Gay Marriage and the Goverment

"The 1996 Defense of Marriage Act (Public Law 104-199) provides that the federal
government will honor only marriages between one man and one woman. It also
stipulates that no state, territory, or possession of the United States or Indian tribe can be required to recognize a same-sex marriage performed in any other jurisdiction." http://www.cbo.gov/doc.cfm?index=5559&type=0As

One Blog states, here are the top ten reasons why gay marriage should not be passed in the U.S.

Argument #1.
The implications for children in a world of decaying families are profound. A recent article in the Weekly Standard described how the advent of legally sanctioned gay unions in Scandinavian countries has already destroyed the institution of marriage, where half of today's children are born out of wedlock.

Argument #2
The introduction of legalized gay marriages will lead inexorably to polygamy and other alternatives to one-man, one-woman unions. In Utah, polygamist Tom Green, who claims five wives, is citing Lawrence v. Texas as the legal authority for his appeal. This past January, a Salt Lake City civil rights attorney filed a federal lawsuit on behalf of another couple wanting to engage in legal polygamy. Their justification? Lawrence v. Texas.

Argument #3
An even greater objective of the homosexual movement is to end the state's compelling interest in marital relationships altogether. After marriages have been redefined, divorces will be obtained instantly, will not involve a court, and will take on the status of a driver's license or a hunting permit. With the family out of the way, all rights and privileges of marriage will accrue to gay and lesbian partners without the legal entanglements and commitments heretofore associated with it.

Argument #4
With the legalization of homosexual marriage, every public school in the nation will be required to teach that this perversion is the moral equivalent of traditional marriage between a man and a woman. Textbooks, even in conservative states, will have to depict man/man and woman/woman relationships, and stories written for children as young as elementary school, or even kindergarten, will have to give equal space to homosexuals.

Argument #5
From that point forward, courts will not be able to favor a traditional family involving one man and one woman over a homosexual couple in matters of adoption. Children will be placed in homes with parents representing only one sex on an equal basis with those having a mom and a dad. The prospect of fatherless and motherless children will not be considered in the evaluation of eligibility. It will be the law.

Argument #6
Foster-care parents will be required to undergo "sensitivity training" to rid themselves of bias in favor of traditional marriage, and will have to affirm homosexuality in children and teens.

Argument #7
How about the impact on Social Security if there are millions of new dependents that will be entitled to survivor benefits? It will amount to billions of dollars on an already overburdened system. And how about the cost to American businesses? Unproductive costs mean fewer jobs for those who need them. Are state and municipal governments to be required to raise taxes substantially to provide health insurance and other benefits to millions of new "spouses and other dependents"?

Argument #8
Marriage among homosexuals will spread throughout the world, just as pornography did after the Nixon Commission declared obscene material "beneficial" to mankind.11 Almost instantly, the English-speaking countries liberalized their laws against smut. America continues to be the fountainhead of filth and immorality, and its influence is global.

Argument #9
Perhaps most important, the spread of the Gospel of Jesus Christ will be severely curtailed. The family has been God's primary vehicle for evangelism since the beginning. (Read next story "A day without Gay"

Argument #10
The culture war will be over, and I fear, the world may soon become "as it was in the days of Noah" (Matthew 24:37, NIV). This is the climactic moment in the battle to preserve the family, and future generations hang in the balance.
http://www.nogaymarriage.com/tenarguments.asp

Gay Day of Protest

If you are a reader of the internet, you can not avoid stories about the gay movement going on here since California voters' passage last month of Proposition 8. Proposition 8 ban gay marriage by the vote of American citizens. Now we have Day without a Gay. You can click on this story to see the article. The thing that stands out to me in this story is as follows:

'Scott Craig, a fifth-grade teacher at Independence
Charter School in Philadelphia, had
no problem requesting and
being granted the day off. So many of the school's 60
teachers were eager to show support for gay
rights they had to make sure enough stayed behind to staff classrooms.
About 25 teachers plan to take Wednesday off and to have their work covered by substitutes while they discuss ways to introduce gay issues to their students and volunteer at the local branch of the American Civil Liberties Union, Craig
said. A letter telling parents why so many teachers would be out went home Monday."

