The efforts to stop the tax and spend Republicans in Hamilton County are paying off. Both Mike Kole, who is seeking the Libertarian nomination for Secretary of State, and LPIN Political Director Brad Klopfenstein have led the efforts in Fishers against the tax.
The result is that last night, the Fishers Town Council couldn't find anyone to move and second the tax increase that was on the table (a 1% tax on restaurant bills).
A more complete synopsis can be found at the national LP web site in an article entitled Indiana Libertarians Defeat Restaurant Tax.
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Bloomington Herald-Times Says "Libertarians' Map Merits Consideration"
The Bloomington Herald-Times had a very positive editorial about the County Redistricting proposal put forth by the Libertarian Party of Monroe County.
The Republicans, who have taken control of the Monroe County Commisioners, are trying to undo the redistricting done by the Democratic controlled council in 2001. Fortunately for the voters of Monroe County, the Libertarians have weighed in on the proposal.
The Libertarian plan divides the county into northwest, northeast, southwest and southeast quadrants that come together in a "four corners" deal at an intersection in the heart of Bloomington. The populations of the four districts vary little, from 30,075 to 30,326. No township is in more than two districts and the districts are compact.
The paper editorializes that but for a couple of minor anomalies, "the map makes a lot of sense - more than the one the Democrat-controlled redistricting committee and county commissioners approved in 2001."
Congratulations Chair Margaret Fette for a job well-done.
(The Bloomington Herald-Times requires a subscription to view their articles, so I have not linked to it.)
The Republicans, who have taken control of the Monroe County Commisioners, are trying to undo the redistricting done by the Democratic controlled council in 2001. Fortunately for the voters of Monroe County, the Libertarians have weighed in on the proposal.
The Libertarian plan divides the county into northwest, northeast, southwest and southeast quadrants that come together in a "four corners" deal at an intersection in the heart of Bloomington. The populations of the four districts vary little, from 30,075 to 30,326. No township is in more than two districts and the districts are compact.
The paper editorializes that but for a couple of minor anomalies, "the map makes a lot of sense - more than the one the Democrat-controlled redistricting committee and county commissioners approved in 2001."
Congratulations Chair Margaret Fette for a job well-done.
(The Bloomington Herald-Times requires a subscription to view their articles, so I have not linked to it.)
Standards for Libertarian Candidates
Tonight a county chair sent to me a first draft of minimum requirements for Libertarian candidates in his/her county. It was a very good start.
The suggested requirements cover the following:
1. Appear on local media and explain to the public why they want to run for office.
2. Timely respond to and completely fill out all media questionnaires.
3. Must dress appropriately at all press events.
4. Raise a minimum amount of money for the campaign.
5. Spend a minimum amount of time working on their campaign.
6. Write a couple of Letters to The Editor explaining why they are running for office.
7. Prepare a very simple platform on what they want to accomplish in office (One page or LESS).
8. Timely fill out and file candidate and campaign finance paperwork.
9. Prepare a one page personal biography about themselves.
10. Find at least one person to run their campaign.
11. Read at least one book on how to run for office.
This is a very good start.
One requirement I'd add to the list is to respond promptly to all invitations to attend candidate forums. Even if one can't make it for various reasons (which will happen), the invitation should be appreciated and followed with a prompt response of one's availability.
The suggested requirements cover the following:
1. Appear on local media and explain to the public why they want to run for office.
2. Timely respond to and completely fill out all media questionnaires.
3. Must dress appropriately at all press events.
4. Raise a minimum amount of money for the campaign.
5. Spend a minimum amount of time working on their campaign.
6. Write a couple of Letters to The Editor explaining why they are running for office.
7. Prepare a very simple platform on what they want to accomplish in office (One page or LESS).
8. Timely fill out and file candidate and campaign finance paperwork.
9. Prepare a one page personal biography about themselves.
10. Find at least one person to run their campaign.
11. Read at least one book on how to run for office.
This is a very good start.
One requirement I'd add to the list is to respond promptly to all invitations to attend candidate forums. Even if one can't make it for various reasons (which will happen), the invitation should be appreciated and followed with a prompt response of one's availability.
Monday, August 29, 2005
20th Anniversary Celebration of Advocates for Self Government - I'll Be There - Will You?
Many Hoosier Libertarians attended the Advocates for Self Government ("The Advocates") class last summer on communicating libertarian ideas to others (including voters). It was a great two day class and everyone learned a lot.
The Advocates is celebrating its 20th Anniversary in Atlanta, Georgia from October 14th through the 16th at the Renaissance Concourse Hotel by the airport. The celebration has a great line-up of speakers, including Hugh Downs, Michael Cloud, Ron Paul, Mary Ruwart, Sharon Harris, Robert Ringer, Carla Howell and Jeffrey Miron.
I heard Miron speak at Wabash College last Spring. He's a very good speaker and has an excellent understanding of libertarianism and how to communicate about it in order to effect policy.
I will be there for the whole event. Ken Bisson of Angola, Indiana is on the board of directors of The Advocates and will be there. Ken is the immediate past national vice chair of the LP and current Steuben County Chair of the LPIN.
James Lark of Virginia, a long time and active supporter of the work of the LPIN, is also on the board of The Advocates.
It will be great if a lot of Hoosiers attend this significant event.
For more information, go to The Advocates 20th Anniversary website.
The Advocates is celebrating its 20th Anniversary in Atlanta, Georgia from October 14th through the 16th at the Renaissance Concourse Hotel by the airport. The celebration has a great line-up of speakers, including Hugh Downs, Michael Cloud, Ron Paul, Mary Ruwart, Sharon Harris, Robert Ringer, Carla Howell and Jeffrey Miron.
I heard Miron speak at Wabash College last Spring. He's a very good speaker and has an excellent understanding of libertarianism and how to communicate about it in order to effect policy.
I will be there for the whole event. Ken Bisson of Angola, Indiana is on the board of directors of The Advocates and will be there. Ken is the immediate past national vice chair of the LP and current Steuben County Chair of the LPIN.
