Signs Available!
Well, they say that timing is everything, so who am I to argue?
I have yard signs and bumper stickers supporting Michael Badnarik and Richard Campagna, the Libertarian candidates for President and Vice President, ready and available for Hamilton County members, free of charge.
Let's challenge the laws in Fishers and Noblesville and support our team at the same time. There is no downside- if the law is not enforced, it may as well not exist, and you exercise your rights to free speech and property. If the law is enforced, we get free publicity for the county party and the Presidential ticket.
Contact me with your request for a sign and bumper sticker by email: mikekole@insightbb.com. I'll deliver, but you have to be an Libertarian Party of Indiana member. Now's a good time to renew your membership if it has lapsed, or to become a member if you had been thinking about doing so/
Tuesday, August 10, 2004
Letters Fun
The Indianapolis Star printed my letter addressing the laws regarding political signs in today's edition. Having a letter printed is always good, so I am without complaint. I do find it an interesting and fun exercise to compare the original letter with what was printed.
There was some editing here, but there were some main points I wanted addressed, and they pretty much showed up:
"The Star described the Libertarian Party's yard sign lawsuit against the City of Indianapolis as a defense of free speech, but it is also an important defense of property rights. Residential property is not owned by the City, but by the homeowner, and City policy-makers should always keep that respectfully in mind.
So, it should be a cause of concern that the City's solution to this issue is to set a limit on the number of signs homeowners can place in their yard. Will there now be sign police to make sure everyone obeys? It is safe to say that most residents would rather see City resources used in more productive and sensible ways than having sign police driving up and down streets counting the signs.
As the Star reported, Indianapolis is not the only municipality with restrictions on signs. My hometown of Fishers is among those that restricts free speech and property rights by ordinance.
Upon moving to Fishers, I found it odd that parents with children in athletics, cheerleading, or music had tacked signs to their garages rather than placing them in the front yard where all could see them more plainly. I was stunned to learn that a family's pride in their student had to take a backseat to compliance with the law, as do political signs. Curiously, 'for sale' signs are permitted.
What message does this send our children? That it's okay to sell the home, but not to control its use? That it is more important to obey than it is to express family pride or political views?
The municipalities are sending the wrong message. Indiana communities need to do the respectful thing by repealing the ordinances and regulations against political and other yard signs in homeowner properties."
For context, here is the letter as printed by the Star:
"The Star described the Libertarian Party's yard sign lawsuit against the city of Indianapolis as a defense of free speech, but it is also an important defense of property rights. Residential property is not owned by the city, but by the homeowner, and city policy-makers should always keep that respectfully in mind.
It should be a cause of concern that the city's solution is to set a limit on the number of signs homeowners can place in their yards. Will there now be sign police to make sure everyone obeys? It is safe to say that most residents would rather see city resources used in more productive and sensible ways than having police driving up and down streets counting the signs.
As The Star reported, Indianapolis is not the only municipality with restrictions on signs. My hometown of Fishers is among those that restrict free speech and property rights by ordinance.
The municipalities are sending the wrong message. Indiana communities need to do the respectful thing by repealing the ordinances and regulations against political and other yard signs in homeowner properties."
It is a shame that the really tasty paragraphs were chopped. Not only is it fine rhetoric, but it is factual that the school related signs are relegated to the garage while for sale signs are permitted in the front yard. I chose to highlight these fact for consideration by parents. They will immediately get the absurdity of the laws and regulations when they see them in this light.
The Indianapolis Star printed my letter addressing the laws regarding political signs in today's edition. Having a letter printed is always good, so I am without complaint. I do find it an interesting and fun exercise to compare the original letter with what was printed.
There was some editing here, but there were some main points I wanted addressed, and they pretty much showed up:
- Signs in one's yard are not only a free speech issue, but also a property rights issue.
- As such, any kind of sign should be permitted, so long as it does not create a hazardous situation, such as blocking traffic visibility.
- As such, the signs should be permitted at any time. Current laws should be repealed.
- Make sure the phrase 'Libertarian Party' is included prominently.
"The Star described the Libertarian Party's yard sign lawsuit against the City of Indianapolis as a defense of free speech, but it is also an important defense of property rights. Residential property is not owned by the City, but by the homeowner, and City policy-makers should always keep that respectfully in mind.
So, it should be a cause of concern that the City's solution to this issue is to set a limit on the number of signs homeowners can place in their yard. Will there now be sign police to make sure everyone obeys? It is safe to say that most residents would rather see City resources used in more productive and sensible ways than having sign police driving up and down streets counting the signs.
As the Star reported, Indianapolis is not the only municipality with restrictions on signs. My hometown of Fishers is among those that restricts free speech and property rights by ordinance.
Upon moving to Fishers, I found it odd that parents with children in athletics, cheerleading, or music had tacked signs to their garages rather than placing them in the front yard where all could see them more plainly. I was stunned to learn that a family's pride in their student had to take a backseat to compliance with the law, as do political signs. Curiously, 'for sale' signs are permitted.
What message does this send our children? That it's okay to sell the home, but not to control its use? That it is more important to obey than it is to express family pride or political views?
The municipalities are sending the wrong message. Indiana communities need to do the respectful thing by repealing the ordinances and regulations against political and other yard signs in homeowner properties."
For context, here is the letter as printed by the Star:
"The Star described the Libertarian Party's yard sign lawsuit against the city of Indianapolis as a defense of free speech, but it is also an important defense of property rights. Residential property is not owned by the city, but by the homeowner, and city policy-makers should always keep that respectfully in mind.
It should be a cause of concern that the city's solution is to set a limit on the number of signs homeowners can place in their yards. Will there now be sign police to make sure everyone obeys? It is safe to say that most residents would rather see city resources used in more productive and sensible ways than having police driving up and down streets counting the signs.
As The Star reported, Indianapolis is not the only municipality with restrictions on signs. My hometown of Fishers is among those that restrict free speech and property rights by ordinance.
The municipalities are sending the wrong message. Indiana communities need to do the respectful thing by repealing the ordinances and regulations against political and other yard signs in homeowner properties."
It is a shame that the really tasty paragraphs were chopped. Not only is it fine rhetoric, but it is factual that the school related signs are relegated to the garage while for sale signs are permitted in the front yard. I chose to highlight these fact for consideration by parents. They will immediately get the absurdity of the laws and regulations when they see them in this light.
Wednesday, August 04, 2004
Tuesday, August 03, 2004
LP Calendar
These are busy times, but busy in a good way! There is no shortage of events for Hamilton County and Central Indiana libertarians to participate in.
Wednesday, Aug. 4: The City of Carmel is hosting a meeting for a presentation and Q&A regarding the annexation of Home Place. Libertarians oppose forced annexations. Indy Star article with details. Home Place libertarians are encouraged to attend and to speak. We will meet at 6:30pm outside the meeting place. We will distribute literature either before or after the meeting.
