It appears as if the legislature is frozen from the budget to work on cell phone bans and Indianapolis Works. First, the cell phone ban. Rep. Vanessa Summers (D-Indianapolis) wants to ban using a cell phone without a hands free device if you're driving unless it's an emergency. It didn't get out of committee *sigh*. Does an officer know what constitutes an emergency to me?? I doubt it.
Next, about Indianapolis Works. Mayor Peterson's proposal to further merge under Unigov. It would combine the fire departments between IFD and the townships, the Sheriff's Department and IPD, eliminate township government, etc. It's shrinking government, which I like. Granted, I'm not a Bart Peterson admirer, but the plan received high marks from Beurt SerVaas, the former Republican president of the City-County Council. Right now, I'm thinking it's a ploy to have the Republican legislature make Mayor Peterson, a Democrat, look bad two years out from the mayoral elections in 2007.
I'm posting this to show you what the General Assembly is doing right now as well: IGNORING THE BUDGET!!
On a side note, I've been getting involved in a poker tournament at Barley Island in Noblesville every Thursday. LPIN Secretary of State Candidate (and Hamilton County Chair) Mike Kole is there as well. It's a good time, good beer, and the best part is...it's free! No buy-in!
18 February 2005
15 February 2005
Stupid Solutions for a Simple Problem
Ladies and gentlemen, Mayor Bart Peterson looks like a fool, the House Republicans are trying to make him look like a bigger fool, and will try to take the citizens of this state as fools as well. All of this fooling around is due to the failure to secure funding for a new stadium to house the Indianapolis Colts. Late last year, Mayor Peterson and Colts owner Jim Irsay announced they had a deal to keep the Colts in town for 30 years. Money for this would come from a downtown casino, which has to go through the legislature. Looks like Peterson forgot to talk with the General Assembly about it.
New House Speaker Brian Bosma said that there would be no new downtown casino on his watch, because of the moral reprecussions, more or less. That led two prominent Republican lawmakers Reps. Mike Murphy of Indianapolis, and Luke Messer, to offer alternatives. They looked to expand the gaming at the state's two horse tracks in Anderson and Shelbyville. Those proposals failed to get out of committee or generate any support.
Upon the failures to get any type of gaming going, now it looks like Murphy wants to penalize those that commute to Indianapolis for work. People like myself, would be facing double taxation and taxation without representation. The money would be removed from my paycheck, like my county taxes (double taxation), and then be used in Marion County, where I don't live (taxation without representation).
Irsay should be taking a page from his neighbors to the north, the Green Bay Packers. In 1997, they sold shares of non-voting stock for $200 apiece in an effort to raise funds for renovations to Lambeau Field. The team raised $80 million in a month. Imagine the possibilities, Irsay sells say, 1 million shares, similar price, BAM!! $200 million for a new stadium's construction! No tax increases, no gambling, no welfare for a multimillionaire, all privately financed! Scary proposition, the free market working!! It's not fair for the gun to be put to taxpayers' heads to finance a private entity. That's a simple libertarian solution that won't affect the lives of people that don't want to pay for a new stadium. For more ideas like this, click some of the links on the right.
New House Speaker Brian Bosma said that there would be no new downtown casino on his watch, because of the moral reprecussions, more or less. That led two prominent Republican lawmakers Reps. Mike Murphy of Indianapolis, and Luke Messer, to offer alternatives. They looked to expand the gaming at the state's two horse tracks in Anderson and Shelbyville. Those proposals failed to get out of committee or generate any support.
Upon the failures to get any type of gaming going, now it looks like Murphy wants to penalize those that commute to Indianapolis for work. People like myself, would be facing double taxation and taxation without representation. The money would be removed from my paycheck, like my county taxes (double taxation), and then be used in Marion County, where I don't live (taxation without representation).
Irsay should be taking a page from his neighbors to the north, the Green Bay Packers. In 1997, they sold shares of non-voting stock for $200 apiece in an effort to raise funds for renovations to Lambeau Field. The team raised $80 million in a month. Imagine the possibilities, Irsay sells say, 1 million shares, similar price, BAM!! $200 million for a new stadium's construction! No tax increases, no gambling, no welfare for a multimillionaire, all privately financed! Scary proposition, the free market working!! It's not fair for the gun to be put to taxpayers' heads to finance a private entity. That's a simple libertarian solution that won't affect the lives of people that don't want to pay for a new stadium. For more ideas like this, click some of the links on the right.
10 February 2005
Social and Fiscal Responsibility
President Bush said in his State of the Union that the government must spend more wisely, showing fiscal restraint...HOGWASH!!! All the president is doing is spending slightly more than last year, and putting the money into white elephants, mostly the war in Iraq. Instead of focusing on protecting our citizens with police grants (money to help local departments hire more officers), he's investing in discretionary (ie: defense) spending. All in all, it's $2.5 trillion for the year, and that doesn't even include the $80 billion he has asked for the Iraq war.
Now don't get me wrong, democracy in Iraq is a wonderful thing. On March 15, 2003, I blared "Bombs Over Baghdad" (a killer OutKast song, BTW), but the toll is enough. Over a quarter of a trillion dollars has been spent there, when he could have better used it inside our borders. Bush's legacy is foreign policy, no doubt about it. What worries me though, is how can he "help" other countries when there is so much to do here??