James Lark of Virginia, a long time and active supporter of the work of the LPIN, is also on the board of The Advocates.
It will be great if a lot of Hoosiers attend this significant event.
For more information, go to The Advocates 20th Anniversary website.
Sunday, August 28, 2005
Libertarians in Markle Parade
There was a good Libertarian presence at the Markle Wildcat Festival yesterday. The theme of the parade was Mardi Gras.
Mike Kole and his family marched in the parade. He's seeking the LPIN nomination for Secretary of State in 2006.
For a more comprehensive report and several pictures, go to Mike Kole's blog Kole Hard Facts.
Prohibitionists to Attack Small Businesses in Jasper, Terre Haute and Muncie. What's Next? Alcohol Again?
I received a voice mail today from Political Director Brad Klopfenstein. He's hearing from the "grape vine" that the anti-smoking prohibitionists are plotting action in Jasper, Terre Haute and Muncie. These look to be the latest targets in their efforts to tell small business owners what they can do with their businesses.
Call Brad at 317-920-1994 if you can volunteer to help in these efforts to fight the smoking bans. If we don't stop them now, McDonald's hamburgers and alcohol may be again in the targets of these self-described "reformers" out to control your lives.
One need is for volunteers to research the organizations promoting these bans and their financial contributors. There is a lot of government money out there that has been taken from the tobacco companies. We want to make sure it isn't being used directly or indirectly by these groups to fund their efforts to lobby communities for smoking bans. And if it is being used improperly, to report this activity and misuse of government money to the appropriate authorities.
Call Brad at 317-920-1994 if you can volunteer to help in these efforts to fight the smoking bans. If we don't stop them now, McDonald's hamburgers and alcohol may be again in the targets of these self-described "reformers" out to control your lives.
One need is for volunteers to research the organizations promoting these bans and their financial contributors. There is a lot of government money out there that has been taken from the tobacco companies. We want to make sure it isn't being used directly or indirectly by these groups to fund their efforts to lobby communities for smoking bans. And if it is being used improperly, to report this activity and misuse of government money to the appropriate authorities.
Mike Kole, Candidate for LPIN Nomination for Secretary of State, to be at LPWC Garage Sale
Mike Kole, who is seeking the Libertarian nomination for Indiana's Secretary of State, will be at the information booth at the Libertarian Party of Wayne County Garage Sale this comming Saturday morning. The LPWC Garage Sale is located at 17059 State Road 38, Hagerstown.
Here's Kole's internet sites:
www.mikekole.com
www.kolehardfacts.blogspotcom
Here's Kole's internet sites:
www.mikekole.com
www.kolehardfacts.blogspotcom
Fort Wayne Libertarian Mike Sylvester Gets More Positive Publicity
Libertarian Party of Allen County Chair Mike Sylvester got more positive publicity last Thursday.
The Thursday Fort Wayne News-Sentinel ran a guest article by Mike with a byline that he is the Allen County Chair. The article is titled Focus on the fugitives instead of seat belts.
Excellent job Mike!
The Thursday Fort Wayne News-Sentinel ran a guest article by Mike with a byline that he is the Allen County Chair. The article is titled Focus on the fugitives instead of seat belts.
Excellent job Mike!
Annual Labor Day Weekend Libertarian Party of Wayne County Garage Sale
It's time again for the Annual Libertarian Party of Wayne County Labor Day Garage Sale. It is located at 17059 State Road 38 in Hagerstown.
Here's the dates and times:
Saturday, September 3rd, 7:00 A.M. till 7:00 P.M. Open for business.
Sunday, September 4th, 10:00 A.M. till 4:00 P.M. Open for business.
This year's sale includes Steph's Café, Ma Bell's Home Made Apple Butter and the Libertarian Outreach Booth complete with a Cotton Candy machine.
Here's the dates and times:
Saturday, September 3rd, 7:00 A.M. till 7:00 P.M. Open for business.
Sunday, September 4th, 10:00 A.M. till 4:00 P.M. Open for business.
This year's sale includes Steph's Café, Ma Bell's Home Made Apple Butter and the Libertarian Outreach Booth complete with a Cotton Candy machine.
Saturday, August 27, 2005
Mariellen Miller is the New Henry County Chair
Mariellen Miller is now the Chair of the Henry County Libertarian Party.
Also, Henry, Wayne and Union Counties have decide to hold a combined monthly meeting, at least for the near future.
Combined meetings of county affiliates is a good idea, especially when two smaller and younger affiliates, such as Henry and Union Counties, can combine forces with a larger and more established affiliate such as Wayne County.
There is strength in numbers. No one likes to feel like they are taking on government excesses alone. But when you are around your friends on a regular basis, you know you are not alone and it keeps you going.
Clark, Harrison and Floyd Counties have had a combined monthly meeting for several years now. It is my opinion that it has made all three county affiliates much stronger.
Also, Henry, Wayne and Union Counties have decide to hold a combined monthly meeting, at least for the near future.
Combined meetings of county affiliates is a good idea, especially when two smaller and younger affiliates, such as Henry and Union Counties, can combine forces with a larger and more established affiliate such as Wayne County.
There is strength in numbers. No one likes to feel like they are taking on government excesses alone. But when you are around your friends on a regular basis, you know you are not alone and it keeps you going.
Clark, Harrison and Floyd Counties have had a combined monthly meeting for several years now. It is my opinion that it has made all three county affiliates much stronger.
Get Known In Your Community in Order to Win
I'm a graduate of the Valparaiso University School of Law. The school's alumni magazine, The Valpo Lawyer, came in today's mail. I donate a lot of time, money and effort to the school.
While the Libertarian Party of Indiana is very important to me, I'm engaged in other pursuits. All of these pursuits relate to each other. The Libertarian Party of Indiana often relates to my other pursuits. This includes my giving the party a positive face to those who otherwise might have no feelings or negative feelings about the party.