Thursday, Aug. 5: Stand-up Comedy at the Funny Bone Comedy Club, 3625 E. 96th Street. The LP of Indiana keeps the entire $8 admission! Comic Peter Berman will do his regular routine, not a political one, so it's a great item to bring non-libertarian spouses to. Email to confirm attendance is requested: justin.kempf@lpin.org, although I'm sure if you just show up, there will be no complaint.
Saturday, Aug. 7: Libertarian Party of Indiana Central Committee meeting, 1:00pm at Tradewinds Restaurant, located at 11480 McKinley, in Osceola. A great thing for county chairs and leadership-minded activists to attend, especially for those in the northern part of the state. Badnarik for President yard signs will be distributed to county chairs.
Long term callendar:
Saturday, Aug. 14: Candidate training seminar, conducted by LPIN Executive Director Brad Klopfenstein, with speakers Phil Miller (former Greenfield City Councilman) and Justin Kempf (LPIN Special Projects Coordinator and former Gary Nolan for President campaign team member). 9am-1pm at the Fishers Holiday Inn, 9780 North by Northeast Blvd. (I-69 at 96th St.) Cost is $25 or $50 for 3 from a campaign team. RSVP at lpinhq@lpin.org by Thursday August 12th.
These are busy times, but busy in a good way! There is no shortage of events for Hamilton County and Central Indiana libertarians to participate in.
Wednesday, Aug. 4: The City of Carmel is hosting a meeting for a presentation and Q&A regarding the annexation of Home Place. Libertarians oppose forced annexations. Indy Star article with details. Home Place libertarians are encouraged to attend and to speak. We will meet at 6:30pm outside the meeting place. We will distribute literature either before or after the meeting.
Thursday, Aug. 5: Stand-up Comedy at the Funny Bone Comedy Club, 3625 E. 96th Street. The LP of Indiana keeps the entire $8 admission! Comic Peter Berman will do his regular routine, not a political one, so it's a great item to bring non-libertarian spouses to. Email to confirm attendance is requested: justin.kempf@lpin.org, although I'm sure if you just show up, there will be no complaint.
Saturday, Aug. 7: Libertarian Party of Indiana Central Committee meeting, 1:00pm at Tradewinds Restaurant, located at 11480 McKinley, in Osceola. A great thing for county chairs and leadership-minded activists to attend, especially for those in the northern part of the state. Badnarik for President yard signs will be distributed to county chairs.
Long term callendar:
Saturday, Aug. 14: Candidate training seminar, conducted by LPIN Executive Director Brad Klopfenstein, with speakers Phil Miller (former Greenfield City Councilman) and Justin Kempf (LPIN Special Projects Coordinator and former Gary Nolan for President campaign team member). 9am-1pm at the Fishers Holiday Inn, 9780 North by Northeast Blvd. (I-69 at 96th St.) Cost is $25 or $50 for 3 from a campaign team. RSVP at lpinhq@lpin.org by Thursday August 12th.
Sign Issue Percolating
Last year, the City of Indianapolis was sued by the Libertarian Party in response to ordinances prohibiting political signs in front yards. The ordinance was clearly anti-free speech and anti-property rights. A court order instructed the City to revise the ordinance to permit signs on the basis of free speech. The Star got around to reporting the item this week. That's not complaining- the issue couldn't be better timed, as the election season is upon us!
The City is cute, though. It revised the ordinance to limit the number of signs at five. My home town of Fishers has an ordinance that prohibits signs outside of 30 days prior to the election. This ordinance will be challenged by local Libertarians, as we place our signs whenever we darn well please on property we own.
I found it odd when I moved to Fishers to observe signs supporting kids' extra-curricular activities tacked to garages instead of being posted more plainly in view in the front yards. The signs have the kids' names and activities on them, whether athletics, cheerleading, or the band.
Curiously, 'for sale' signs are permitted in the front yard. What's wrong with this picture? Is a higher value placed on 'for sale' signs than those showing family and school pride? What a misplaced set of priorities.
I hope we do not experience the heavy hand of the sign police here in Fishers. If we do, though, we will be prepared to file a suit of our own so that all homeowners can more fully enjoy their rights to property and to expression.
Last year, the City of Indianapolis was sued by the Libertarian Party in response to ordinances prohibiting political signs in front yards. The ordinance was clearly anti-free speech and anti-property rights. A court order instructed the City to revise the ordinance to permit signs on the basis of free speech. The Star got around to reporting the item this week. That's not complaining- the issue couldn't be better timed, as the election season is upon us!
The City is cute, though. It revised the ordinance to limit the number of signs at five. My home town of Fishers has an ordinance that prohibits signs outside of 30 days prior to the election. This ordinance will be challenged by local Libertarians, as we place our signs whenever we darn well please on property we own.
I found it odd when I moved to Fishers to observe signs supporting kids' extra-curricular activities tacked to garages instead of being posted more plainly in view in the front yards. The signs have the kids' names and activities on them, whether athletics, cheerleading, or the band.
Curiously, 'for sale' signs are permitted in the front yard. What's wrong with this picture? Is a higher value placed on 'for sale' signs than those showing family and school pride? What a misplaced set of priorities.
I hope we do not experience the heavy hand of the sign police here in Fishers. If we do, though, we will be prepared to file a suit of our own so that all homeowners can more fully enjoy their rights to property and to expression.
Thursday, July 29, 2004
Quick DNC Note
I have only caught bits and pieces of the Democratic National Convention, but was struck by the common man motif used so frequently. I understand that the Democratic party courts a constituency comprised of people often thought of as the common man- Union workers, the underclasses and the like. That's all fine, but it makes me wonder how the people who the Dems are appealing to can relate to them or take them seriously.
John Kerry, the patrician, wealthy, career politician.
Teresa Heinz Kerry, the pampered, extremely wealthy, globetrotting heiress.
John Edwards, the wealthy, parasitic trial lawyer-turned-politician.
Interesting that Jimmy Carter was one of the early speakers. Carter had a very deep appeal to the people the Dems are still pandering to because he had the credentials. Sure, he was a highly educated man, but he was also a peanut farmer. He could relate to people who worked the land or had menial jobs. After his Presidency, Carter maintained his down-to-earth appeal by swinging a hammer for Habitat for Humanity.
The tenor strikes me as, "I don't practice what I preach, because I'm not the kind of man I'm preaching to!" and I wonder why the Dems' target constituency hasn't questioned it.
I have only caught bits and pieces of the Democratic National Convention, but was struck by the common man motif used so frequently. I understand that the Democratic party courts a constituency comprised of people often thought of as the common man- Union workers, the underclasses and the like. That's all fine, but it makes me wonder how the people who the Dems are appealing to can relate to them or take them seriously.
John Kerry, the patrician, wealthy, career politician.
Teresa Heinz Kerry, the pampered, extremely wealthy, globetrotting heiress.
John Edwards, the wealthy, parasitic trial lawyer-turned-politician.
Interesting that Jimmy Carter was one of the early speakers. Carter had a very deep appeal to the people the Dems are still pandering to because he had the credentials. Sure, he was a highly educated man, but he was also a peanut farmer. He could relate to people who worked the land or had menial jobs. After his Presidency, Carter maintained his down-to-earth appeal by swinging a hammer for Habitat for Humanity.