The war on terror is just like the war on drugs to me. Lots of money spent, lots of rhetoric, but little, if any, concrete results. President Bush should focus more on crony capitalism, protecting the lives of Americans, and not be a man that focuses on imperialism. Under Bush's watch, the USA Patriot Act stripped citizens of the civil liberties. Now he's for a Constitutional amendment on same-sex marriages. What's next, he's gonna tell me when I get married, I'm only allowed one child, and it must be male??? This does reek of authoritarianism, and it disgusts me. The only good things he's done (in my eyes) was the tax cuts (but without the necessary spending cuts), trying to reform the tax code, and privatize a portion of Social Security.
Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld talked of the "shock and awe" strategy in Iraq. Send a shock and awe to the government by standing up for personal freedom and fiscal responsibility in the voting booth. You ask "how?" I say: VOTE LIBERTARIAN!
Now don't get me wrong, democracy in Iraq is a wonderful thing. On March 15, 2003, I blared "Bombs Over Baghdad" (a killer OutKast song, BTW), but the toll is enough. Over a quarter of a trillion dollars has been spent there, when he could have better used it inside our borders. Bush's legacy is foreign policy, no doubt about it. What worries me though, is how can he "help" other countries when there is so much to do here??
The war on terror is just like the war on drugs to me. Lots of money spent, lots of rhetoric, but little, if any, concrete results. President Bush should focus more on crony capitalism, protecting the lives of Americans, and not be a man that focuses on imperialism. Under Bush's watch, the USA Patriot Act stripped citizens of the civil liberties. Now he's for a Constitutional amendment on same-sex marriages. What's next, he's gonna tell me when I get married, I'm only allowed one child, and it must be male??? This does reek of authoritarianism, and it disgusts me. The only good things he's done (in my eyes) was the tax cuts (but without the necessary spending cuts), trying to reform the tax code, and privatize a portion of Social Security.
Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld talked of the "shock and awe" strategy in Iraq. Send a shock and awe to the government by standing up for personal freedom and fiscal responsibility in the voting booth. You ask "how?" I say: VOTE LIBERTARIAN!
03 February 2005
State of the Union
My friends, last night President Bush told Congress the State of the Union. He is pushing for reform on the tax code and Social Security. Both are long overdue. The tax code is hard to understand to Joe Schmo (ie: me) and goes on worse than a Democratic filibuster. But I digress.
Social Security is in need of a major overhaul now, or we're all screwed. The figures do not lie. In 2018, SS will pay out more than it takes in, and according to figures, will be completely bankrupt in 2042. I'll be 61 then (God-willing), but still it's an out-dated system in need of a modern makeover.
Democrats say all is well with SS, that the "trust fund" will be there for Americans. The "trust fund" is nothing more than a shoebox under someone's desk that has a load of IOU's in there. President Bush is using the political capital he won to push for the reform of SS. Democratic Congressional Leaders Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi, say that they will block the reforms. Reid and Pelosi, both as long on rhetoric as W, have no legit solutions.
People need to realize that it's their money being legally taken from them. We want our money back!!!
Social Security is in need of a major overhaul now, or we're all screwed. The figures do not lie. In 2018, SS will pay out more than it takes in, and according to figures, will be completely bankrupt in 2042. I'll be 61 then (God-willing), but still it's an out-dated system in need of a modern makeover.
Democrats say all is well with SS, that the "trust fund" will be there for Americans. The "trust fund" is nothing more than a shoebox under someone's desk that has a load of IOU's in there. President Bush is using the political capital he won to push for the reform of SS. Democratic Congressional Leaders Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi, say that they will block the reforms. Reid and Pelosi, both as long on rhetoric as W, have no legit solutions.
People need to realize that it's their money being legally taken from them. We want our money back!!!
31 January 2005
Monday, Monday...plus a Super pick
Whoo, what a day! Getting published, doing homework, talking politics, and getting a new cell phone all in one day can cramp one's style. I must move on.
As I mentioned earlier, I was in attendance for the "Talk of the Town" meeting at the Statehouse last week. I was frustrated at the lack of talk over shrinking the state government. So like any reader who wants his side heard, I wrote a letter to the editor, and it was published...link here:
http://www.indystar.com/articles/0/218677-9870-022.html
Tonight was the monthly Hancock County LP meeting, and we were joined by LPIN Political Director Brad Klopfenstein and Secretary of State candidate Mike Kole. I have formally endorsed Mike in the race, because I believe if he can serve Libertarians well, then the state should be just as fortunate to have him serve them.
Anyway, I digress...the Super Bowl is on the way and I'm calling for *sigh* another Patriots win. I don't know what it is, but Bill Belichick has a plan for everyone. Catch you on the flipside.
As I mentioned earlier, I was in attendance for the "Talk of the Town" meeting at the Statehouse last week. I was frustrated at the lack of talk over shrinking the state government. So like any reader who wants his side heard, I wrote a letter to the editor, and it was published...link here:
http://www.indystar.com/articles/0/218677-9870-022.html
Tonight was the monthly Hancock County LP meeting, and we were joined by LPIN Political Director Brad Klopfenstein and Secretary of State candidate Mike Kole. I have formally endorsed Mike in the race, because I believe if he can serve Libertarians well, then the state should be just as fortunate to have him serve them.