If you're known as a good volunteer for your church or the local soup kitchen, you will be known as a person in which it's "safe" to cast one's vote, even if you're running on the Libertarian ticket.
Well, I got a lot of "publicity" in this edition of The Valpo Lawyer. But my purpose is not to brag, but to make a point - if you're known, perceived to be competent, supportive of others in the community and willing to be public with your support, others will find you to be a credible candidate, or at least a credible representative of Libertarians in general.
There's a picture in the magazine with me standing next to television sports broadcaster Bob Costas. This is because I attended and supported the school's conference on Sports Law and Ethics last February. The magazine reports that I'm now a member of the Lawyer's Council of the Indiana Civil Liberties Union (how's that for those who claim the LP is drifting towards the right!). Finally, it reports that Politics and Law and Indianapolis Monthly lists me as an Indiana Super Lawyer.
The above shows why people introduce me around Law School events as a lawyer and the Chairman of the Libertarian Party of Indiana. It is because my activities in the community known as the Valparaiso School of Law reflects well on me, the school and thus it reflects well on the Libertarian Party of Indiana. And they make a point of mentioning my political affiliation because I'm sure they sense it is important to me.
When people introduce you and mention one of your activities, it usually is because they believe your activity is a legitimate one.
What's preferable then? Is it the Libertarian candidate who rages about injustice, but rarely fills out media questionnaires and when they do, leaves blank the section on community involvement because there is nothing to report? Or the Libertarian candidate who speaks temperately but with conviction, who always responds to the media and needs an additional page to answer the community involvement section?
Who gives the Libertarian Party of Indiana more legitimacy, the candidate with no community involvement and track record - or the candidate involved in the community and with a positive track record?
I'm going to guess the public is always going to pick the later of each of the above.
If you want to win - get involved with your community. You don't have to be the "Grand Emperor" of the community organizations. But it will reflect well on you and the Libertarian Party of Indiana if you can state you volunteer at a home for the mentally ill every Friday afternoon.
While the Libertarian Party of Indiana is very important to me, I'm engaged in other pursuits. All of these pursuits relate to each other. The Libertarian Party of Indiana often relates to my other pursuits. This includes my giving the party a positive face to those who otherwise might have no feelings or negative feelings about the party.
If you're known as a good volunteer for your church or the local soup kitchen, you will be known as a person in which it's "safe" to cast one's vote, even if you're running on the Libertarian ticket.
Well, I got a lot of "publicity" in this edition of The Valpo Lawyer. But my purpose is not to brag, but to make a point - if you're known, perceived to be competent, supportive of others in the community and willing to be public with your support, others will find you to be a credible candidate, or at least a credible representative of Libertarians in general.
There's a picture in the magazine with me standing next to television sports broadcaster Bob Costas. This is because I attended and supported the school's conference on Sports Law and Ethics last February. The magazine reports that I'm now a member of the Lawyer's Council of the Indiana Civil Liberties Union (how's that for those who claim the LP is drifting towards the right!). Finally, it reports that Politics and Law and Indianapolis Monthly lists me as an Indiana Super Lawyer.
The above shows why people introduce me around Law School events as a lawyer and the Chairman of the Libertarian Party of Indiana. It is because my activities in the community known as the Valparaiso School of Law reflects well on me, the school and thus it reflects well on the Libertarian Party of Indiana. And they make a point of mentioning my political affiliation because I'm sure they sense it is important to me.
When people introduce you and mention one of your activities, it usually is because they believe your activity is a legitimate one.
What's preferable then? Is it the Libertarian candidate who rages about injustice, but rarely fills out media questionnaires and when they do, leaves blank the section on community involvement because there is nothing to report? Or the Libertarian candidate who speaks temperately but with conviction, who always responds to the media and needs an additional page to answer the community involvement section?
Who gives the Libertarian Party of Indiana more legitimacy, the candidate with no community involvement and track record - or the candidate involved in the community and with a positive track record?
I'm going to guess the public is always going to pick the later of each of the above.
If you want to win - get involved with your community. You don't have to be the "Grand Emperor" of the community organizations. But it will reflect well on you and the Libertarian Party of Indiana if you can state you volunteer at a home for the mentally ill every Friday afternoon.
Friday, August 26, 2005
The Goal is to Win
Libertarian Party of Indiana Political Director Brad Klopfenstein has two goals for 2006.
They are:
1. 10% of the vote in the Secretary of State race;
2. Elect Libertarians to local office.
As he puts it to me and others, "(a)nything that doesn't fit that criteria (is) off my radar."
Brad has his priorities straight, in my opinion.
Thursday, August 25, 2005
Lunch With Political Director and the Opportunity in Hamilton County
Libertarian Party of Indiana Political Director Brad Klopfenstein and I had lunch today at the India Garden on Illinois Street in downtown Indianapolis. India Garden has a great and easy lunch buffet well worth trying if you like Indian food.
We talked about many things, especially recruiting candidates who will run to win and do the things necessary to win (it's already been figured out how to do it and there are scores of good books on it - all it takes is hard work and commitment - no silver bullets out there on winning either).
Most importantly, we talked about Hamilton County. It is the county immediately north of Indianapolis.
Hamilton County is considered a one party county - and the party is the Republican Party. However, the Republican Party in Hamilton County is split between two different tax and spend factions. Brad and I see a desire and yearning for a true limited government political party in Hamilton County. We believe that if we work hard to get our message out, the Libertarian Party will soon be considered the second political party in Hamilton County. The split between the two tax and spend factions just makes it more obvious to voters in Hamilton County that there is a true need for a second political party that is the true legacy of statesmen such as Barry Goldwater.