The tenor strikes me as, "I don't practice what I preach, because I'm not the kind of man I'm preaching to!" and I wonder why the Dems' target constituency hasn't questioned it.
Tuesday, July 27, 2004
Time For a Bold Policy Recommendation
Last Monday, I sat through a meeting of regional planning leaders and was mortified to find broad support for a regional transit authority that would feature a light rail system. The system would be a Downtown Indy-Fishers Nickel Plate route, and take -optimistically- 1-4% of cars off I-69. Price tag? $850 million.
Nearly a billion dollars and only 1-4% of the cars removed? Who's the pilot of this spaceship? Can't we do better than this?
Unfortunately, Monday's meeting was merely a prelude to the commitments these leaders would make. On Wednesday, a unanimous vote by various mayors and county commissioners was cast to commit the funding regionally in an attempt to win Federal money. Indy Star report. Several of these leaders proposed an increase to the gasoline tax.
The real hopes behind the project are to reduce traffic congestion and pollution. A negligible reduction is the best this plan can offer. A secondary outcome, it was claimed, was a modest (15%) increase in some property values surrounding the corridor. That's just bunk. In most cities, the property values plunge in the corridor as it becomes a graffiti and litter catcher.
I don't like to complain without offering an alternative proposal, so here's mine:
Convert the Nickel Plate into a trail and greenway.
Look at the Monon trail and greenway. This north-south route from Downtown Indy to Carmel is absolutely beloved, having turned a neglected rail corridor into hot property, revitalizing slumping areas in Indianapolis, and making hot real estate in Carmel even hotter. It is responsible for the doubling and tripling of property values nearby, fueling the resurgence of Broad Ripple and a host of adjacent neighborhoods, bringing healthy family activity to an area once characterized by seedy characters and litter, while adding trees, bike shops, and restaurants along the trail.
The same can be done with the Nickel Plate. The same should be done with the Nickel Plate. Consider:
$850 million for light rail used by few -or- $20 million for a trail and greenway used by many?
A project that will depress real estate values -or- A project that will double real estate values?
How about this: tell the people who live along the Monon that their trail will be restored with track for a light rail line, and then tell the people living along the Nickel Plate that they are getting a trail, and see where you get enthusiasm.
This is an easy call. As Chair of the Libertarian Party of Hamilton County, I will be organizing a petition drive. Petitioners will sign their support for a trail and greenway over the Nickel Plate in favor of a light rail route. The petitions will be delivered to those who can affect policy and to the press, to show where the support lies.
If this interests you, email me at mikekole@insightbb.com
Last Monday, I sat through a meeting of regional planning leaders and was mortified to find broad support for a regional transit authority that would feature a light rail system. The system would be a Downtown Indy-Fishers Nickel Plate route, and take -optimistically- 1-4% of cars off I-69. Price tag? $850 million.
Nearly a billion dollars and only 1-4% of the cars removed? Who's the pilot of this spaceship? Can't we do better than this?
Unfortunately, Monday's meeting was merely a prelude to the commitments these leaders would make. On Wednesday, a unanimous vote by various mayors and county commissioners was cast to commit the funding regionally in an attempt to win Federal money. Indy Star report. Several of these leaders proposed an increase to the gasoline tax.
The real hopes behind the project are to reduce traffic congestion and pollution. A negligible reduction is the best this plan can offer. A secondary outcome, it was claimed, was a modest (15%) increase in some property values surrounding the corridor. That's just bunk. In most cities, the property values plunge in the corridor as it becomes a graffiti and litter catcher.
I don't like to complain without offering an alternative proposal, so here's mine:
Convert the Nickel Plate into a trail and greenway.
Look at the Monon trail and greenway. This north-south route from Downtown Indy to Carmel is absolutely beloved, having turned a neglected rail corridor into hot property, revitalizing slumping areas in Indianapolis, and making hot real estate in Carmel even hotter. It is responsible for the doubling and tripling of property values nearby, fueling the resurgence of Broad Ripple and a host of adjacent neighborhoods, bringing healthy family activity to an area once characterized by seedy characters and litter, while adding trees, bike shops, and restaurants along the trail.
The same can be done with the Nickel Plate. The same should be done with the Nickel Plate. Consider:
$850 million for light rail used by few -or- $20 million for a trail and greenway used by many?
A project that will depress real estate values -or- A project that will double real estate values?
How about this: tell the people who live along the Monon that their trail will be restored with track for a light rail line, and then tell the people living along the Nickel Plate that they are getting a trail, and see where you get enthusiasm.
This is an easy call. As Chair of the Libertarian Party of Hamilton County, I will be organizing a petition drive. Petitioners will sign their support for a trail and greenway over the Nickel Plate in favor of a light rail route. The petitions will be delivered to those who can affect policy and to the press, to show where the support lies.
If this interests you, email me at mikekole@insightbb.com
4-H Wrap-Up
The Hamilton County 4-H Fair concluded last night with a barbeque beef sandwhich and the tearing down of the Libertarian booth. This was an excellent outreach event for all involved as we signed up some new members, had others sign up for our email newsletter, registered folks to vote, and showed that having libertarian inclinations is downright normal.
More than 100 visitors took the Advocates' Quiz, and of those, about 55% placed either solidly libertarian or on the borderline between libertarian and conservative, centrist, or liberal. This was surprising to many in this county, where so many self-identify as conservative and/or Republican. Highlights:
A woman took the Quiz and placed solidly in the authoritarian area of the chart. She asked what that meant, and volunteer Michael Jarrell cautiously explained, "well, that's where Hitler is". She was horrified! She wanted to take the Quiz again. Michael gave her some literature so she could study at home.
Gubernatorial candidate Kenn Gividen distributed his materials, including a brochure with his picture on it. He asked passersby to tell him who that was on the brochure. Best answer: Donald Trump. There was a terrific buzz around the LP booth as Kenn and US Senate candidate Al Barger worked the crowd. Al let people know that he is running against incumbent Evan Bayh, and touted his challenge of a cage match with Bayh, eliciting near continuous belly laughs. Read Al's report.
Talking with the Republicans and Democrats, who had booths under the same tent. I have heard horror stories of disrespect coming from other libertarians, who had their booths ransacked or damaged while unattended at county fairs, or faced constant harassment. We had nothing but a pleasant experience in every way, and I personally had very pleasant exchanges with volunteers and candidates from both parties. There was one incident that made me laugh out loud, though. When I was setting up the booth, I had to make several trips from my car to the booth to get all the materials in. The first trip was solely dedicated to a table, which I set up and then left for more stuff. When I came back, there was now one item upon the table- a pencil from the Republican Party. I found it hilarious in its' understated position on the table.
Big thanks to those Libertarian Party members and candidates who staffed the booth: Michael Jarrell (3 days!), Mark Schreiber (2 days!), Kenn Gividen (from Columbus), Al Barger (from Franklin County), Rex & Susan Bell (from Hagerstown!), Rob Beck, David Irish, Wayne Kirk, and Rob Place.