Why are they discussing ways to bring this issue to fifth graders? Why are parents putting up with this kind of teachers and schools that want to brain wash little kids for their own agenda? Now if this was a way to bring God into the life of children we all know where the ACLU would be heading for. They would could not wait still they got a restraining order against the teachers and school.
Just as in the 60’s the schools and teachers will be putting their gay agenda in our schools as they did race when civil rights were an issue.
The citizens of several states have spoken on gay marriage but let our courts seem to know better of what Americans want then the average citizens.

Gay Marriage Ban Proposition 8

I know that its been some time since I have posted to this blog. But I must tell you that all is not lost with this election for conservatives. There is many things happing in America with this election that you may not hear about.

A proposed ban on same-sex marriage in California:
The proposed constitutional amendment would limit marriage to heterosexual couples, the first time such a vote has taken place in state where gay unions are legal.
Sponsors of the ban declared victory early Wednesday, but the measure's opponents said too many votes remained uncounted for the race to be called. With 84 percent of precincts reporting early Wednesday, the ban had 4,605,065 votes, or 52 percent, to 4,293,068 votes, or 48 percent, against. Similar bans had prevailed in 27 states before Tuesday's elections, but none were in California's situation -- with thousands of gay couples already married following a state Supreme Court ruling in May.

Arizona passes Marrige ban:
Proposition 102, if approved by Arizona voters, will amend the Arizona Constitution by adding the following article related to marriage:
“Marriage - Only a union of one man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as a marriage in this state.” Passed

Arkansas Act 1:
Arkansas voters passed Initiative Act 1 with 57% of the vote yesterday. The measure bans unmarried couples in that state from adopting or foster parenting. It doesn't affect single parents' ability to parent.

Florida Amendment 2:

Florida passed a ban on gay marriage. It was a proposed amendment to the Constitution of Florida that would define marriage as between only one man and one woman.

I seems that alot of people over at the Bilerico project are really upset by this news: http://www.bilerico.com/2008/11/ballot_initiative_results_from_arkansas.php#more
Sorry Bill for your lost.


Death with Dignity law;
In Washington, voters gave solid approval to an initiative modeled after Oregon's "Death with Dignity" law, which allows a terminally ill person to be prescribed lethal medication they can administer to themselves. Since Oregon's law took effect in 1997, more than 340 people -- mostly ailing with cancer -- have used it to end their lives.

Marijuana laws:
Elsewhere, the marijuana reform movement won two prized victories, with Massachusetts voters decriminalizing possession of small amounts of the drug and Michigan joining 12 other states in allowing use of pot for medical purposes.
Henceforth, people caught in Massachusetts with an ounce or less of pot will no longer face criminal penalties. Instead, they'll forfeit the marijuana and pay a $100 civil fine.
The Michigan measure will allow severely ill patients to register with the state and legally buy, grow and use small amounts of marijuana to relieve pain, nausea, appetite loss and other symptoms.

Affirmative Action:
Nebraska voters, meanwhile, approved a ban on race- and gender-based affirmative action, similar to measures previously approved in California, Michigan and Washington. Returns in Colorado on a similar measure were too close to call.

Here is a poll

Thanks to my wife for emailing this to me:

Here's your chance to let the media know where the people stand on our faith in God, as a nation. NBC is taking a poll on 'In God We Trust' to stay on our American currency. Please send this to every Christian you know so they can vote on this important subject. Please do it right away, before NBC takes this off the web page. Poll is still open so you can vote. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/10103521/

Right now its 63% in favor of keeping In God We Trust. I guess that shows people are still trusting that this government is based on Christian values.

Democrats to set LGBT delegate record at Denver DNC

The Democratic Party is being positively shaped by lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender advocates who believe in Democratic principles of fair play, hard work, security at home and equal opportunity for all," said NSD Executive Director Jon Hoadley.
The increase in participation is due in part to the Stonewall Democrats' Pride in the Party program, which sought a 14% increase in participants to 321 from the 282 that attended Boston's Democratic National Convention in 2004.