By the way, the Republicans in Hamilton County are tax and spenders and prohibitionists. For example, look at all the debt Carmel is piling on the graduating high school seniors who don't have the sense to move away - Carmel has engaged in so many bond issues that they have mortgaged away its future - and placed the burden of the debt on future taxpayers. Another example is how the county councilors voted to tax restaurants and send the money to the state for a stadium in another county in order to support a private enterprise. Furthermore, supposedly Republican city councils in Hamilton County are voting for smoking bans in private businesses. What's next? Prohibition against alcohol again? That certainly worked well from 1920 to 1933 (I hope you get my sarcasm). And I "enjoy" the hypocrisy of Republicans who attack Democrats for being "politically correct", yet they are imposing "politically correct" smoking bans on private business, the majority of which are small businesses.
If I didn't know better, I'd suspect that Hamilton County was a Boston suburb run by Democrats, not an Indianapolis suburb run by Republicans.
We talked about many things, especially recruiting candidates who will run to win and do the things necessary to win (it's already been figured out how to do it and there are scores of good books on it - all it takes is hard work and commitment - no silver bullets out there on winning either).
Most importantly, we talked about Hamilton County. It is the county immediately north of Indianapolis.
Hamilton County is considered a one party county - and the party is the Republican Party. However, the Republican Party in Hamilton County is split between two different tax and spend factions. Brad and I see a desire and yearning for a true limited government political party in Hamilton County. We believe that if we work hard to get our message out, the Libertarian Party will soon be considered the second political party in Hamilton County. The split between the two tax and spend factions just makes it more obvious to voters in Hamilton County that there is a true need for a second political party that is the true legacy of statesmen such as Barry Goldwater.
By the way, the Republicans in Hamilton County are tax and spenders and prohibitionists. For example, look at all the debt Carmel is piling on the graduating high school seniors who don't have the sense to move away - Carmel has engaged in so many bond issues that they have mortgaged away its future - and placed the burden of the debt on future taxpayers. Another example is how the county councilors voted to tax restaurants and send the money to the state for a stadium in another county in order to support a private enterprise. Furthermore, supposedly Republican city councils in Hamilton County are voting for smoking bans in private businesses. What's next? Prohibition against alcohol again? That certainly worked well from 1920 to 1933 (I hope you get my sarcasm). And I "enjoy" the hypocrisy of Republicans who attack Democrats for being "politically correct", yet they are imposing "politically correct" smoking bans on private business, the majority of which are small businesses.
If I didn't know better, I'd suspect that Hamilton County was a Boston suburb run by Democrats, not an Indianapolis suburb run by Republicans.
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
Libertarian Lawyers Identify Themselves
What a wonderful day.
I was up in Fort Wayne on legal business. Two lawyers in the firm I was at came up to me and said, I'm a Libertarian too. The word was out in the firm that I was the State Chairman of the Libertarian Party of Indiana (they already knew, of course, that I'm a lawyer).
This shows to me that the hard work of many of us in Indiana is paying off.
One of the lawyers said he was sometimes reluctant to vote Libertarian because we don't win. You should have seen the smile on his face when I told him about our elected officials in Indiana - Judge of the Hagerstown Town Court, Universal City Councilor, two Union City councilors, Union City Clerk-Treasurer, Gosport Town Councilor and Needham Township Advisory Board. I also told him about our two appointed members on the Hagerstown Board of Zoning appeals.
He was impressed - but duly noted we need to advertise this better to the public. He is right.
I was up in Fort Wayne on legal business. Two lawyers in the firm I was at came up to me and said, I'm a Libertarian too. The word was out in the firm that I was the State Chairman of the Libertarian Party of Indiana (they already knew, of course, that I'm a lawyer).
This shows to me that the hard work of many of us in Indiana is paying off.
One of the lawyers said he was sometimes reluctant to vote Libertarian because we don't win. You should have seen the smile on his face when I told him about our elected officials in Indiana - Judge of the Hagerstown Town Court, Universal City Councilor, two Union City councilors, Union City Clerk-Treasurer, Gosport Town Councilor and Needham Township Advisory Board. I also told him about our two appointed members on the Hagerstown Board of Zoning appeals.
He was impressed - but duly noted we need to advertise this better to the public. He is right.
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Marion County Libertarian Party Meeting a Success Tonight
I try to attend as often as possible the monthly business meeting of my local county affiliate - the Libertarian Party of Marion County. The August meeting is traditionally poorly attended - but 13 people attended tonight, down about 10 people from the previous meeting, but very good for August!
Chair Greg Dixon, Vice Chair Sam Goldstein, Secretary Wanda Britt and Treasurer Eric Barnes are doing a very nice job and should be commended for their efforts. The Marion County party has three activities planned for September alone, with more being planned for October through December.
They also are actively recruiting candidates for the 2006 election. Already 6 or 7 candidates have been identified. Most importantly, the county is looking to run people who are going to run active campaigns.
It's great to see the growth of the Libertarian Party of Indiana.
Chair Greg Dixon, Vice Chair Sam Goldstein, Secretary Wanda Britt and Treasurer Eric Barnes are doing a very nice job and should be commended for their efforts. The Marion County party has three activities planned for September alone, with more being planned for October through December.
They also are actively recruiting candidates for the 2006 election. Already 6 or 7 candidates have been identified. Most importantly, the county is looking to run people who are going to run active campaigns.
It's great to see the growth of the Libertarian Party of Indiana.
Sunday, August 21, 2005
LPIN Family and Friends Hog Roast at Burris's Farm (North of Bloomington)
Come One !! Come All !!
LPIN Family and Friends Hog Roast
Celebrate the end of summer at the Burris’s Farm.
Saturday Sept. 10th 1pm to 10pm
Bring the whole family, and don’t forget your bathing suits! We have a pool and a hot tub as well as a creek to play in, a dog to play with you, ponies for children to ride, and a beautiful forest to hike in.
Contests !!! Prizes!!!!
Salsa Contest: Bring your homemade salsa and a bag of chips.
Dessert Contest: Bring a homemade dessert.
Target Shooting Contest: Arrive early, shooting from 11 am – 1pm only. Guns and ammo provided, ages 12 and above only, parental permission required.
Crawdad Catching Contest: Bring a bucket, ages 12 and under.
Prizes for youngest, oldest and “furthest” participant.