The Hamilton County 4-H Fair concluded last night with a barbeque beef sandwhich and the tearing down of the Libertarian booth. This was an excellent outreach event for all involved as we signed up some new members, had others sign up for our email newsletter, registered folks to vote, and showed that having libertarian inclinations is downright normal.
More than 100 visitors took the Advocates' Quiz, and of those, about 55% placed either solidly libertarian or on the borderline between libertarian and conservative, centrist, or liberal. This was surprising to many in this county, where so many self-identify as conservative and/or Republican. Highlights:
A woman took the Quiz and placed solidly in the authoritarian area of the chart. She asked what that meant, and volunteer Michael Jarrell cautiously explained, "well, that's where Hitler is". She was horrified! She wanted to take the Quiz again. Michael gave her some literature so she could study at home.
Gubernatorial candidate Kenn Gividen distributed his materials, including a brochure with his picture on it. He asked passersby to tell him who that was on the brochure. Best answer: Donald Trump. There was a terrific buzz around the LP booth as Kenn and US Senate candidate Al Barger worked the crowd. Al let people know that he is running against incumbent Evan Bayh, and touted his challenge of a cage match with Bayh, eliciting near continuous belly laughs. Read Al's report.
Talking with the Republicans and Democrats, who had booths under the same tent. I have heard horror stories of disrespect coming from other libertarians, who had their booths ransacked or damaged while unattended at county fairs, or faced constant harassment. We had nothing but a pleasant experience in every way, and I personally had very pleasant exchanges with volunteers and candidates from both parties. There was one incident that made me laugh out loud, though. When I was setting up the booth, I had to make several trips from my car to the booth to get all the materials in. The first trip was solely dedicated to a table, which I set up and then left for more stuff. When I came back, there was now one item upon the table- a pencil from the Republican Party. I found it hilarious in its' understated position on the table.
Big thanks to those Libertarian Party members and candidates who staffed the booth: Michael Jarrell (3 days!), Mark Schreiber (2 days!), Kenn Gividen (from Columbus), Al Barger (from Franklin County), Rex & Susan Bell (from Hagerstown!), Rob Beck, David Irish, Wayne Kirk, and Rob Place.
Friday, July 23, 2004
4-H Fun
Come out and meet our candidates and party leadership! We're just a part of the fun of the 4-H Fair!
The Hamilton County 4-H Fair kicked off Thursday, and the Libertarian Party had a booth under the same tent with the Republicans and Democrats. Of note in comparing the booths:
- Both the Rs & Ds put heavy emphasis on their gubernatorial candidates. I was surprised at how under-emphasized their Hamilton County candidates were. Neither had anything about local issues. The LP focused on the County candidates and local issues.
- The Rs & Ds had plenty of slick glossy handouts available. Most of it was positive. The notable exception was the Ds distribution of a 'Defeat Bush' bumper sticker by the MoveOn PAC. The Ds had the greatest variety of candidate yard signs. The Rs had an Abe Lincoln stand-up wearing a green Mitch Daniels t-shirt. The LP booth had good-looking but homemade signage, plus the World's Smallest Political Quiz.
- All were staffed by people who really enjoy talking policy.
Come out and meet our candidates and party leadership! We're just a part of the fun of the 4-H Fair!
Wednesday, July 21, 2004
Meet the Hamilton County LP at the 4-H Fair
The Libertarian Party of Hamilton County will be hosting an info booth and greeting the people of Hamilton County, and helping people register to vote at the annual 4-H Fair in Noblesville, this Thursday through next Monday. Directions.
All LP candidates on the ballot have been invited to staff the booth for the duration of the Fair, with a special focus on Saturday at 7:00pm. Gubernatorial candidate Kenn Gividen will be among those present at that time. We expect that our local candidates for county office will be there frequently, so stop by the booth!
Our issues are: Forced Annexation, Eminent Domain Abuse, Mass Transit, and as always, Lower Taxes and Smaller Government.
The Libertarian Party of Hamilton County will be hosting an info booth and greeting the people of Hamilton County, and helping people register to vote at the annual 4-H Fair in Noblesville, this Thursday through next Monday. Directions.
All LP candidates on the ballot have been invited to staff the booth for the duration of the Fair, with a special focus on Saturday at 7:00pm. Gubernatorial candidate Kenn Gividen will be among those present at that time. We expect that our local candidates for county office will be there frequently, so stop by the booth!
Our issues are: Forced Annexation, Eminent Domain Abuse, Mass Transit, and as always, Lower Taxes and Smaller Government.
Saturday, July 17, 2004
A Fine Time To Be a Libertarian
In Indiana, this is true. Thursday's Noblesville Daily Times featured a front-page, above-the-fold article on the LP's countywide candidates and county organization. (Link not available without subscription.) RTV-6 has a live poll on their website showing LP gubernatorial candidate Kenn Gividen at 14%!
I dare say that the LP of Hamilton County is getting the best coverage of any county affiliate in the country. In the past four months, we have been on the front page three times, above the fold twice. The entry of our candidates was covered as routine news, rather than as curiousity. We've been quoted in some articles to the exclusion of the Republicans, and others to the exclusion of the Democrats. The press is giving us coverage commensurate with the other parties, and the tone is very respectful.
Neighboring Hendricks County received excellent coverage in today's Indy Star. Kudos to Chair Dennis Derrick and to Todd Singer.
A request to libertarians who check out the polls: please don't stuff the poll, and please don't vote if you are not a Hoosier. I believe the numbers in the RTV-6 poll are real at the moment (Kernan 43%, Daniels 43%, Gividen 14%, with about 1630 votes in). I don't want it blown out of proportion by ballot stuffers, as one of the presidential polls is. Badnarik is polling 53% on that one, making it a farce, and leaving us dismissed as frauds. Just click on the 'results' tab to see where it is at if you've already voted, or are not a Hoosier.
In Indiana, this is true. Thursday's Noblesville Daily Times featured a front-page, above-the-fold article on the LP's countywide candidates and county organization. (Link not available without subscription.) RTV-6 has a live poll on their website showing LP gubernatorial candidate Kenn Gividen at 14%!
I dare say that the LP of Hamilton County is getting the best coverage of any county affiliate in the country. In the past four months, we have been on the front page three times, above the fold twice. The entry of our candidates was covered as routine news, rather than as curiousity. We've been quoted in some articles to the exclusion of the Republicans, and others to the exclusion of the Democrats. The press is giving us coverage commensurate with the other parties, and the tone is very respectful.
Neighboring Hendricks County received excellent coverage in today's Indy Star. Kudos to Chair Dennis Derrick and to Todd Singer.
A request to libertarians who check out the polls: please don't stuff the poll, and please don't vote if you are not a Hoosier. I believe the numbers in the RTV-6 poll are real at the moment (Kernan 43%, Daniels 43%, Gividen 14%, with about 1630 votes in). I don't want it blown out of proportion by ballot stuffers, as one of the presidential polls is. Badnarik is polling 53% on that one, making it a farce, and leaving us dismissed as frauds. Just click on the 'results' tab to see where it is at if you've already voted, or are not a Hoosier.
