an inquiry board comprised of one or two of each party (R and D), and then a mutually agreed upon member (Mark Rutherford, where are you?). The board could come to a conclusion and then make recommendations to the Council as to how to proceed.

Truth or Consequences??

A lot of hullabaloo is over SJR-7, and the voices are getting louder on both sides of the issue. Eric Miller, former Republican gubernatorial candidate and executive director of Advance America, led a rally in support of the amendment. On the other hand, businesses like Cummins and Lilly, two of Indiana's more prominent employers, are against the amendment because of the potential loss of employees due to the amendment.

The business aspect is that Cummins and Lilly both offer domestic partner benefits to gay couples, like married couples. If SJR-7 passes, those benefits could end, and those employees may choose to work somewhere else out of state with friendlier legislatures. Neither Cummins or Lilly want to lose their employees because of an unfriendly or "closed-minded" government.

Now that the private sector is voicing its opinion, the government should re-examine what the potential loss of revenue (ie: taxes) from people moving out of state because of SJR-7. The more Lillys that speak out about the amendment, citing loss of employees and taxes, the harder it would be for a smart goverment to pass it.

Flip-Flops Are for More Than Feet

They're for governors, too. Not My Man has done it again. He now states that there may not be enough money to pay for the I69 extension from Crane Naval Warfare Center south of Bloomington to Indianapolis. He says there may be tolls on it to cover costs. Only a year ago he stated that I69 would be toll-free from Indianapolis to Evansville due to the cash influx courtesy of Major Moves.

My friends, is this what you want to hear from your "conservative, smaller government" Republican governor??

A Touch of This, A Dash of That

Sorry for not posting that often, work has had me pick up some extra slack this past month. Here's what I've been able to see since then.

Driving While Entitled

Proof again that a little bit of celebrity will get you a lenient sentence. Citing "lack of evidence" (They forgot the .09 Breathalyzer), former Colt running back Dominic Rhodes got a suspended sentence and no probation on a plea deal from DUI to reckless driving. People I know who were pulled over on DUI for .09 are still doing probation four years later.

SJR-7 Update

Yesterday, Libertarian Mike Kole, along with City-County Councillors Scott Keller and JoAnne Sanders (R and D, respectively), held a press conference on the Statehouse steps protesting SJR-7, the gay marriage amendment. The General Assembly held hearings for several hours yesterday regarding the potential amendment that selectively removes individual choice for certain Hoosiers.

Dungy's Folly??

Recently, Colts coach Tony Dungy has been King Midas. However, he might have a little bit of tarnish on his hands after comments made at an Indiana Family Institute supporting SJR-7. Dungy risks being known as a hypocritical bigot, embracing being the first African American coach to lift the Lombardi Trophy, yet deny another minority their right to happiness. It is similar to the ban on interracial marriages because it's not "the Lord's will" (those are Dungy's words in support of SJR-7.)

Dungy's statements, Rhodes' pseudo-DUI, and an unpopular stadium plan at the expense of much-needed public safety might derail the city's hopes of hosting Super Bowl XLV.

Did You Know??

That was the way ESPN used to end their SportsCenter, comparing an athletic feat from the night before to something equally impressive, if not relatively obscure. My brother-in-law sent me an email today, and here is the meat and potatoes of it:

Tax his land,
Tax his bed,
Tax the table
At which he's fed.

Tax his tractor,
Tax his mule,
Teach him taxes
Are the rule.

Tax his cow,
Tax his goat,
Tax his pants,
Tax his coat.

Tax his ties,
Tax his shirt,
Tax his work,
Tax his dirt.

Tax his tobacco,
Tax his drink,
Tax him if he
Tries to think.

Tax his cigars,
Tax his beers,
If he cries, then
Tax his tears.

Tax his car,
Tax his gas,
Find other ways
To tax his ass

Tax all he has
Then let him know
That you won't be done
Till he has no dough.