Anyway, I digress...the Super Bowl is on the way and I'm calling for *sigh* another Patriots win. I don't know what it is, but Bill Belichick has a plan for everyone. Catch you on the flipside.
27 January 2005
Open Forum, eh??
Two days ago, a local TV station and the local newspaper hosted a town hall meeting at the Indiana Statehouse, inviting all to attend to present their thoughts to some of the state's legislators. Many pertinent topics were discussed, mostly the new terrain I-69 and Medicare/Medicaid.
My friends from the Green Party were the muscle behind bringing I-69 to the immediate forefront. For those that don't know what I'm talking about, the state is going to spend $3 billion to extend I-69 from Indianapolis to Evansville through Bloomington, which will save only 12 minutes. TWELVE STINKING MINUTES!!! Currently the route is I-70 west to Terre Haute, then US 41 south onward to Evansville. Money to pay for the project would be diverted from the state, so counties would be left high and dry to maintain their own roads.
Medicaid was also brought up, with potential waivers being eliminated. A ten-year old girl talked about her autistic brother, and it reduced me to tears. The state has a responsibility to help those that cannot legitimately help themselves, and should not eliminate this program that helps middle-income families. However, I do not advocate increasing spending on this program because right now, the state's fiscal situation is a huge shit sandwich, and everyone's taking a bite.
Gay marriage was also mentioned, and the libertarian solution to that is removing the government from marriage altogether. I know Dan Carpenter of the Star called that issue the slab of red meat sitting in the fridge for the GOP, but people need to realize, that once again, morality cannot be legislated.
A libertarian solution, which I've said all along, involves a current flatline of the budget, no new taxes (income or sales), staying away from the gay marriage issue, and upgrading the I-70/US 41 for Evansville at a savings of almost $2 billion to the state. If you agree with this, I suggest you go to the next Libertarian Party meeting. The link to the state site is over on the right, and you can go from there. Talk to you soon.
My friends from the Green Party were the muscle behind bringing I-69 to the immediate forefront. For those that don't know what I'm talking about, the state is going to spend $3 billion to extend I-69 from Indianapolis to Evansville through Bloomington, which will save only 12 minutes. TWELVE STINKING MINUTES!!! Currently the route is I-70 west to Terre Haute, then US 41 south onward to Evansville. Money to pay for the project would be diverted from the state, so counties would be left high and dry to maintain their own roads.
Medicaid was also brought up, with potential waivers being eliminated. A ten-year old girl talked about her autistic brother, and it reduced me to tears. The state has a responsibility to help those that cannot legitimately help themselves, and should not eliminate this program that helps middle-income families. However, I do not advocate increasing spending on this program because right now, the state's fiscal situation is a huge shit sandwich, and everyone's taking a bite.
Gay marriage was also mentioned, and the libertarian solution to that is removing the government from marriage altogether. I know Dan Carpenter of the Star called that issue the slab of red meat sitting in the fridge for the GOP, but people need to realize, that once again, morality cannot be legislated.
A libertarian solution, which I've said all along, involves a current flatline of the budget, no new taxes (income or sales), staying away from the gay marriage issue, and upgrading the I-70/US 41 for Evansville at a savings of almost $2 billion to the state. If you agree with this, I suggest you go to the next Libertarian Party meeting. The link to the state site is over on the right, and you can go from there. Talk to you soon.
19 January 2005
State of the State
Ladies and gentlemen, Mitch Daniels has been governor for eight days. In this week-plus he's been in office, he's created more layers of government, cancelled collective bargaining contracts with state employees, visited flood-stricken areas of the state, and now, proposed a tax increase.
The way I understand it, Gov. Daniels wants a one-year, one percent increase on income taxes of individuals and businesses making over $100,000 a year. Some of you are thinking, they're rich, they can afford it. My question is, what about the small-business owner who's struggling to meet government regulations as it is, and now will have to pay at least an extra $1,000?? That could mean that Small Businessman X goes out of business, and the economy suffers. Gov. Daniels says that the money generated from this temporary revenue adjustment (don't ya love the spin on that) will balance the books for the state and he can begin his economic plan.
Once again, a "slash and burn" Republican is acting like his "tax and spend" Democrat counterparts. A libertarian solution, flatlining or a uniform cut in spending (ten percent is a good start), is much more palatable to everyone versus raising taxes. I hope Governor Daniels realizes this isn't a budget spread over 295 million people, but only five or six million, so the effects of his plan will hit home a lot harder. 27 lawmakers, 25 of them Republican, signed a no new taxes pledge. It will take more than the Republican name to push this legislation through a GOP Assembly. Let's see if those 27 can make the stand they said they would.
The way I understand it, Gov. Daniels wants a one-year, one percent increase on income taxes of individuals and businesses making over $100,000 a year. Some of you are thinking, they're rich, they can afford it. My question is, what about the small-business owner who's struggling to meet government regulations as it is, and now will have to pay at least an extra $1,000?? That could mean that Small Businessman X goes out of business, and the economy suffers. Gov. Daniels says that the money generated from this temporary revenue adjustment (don't ya love the spin on that) will balance the books for the state and he can begin his economic plan.