Tuesday, July 13, 2004
Stuffing Straws For Badnarik
North Carolina libertarians convinced a local CBS TV station to udpate their website to include LP candidate Michael Badnarik with a photo and bio. This is outstanding activism. As a matter of journalistic integrity, Badnarik belongs on such websites.
It has become one of my media pet peeves of late that LP candidates who are on the ballot and running actual campaigns at the top of the ticket aren't being included in the coverage. I urge any letter writing libertarian to notice whether our candidate is included in at least a minimum way (e.g.: "Kenn Gividen is also on the ballot"), and to contact their media when it fails to be noted.
It did make me laugh out loud when I took the straw poll, though. I cast a ballot for Badnarik, and the result popped up. Badnarik has 60% of the votes! Do you think that maybe the webmaster might notice that people from outside of North Carolina are stuffing the ballot?
North Carolina libertarians convinced a local CBS TV station to udpate their website to include LP candidate Michael Badnarik with a photo and bio. This is outstanding activism. As a matter of journalistic integrity, Badnarik belongs on such websites.
It has become one of my media pet peeves of late that LP candidates who are on the ballot and running actual campaigns at the top of the ticket aren't being included in the coverage. I urge any letter writing libertarian to notice whether our candidate is included in at least a minimum way (e.g.: "Kenn Gividen is also on the ballot"), and to contact their media when it fails to be noted.
It did make me laugh out loud when I took the straw poll, though. I cast a ballot for Badnarik, and the result popped up. Badnarik has 60% of the votes! Do you think that maybe the webmaster might notice that people from outside of North Carolina are stuffing the ballot?
Monday, July 12, 2004
Star Coverage Notes
It began to occur to me that whenever I read the Indy Star's coverage of the gubernatorial race, IUPUI prof Bill Blomquist is quoted. In fact, it occurred to me that Blomquist is getting more ink than LP candidate Kenn Gividen, so I checked it out.
Sure enough, in the past seven days, Gividen's name appears five time, as does Blomquist's. But the prof is quoted in every article, while the candidate was not quoted at all.
Today's article by John Strauss is about the key role of the southern part of the state. Two curiousities:
1. No mention of Gividen in the article, despite his being the only candidate who resides in the southern part of the state.
2. The Star polled likely voters and found that 34% support the GOP's Daniels, and 33% support the incumbent Kernan. Hmm... What about the other 33%? Are those Gividen supporters or undecideds? No word, but either way, that's the story. 33% is huge.
Oh, and of course, Blomquist was quoted.
It began to occur to me that whenever I read the Indy Star's coverage of the gubernatorial race, IUPUI prof Bill Blomquist is quoted. In fact, it occurred to me that Blomquist is getting more ink than LP candidate Kenn Gividen, so I checked it out.
Sure enough, in the past seven days, Gividen's name appears five time, as does Blomquist's. But the prof is quoted in every article, while the candidate was not quoted at all.
Today's article by John Strauss is about the key role of the southern part of the state. Two curiousities:
1. No mention of Gividen in the article, despite his being the only candidate who resides in the southern part of the state.
2. The Star polled likely voters and found that 34% support the GOP's Daniels, and 33% support the incumbent Kernan. Hmm... What about the other 33%? Are those Gividen supporters or undecideds? No word, but either way, that's the story. 33% is huge.
Oh, and of course, Blomquist was quoted.
Saturday, July 10, 2004
White Water Rafting
Ame set up a fantastic trip for the three of us- white water rafting in West Virginia's New River. Gorge Map The three-day trip was well paced, with swimming and water trampolenes the first day, 13 miles of light rafting for us beginners on the second day, and 13 more miles of rafting intense rapids on the third day. We camped on site each night.
The rapids have great intimidating names, like "Pinball", "Thread The Needle", and "Meat Grinder", so I was a little concerned about Alex's ability to handle the intense stuff. He fell out of the raft on the first rapid, which added greatly to my concerns. Fortunately, he got the hang of it and stayed in the raft for the majority of the remaining rapids. The main thing was, everybody was safe and we all had a great time.
ACE outfitters does a nice job with the tour. They supplied a lot of excellent food throughout the trip, and their guides all have a sense of humor. Side hikes took us through old coal mining and coking areas, abandoned in a kind of ghost town. Active CSX rails were present on the river, which was an extra bonus for me. Definitely recommended. The trip got the highest praise possible: Alex thanked Ame and me repeatedly.
Ame set up a fantastic trip for the three of us- white water rafting in West Virginia's New River. Gorge Map The three-day trip was well paced, with swimming and water trampolenes the first day, 13 miles of light rafting for us beginners on the second day, and 13 more miles of rafting intense rapids on the third day. We camped on site each night.
The rapids have great intimidating names, like "Pinball", "Thread The Needle", and "Meat Grinder", so I was a little concerned about Alex's ability to handle the intense stuff. He fell out of the raft on the first rapid, which added greatly to my concerns. Fortunately, he got the hang of it and stayed in the raft for the majority of the remaining rapids. The main thing was, everybody was safe and we all had a great time.
ACE outfitters does a nice job with the tour. They supplied a lot of excellent food throughout the trip, and their guides all have a sense of humor. Side hikes took us through old coal mining and coking areas, abandoned in a kind of ghost town. Active CSX rails were present on the river, which was an extra bonus for me. Definitely recommended. The trip got the highest praise possible: Alex thanked Ame and me repeatedly.
Tuesday, July 06, 2004
Surfin' The Star
I do a daily check for the word 'libertarian' when I visit any newspaper website. I visit the Indianapolis Star site every day. The Star's coverage (shall I say lack of coverage?) of Libertarian candidates has been positively frustrating.
I won't go into the details with links. I will simply advise my fellow Hoosier Libertarians to take a whole week to scan the front pages for political coverage. You will find daily articles on the gubernatorial race. You will find a mention of the Libertarian candidate in stories written by the Associated Press, but when Matthew Tully or Mary Beth Schneider writes one? Nah. Not even the journalistic exercise that reads, "Libertarian candidate Kenn Gividen is also on the November ballot." This latter should always be present.
Please write a nice letter to the Star requesting that they at least throw us the journalistic minimum bone. Thank you.
I do a daily check for the word 'libertarian' when I visit any newspaper website. I visit the Indianapolis Star site every day. The Star's coverage (shall I say lack of coverage?) of Libertarian candidates has been positively frustrating.
I won't go into the details with links. I will simply advise my fellow Hoosier Libertarians to take a whole week to scan the front pages for political coverage. You will find daily articles on the gubernatorial race. You will find a mention of the Libertarian candidate in stories written by the Associated Press, but when Matthew Tully or Mary Beth Schneider writes one? Nah. Not even the journalistic exercise that reads, "Libertarian candidate Kenn Gividen is also on the November ballot." This latter should always be present.