$20 Singles $40 Families
To RSVP, sign up for a contest or get directions, contact: Rebecca Sink-Burris.
LPIN Family and Friends Hog Roast
Celebrate the end of summer at the Burris’s Farm.
Saturday Sept. 10th 1pm to 10pm
Bring the whole family, and don’t forget your bathing suits! We have a pool and a hot tub as well as a creek to play in, a dog to play with you, ponies for children to ride, and a beautiful forest to hike in.
Contests !!! Prizes!!!!
Salsa Contest: Bring your homemade salsa and a bag of chips.
Dessert Contest: Bring a homemade dessert.
Target Shooting Contest: Arrive early, shooting from 11 am – 1pm only. Guns and ammo provided, ages 12 and above only, parental permission required.
Crawdad Catching Contest: Bring a bucket, ages 12 and under.
Prizes for youngest, oldest and “furthest” participant.
$20 Singles $40 Families
To RSVP, sign up for a contest or get directions, contact: Rebecca Sink-Burris.
Benefits of a Small Business Brand
One of the several very good speakers at the Regional Libertarian Small Business Conference in Dayton, Ohio was Dr. Samuel Staley.
Dr. Staley is a former president of the Buckeye Institute. He currently is Director, Urban and Land Use Policy, for the Reason Foundation.
He talked about his experience with developing a brand for the Buckeye Institute and the immensely positive results it achieved. He then relayed why he thought that "branding" the Libertarian Party as the Small Business Party was a good idea.
One of his major points was that developing a brand was not to the exclusion of all programs and goals that the Buckeye Institute had engaged in the past. Rather, it was to develop a positive identification for the Buckeye Institute that would open doors and allow it to explain itself in 10 seconds or so, about the time one has to make their case with an individual.
If the brand is successful, and opens doors, then the other programs and goals of the organinzation can be brought to the attention of interested parties, as the circumstances dictate.
He described it as "levels". The first level was the positive brand which opened doors and increased the supporter base. The other "levels" were the other goals and programs of the Buckeye Institute. Once a person became a supporter of the "brand" issue of the Buckeye Institute, they often became interested in other areas of activity and programs. Sometimes, these individuals became more supportive of the other program activities, even to the exclusion of the original activity of the Buckeye Institute which had first interested them.
As I see it - "branding" gives focus and opens the door. For all too often, the LP and LPIN has let others brand us - usually in very negative ways. For all too often, we have tried to "brand" ourselves with complicated long treatises and explicitly detailed programs. This has only led to boredom, disinterest and "rolled eyes" by individuals who should support us.
But a positive brand - such as the political party of small business - broadens our support base with usually successful people with good community support and contacts.
And of course, the R's and D's don't represent small business owners - as evidenced by the taxes, regulations, statutes and other oppressive measures foisted by politicians of both parties on small business owners. It's no wonder that small business owners are oft heard to state they'd never start a business again because of the government regulations.
The Libertarian Party - the party of Small Business.
Dr. Staley is a former president of the Buckeye Institute. He currently is Director, Urban and Land Use Policy, for the Reason Foundation.
He talked about his experience with developing a brand for the Buckeye Institute and the immensely positive results it achieved. He then relayed why he thought that "branding" the Libertarian Party as the Small Business Party was a good idea.
One of his major points was that developing a brand was not to the exclusion of all programs and goals that the Buckeye Institute had engaged in the past. Rather, it was to develop a positive identification for the Buckeye Institute that would open doors and allow it to explain itself in 10 seconds or so, about the time one has to make their case with an individual.
If the brand is successful, and opens doors, then the other programs and goals of the organinzation can be brought to the attention of interested parties, as the circumstances dictate.
He described it as "levels". The first level was the positive brand which opened doors and increased the supporter base. The other "levels" were the other goals and programs of the Buckeye Institute. Once a person became a supporter of the "brand" issue of the Buckeye Institute, they often became interested in other areas of activity and programs. Sometimes, these individuals became more supportive of the other program activities, even to the exclusion of the original activity of the Buckeye Institute which had first interested them.
As I see it - "branding" gives focus and opens the door. For all too often, the LP and LPIN has let others brand us - usually in very negative ways. For all too often, we have tried to "brand" ourselves with complicated long treatises and explicitly detailed programs. This has only led to boredom, disinterest and "rolled eyes" by individuals who should support us.
But a positive brand - such as the political party of small business - broadens our support base with usually successful people with good community support and contacts.
And of course, the R's and D's don't represent small business owners - as evidenced by the taxes, regulations, statutes and other oppressive measures foisted by politicians of both parties on small business owners. It's no wonder that small business owners are oft heard to state they'd never start a business again because of the government regulations.
The Libertarian Party - the party of Small Business.
Justin Kempf's Last Day at State Headquarters
Justin Kempf's last day as an employee with the Libertarian Party of Indiana was Friday, August 19th. While he no longer is employed by the LPIN, Justin has enjoyed his stay in Indiana and plans on remaining here. He also anticipates remaining active as a volunteer with the LPIN.
Justin has been with the LPIN as either a contractor or employee since June of 2004. He's worked on many different projects and has helped the LPIN move forward in many ways. I anticipate we'll be reaping benefits from his work for a long time to come. His many accomplishments have included developing our own database of supporters, developing the small business television commercial and writing the two fund raising case statements.
I look forward to working with Justin in his new role as "volunteer" and wish him good luck with his new endeavors.
Justin has been with the LPIN as either a contractor or employee since June of 2004. He's worked on many different projects and has helped the LPIN move forward in many ways. I anticipate we'll be reaping benefits from his work for a long time to come. His many accomplishments have included developing our own database of supporters, developing the small business television commercial and writing the two fund raising case statements.
I look forward to working with Justin in his new role as "volunteer" and wish him good luck with his new endeavors.