Become a Delegate to the Democratic National Convention!
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) voters are one of the most loyal voting-blocks in the Democratic Party – second only to the African American community. We are everywhere and we vote!
We have earned our seat at the table and it is now time to make sure we have a strong voice in selecting the Democratic Party’s presidential nominee at the National Convention August 25-28 in Denver. This is our chance to be a part of the solution this country so desperately needs.
National Stonewall Democrats (NSD) worked closely with the National Committee’s LGBT Caucus to push every state to set goals for LGBT delegates to the convention. But goals are nothing if they are not met.
That’s where you come in. We need you and LGBT Democrats in every state to run for national convention delegate. NSD has put together Pride in the Party to help you run for delegate..
Just sign up and we’ll make sure the campaign of your presidential candidate knows you want to be a delegate. Campaigns are looking for LGBT Democrats just like you who support them, who want to run for delegate, and who want to be a part of electing a Democratic President. (But they can’t talk to you if they can’t find you. That’s why you need to sign up!)
Be sure to also check out the “Delegate Information” where you can download information about your state’s delegate selection process. Our summary shows the filing deadlines and filing requirements. It also provides information about contacting your State Democratic Party. (Most State Parties have information and filing forms on their website.)
So, what are you waiting for? Click on the link below to sign-up today.
Being a delegate to the National Convention is your ticket to being there as the Party selects the next President of the United States. It is also your chance to get involved with your state’s elected leaders and Party officials. And, the more involved we are in the Democratic Party at the state and local levels, the more successful we will be in securing our full equality in every state.
http://www.prideintheparty.org/

Speaking of old idea's

I came across this in a email some time ago. It makes sense today:

Dirt Roads:

What's mainly wrong with society today is that too many Dirt Roads have been paved.
There's not a problem in America today, crime, drugs, education, divorce, delinquency that wouldn't be remedied, if we just had more Dirt Roads, because Dirt Roads give character.

People that live at the end of Dirt Roads learn early on that life is a bumpy ride.
That it can jar you right down to your teeth sometimes, but it's worth it, if at the end is home...a loving spouse, happy kids and a dog.

We wouldn't have near the trouble with our educational system if our kids got their exercise walking a Dirt Road with other kids, from whom they learn how to get along.
There was less crime in our streets before they were paved.

Criminals didn't walk two dusty miles to rob or rape, if they knew they'd be welcomed by 5 barking dogs and a double barrel shotgun. And there were no drive by shootings.
Our values were better when our roads were worse!

People did not worship their cars more than their kids, and motorists were more courteous, they didn't tailgate by riding the bumper or the guy in front would choke you with dust & bust your windshield with rocks. Dirt Roads taught patience.

Dirt Roads were environmentally friendly, you didn't hop in your car for a quart of milk you walked to the barn for your milk. For your mail, you walked to the mail box.

What if it rained and the Dirt Road got washed out? That was the best part, then you stayed home and had some family time, roasted marshmallows and popped popcorn and pony rode on Daddy's shoulders and learned how to make prettier quilts than anybody. At the end of Dirt Roads, you soon learned that bad words tasted like soap.

Most paved roads lead to trouble, Dirt Roads more likely lead to a fishing creek or a swimming hole. At the end of a Dirt Road, the only time we even locked our car was in August, because if we didn't some neighbor would fill it with too much zucchini.

At the end of a Dirt Road, there was always extra springtime income, from when city dudes would get stuck, you'd have to hitch up a team and pull them out.
Usually you got a dollar...always you got a new friend...at the end of a Dirt Road!
~by Paul Harvey~ http://famguardian.org/Subjects/FamilyIssues/Articles/DirtRoads/DirtRoads.htm

Mayor Bashing?

There seems to be a lot of Mayor bashing going on today about the mini parks in Indy. But few if any has brought out a solution to this problem.

For those who knows me, before you tell me that I am old and that I bring up some old ideas, I would offer this. Why don’t those citizens pitch in and do some of the work in these important parks. They could cut the grass, rank out the gavel or sawdust around the play area. It does not take much to bend over and pick up trash. They could even start a fund for improvements.

But as usual we have those that do not agree with a idea but does not offer any solution or actions. They want to burden the tax payers with work that they could do them selves. One poster on the Indianapolis star even said it did not cost much for the city to mow these parks. I disagree. It takes a person, truck and lawnmower to do this. Not counting the time and expense to travel to the location.

It seems everyone wants to complain about services being cut but will do nothing in the form of doing anything themselves. You can not have it both ways. You either have to pitch in and do some of the work or you have to pay to have it done thru taxes.