Please write a nice letter to the Star requesting that they at least throw us the journalistic minimum bone. Thank you.
Friday, July 02, 2004
Woody Done Proud
For years, the Hamilton County Democrats have been AWOL. In fact, they haven't challenged most seats here for about 30 years. As Chair of the Libertarian Party of Hamilton County, I saw this as a huge opening for us. A growing community needs some sort of opposition voice, even if we sound very similar to the entrenched Republicans on taxes and property rights issues. My mantra with our members is the Woody Allen Rule: "90% of success is just showing up".
So, we made it a point to fill our ballot to the extent we could with qualified candidates. This is an objective no matter what, since we are a political party. If a political party fails to put candidates on the ballot, it is truly irrelevant. The Democrats have been irrelevant in Hamilton County for about 30 years. We have not made our approach a secret, and we have not hidden the fact that we aim to become the county's #2 party. The Dems were allowing this to happen.
Until yesterday. This changed when they filed a full slate of candidates, challenging every race in the county. Noblesville Ledger story.
We have candidates in place to challenge several offices. The paperwork will be filed this morning. I was holding it until near the deadline because I was hoping that the Democrats would continue their generation-long trend of not running locally. Alas.
I have no doubt that the activity of local Libertarians led to this hasty mass filing. It certainly was not a reaction to the dominance of the Republican Party here. If that were the case, the last 30 years are extremely mysterious.
It's a function of strategy. 2004 is the big election year in Indiana, where the Presidency and the Governor's Office are decided, so voter turnout will be high. Democrats will turn out November 2, even here in Hamilton County. When they do, they will vote for John Kerry and Joe Kernan, and then, had the Dems not filed, their voters would have had three choices in the local races: vote for the Republican, the Libertarian, or nobody. Noting the extreme negativity of the campaigning of national Democrats, I believed that there was going to be a significant portion of Democratic voters willing to vote for Libertarians purely because they aren't Republicans, the party of George W. Bush. We might not have won many or any of the races, but we'd sure pull percentages in the 30s and 40s.
New Democratic Chair Jan Ellis must have recognized this, so they loaded up. Congrats to her on following Woody's sage advice, just as we are. Kudos also for getting the press and leave us with the, 'but us too!' coverage. Well done.
Above, I called the filing hasty. This is because I have noted that the Dems filed a candidate for Surveyor. We did not file a candidate in this race because we have only one person who has any qualifications to run for it- me- and I don't meet residency requirements for this ballot. The Surveyor's Office is enormously technical, and probably shouldn't be an elected office. Frankly, it would be a nightmare if a non-technical person won this race, even if it were a Libertarian. It's not an office that interests me a whole lot because the headaches are unreal. Hats off to long-standing Surveyor Kent Ward for his ability and his fortitude. At any rate, I know that the Democratic candidate is not a professional Land Surveyor, and a little research will tell whether or not he is a Professional Engineer. Short of those qualifications, the best manager could still screw this job up royally.
For years, the Hamilton County Democrats have been AWOL. In fact, they haven't challenged most seats here for about 30 years. As Chair of the Libertarian Party of Hamilton County, I saw this as a huge opening for us. A growing community needs some sort of opposition voice, even if we sound very similar to the entrenched Republicans on taxes and property rights issues. My mantra with our members is the Woody Allen Rule: "90% of success is just showing up".
So, we made it a point to fill our ballot to the extent we could with qualified candidates. This is an objective no matter what, since we are a political party. If a political party fails to put candidates on the ballot, it is truly irrelevant. The Democrats have been irrelevant in Hamilton County for about 30 years. We have not made our approach a secret, and we have not hidden the fact that we aim to become the county's #2 party. The Dems were allowing this to happen.
Until yesterday. This changed when they filed a full slate of candidates, challenging every race in the county. Noblesville Ledger story.
We have candidates in place to challenge several offices. The paperwork will be filed this morning. I was holding it until near the deadline because I was hoping that the Democrats would continue their generation-long trend of not running locally. Alas.
I have no doubt that the activity of local Libertarians led to this hasty mass filing. It certainly was not a reaction to the dominance of the Republican Party here. If that were the case, the last 30 years are extremely mysterious.
It's a function of strategy. 2004 is the big election year in Indiana, where the Presidency and the Governor's Office are decided, so voter turnout will be high. Democrats will turn out November 2, even here in Hamilton County. When they do, they will vote for John Kerry and Joe Kernan, and then, had the Dems not filed, their voters would have had three choices in the local races: vote for the Republican, the Libertarian, or nobody. Noting the extreme negativity of the campaigning of national Democrats, I believed that there was going to be a significant portion of Democratic voters willing to vote for Libertarians purely because they aren't Republicans, the party of George W. Bush. We might not have won many or any of the races, but we'd sure pull percentages in the 30s and 40s.
New Democratic Chair Jan Ellis must have recognized this, so they loaded up. Congrats to her on following Woody's sage advice, just as we are. Kudos also for getting the press and leave us with the, 'but us too!' coverage. Well done.
Above, I called the filing hasty. This is because I have noted that the Dems filed a candidate for Surveyor. We did not file a candidate in this race because we have only one person who has any qualifications to run for it- me- and I don't meet residency requirements for this ballot. The Surveyor's Office is enormously technical, and probably shouldn't be an elected office. Frankly, it would be a nightmare if a non-technical person won this race, even if it were a Libertarian. It's not an office that interests me a whole lot because the headaches are unreal. Hats off to long-standing Surveyor Kent Ward for his ability and his fortitude. At any rate, I know that the Democratic candidate is not a professional Land Surveyor, and a little research will tell whether or not he is a Professional Engineer. Short of those qualifications, the best manager could still screw this job up royally.
Wednesday, June 30, 2004
Nader Confirmed Off Ballot in Indiana
aka Civics Lesson 2
No surprise here. Last week, the Nader team figured to be about 21,000 signatures short of the needed 30,000. Dallas Stoner (no, really) confirmed this to the Indy Star.
Interestingly, Stoner claimed the police to be a large factor in their failure, accusing officers of hassling them as they tried to collect signatures on public sidewalks. Stoner was on the Broad Ripple sidewalk as Libertarian presidential candidate Michael Badnarik was in the Rock Lobster, while some of Badnarik's underage supporters were out on the same sidewalk as they were barred from entry (see item below).
It was reported to me today that Stoner and other Naderites found themselves amongst the Libertarian crowd and began to talk politics. The conversation ended up with Stoner putting his name on the LPIN's email list.
The Naderites often cite their fear of corporate power as a compelling interest while happily neglecting the threat of governmental power. No corporate power is keeping Nader off the ballot. Government power is doing that. Remember that the government that is big enough to smash the corporate goliath is also able to erect barriers designed to keep a gadfly off the ballot. One Naderite learned that lesson completely last night.
aka Civics Lesson 2
No surprise here. Last week, the Nader team figured to be about 21,000 signatures short of the needed 30,000. Dallas Stoner (no, really) confirmed this to the Indy Star.