Libertarian Small Business Initiative Conference
Mike Sylvester, chair of the Libertarian Party of Allen County, Phil Miller of the Libertarian Party of Hancock County and I today attended the Libertarian Small Business Initiative Conference in Dayton, Ohio. It was a good event, with Libertarians attending from all of Region Three (Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana and Michigan). Kudos to Robert Butler, Executive Director of the Libertarian Party of Ohio, and Jason Hallmark, Chair of the Ohio party, for an event well done.
Fort Wayne was selected as the site of the next conference, tentatively scheduled for this November.
More on the conference tomorrow.
Fort Wayne was selected as the site of the next conference, tentatively scheduled for this November.
More on the conference tomorrow.
Saturday, August 20, 2005
Hancock County LP Tax Freedom Rally
The Hancock County Libertarian Party Tax Freedom Rally is set for Saturday September 3, 2005. It will be held at Greenfield's Riley Park from 1-4 pm. Special guest speaker is Mike Kole, who is seeking the Libertarian nomination for Secretary of State in 2006.
Friday, August 19, 2005
Rex Bell Makes the Newspaper Again
Wayne County Libertarian Chair Rex Bell again gets a nice column published in last Wednesday's Richmond Palladium-Item. The column is headlined A 'Stinky' kind of road costs.
Good work Rex!
Good work Rex!
Libertarian Outreach to Hispanic Community
Kudos to Libertarian Party of Bartholomew County Chair Kenn Gividen for his efforts to reach out to the Hispanic community in Indiana. He's taken on the task of putting together the Libertarian Party of Indiana booth at LaPlaza's 25th Annual "Fiesta Indianapolis" Festival in Downtown Indianapolis on September 17th.
Kenn is actively raising money to pay for the booth space, getting volunteers, finding suitable handouts and displays, and doing all the other work necessary for a successful outreach booth. He's also arranged for Libertarian Party of Ohio Executive Director Robert Butler to be at the booth. Butler is conversant in Spanish, his wife is a native of Mexico and he has lived and taught school in Mexico.
Many thanks to Kenn for being a good leader by example!
Kenn is actively raising money to pay for the booth space, getting volunteers, finding suitable handouts and displays, and doing all the other work necessary for a successful outreach booth. He's also arranged for Libertarian Party of Ohio Executive Director Robert Butler to be at the booth. Butler is conversant in Spanish, his wife is a native of Mexico and he has lived and taught school in Mexico.
Many thanks to Kenn for being a good leader by example!
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
Good Role Model for Libertarians
LPIN Political Director Brad Klopfenstein was at the Fishers Town Council meeting last Monday night. He got to speak against the proposed 1% tax increase on restaurants. He was able to criticize the tax and spend antics of the Republicans in Hamilton County. This upset one of the town councilors for he is also the Republican Chair for the county.
He had reason to be upset - Republicans in Hamilton County are tax and spenders.
This type of action is very beneficial and propels the LPIN to success.
It is very important to be involved with government if one is to effect libertarian-oriented change. Attending town, city and county council meetings is a good way to do this. People get to know you and learn about libertarian ideas. Before long you'll find the news media asking you for quotes.
And sometimes the elected officials are swayed by our public comments.
He had reason to be upset - Republicans in Hamilton County are tax and spenders.
This type of action is very beneficial and propels the LPIN to success.
It is very important to be involved with government if one is to effect libertarian-oriented change. Attending town, city and county council meetings is a good way to do this. People get to know you and learn about libertarian ideas. Before long you'll find the news media asking you for quotes.
And sometimes the elected officials are swayed by our public comments.
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
Libertarians Running For Office - Read These Books
If you're a Libertarian running for office in 2006, you should read as soon as possible Ronald A. Faucheux's Running for Office,The Strategies, Techniques and Messages Modern Political Candidates Need to Win Elections and Winning Elections, Political Campaign Management, Strategy & Tactics, edited by Ronald A. Faucheux. You can get a copy of Winning Elections at Amazon.com and Running for Office at Amazon.com
If you only do half of what is suggested in these books, you're likely to find yourself to be an elected official as a Libertarian.
Monday, August 15, 2005
Webmaster Phil Miller Announces New Calendar Feature on LPIN Website
Libertarian Party of Indiana webmaster Phil Miller has announced that he has installed a new calendar feature on the LPIN website.
If you have a calendar request for Phil to calendar a future Libertarian activity, send him the date, time, place, contact person and a short descriptive paragraph. Also, if it is a regular event, let him know (i.e. 2nd Monday of the month, etc.). Please send calendar requests to Phil Miller.
If you have a calendar request for Phil to calendar a future Libertarian activity, send him the date, time, place, contact person and a short descriptive paragraph. Also, if it is a regular event, let him know (i.e. 2nd Monday of the month, etc.). Please send calendar requests to Phil Miller.
Sunday, August 14, 2005
Cecil Bohanon is Guest Columnist for Andrea Neal's Weekly Indiana Policy Review Column
Longtime Libertarian activist Cecil Bohanon was recently the guest columnist for Andrea Neal's weekly Indiana Policy Review column. Cecil is a professor in economics at Ball State University and is an adjunct scholar of the Indiana Policy Review Foundation. His column is entitled "Archimedes and Indiana Economic Development". Cecil has worked for years with Libertarian Ball State students. He also has advised many Libertarian candidates and the state party on economic issues and real world politics.
Saturday, August 13, 2005
Good Eats at the Marion County Monthly Meeting
The August meeting of the Libertarian Party of Marion County is Monday August 22, 2005 at 7:00 p.m. at Shapiro's Delicatessen Cafeteria, 808 S. Meridian Street, Indianapolis.
Shapiro's is an 100 year old institution in Indianapolis and for many, the place to go for Kosher style food and corned beef sandwiches. I personally have a weakness for their potato pancakes.
Finally - It's About Electing Libertarians to Office
A very positive change is happening with the national Libertarian Party. It is summed up well by this quote from an email I received today about the LP:
"(W)e have started to shift directions from being an organization strongly focused on membership to an organization strongly focused on winning elections."