Talking about money problems.

Talking about money problems today seems to be the norm. But have you seen the new menu prices at the new stadium?
If you are having trouble with making your monthly payments how can one be so excited about the new stadium?

Hot dog: $4.75.
Bratwurst: $5.50.
Italian sausage: $5.50.
Polish sausage: $6.
Corn dog: $4.
Personal pizza: $7.
M&Ms: $4.
Snickers bar: $4.
Twizzlers: $4.
20-ounce soda: $4.
32-ounce soda in a souvenir cup: $5.50.
20-ounce bottled soda: $4.
20-ounce bottled water: $3.50.
12-ounce coffee: $2.50.
16-ounce coffee: $4.
22-ounce draft beer in a souvenir cup: $7.
16-ounce domestic bottle/can of beer: $7.
12-ounce glass bottle of beer: $6.50.

But we will still hear how people can not make those house payments and are behind so much that they can not afford school books or a trip to McDonalds when you see these same people sampling food at the stadium.

Foreclosures

According to the Mortgage Bankers Association there has been 31,000 in foreclosure in the first quarter of 2008.

Blame school for death of son?

VENTURA, California — The family of a gay teenager who was fatally shot in class blames the school district for allowing their son to wear makeup and feminine clothing to school — factors the family claims led to the death.

The parents and brother of 15-year-old Larry King of Oxnard filed a personal injury claim against the Hueneme school district seeking unspecified damages for not enforcing the dress code, The Ventura County Star reported.

King, an eighth-grader at E.O. Green Junior High School, was shot in February. Classmate Brandon McInerney pleaded not guilty to the shooting last week. He was charged as an adult and also faces a charge of a committing a hate crime.

The family's claim, filed last week in Ventura County Superior Court, said administrators and teachers failed to enforce the school's dress code when King wore feminine clothing and makeup to school.

His parents, Dawn and Gregory King, said faculty members knew their son had "unique vulnerabilities" and was subject to abuse because of his sexual orientation.
King was a ward of the court and living at a shelter for abused, neglected and emotionally troubled children at the time of the shooting. http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,404502,00.html?sPage=fnc/us/crime

The parents did not have any control over what this 15 year old did at school?

$20,000 to become a member of the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce

McDonald’s has done it again. First, the company paid $20,000 to become a member of the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and to have a seat on the board of directors. Next, McDonald’s refused a request to remain neutral in the culture war by choosing to promote the gay agenda. Then McDonald’s accused those opposing the gay agenda, including same-sex “marriage,” of being motivated by hate.
Now we learn that McDonald’s sponsors training for homosexuals on how to promote their agenda among corporations from the inside. Out & Equal™ Workplace Advocates is a national organization devoted to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community in the workplace. One of its primary purposes is to train employees how to aggressively promote homosexuality within the company they work for, all the way to the corporate boardroom. Part of last year’s Out & Equal Summit in Washington, DC, (sponsored by McDonald’s) was an organized march into congressional offices demanding same-sex “marriage” laws be passed.
At the bottom of McDonald’s half-page ad in the Out & Equal Summit booklet is this statement: “From neighborhood to neighborhood, coast to coast and around the world, McDonald’s is proud to celebrate diversity” [homosexuality].

http://americansfortruth.com/news/afa-mcdonalds-does-it-again-sponsoring-homosexual-activism-from-the-inside.html

Master Card with Social Security Tries

The U.S. government is offering Social Security recipients a new way to receive benefits: debit cards.
The cards, which target the 4 million Social Security and Supplemental Security Income recipients without bank accounts, debuted this spring in four states—Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma—and are expected to be available nationwide by the end of the summer.
Those who choose to sign up for the debit program will receive a MasterCard debit card, which will be reloaded each month with benefit payments and secured with a personal identification number (PIN). The card can be used at ATMs to withdraw cash and at retailers for purchases and to get cash back.
Some usage fees are attached: Paper account statements will cost 75 cents; online bill-paying service will be 50 cents per bill. The first ATM withdrawal each month will be free; additional withdrawals will cost 90 cents each, and some ATMs may assess their own usage fees. International ATM withdrawals will cost $3 plus a 3 percent currency conversion fee.