Interestingly, Stoner claimed the police to be a large factor in their failure, accusing officers of hassling them as they tried to collect signatures on public sidewalks. Stoner was on the Broad Ripple sidewalk as Libertarian presidential candidate Michael Badnarik was in the Rock Lobster, while some of Badnarik's underage supporters were out on the same sidewalk as they were barred from entry (see item below).
It was reported to me today that Stoner and other Naderites found themselves amongst the Libertarian crowd and began to talk politics. The conversation ended up with Stoner putting his name on the LPIN's email list.
The Naderites often cite their fear of corporate power as a compelling interest while happily neglecting the threat of governmental power. No corporate power is keeping Nader off the ballot. Government power is doing that. Remember that the government that is big enough to smash the corporate goliath is also able to erect barriers designed to keep a gadfly off the ballot. One Naderite learned that lesson completely last night.
Civics Lesson
With my 12-year-old son living in Spain for most of the year, I like to give him as great a taste of America as I can when he is here with me.
As hands-on civics lessons go, it's hard to top going to meet a candidate for President of the United States. LP candidate Michael Badnarik was touring Indiana in support of his own campaign, and in support of his mother's. Elaine Badnarik is running for Indiana Lt. Governor, and had her candidacy announced earlier in the day. The LP's reception was held at the Rock Lobster, a restaurant and bar on Broad Ripple Avenue.
When Alex and I entered, we were stopped at the door and told that minors were not permitted inside. I had the feeling that state law would not prohibit us from entering, so I pressed the issue. The doorman checked with someone inside and confirmed that they wished us not to enter.
Fortunately, State Chair Mark Rutherford witnessed this and went inside to bring Mr. Badnarik out to us. He came out and shook our hands and then chatted with us about the increasing party unity and the successes of the Indiana party. He encouraged Alex to talk about things that matter to him with those around him. Michael's father brought "Badnarik for President" pins for everyone outside to wear.
The crowd outside grew, with US Senate candidate Al Barger, Marion County Treasurer Charlie Kennedy, intern Josh Hanson, and several others hanging around. The Libertarians stood out like a sore thumb: Dreadlocks, long hair, shaved heads, those with pierced everything... these were the people walking by. The Libertarians were wearing suits and ties. It was surreal.
Josh Hanson was outside because he is under 21. We were soon joined by Elizabeth Fazioli, who is running for County Commissioner in Hamilton County. Despite the possibility that she could be one of the highest ranking officials in the region come November, she too could not enter because she is also only 20.
This was fascinating, because Alex can enter bars in Spain at any time. He was aware of the cultural difference immediately. Eating in a Spanish restaurant more or less means eating in a bar. Rock Lobster is a restaurant and a bar. A friend explained that the bars were under pressure from local authorities over underage drinking. I pointed out that the owner of the bar has the right to have his own rules of order, and if they wanted us out, we'd comply without a fuss.
So there we were, standing outside a bar with a candidate for President of the United States. There's one for the 'what did you do over the summer' spiel at school!
With my 12-year-old son living in Spain for most of the year, I like to give him as great a taste of America as I can when he is here with me.
As hands-on civics lessons go, it's hard to top going to meet a candidate for President of the United States. LP candidate Michael Badnarik was touring Indiana in support of his own campaign, and in support of his mother's. Elaine Badnarik is running for Indiana Lt. Governor, and had her candidacy announced earlier in the day. The LP's reception was held at the Rock Lobster, a restaurant and bar on Broad Ripple Avenue.
When Alex and I entered, we were stopped at the door and told that minors were not permitted inside. I had the feeling that state law would not prohibit us from entering, so I pressed the issue. The doorman checked with someone inside and confirmed that they wished us not to enter.
Fortunately, State Chair Mark Rutherford witnessed this and went inside to bring Mr. Badnarik out to us. He came out and shook our hands and then chatted with us about the increasing party unity and the successes of the Indiana party. He encouraged Alex to talk about things that matter to him with those around him. Michael's father brought "Badnarik for President" pins for everyone outside to wear.
The crowd outside grew, with US Senate candidate Al Barger, Marion County Treasurer Charlie Kennedy, intern Josh Hanson, and several others hanging around. The Libertarians stood out like a sore thumb: Dreadlocks, long hair, shaved heads, those with pierced everything... these were the people walking by. The Libertarians were wearing suits and ties. It was surreal.
Josh Hanson was outside because he is under 21. We were soon joined by Elizabeth Fazioli, who is running for County Commissioner in Hamilton County. Despite the possibility that she could be one of the highest ranking officials in the region come November, she too could not enter because she is also only 20.
This was fascinating, because Alex can enter bars in Spain at any time. He was aware of the cultural difference immediately. Eating in a Spanish restaurant more or less means eating in a bar. Rock Lobster is a restaurant and a bar. A friend explained that the bars were under pressure from local authorities over underage drinking. I pointed out that the owner of the bar has the right to have his own rules of order, and if they wanted us out, we'd comply without a fuss.
So there we were, standing outside a bar with a candidate for President of the United States. There's one for the 'what did you do over the summer' spiel at school!
Sunday, June 27, 2004
The Loss of Good Radio
I lived in the Cleveland area for most of my life before coming to central Indiana, and was blessed with really interesting radio. There has always been more local programming in Cleveland than in most markets, and having five college stations in the region helped. Local programming makes a station kick. I will concede that syndicated shows get guaranteed ratings and demographics, are cheap and easy, and that live local shows are a risk, are expensive, and a hell of a lot of work. However, local programming is vital. Hot button issues get drilled by local hosts, leading to better informed voters and more responsive elected officials.
When I arrived in Indy, I found that the radio offerings were extremely bland. The vast majority was beamed in by satellite, offering no real local relevance. I tried listening to WIBC-AM because they were the closest thing to local talk, but I tired of the station quickly because the format was too tight. No call would last more than two minutes. No caller would get to hang in to debate for too long, especially if they were getting one over on the host. I would tune in to WXNT-AM because they had Neal Boortz. Sure, it was another syndicated show, but Boortz is a libertarian. I had always wanted to catch his show, since it did not air in Cleveland.
So, it was a delight to tune in early on morning and find WXNT-AM's Morning Line with "Trapper" John Morris and Jim Burrows. Trapper ran the show and would get the last word. This set up a fascinating dynamic because WXNT's syndicated fare- Boortz, Glenn Beck, Sean Hannity, and Laura Ingraham- was largely right-of-center, conservative, Republican, etc. Trapper wouldn't describe himself as a liberal, but he was generally very much to the left of the station's syndicated hosts, Burrows, and the callers. The discussion was very lively, with often pointed banter coming from either direction, but always with Trapper getting the last word. Where the hosts could agree was in the area of popular culture, with a fun homage to all things 1980s, to movies, and to stand-up comedy.
With this balance, the show was able to attract a wide range of phone interview guests and no shortage of listeners who called in. Regulars began to congregate at promotional events, such as their Town Hall Tuesday series of live broadcasts and breakfasts at Dodd's Town House restaurant on Meridian St.