This will be very helpful to the Libertarian Party of Indiana. Ever since we regained ballot access in 1994, we've been doing the hard work necessary to elect Libertarians to office. We've elected several and I look for more to come in the near future.
"(W)e have started to shift directions from being an organization strongly focused on membership to an organization strongly focused on winning elections."
This will be very helpful to the Libertarian Party of Indiana. Ever since we regained ballot access in 1994, we've been doing the hard work necessary to elect Libertarians to office. We've elected several and I look for more to come in the near future.
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Fort Wayne Television - Libertarian Perspectives
From the latest news letter of the Allen County Libertarian Party:
SATURDAYS at 4:30 pm:
Watch Libertarian Perspectives on Comcast chan. 57. Here is the schedule:
Aug 13th - Brad Klopfenstein, IN LP Exec. Director
Aug 20th - Mike Kole, LP candidate for Sec. of State
Aug 27th - William Larsen: Social Security
Sept 3rd - Mike Sylvester: Local Issues
Sept 10th - Lewis & Marx: Comedy Duo?
Sept 17th - Lee Sexton: Bail Bondsmen freemarket crime control
Sept 24th - Mike Evans: Animal Control and human responsibility
Oct 1st - Kenn Gividen, our 2004 Candidate for Gov
Oct 8th - Phil Marx: What drives one to candidacy?
SATURDAYS at 4:30 pm:
Watch Libertarian Perspectives on Comcast chan. 57. Here is the schedule:
Aug 13th - Brad Klopfenstein, IN LP Exec. Director
Aug 20th - Mike Kole, LP candidate for Sec. of State
Aug 27th - William Larsen: Social Security
Sept 3rd - Mike Sylvester: Local Issues
Sept 10th - Lewis & Marx: Comedy Duo?
Sept 17th - Lee Sexton: Bail Bondsmen freemarket crime control
Sept 24th - Mike Evans: Animal Control and human responsibility
Oct 1st - Kenn Gividen, our 2004 Candidate for Gov
Oct 8th - Phil Marx: What drives one to candidacy?
It's Never Too Early To Start Your Campaign As a Libertarian
Today, LPIN Communications Director Sheri Conover Sharlow put it best (the email she references is not attached):
"This is an email I received today about a local Republican who is announcing that his re-election machine is up and running.
This is merely intended as a reminder that the other guys already are gearing up for their campaigns, and we need to be doing this, too.
OK, Mike Kole, you're already are ...
www.mikekole.com
www.kolehardfacts.blogspot.com
We must start thinking this way -- and this far ahead -- if we are to win. It's just a normal election site, but it reminds us of the basics."
"This is an email I received today about a local Republican who is announcing that his re-election machine is up and running.
This is merely intended as a reminder that the other guys already are gearing up for their campaigns, and we need to be doing this, too.
OK, Mike Kole, you're already are ...
www.mikekole.com
www.kolehardfacts.blogspot.com
We must start thinking this way -- and this far ahead -- if we are to win. It's just a normal election site, but it reminds us of the basics."
Two For Two in Fort Wayne
Good publicity for Indiana Libertarians dominated the editorial page of Tuesday's Fort Wayne News-Sentinel. The editorial page generally has two editorials. Both were favorable to Libertarians.
The first editorial was written by Leo Morris. It asks the question: What do the editorial page of the News-Sentinel, the editorial page of The Journal Gazette and The Libertarian Party of Allen County all have in common? The answer is that all are in opposition to the Supreme Court's Kelo decision on eminent domain. This article also quotes Mike Sylvester, the chairman of the Libertarian Party of Allen County. First News Sentinel Editorial
The second editorial was written by Kenn Gividen the Libertarian Party of Indiana'’s nominee for governor in 2004. It addresses eminent domain and the Indiana General Assembly's hearing today on the issue. Second News Sentinel Editorial
The first editorial was written by Leo Morris. It asks the question: What do the editorial page of the News-Sentinel, the editorial page of The Journal Gazette and The Libertarian Party of Allen County all have in common? The answer is that all are in opposition to the Supreme Court's Kelo decision on eminent domain. This article also quotes Mike Sylvester, the chairman of the Libertarian Party of Allen County. First News Sentinel Editorial
The second editorial was written by Kenn Gividen the Libertarian Party of Indiana'’s nominee for governor in 2004. It addresses eminent domain and the Indiana General Assembly's hearing today on the issue. Second News Sentinel Editorial
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Indiana Libertarian on Louisville Television?
Greg Hertzsch, Ninth District Representative on the Central Committee of the Libertarian Party of Indiana reports as follows:
On June 25, the Kentucky LP held their annual meeting at Donna Mancini's house. The meeting was filmed for television broadcast by Patrick Moore of Louisville Tonight Live. I was at this meeting. According to his website, this episode is scheduled to air tomorrow evening, Thursday, August 11, at 11:30 PM on Insight Cable channel 98. http://hometown.aol.com/mooresongs/myhomepage/profile.html
On June 25, the Kentucky LP held their annual meeting at Donna Mancini's house. The meeting was filmed for television broadcast by Patrick Moore of Louisville Tonight Live. I was at this meeting. According to his website, this episode is scheduled to air tomorrow evening, Thursday, August 11, at 11:30 PM on Insight Cable channel 98. http://hometown.aol.com/mooresongs/myhomepage/profile.html
Wayne County Meeting August 23rd Features LPIN Communications Director Sheri Conover Sharlow
Here's the press release from the Wayne County Libertarian Party on its meeting of August 23rd:
Can'’t find the words?
Let us help you
Express Your Self!!!
Sheri Conover Sharlow will be on hand to give pointers and answer your questions about writing persuasive Letters to the Editor.
Sheri is the Communications Director for the Libertarian Party of Indiana. She has ten years in the newspaper business, including 5½ years with The Chronicle-Tribune in Marion, 3½ years at the News-Sentinel in Fort Wayne, and 1½ years with The Times in Shreveport, Louisiana.
In addition to her duties with the Libertarian Party, Sheri is also a columnist for the Libertarian Writers Bureau, and Chairwoman of the Libertarian Party of Grant County.