http://www.aarpsegundajuventud.org/english/finances/2008-SUM/08sum_ssdebitcards.html?NLC-WBLTR-CTRL&DET=F5-81508

School district letting teachers carry guns

A tiny Texas district will allow teachers and staff members to carry concealed firearms to deter and protect against school shootings when classes begin this month, provided the gun-toting employees follow certain requirements.
The small community of Harrold in north Texas is a 30-minute drive from the Wilbarger County Sheriff's Office, leaving students and teachers without protection, said David Thweatt, superintendent of the Harrold Independent School District. The lone sits near a heavily traveled highway, which could make it a target, he argued

Read more at http://ap.indystar.com/dynamic/stories/G/GUN_TOTING_TEACHERS?SITE=ININS&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT

More on art funding

When we here that the city will cut funding on the arts, the full story is not told.
Form: http://www.ibj.com/html/detail_page_Full.asp?content=18120

“There are few line items in the budget with such a good rate of return,” said Kwok of the International Violin Competition. “And if public safety is truly at the top of the mayor’s agenda, which I know it is, one must consider the long-term impact on today’s youth.” Since he took office, Ballard has noted cultural leaders’ concerns, and pledged to assist them wherever possible, particularly from the bully pulpit.

But many arts leaders have remained skeptical. “Part of the problem is, Mayor Peterson worked so hard from the beginning to establish a profile in the cultural community,” said John Pickett, executive director of the Indianapolis Opera. “When he went in to help major arts organizations, his statements had much more weight than Mayor Ballard’s would.”

Other cities Indianapolis competes against directly—both for businesses and talent—do far more than even Peterson did to support the arts, Pickett pointed out. Denver, for example, has a dedicated sales tax as well as a seat tax at major sporting events, which together generate $13 million for its cultural arts community annually.

It doesn’t work like that here. In addition to the $1.5 million in direct city funding Ballard is considering cutting, Indianapolis provides another $1 million to its arts community through the Capital Improvement Board, which oversees the city’s sports venues.

CIB Chairman Bob Grand said he hasn’t made any plans yet to cut into that $1 million. He’s waiting for Lucas Oil Stadium to open its doors. After that, Grand said, CIB will know what it can afford. But its top priority will be stadium expenses. “It doesn’t make sense to make cuts when, in our case, we don’t have facts on the cost of Lucas Oil’s operation,” Grand said. “I’ve got to get in there. Then we’ll assess it.” •

So now we are up to two million dollars to see the "arts" in the new Budget.

Another "witch hunt,"

Indianapolis police officer arrested in a drunken-driving case Sunday, George Leon Benjamin says the investigation is just another "witch hunt". His past jobs were, a former security guard for Mayor Bart Peterson, and Huber, former president of the Fraternal Order of Police, was among the former mayor's most outspoken critics.

He has had two prior alcohol-related accidents in which he was not charged. This time his blood-alcohol level was 0.32, four times the level at which a driver in Indiana is considered intoxicated.
his brother, IMPD Deputy Chief William Benjamin, said that He did not want to get involved after Benjamin wanted to contact him.

Here is another story related to the democrats in our city. Why does it take three rule infractions as important as having involved in two prior alcohol-related accidents take all these years to do what is right? I wonder, how many years will he be on paid leave until charges are filed? If the IMP moves like our city council in this city does, it may take some time.

city county meeting August 11

The City council meeting was held Monday night Aug. 11. Many things were brought before the Council including the budget for next year by Mayor Ballard. While cutting spending I do not think this proposed budget cuts deep enough. We will still be funding one million dollars in the “arts” in Indianapolis. One thing that I like about this budget is that we do not have to borrow money to support this plan. It turns $26 million deficit in the operating budget into a $4.8 million surplus. I do not like to us the word surplus when the city is in debt. When you owe money that is putting extra tax money going for interest is not operating with a “surplus” within the picture as a whole.

Joanne Sanders protects Monroe Gray:
Councilwoman Virginia Cain asked the President before the meeting if she could give an update on the ethics committee report on Monroe Gray. She did not get into her report even three minutes until Sanders spoke up. This stopped the meeting until a ruling by the legal attorney could be presented. The last committee meetings the two democrats, William Oliver and Paul Bateman did not even show up. In my own opinion this “ethics” committee is nothing short of a political joke. A government body investigating its own members, two from each party, always spelled disaster or cover up by any means.