Once again, a "slash and burn" Republican is acting like his "tax and spend" Democrat counterparts. A libertarian solution, flatlining or a uniform cut in spending (ten percent is a good start), is much more palatable to everyone versus raising taxes. I hope Governor Daniels realizes this isn't a budget spread over 295 million people, but only five or six million, so the effects of his plan will hit home a lot harder. 27 lawmakers, 25 of them Republican, signed a no new taxes pledge. It will take more than the Republican name to push this legislation through a GOP Assembly. Let's see if those 27 can make the stand they said they would.
14 January 2005
What a Week!
The title sums it up right there! A new governor, school's started again, and there's a new affiliate in the LPIN!!
Mitch Daniels was finally sworn in as Indiana's 49th governor, and true to his word, got right to work. He signed 13 executive orders on his first day, and toured flood-stricken areas yesterday. Between now and then, he also rescinded the Executive Order providing for the collective bargaining agreement with state employees. Another hot-button issue was the DST situation we have, and it looks like we'll be switching our clocks (FINALLY!!!)
As far as school goes, it's 15 hours....GRRR
A new member came into the LPIN family tonight. Madison County (Anderson) was affiliated this evening by three Libertarians who are as committed to the cause as anyone! I look forward to the good things to come from my neighbors to the north!
Mitch Daniels was finally sworn in as Indiana's 49th governor, and true to his word, got right to work. He signed 13 executive orders on his first day, and toured flood-stricken areas yesterday. Between now and then, he also rescinded the Executive Order providing for the collective bargaining agreement with state employees. Another hot-button issue was the DST situation we have, and it looks like we'll be switching our clocks (FINALLY!!!)
As far as school goes, it's 15 hours....GRRR
A new member came into the LPIN family tonight. Madison County (Anderson) was affiliated this evening by three Libertarians who are as committed to the cause as anyone! I look forward to the good things to come from my neighbors to the north!
05 January 2005
Think Big
My Man Mitch becomes My Governor Mitch on Monday, January 10. Gov.-elect Daniels has a big challenge ahead of him, mostly on the budget, but also how to run one-party rule. As a Libertarian, my wish list of his administration has potential of happening, only if he sticks to his "small-government" roots.
-Shrinking the deficit and actual spending in the Statehouse.
---The $800 million deficit is staggering to anyone, and a flatline/10% reduction in spending is necessary to make this state financially solvent again. Daniels says that nothing is off the table...I don't like the sound of that :(
-Adopting Daylight Savings Time (DST) across the state
---As I mention time and time again, my own family doesn't know what time I'm on here in the Hoosier State. Putting us on Chicago (Central) time puts us on a clock that makes more sense culturally and economically. Daniels has already pledged this :)
-Avoiding the gay marriage issue
---We don't need to legislate morality, PERIOD. If they can legislate that, then they can turn around and take away my rosary and Bible, no frickin way!! The government does not need to be in an individual's bedroom. Daniels is against gay marriage, so it's kind of : on this
-Charter schools
---Mitch agreed with Our Guy Gividen about charter schools. Charters are out of government control, and in control of the parents. It also doesn't cost government because the money is private. :)
-Crane Naval Warfare Center
---One of the largest military installations in the world is headquartered about 30 minutes south of Bloomington. This brings in jobs, and money for this area in southwestern Indiana. The federal government is considering closing it and I hope Daniels fights for this key base to remain open as much as his predecessor did. Closing Crane would further depress southwest Indiana, right as I-69 is being built (BOO) :(
That's my wish list for Mitch Daniels. Some of it is pipe dream, some of it can become reality. Let's see if he truly represents all Hoosiers.
-Shrinking the deficit and actual spending in the Statehouse.
---The $800 million deficit is staggering to anyone, and a flatline/10% reduction in spending is necessary to make this state financially solvent again. Daniels says that nothing is off the table...I don't like the sound of that :(
-Adopting Daylight Savings Time (DST) across the state
---As I mention time and time again, my own family doesn't know what time I'm on here in the Hoosier State. Putting us on Chicago (Central) time puts us on a clock that makes more sense culturally and economically. Daniels has already pledged this :)
-Avoiding the gay marriage issue
---We don't need to legislate morality, PERIOD. If they can legislate that, then they can turn around and take away my rosary and Bible, no frickin way!! The government does not need to be in an individual's bedroom. Daniels is against gay marriage, so it's kind of : on this
-Charter schools
---Mitch agreed with Our Guy Gividen about charter schools. Charters are out of government control, and in control of the parents. It also doesn't cost government because the money is private. :)
-Crane Naval Warfare Center
---One of the largest military installations in the world is headquartered about 30 minutes south of Bloomington. This brings in jobs, and money for this area in southwestern Indiana. The federal government is considering closing it and I hope Daniels fights for this key base to remain open as much as his predecessor did. Closing Crane would further depress southwest Indiana, right as I-69 is being built (BOO) :(
That's my wish list for Mitch Daniels. Some of it is pipe dream, some of it can become reality. Let's see if he truly represents all Hoosiers.