The public is invited to attend.
Tuesday, August 23rd, 6:30 P.M.
Carla'’s Cafe, 475 East Main, Hagerstown
For information contact the Libertarian Party of Wayne County (765) 489-5363
Can'’t find the words?
Let us help you
Express Your Self!!!
Sheri Conover Sharlow will be on hand to give pointers and answer your questions about writing persuasive Letters to the Editor.
Sheri is the Communications Director for the Libertarian Party of Indiana. She has ten years in the newspaper business, including 5½ years with The Chronicle-Tribune in Marion, 3½ years at the News-Sentinel in Fort Wayne, and 1½ years with The Times in Shreveport, Louisiana.
In addition to her duties with the Libertarian Party, Sheri is also a columnist for the Libertarian Writers Bureau, and Chairwoman of the Libertarian Party of Grant County.
The public is invited to attend.
Tuesday, August 23rd, 6:30 P.M.
Carla'’s Cafe, 475 East Main, Hagerstown
For information contact the Libertarian Party of Wayne County (765) 489-5363
Indiana Libertarians at Eminent Domain Hearing
The General Assembly House Summer Study Committee met today in Indianapolis at the Indiana Government Center Auditorium. There was a very good crowd to participate in the hearing focusing on eminent domain and the Kelo decision of the US Supreme Court.
Indiana Libertarians were well represented there. I was able to attend for about an hour and was able to hear Mike Sylvester speak. He is the Chair of the Allen County Libertarian Party. Mike did a very good job staying focused and highlighting the abuses of the City of Fort Wayne in its use of eminent domain powers in the expansion of the Grand Wayne Center.
Also, present were Rebecca Sink-Burris, Secretary of the Libertarian Party of Indiana, as well as Mike Kole, who is seeking the Libertarian nomination for Secretary of State in 2006. Mike was accompanied by his wife, Ame, and their baby daughter, Isabel. Mike and Rebecca were both signed up to speak, but I had to leave before their turn to do so.
Indiana Libertarians were well represented there. I was able to attend for about an hour and was able to hear Mike Sylvester speak. He is the Chair of the Allen County Libertarian Party. Mike did a very good job staying focused and highlighting the abuses of the City of Fort Wayne in its use of eminent domain powers in the expansion of the Grand Wayne Center.
Also, present were Rebecca Sink-Burris, Secretary of the Libertarian Party of Indiana, as well as Mike Kole, who is seeking the Libertarian nomination for Secretary of State in 2006. Mike was accompanied by his wife, Ame, and their baby daughter, Isabel. Mike and Rebecca were both signed up to speak, but I had to leave before their turn to do so.
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Travel and Meetings Makes it Hard to Post
I've been in Kansas City for the quarterly meeting of the Libertarian National Committee. Hopefully, I'll be back to regular postings tonight or tomorrow. Lots of good things going on here in Indiana - I've got plenty to report.
Friday, August 05, 2005
Allen County Libertarians Produce Television Show
Libertarian Perspectives is playing on Access Fort Wayne, Comcast channel 57, Saturdays at 4:30 pm. This is one of the many outreach programs of the Libertarian Party of Allen County.
More Parades
The Libertarian Party of Wells County, with help from the Libertarian Party of Allen County and the Libertarian Party of Grant County, will also be participating in the Bluffton Street Fair Parade on September 20th. Lots of great activity going on in that part of the state!
Wednesday, August 03, 2005
Play Ball! Marion County Libertarians at Victory Field
The Libertarian Party of Marion County is having another outing at the ball park. Here's their announcement on the event:
"Son of Victory Night at Victory Field" planned August 21st
Building on the success of the first Victory Night at Victory Field, the Libertarian Party of Marion County has announced "Son of Victory Night at Victory Field" to be held Sunday August 21st, 2005. Game time is 2:00 p.m.
A group outing has been set up on the Indianapolis Indians website. To reserve tickets, contact Allison Maguire at (317-372-6436) or maguire_ar@hotmail.com, or go to the Indians' website (http://www.baseballupclose.com/Groups/) and RSVP online.
Ticket prices are still $7 (unless we can get over 100 people to show up). The cut-off date for tickets will be August 12th. Fifty (50) seats have been reserved in Section 103, Rows N-S. The first 4,000 fans get free Indianapolis Indians' lunchboxes.
LOG-IN information for the website (information is case-sensitive)
Login ID: MCLP Victory Night 2
Password: liberty
Mardi Gras in Markle
The Libertarian Party of Wells County has been invited to participate in the Markle Wildcat Festival parade at Markle, Indiana on August 27th. The parade has a Mardi Gras theme for this year. It looks like the LPWC is going to participate, along with some guests from the Grant and Allen County Libertarian Parties. Way to go Wells County LP!
(Mask clip art from Lara's Mardi Gras Clip Art)
Tuesday, August 02, 2005
Just Say "No" to Corporate Welfare
The House Summer Study Committee of the General Assembly is studying the issue of Eminent Domain in the wake of Kelo v. New London. A public hearing will be held Wednesday, August 10 at 1 pm, in the auditorium of the Government Center South (southwest of the State House) in Indianapolis.
I expect many Libertarian Party leaders from across Indiana to be present to express our view to the Committee that taking one's property and giving it to another person to "redevelop" is very bad public policy. This has become necessary to reinforce, especially since the United State's Supreme Court says it is lawful under the U.S. Constitution for Indiana and other states to do this.
Michael Kole, who is seeking the Libertarian nomination for Secretary of State, is planning on attending this hearing.
I expect many Libertarian Party leaders from across Indiana to be present to express our view to the Committee that taking one's property and giving it to another person to "redevelop" is very bad public policy. This has become necessary to reinforce, especially since the United State's Supreme Court says it is lawful under the U.S. Constitution for Indiana and other states to do this.
Michael Kole, who is seeking the Libertarian nomination for Secretary of State, is planning on attending this hearing.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)