When he screams and hollers,
Then tax him some more,
Tax him tillHe's good and sore.

Then tax his coffin,
Tax his grave,
Tax the sod in
Which he's laid.

Put these words
Upon his tomb,
"Taxes drove me
To my doom..."

When he's gone,
Do not relax,
Its time to apply
The inheritance tax.

Accounts Receivable Tax
Building Permit Tax
CDL license Tax
Cigarette Tax
Corporate Income Tax
Dog License Tax
Federal Income Tax
Federal Unemployment Tax
Fishing License Tax
Food License Tax
Fuel permit tax
Gasoline Tax (42 cents per gallon)
Hunting License Tax
Inheritance Tax
Interest expense
Inventory tax
Revenue Canada Interest Charges Penalties (tax on top of tax)
Liquor Tax
Luxury Taxes
Marriage License Tax
Medicare Tax
Property Tax
Real Estate Tax
Service charge taxes
Social Security Tax
Road usage taxes
Sales Tax
Recreational Vehicle Tax
School Tax
Provincial Income Tax
Prov. Unemployment Tax
Telephone federal excise tax
Telephone federal universal service fee tax
Telephone federal, state and local surcharge taxes
Telephone minimum usage surcharge tax
Telephone recurring and non-recurring charges tax
Telephone Prov. and local tax
Telephone usage charge tax
Utility TaxesVehicle License Registration Tax
Vehicle Sales Tax
Watercraft registration Tax
Well Permit Tax
Workers Compensation Tax


COMMENTS: Not one of these taxes existed 100 years ago!And our nation was the most prosperous in the world.We had absolutely no national debt, had the largest middle class in the world,and Mom stayed home to raise the kids.What happened?

Point is, government has grown that much in the past century and no one really noticed. How much more money can government take from its citizenry??

Individual vs. The Greater Good, Round 2

The Indiana House shot down a proposal for a 25 cent per pack increase to the state's cigarette tax. The monies collected would go towards paying for insurance for low-income Hoosiers, also known as subsidized health care, but Democrats and Republicans don't want you to know that. The measure, defeated 52-44, had to pass by the end of the week because of legislative rules regarding outstanding bills moving to the other chamber for passage.

Once again, predatory legislative practices have come back to bite that government in the butt. Attempting to pick on one vice over another is no way to write laws. Let the individuals make their choices, and let them own up to them. It's not the role of government to make the choices for the individual.

BOHICA

Apparently, the Indiana General Assembly knows no limits. Again, using "the children" as the reason this time for more legislation, the State Senate is making it illegal to sell rated "M" and "AO" to minors. Straight out of the "DUH" files, the legislature is now taking action where the private sector was handling the situation. The game ratings are similiar to movies, with the M rating equal to R, etc. Retailers are prompted for the higher rated games, asking for ID. I know, I've been carded buying a rated-M game.

The author of the bill is a "defender of the First Amendment," Sen. Vi Simpson (D-Elletsville). She's trying to legislate morality on a statewide scale the same way Indianapolis Mayor Bart Peterson, also a Democrat, tried to do back in 2000. Peterson's law was deemed unconstitutional, and similar legislation from other states are not meeting the constitutionality test. This is nothing more than another extension of the nanny state by liberal Democrats and liberal Republicans.

It's For Your Own Good

That's what Rep. Peggy Welch (D-Bloomington) wants you to believe when she brought a bill to the Legislature requiring seat belts be worn in pickup trucks. According to the Indy Star, Rep. Bill Ruppel, (R-North Manchester) made an amendment to the bill, banning passengers in the bed of a pickup.

This is nothing more than another attempt to grow the nanny state and Big Brother. Individuals are responsible for themselves, and should make appropriate choices. Not only that, the bill shouldn't even exist. The solution is very simple. When one signs up for auto insurance, they must agree to wear a seat belt. This agreement is made by two private groups, no government involvement. If there is an accident, and there is not a seat belt worn, then there will be no basis for a claim as the agreement was violated. End of story, end of drama.