04 January 2005
Up in Smoke (Part 2)
As some of you know, Morgan County, located southeast of Indianapolis, enacted a smoking ban on all restaurants and bars on January 1st. This is another form of government control if you ask me. I don't think it's necessary for government to legislate morality on any level. It's simply a matter of personal choice. I voiced my opinion and was published in the Indianapolis Star today. The link is as follows:
http://www.indystar.com/articles/2/206762-5052-022.html
I was short and sweet, to the point really. It takes taxes away from businesses and forces them back on the individuals. Kind of unfortunate really, seeing that Morgan County is mostly Republican, supposedly the party of smaller government. Seeing this, true conservatives can only look one way for a government that trusts them with their personal choices, that being the libertarian way.
http://www.indystar.com/articles/2/206762-5052-022.html
I was short and sweet, to the point really. It takes taxes away from businesses and forces them back on the individuals. Kind of unfortunate really, seeing that Morgan County is mostly Republican, supposedly the party of smaller government. Seeing this, true conservatives can only look one way for a government that trusts them with their personal choices, that being the libertarian way.
03 January 2005
What Do I Look Like...a Bank??
Hey everyone, hope we had a good Christmas season and a safe and happy New Year! The tsunami has everyone around the world focused on southeast Asia and the aftermath that continues to unfold. Jan Egeland, the United Nations (there's an oxymoron) Emergency Relief Coordinator, said that the USA's initial pledge of $10 million was not enough! So Bush upped the ante to $35 million, and there was still grumbling, then outgoing Secretary of State Powell said it was now at $350 million. That appeased the world. It doesn't appease me. If the government is going to spend $350 million, why not take care of the problems in their own country??
It has always been America's "duty" to help those that can't be helped, but I find it easier to stomach donating $20 to the Red Cross to help (which I did), rather than see money I work for taken from me involuntarily to help someone else. What if I needed that money to feed myself or pay for my shelter?? The US is not the world's ATM, contrary to popular belief. Can I apply for federal aid when I get a flat tire on my way to work?? Will I get money for running out of gas?? The answer to those two questions is obviously no.
Private charities come into this equation immensely, such as the Red Cross/Red Crescent, Doctors Without Borders, etc. It's those organizations that specialize in emergency support and aid dispersal, not some bureaucrat in Washington, DC. When 9/11 happened, millions of dollars in private donations came into the coffers to help those traumatized. Now money is re-entering those coffers, not because people are forced to give via the government, but through the goodness of their hearts. Get the government out of foreign aid, and get it back to getting this nation on track.
It has always been America's "duty" to help those that can't be helped, but I find it easier to stomach donating $20 to the Red Cross to help (which I did), rather than see money I work for taken from me involuntarily to help someone else. What if I needed that money to feed myself or pay for my shelter?? The US is not the world's ATM, contrary to popular belief. Can I apply for federal aid when I get a flat tire on my way to work?? Will I get money for running out of gas?? The answer to those two questions is obviously no.
Private charities come into this equation immensely, such as the Red Cross/Red Crescent, Doctors Without Borders, etc. It's those organizations that specialize in emergency support and aid dispersal, not some bureaucrat in Washington, DC. When 9/11 happened, millions of dollars in private donations came into the coffers to help those traumatized. Now money is re-entering those coffers, not because people are forced to give via the government, but through the goodness of their hearts. Get the government out of foreign aid, and get it back to getting this nation on track.
13 December 2004
An Eye for an Eye
Now I may upset some of you, but I expect as much. Just 40 minutes ago, a jury of his peers recommended the death penalty for Scott Peterson. I agree with that decision for him. I know that a lot of it was circumstantial evidence, and there was no murder weapon, but there were just too many coincidences for it not to be, in my opinion. I know my faith preaches for me to turn the other cheek, but how could I do that when a man kills not only his wife, but his unborn son as well.
For the most heinous crimes, the most heinous punishment is necessary. I don't believe necessarily in an eye for an eye, but this is a definite exception to this rule. I couldn't justify what he did to anyone, and I don't think many people could. His life should not be spared, but I have a gut feeling he wouldn't last long in the hole (see Jeffery Dahmer).
I believe in live and let live, but in this case that rule goes right out the window. Scott Peterson is getting what he deserves.
For the most heinous crimes, the most heinous punishment is necessary. I don't believe necessarily in an eye for an eye, but this is a definite exception to this rule. I couldn't justify what he did to anyone, and I don't think many people could. His life should not be spared, but I have a gut feeling he wouldn't last long in the hole (see Jeffery Dahmer).
I believe in live and let live, but in this case that rule goes right out the window. Scott Peterson is getting what he deserves.
08 December 2004
Channeling Our Frustrations
In today's media, there are numerous sources of entertainment. It's a 500-channel digital world, with something for everyone it seems. ESPN, CNN, Discovery Channel, the list goes on and on. What irks me is that there is a group that is responsible for seemingly every "outrage" over what's considered indecent on the air. The Parents Television Council (PTC) goes up in arms over every little tidbit they consider wrong. Now I understand Nipple-gate at the Super Bowl was a bit much, and some action needed to be taken about it. However, I don't think that gives them the right to tell the general public what should and shouldn't be broadcast over the airwaves.
My parents always told me, if I don't like something on television, buy my own TV, or simply don't watch what's on. So I did just that. Besides, if I don't watch a show, that's one less viewer, which means less money spent for advertising on said program. That in turn could lead to a show going off the air. If you've seen Field of Dreams, you understand. If you watch it, they will come. They being the advertisers. Conversely, if you don't watch it, they won't come.