One irksome thing about WXNT's lineup was that in the months where most of the country goes to daylight savings time, the station found itself with a schedule shift. All syndicated shows would start an hour earlier than in winter months. Sean Hannity's show was carried live, and would move from 3-6pm to 2-5pm in DST months. What to do with the 5-6pm hour? The station would repeat the first hour of Hannity.
It drove me nuts. When I left Cleveland, I was hosting a weekly one-hour libertarian news and comment program on WCSB-FM. All I could think of was filling that slot myself. Even if the listeners and callers disagreed completely, a local topics show would be far superior to a re-run from just three hours before.
Fortunately, the station put Greg Browning into this time. He had been doing a show on Sunday nights, and fairly agitating his listeners by making Mayor Bart Peterson his personal whipping boy. The show was well suited for the early evening. The tempo could often drag, but that was okay in that time slot. Uptempo is perfect for monring shows, and the Morning Line was the station's uptempo act.
As Browning hit his stride, the station hit its' peak, in my opinion. The Morning Line was in top form, with great interplay between the hosts and callers, the news staff, the weather and traffic reporters, and the guests. The syndicated lineup was entertaining enough- Hannity takes more opposition callers than any other conservative, and Ingraham's show is great fun because of her use of sound bites. The only bump would come when a show was pre-empted by Butler basketball or Indianapolis Indians baseball.
Then came the dreaded change in management. This almost always results in a major shake-up, regardless of what is working at a station. The WXNT situation, unfortunately, was no different. The Morning Line was abruptly cancelled, with Greg Browning moving to the AM drive. No surprise, Browning was replaced by the syndicated Michael Savage.
This was a horrible turn. The Morning Line was a perfect morning show. Browning, bless his feisty heart, is terribly out of place in the AM drive. Savage is easily the most repulsive conservative talker in the country. While I often disagree with Limbaugh, Hannity, and Ingraham, I usually have the sense that although they are entertainers, the policies they promote are done so in the best interests of the country. There is no such sense with Savage, but rather, a sense of pure nasty spite and hatred. His attack on a gay caller to the cable TV talk show he was fired from is case in point.
I try to listen to Browning in the morning, but give up after a few minutes because it's just too painful to hear him struggle with the format. I never tune in to Savage. Central Indiana lost a great forum with the cancellation of the Morning Line. I suspect that Browning will sink before given the chance to learn to swim in the morning waters, taking away the station's other top forum. I am extremely hopeful that Trapper and Jim will land a spot together on a station in a morning gig, but I'll be glad to hear either one of them on their own show.
I lived in the Cleveland area for most of my life before coming to central Indiana, and was blessed with really interesting radio. There has always been more local programming in Cleveland than in most markets, and having five college stations in the region helped. Local programming makes a station kick. I will concede that syndicated shows get guaranteed ratings and demographics, are cheap and easy, and that live local shows are a risk, are expensive, and a hell of a lot of work. However, local programming is vital. Hot button issues get drilled by local hosts, leading to better informed voters and more responsive elected officials.
When I arrived in Indy, I found that the radio offerings were extremely bland. The vast majority was beamed in by satellite, offering no real local relevance. I tried listening to WIBC-AM because they were the closest thing to local talk, but I tired of the station quickly because the format was too tight. No call would last more than two minutes. No caller would get to hang in to debate for too long, especially if they were getting one over on the host. I would tune in to WXNT-AM because they had Neal Boortz. Sure, it was another syndicated show, but Boortz is a libertarian. I had always wanted to catch his show, since it did not air in Cleveland.
So, it was a delight to tune in early on morning and find WXNT-AM's Morning Line with "Trapper" John Morris and Jim Burrows. Trapper ran the show and would get the last word. This set up a fascinating dynamic because WXNT's syndicated fare- Boortz, Glenn Beck, Sean Hannity, and Laura Ingraham- was largely right-of-center, conservative, Republican, etc. Trapper wouldn't describe himself as a liberal, but he was generally very much to the left of the station's syndicated hosts, Burrows, and the callers. The discussion was very lively, with often pointed banter coming from either direction, but always with Trapper getting the last word. Where the hosts could agree was in the area of popular culture, with a fun homage to all things 1980s, to movies, and to stand-up comedy.
With this balance, the show was able to attract a wide range of phone interview guests and no shortage of listeners who called in. Regulars began to congregate at promotional events, such as their Town Hall Tuesday series of live broadcasts and breakfasts at Dodd's Town House restaurant on Meridian St.
One irksome thing about WXNT's lineup was that in the months where most of the country goes to daylight savings time, the station found itself with a schedule shift. All syndicated shows would start an hour earlier than in winter months. Sean Hannity's show was carried live, and would move from 3-6pm to 2-5pm in DST months. What to do with the 5-6pm hour? The station would repeat the first hour of Hannity.
It drove me nuts. When I left Cleveland, I was hosting a weekly one-hour libertarian news and comment program on WCSB-FM. All I could think of was filling that slot myself. Even if the listeners and callers disagreed completely, a local topics show would be far superior to a re-run from just three hours before.
Fortunately, the station put Greg Browning into this time. He had been doing a show on Sunday nights, and fairly agitating his listeners by making Mayor Bart Peterson his personal whipping boy. The show was well suited for the early evening. The tempo could often drag, but that was okay in that time slot. Uptempo is perfect for monring shows, and the Morning Line was the station's uptempo act.
As Browning hit his stride, the station hit its' peak, in my opinion. The Morning Line was in top form, with great interplay between the hosts and callers, the news staff, the weather and traffic reporters, and the guests. The syndicated lineup was entertaining enough- Hannity takes more opposition callers than any other conservative, and Ingraham's show is great fun because of her use of sound bites. The only bump would come when a show was pre-empted by Butler basketball or Indianapolis Indians baseball.
Then came the dreaded change in management. This almost always results in a major shake-up, regardless of what is working at a station. The WXNT situation, unfortunately, was no different. The Morning Line was abruptly cancelled, with Greg Browning moving to the AM drive. No surprise, Browning was replaced by the syndicated Michael Savage.
This was a horrible turn. The Morning Line was a perfect morning show. Browning, bless his feisty heart, is terribly out of place in the AM drive. Savage is easily the most repulsive conservative talker in the country. While I often disagree with Limbaugh, Hannity, and Ingraham, I usually have the sense that although they are entertainers, the policies they promote are done so in the best interests of the country. There is no such sense with Savage, but rather, a sense of pure nasty spite and hatred. His attack on a gay caller to the cable TV talk show he was fired from is case in point.
I try to listen to Browning in the morning, but give up after a few minutes because it's just too painful to hear him struggle with the format. I never tune in to Savage. Central Indiana lost a great forum with the cancellation of the Morning Line. I suspect that Browning will sink before given the chance to learn to swim in the morning waters, taking away the station's other top forum. I am extremely hopeful that Trapper and Jim will land a spot together on a station in a morning gig, but I'll be glad to hear either one of them on their own show.
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