I just wish that the liberal Democrats and equally liberal Republican parties will get a grip on their own thirst for power over people's lives and pocketbooks. Without changes, there will be nothing left to give them as they will have taken everything, and left nothing to the individual.

Double Standard

Yesterday, former NBA star Tim Hardaway was on Miami radio, and the topic turned to John Amaechi, another former NBA player who just recently came out as a homosexual. Hardaway took no time to open mouth and insert foot. Admitting he's homophobic and hates gay people, Hardaway is a bigot and a hypocrite! If his remarks were about blacks, Jews, etc., he'd be taken behind the barn. The even sadder part, is that Dan Le Batard (the Miami host), told Hardaway that the remarks were bigoted, and Hardaway agreed.

Fortunately, not everyone in the NBA is as short-sighted as Hardaway. Shaquille O'Neal and Mark Cuban applaud Amaechi. David Stern has even pulled from Hardaway from all NBA-sponsored appearances, and will no longer be a goodwill ambassador/spokesman. Hardaway sounds like George Wallace, and he doesn't even know it.

Snow Survival: The Good, The Bad, and The Very Ugly

I can't remember I saw this much snow in Indy, and I've lived here since '88. Having previously lived in South Bend, I was used to lake-effects as a kid, and it was commonplace for a fresh 6''-12'' daily in winter. 125 miles south, and the city's at a halt...interesting. Anyway, for those that are reading today were careful outdoors, or just stayed in.

Today was good because I made it to and from Fishers safely with no incidents. Beth's a teacher, and she enjoyed a snow day like the rest of her students. Today was bad because I had to run to Wal-Mart and became stuck on 56th Street at a stop light. Thanks to the two Good Samaritans who helped me very much, you were my guardian angels tonight. The very ugly is the plow that came through my neighborhood and decided to rip off my mailbox with its blade, along with several others, upsetting me and my neighbors alike.

I was watching the news tonight, and I found out that my neighborhood in Lawrence isn't the only one to suffer that fate. It also happened in Carmel, the situation is solved with the city paying for damages to an individual's property (a new mailbox). Beth called the City of Lawrence, as well as our homeowner's association, and all we get is, "We'll get back to you." If someone had deliberately removed my mailbox, that's vandalism, and that's criminal activity. Let's see if the City of Lawrence commits a crime and gets away with it, or owns up to its mistake.

It's Just a .... It Don't Hurt Nobody

One could insert anything and get a response. It's just a massage parlor, it's a high-stakes poker game, it's just this, it's just that. Sen. Glenn Howard (D-Indianapolis) is on the hot seat for comments made when a pea shake house was raided in his district. From the original police report, Howard said the illegal operation "don't hurt nobody, it's just a pea shake. I know it's illegal, but they don't hurt nobody."

Sen. Howard is the Assistant Caucus Chair in the State Senate, and ranking Democrat on several committees. How can a man who assists in writing the laws of the land pick and choose which ones he obeys? This is nothing more than using his influence to try and get his constituents off the hook. If my State Senator, Jim Merritt (R-Indianapolis) tried pulling this stunt, he'd be facing intimidation charges, and people calling for his resignation.

Simply put, the People's Republic of Indianapolis turns a blind eye, rewrites reports removing any potential improprieties, and maintains the status quo of failure to truly serve and protect its citizenry.

Rain of Terror

As the die-hard Bears fan that I am (self-admittedly), I was proud to wear the navy and orange watching the game. Watching Devin Hester run the opening kickoff back gave me an early level of comfort, albeit mostly silent due to being the only Bears fan watching the game with friends and family. I reasoned, that since the Colts were a dome team, the Bears would have the upper hand in the inclement weather.

Then Rex took the field.