As I said on Abdul in the Morning, it's really simple. What's good for you may not be good for me, so don't make that choice on my behalf, because I may not agree with it. It's a very simple free-market idea that involves personal choice. Hmmm, how libertarian of me! If you want to watch Sex and the City, Sportscenter, or the Crocodile Hunter, that's cool. I'll be here, watching my Law and Orders, and totally content with the fact that I have the ability to do just that. That's my choice.
My parents always told me, if I don't like something on television, buy my own TV, or simply don't watch what's on. So I did just that. Besides, if I don't watch a show, that's one less viewer, which means less money spent for advertising on said program. That in turn could lead to a show going off the air. If you've seen Field of Dreams, you understand. If you watch it, they will come. They being the advertisers. Conversely, if you don't watch it, they won't come.
As I said on Abdul in the Morning, it's really simple. What's good for you may not be good for me, so don't make that choice on my behalf, because I may not agree with it. It's a very simple free-market idea that involves personal choice. Hmmm, how libertarian of me! If you want to watch Sex and the City, Sportscenter, or the Crocodile Hunter, that's cool. I'll be here, watching my Law and Orders, and totally content with the fact that I have the ability to do just that. That's my choice.
07 December 2004
Bureaucracy in Baseball
That's right...the federal government gets in your pocket, wants to get in your bedroom, now it wants in on the national pastime. Senator John McCain (R-AZ), considered one of the more moderate Republicans in Washington, wants to form legislation cracking down on steroid use in baseball. I think that's a bit much considering they have more of a time passing legitimate intelligence reform or a balanced budget.
If Barry Bonds wants to inject himself full of roids, so be it. It's his body, he is the one dealing with the consequences of his choices. Also, Senator McCain should focus on more pressing issues, such as the issues I mentioned earlier. It's not the government's job to interfere in a private venture, unless the greater good was being infringed upon. People still pay big bucks to see Bonds, fellow juicer (ALLEGED) Jason Giambi, and others play a child's game.
If baseball wants to let their guys blow up like Goodyear blimps, that's fine. They're doing it to themselves. The best way to send the game a message is simply not to watch them play.
If Barry Bonds wants to inject himself full of roids, so be it. It's his body, he is the one dealing with the consequences of his choices. Also, Senator McCain should focus on more pressing issues, such as the issues I mentioned earlier. It's not the government's job to interfere in a private venture, unless the greater good was being infringed upon. People still pay big bucks to see Bonds, fellow juicer (ALLEGED) Jason Giambi, and others play a child's game.
If baseball wants to let their guys blow up like Goodyear blimps, that's fine. They're doing it to themselves. The best way to send the game a message is simply not to watch them play.
06 December 2004
Lefty Libertarians???
A misconception about libertarians is that they're pissed off Republicans, far right wingers. That may be a group within the party, but there are others like myself who come from the left side of the aisle. Those that abhor the Patriot Act, hate seeing the destruction of what government control does to the very Earth we live on. I despise the war in Iraq because it was initiating force to achieve a socio-political objective. If two people of the same sex want to get married, it's not my time or place to say it's wrong. It's your private decision, as long as you don't infringe on the rights of another person.
Friends of mine who are liberal in their beliefs look at me and think I'm a kook, but when we're sitting down over a beer (which we usually are), and I explain that I'm more socially accepting than most Democrats, they look at me with a newfound respect. What this boils down to, is if you think that Democrats are more and more out there, and won't support your personal choices, look to libertarians. It's your life, your choice.
Friends of mine who are liberal in their beliefs look at me and think I'm a kook, but when we're sitting down over a beer (which we usually are), and I explain that I'm more socially accepting than most Democrats, they look at me with a newfound respect. What this boils down to, is if you think that Democrats are more and more out there, and won't support your personal choices, look to libertarians. It's your life, your choice.
Where Do We Go From Here??
Right now is the political hangover season. The election's over, and the decisions are being made for the next term. In the 24 hour world we live in where you can instantly get information (like the blog you're reading), there is a risk of overload. Ignoring the situation will get it out of the mindset of some, but the situation is still there.
Currently, Gov.-elect Daniels is putting together his team for the next four years. I think he has his heart in the right place, and I think the results will be better than the previous administration. I don't think that he'll achieve everything I'd like to see, but the challenge before him and the General Assembly is very intimidating. Legislators will be making tough decisions on how to compensate for the $800 million structural deficit facing Indiana.
If my family didn't have the money for extras in our life, we simply tightened our belt and made do. That could have meant no vacation, but looking back, it was the right thing to do. If that means no porkbarreling for a couple of years, a legislator can look back and say, "I did my part to shrink the size of the government for my constituents." I respect that. Legislator X stood up and realized these are indeed tough times, and sacrifices have to be made for the greater good of the state.
I understand that Indiana did suffer worse than the nation when the recession hit in the early part of the decade, and we're just now recovering. In order to keep the recovery going, the General Assembly, and Gov.-elect Daniels are going to have to make the tough choices necessary to show the people of Indiana that they made the right choices November 2.
On the federal level, with Republicans in the White House, and in both chambers of Congress, federal spending increased domestically 7-10% in Bush's first term. Let's see if My Man Mitch, Speaker Bosma, and the Republicans in the General Assembly can give our state a 7-10% reduction in spending. That is my challenge to the Indiana GOP. You say you're the party of small government, so put your money where your mouth is.