Grossman had a few good plays, like the TD to Muhsin Muhammad. The other good play was handing off to Thomas Jones on the 52-yard run. Beyond that, he handled the ball worse than Garo Yepremian. What right-minded football player fumbles the ball then runs AWAY from it?? Yes, it was raining. Hunter Smith dropped the PAT, then wore gloves the rest of the game...do you think Rex could take a freaking clue??

Grossman was so putrid because if he didn't turn the ball over, it was three-and-out, and back on defense. Yes, Da Bears had the #1 defense in the NFC, but when they're on the field for forty-plus minutes, there's a problem; it's called lack of offense.

Enough about the Bears, the Colts took a quarter to figure it out, then took it to the Bears in every aspect. Squibbing to avoid Hester, the two-headed monster at running back, the precision passing of Peyton Manning, a tenacious, opportunistic defense, and the overall confidence of Tony Dungy led the Colts to lift the Lombardi Trophy in Miami.

Super Bowl Shuffle, Part Deux

As many remember, the 1985 Chicago Bears shuffled their way to a 15-1 record and to Super Bowl XX, handling the New England Patriots 46-10. That team was written into NFL lore as one of the best of all times, only behind the 1972 Miami Dolphins.

This year, they're facing the Indianapolis Colts, and everyone's asking me where I stand. I stood with the Bears in 2004, when they were slaughtered 41-9 at Soldier Field by the Colts, and I'll stand again wearing my Brian Urlacher jersey.

I predict it will come down to a field goal, this time Adam Vinatieri isn't involved in the final kick. Robbie Gould puts it through the uprights for a 24-21 Bears win. Even Sweetness will be shuffling somewhere :).

Pendleton Pike Parkway

Today, Lawrence Mayor Sarah Cantwell delivered her State of the City address to the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce. Among the topics were pushing for a private takeover of the city's water utility, which in theory would save $200 annually for a household. In theory, it's a good idea, letting private sector do something that is not a function of government. She also brought up renaming Pendleton Pike to the Lawrence Parkway. That made me laugh a bit, to be perfectly honest.

When one hears of a parkway, such as Fall Creek, I think of distinguished, upper-income housing, nice neighborhoods, and nice scenery. When I drive down Pendleton Pike (from 465 to Mitthoeffer), I see numerous strip clubs, a license branch, trailer parks, check cashing businesses, and various vacant properties. Not to mention potholes that could break an axle if one wasn't too careful.

Mayor Cantwell has in the past talked about the growth of Lawrence post-Ft. Ben. It's true that a lot of development has come in and taken over a lot of the former Army base (Ivy Tech, various banks, fast-food, CVS, and other small businesses). It's also true that there has been a explosion of development along Pendleton Pike from 56th Street east to Carroll Road. Most of that development came when she wasn't even the Mayor though.

Frankly, Mayor Cantwell is playing a game of three-card monty with the citizens of Lawrence, and I think is using a feel-good story to get her re-elected. That, or to get the Justice Department "thing" out of the limelight for a while.

For Better or For Worse

Those words are part of most any marital vows. I know, I took them just over nine months ago, and they still ring in my head everyday. I married Beth of my own choice, and vice versa. Everyone who wants to be married should be, as long as there is a minister, priest, rabbi, imam, etc. who will officiate the ceremony. The reason I'm talking about this is because our big government Republican led State Senate is still working on SJR-7, aka the Gay Marriage Amendment.

What this does is effectively tell people that are homosexual that they can't marry because the government says its wrong. I'm a very open-minded person, with many friends from many walks of life. Who does the government think it is, telling someone that can't be happy? What about the pursuit of happiness?? Isn't that in some famous document or something??

Minimum State Increase

The Indiana House passed a new minimum wage, higher than the one currently in the U.S. Congress. The $7.50 per hour is another way the D's and R's are trying to force their wills on the people of this state. Some say it's an inflation adjustment. I say it's government telling business how to pay its employees. Government is not a player in business, it's a referee, if anything!!

I wrote a letter to the Star, this is what it'll say if it's published in its entirety:

"The minimum wage increase approved by the Indiana House is another step towards the nanny state that most Democrats and quite a few Republicans hope to establish here in the Hoosier State.

Small businessmen don't like being told how to operate. That's why they're going out on their own in the first place. When the government wants to get involved in day to day operations of private firms, the nanny state is further expanded, and personal freedom is contracted."

Wage increases are agreements between an employer and an employee. I've never asked for a raise from the government, and I don't intend on starting today.

Schools of Thought

IPS Superintendent Dr. Eugene White recently stated that on the whole his schools are failing, mostly at the middle and high school levels. I would agree with that statement. The reasons though are not that of the teachers. More and more often, children of these schools are products of single mothers or raised by other relatives (ie: grandparents, aunts/uncles, etc.)

Dr. White should not be pressuring the teachers, as they're working in excess of fifty hours per week educating, but should be aggressively involving parents in the upbringing of their children. It is not the job of the government, or to a greater extent, the schools, to raise children. Discipline and personal responsibility begins in the home, and children are more wont to imitate their parents' behavior than anyone else. Parents are around their children growing up more than anyone, and it's simply, follow the leader. The problem is that the leader is not leading in the right direction.

Dr. White should be focusing on more innovative plans to get parents and guardians involved, not telling teachers how bad of a job they're doing.

What's the Point of Having the Juice if You're Not Gonna Use It??

Those famous words were uttered by City-County Council President Monroe Gray when Prosecutor Carl Brizzi was shunned by Gray for more funding for jail space. Nowadays, it appears that President Gray is losing his juice. According to the Indy Star, Gray's concrete business is in some deep stuff. Unable to pay his workers or his suppliers properly, he's been found in court to owe over $300,000. It's so bad for Gray, his wages as an IFD division chief are now being garnished so the payments can be made.

This is the leader of the City-County Council, folks. This is the guy that turned a blind eye to the 300 East bar. This is the guy who has become involved in United Water projects, yet says there's no conflict of interest. This is the guy who put public safety on the backburner to get his moment in the sun!

Monroe Gray to some has caused nothing but trouble since he took over the Council presidency from Steve Talley. In some regards, he has done this to himself, in both words and actions. There are ramifications for abusing the juice.

State of the Union Thoughts

Last night was the annual speech by the President to Congress regarding the state of the Union. President Bush had, for the first time, a "hostile" audience, with Democrats in the majority of both Houses of Congress. Bush, the "compassionate conservative" talked like a bleeding hearted liberal hawk. Talked of funding health care yet balancing the budget, ending earmarks but staying in Iraq, how can he be talking out of both sides of his mouth??

President Bush did bring up some good points, such as ending earmarks, balancing the budget, and ending dependence on foreign oil, developing alternative energy sources, tax code reform.

Some points I don't like were staying in Iraq, asking for 92,000 more military personnel (sounds like a veiled inference to a draft), federal funding of health care, and expanding No Child Left Behind (my wife, a second grade teacher, wholeheartedly agrees with me on that).

I think the President makes a good case for a lot of points, but many "conservative" principles were abandoned. The education and health care initiatives especially made Speaker Pelosi jump out of her chair with glee while VP Cheney begrudgingly applauded. Likewise, when the topic of conversation moved towards the military and the war in Iraq, it was the exact opposite.

The state of the Union is strong, the President said, and I agree on some counts. A growing economy, more jobs created, more money in pockets are all proof of this. Reducing wasteful spending, restoring individuals' rights, and more governmental transparency will make it even stronger.

Hotel Hypocrisy

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.

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.

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?

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.

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...

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.

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.

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??

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.

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.

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.

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.

Published

Click here for a link to my letter to the editor about NK Hurst and the editorial written by Sen. Luke Kenley (R-Noblesville) and Rep. Jeff Espich (R-Uniondale). Property rights are non-negotiable.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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!!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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??

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.

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

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??

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.

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!!!