Currently, Gov.-elect Daniels is putting together his team for the next four years. I think he has his heart in the right place, and I think the results will be better than the previous administration. I don't think that he'll achieve everything I'd like to see, but the challenge before him and the General Assembly is very intimidating. Legislators will be making tough decisions on how to compensate for the $800 million structural deficit facing Indiana.
If my family didn't have the money for extras in our life, we simply tightened our belt and made do. That could have meant no vacation, but looking back, it was the right thing to do. If that means no porkbarreling for a couple of years, a legislator can look back and say, "I did my part to shrink the size of the government for my constituents." I respect that. Legislator X stood up and realized these are indeed tough times, and sacrifices have to be made for the greater good of the state.
I understand that Indiana did suffer worse than the nation when the recession hit in the early part of the decade, and we're just now recovering. In order to keep the recovery going, the General Assembly, and Gov.-elect Daniels are going to have to make the tough choices necessary to show the people of Indiana that they made the right choices November 2.
On the federal level, with Republicans in the White House, and in both chambers of Congress, federal spending increased domestically 7-10% in Bush's first term. Let's see if My Man Mitch, Speaker Bosma, and the Republicans in the General Assembly can give our state a 7-10% reduction in spending. That is my challenge to the Indiana GOP. You say you're the party of small government, so put your money where your mouth is.
20 November 2004
Brad and Mike in the Morning
What a day! Abdul on WXNT called in to see the dentist, but it was Klop and Kole to the rescue!! Libertarian radio all morning in Abdul's stead, and it was fun, informative, and definitely interesting. Notable libertarians on all morning, from presidential candidate Michael Badnarik (who I finally realized is a kook), former congressional/mayoral/gubernatorial candidate Andy Horning, LaPorte County Chair Greg Kelver, as well as Republican Secretary of State Todd Rokita, and others.
Mike Kole, LP Hamilton County Chair, and Brad Klopfenstein, LPIN Executive Director were on the air from 6-9 this morning talking politics, and having a blast on the mic. They took all calls, chatted with guests, even had time to poke fun at themselves. Hell even "President Clinton" called in to talk with the guys.
I think the end result of the guys getting on for three hours was a good thing, expressing good values of the party, and promoting us in the "we're just like everyone else" light.
On a non-political note...the Pacers-Pistons game was a trip!!! I couldn't believe that happened tonight!!!
Mike Kole, LP Hamilton County Chair, and Brad Klopfenstein, LPIN Executive Director were on the air from 6-9 this morning talking politics, and having a blast on the mic. They took all calls, chatted with guests, even had time to poke fun at themselves. Hell even "President Clinton" called in to talk with the guys.
I think the end result of the guys getting on for three hours was a good thing, expressing good values of the party, and promoting us in the "we're just like everyone else" light.
On a non-political note...the Pacers-Pistons game was a trip!!! I couldn't believe that happened tonight!!!
17 November 2004
A New Era
Hello everyone, I'm back. A self-imposed moratorium on virtually all politics for 15 days is definitely a good thing. Most of the election dust has settled, and people have made their choices. Indiana is now a one-party state, electing Mitch Daniels, and giving the House back to the GOP. For years, the Republicans have said that if we elect them, they'll make it happen, it being shrinking the size of the state government. I find this hard to believe.
An $800 million budget deficit has to be dealt with somehow. During the campaign, the evil phrase "tax increase" was rarely uttered. It was "cut this, cut that." Now that the election is over, the "cut this, cut that" mentality is switching to "all options are on the table." Now, as a idealist living in the real world *sigh*, I would rather them raise the sales tax 1% with a sunset provision on there that would end in either 2006 or 2008, that way it falls in an election year, holding the entire legislature accountable, be it Democrats or Republicans. That money collected would have to go towards paying off the state's debt, not for some pet project.
Enough about taxes. Another subject picking up steam as the General Assembly reconvenes is the issue about Daylight Savings Time (DST). I personally think that Indiana should be on Central Standard Time (CST), or Chicago time. We are geographically and culturally closer to Chicago than that of New York, Boston, or Washington, DC. I realize that there are several counties on the Ohio River and in southeastern Indiana that observe Eastern time year-round, and that would not change. This just puts the state in line with the rest of the country. My rationale on this is I have family on both coasts, and they forget that Indiana does not "change their clocks."
The issue of gay marriage will likely come to the forefront of Indiana politics again. I just don't think that marriage should be an issue in government. To me, marriage is a sacred and holy institution officiated by an ordained minister of faith. If that denomination accepts two men or two women in matrimony, so be it. A personal choice shouldn't be left to government to decide. To me, it's the same as saying that certain people should not be allowed to have children. It also reminds me of the "black codes" I've studied in American History, including the one where no free-black could marry a white person because they were "inferior." Nowadays, it's common, so what's the big deal???
Remember this, in the first debate between Gov.-elect Daniels, outgoing Gov. Kernan, and Kenn Gividen, Daniels agreed with Gividen five times. He now has four years to prove he won't maintain the status quo for the state.
An $800 million budget deficit has to be dealt with somehow. During the campaign, the evil phrase "tax increase" was rarely uttered. It was "cut this, cut that." Now that the election is over, the "cut this, cut that" mentality is switching to "all options are on the table." Now, as a idealist living in the real world *sigh*, I would rather them raise the sales tax 1% with a sunset provision on there that would end in either 2006 or 2008, that way it falls in an election year, holding the entire legislature accountable, be it Democrats or Republicans. That money collected would have to go towards paying off the state's debt, not for some pet project.
Enough about taxes. Another subject picking up steam as the General Assembly reconvenes is the issue about Daylight Savings Time (DST). I personally think that Indiana should be on Central Standard Time (CST), or Chicago time. We are geographically and culturally closer to Chicago than that of New York, Boston, or Washington, DC. I realize that there are several counties on the Ohio River and in southeastern Indiana that observe Eastern time year-round, and that would not change. This just puts the state in line with the rest of the country. My rationale on this is I have family on both coasts, and they forget that Indiana does not "change their clocks."
The issue of gay marriage will likely come to the forefront of Indiana politics again. I just don't think that marriage should be an issue in government. To me, marriage is a sacred and holy institution officiated by an ordained minister of faith. If that denomination accepts two men or two women in matrimony, so be it. A personal choice shouldn't be left to government to decide. To me, it's the same as saying that certain people should not be allowed to have children. It also reminds me of the "black codes" I've studied in American History, including the one where no free-black could marry a white person because they were "inferior." Nowadays, it's common, so what's the big deal???
Remember this, in the first debate between Gov.-elect Daniels, outgoing Gov. Kernan, and Kenn Gividen, Daniels agreed with Gividen five times. He now has four years to prove he won't maintain the status quo for the state.
03 November 2004
Post-Election
Man, am I beat!!! Yesterday was the biggest day in my young life, as I was a candidate for the very first time. Getting to my home precinct at 5:45 AM, I was welcomed with a line that wrapped around the firehouse, and pouring rain. I jumped out and proceeded to convince people to vote for me for County Council. It was fun, talking with voters, handing out palmcards letting voters know where I stand, yada yada yada. I was there with two people from the GOP side. We talked and joked, and I think that it made the morning go fairly quickly.
I finally voted at about 9 AM, after waiting in line 30 minutes. I was so busy at the precinct that I ran out of palmcards to hand out. Thankfully, LPIN Chair Mark Rutherford was coming from another precinct, and he gladly picked up more for me. At 6 PM, I packed up, tired and water-logged and made my way to Indy for the post-election party.
In Indy, it was a who's who of libertarians. We all kicked back, ate and drank, watching poll numbers come in statewide and nationally with the presidential race. I found out that I pulled 6% in a 5-way race for three seats. Usually a Libertarian candidate pulls 2-3% in a 3-way, but I did much better than I ever dreamed of doing. I joked if I received 10%, I'd do an Irish jig, but everyone was spared of my Riverdance routine (thankfully).
I want to especially thank Phil Miller, for his guidance and support, as well as showing me one year ago that there are people like me that believe in personal freedom and small government. I want to thank the support from a lot of great people, so numerous I'll probably forget one or two. Brad Klopfenstein, Mark Rutherford, Sam and Jame Goldstein, Rebecca Sink-Burris, Sheri Sharlow, Mike Kole, Rob Place, Margaret Fette, Paul Ehrstein, the list goes on and on, thank you very much for believing in me this year. I plan to win in 2006.
I finally voted at about 9 AM, after waiting in line 30 minutes. I was so busy at the precinct that I ran out of palmcards to hand out. Thankfully, LPIN Chair Mark Rutherford was coming from another precinct, and he gladly picked up more for me. At 6 PM, I packed up, tired and water-logged and made my way to Indy for the post-election party.
In Indy, it was a who's who of libertarians. We all kicked back, ate and drank, watching poll numbers come in statewide and nationally with the presidential race. I found out that I pulled 6% in a 5-way race for three seats. Usually a Libertarian candidate pulls 2-3% in a 3-way, but I did much better than I ever dreamed of doing. I joked if I received 10%, I'd do an Irish jig, but everyone was spared of my Riverdance routine (thankfully).
I want to especially thank Phil Miller, for his guidance and support, as well as showing me one year ago that there are people like me that believe in personal freedom and small government. I want to thank the support from a lot of great people, so numerous I'll probably forget one or two. Brad Klopfenstein, Mark Rutherford, Sam and Jame Goldstein, Rebecca Sink-Burris, Sheri Sharlow, Mike Kole, Rob Place, Margaret Fette, Paul Ehrstein, the list goes on and on, thank you very much for believing in me this year. I plan to win in 2006.
27 October 2004
It'll Be a Cold Day in Hell When....
Right now it's a little chilly down there, considering Boston just won the World Series. I think that was the 7th Sign of the Apocalypse, so if you hear horsemen, RUN! Sports can be such a release for people (like me right now) that have all this political drama in their life. One state, two state, red state, blue state. I'm glad that something as simple as a child's game can give the nation a well-deserved reprieve from the frantic, often chaotic week before a presidential election.
I know I'm supposed to talk about Libertarian news and views on this, but it was an amazing feat. Now, it'll be a cold day in Hell if I win on Tuesday!
I know I'm supposed to talk about Libertarian news and views on this, but it was an amazing feat. Now, it'll be a cold day in Hell if I win on Tuesday!
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