Republicans give in:
It was rumored that the republicans wanted five members to be appointed to the ethic committees in the future. But when the final ethic bill was passed, it has six members. This way neither party can stall like the democrats has on the Monroe Gray issue. With six members on the committee, 3 republicans, three democrats, it will still be a draw.

What can we do?
The only reason this committee has held sessions this year is from emails from the public. I suggest that you keep the emails going to the full city council. Be polite but to the point that the citizens are not going to stand by while this drags on for another year. It’s about time the democrats on our council stops protecting members of their own party when the public knows they have done something wrong or improper. You can file a compliant to the full council at:
http://www.indygov.org/eGov/Council/contactus.htm

From the National Democratic Party.

Democrat National Committee June 3, 2008

Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean today joined Massachusetts Democratic Representative Barney Frank and Wisconsin Democratic Representative Tammy Baldwin in issuing the following Proclamation marking PRIDE Month:

"Today, on behalf of Democrats across America, we join together in celebrating the contributions that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender Americans and their families make to our society and reaffirm our Party's commitment to promoting full equality under the law for every American.

"As leaders of the Democratic Party, we stand proudly with the LGBT community and commit ourselves to working together to build an America that is truly inclusive. Every American has the right to live in dignity, with equal rights, responsibilities and protections under the law.

These are our country's and our Party's core values. Across the country, at every level of government, Democrats have championed sweeping protections in the areas of employment, housing, domestic partnerships and civil unions, adoption, gender identity or expression, and hate crimes.
__________

If you want to see who these democrats are supporting I urge you to go to this site:
http://www.zombietime.com/up_your_alley_2008/part_1_full/
I urge you to read the warnings before going further. "The report you are about to view of the 2008 "Up Your Alley" Fair in San Francisco contains newsworthy images of people engaged in extreme sexual behavior in public. Although these images are not intended to be pornographic, some people might regard them as such. Because of this, only adults age 18 or over may view the images on the following page."

If this is the core of values that the democratic party holds, now I know why I have only voted for a few democrats in my 62 years.

Oh where have I been?

It was time for me to take a little vacation from this site. I don’t know if you known it or not but it takes quit a bit of time and effort to keep sites like this active. I know that I have missed some important news this week but that is the way it had to be.

It’s not all cut and paste. It’s looking for important issue of today that affects all of us. Even for those who disagree with my opinion, it’s important to get those opinions out to the public.
I have not received enough replies about August 25th public outcry about crime in this city to go on with this issue. If one can not take a few seconds to send an email, then I suspect that those same people are not going to be an event. As of right now I do not plan on going forward with this event. If there is a response, then this will be reinstated. I even contacted all those churches that are in the news with no reply from any of them. I guess they are not interested enough unless they head an event to take part in any other. I sent this to all the blogs that I could and only got it posted on one.

As all of you know Monday night the Mayor will be giving his budget speech at the City County council meeting. Last year we were lock out of this meeting. I plan on attending this years meeting to see how many of the “protesters” of last year will show.

Did you know that Monday night a vote may be taken on the new code of ethics for public employees?

Did you know that in the appointment of former Council attorney Aaron Haith to the Indianapolis Housing Agency Board, Haith did not show up at the Metropolitan Development Committee meeting? Haith is under investigation by the Indiana Supreme Court for alleged unethical conduct.

Did you know that last ethics committee on Monroe Gray that the two democrat members did not show up? This will also be brought up at Mondays night’s meeting on how to censor Monroe Gray. (Big Deal).

My biggest question for the democrats is where they are going to stop up to the plate and take some responsibility for the now three people on the council.

We still have the question of Councilwoman Doris Minton-McNeill.

We still have not heard anything about Councilman Bateman situation.

Could you see the democrats if these members were all republicans? Don’t think that the democrats on the council are not taking heat from not only the public but from inside the council. Where is Sanders?

Councilman Monroe Gray faces 2 investigations

http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080803/NEWS05/808030356

Monroe Gray shrugs it off to politics as usual, but the veteran city-county councilman continues to face two investigations that could determine his political and legal future.
Marion County Prosecutor Carl Brizzi confirmed last week that there is a "pending investigation concerning the alleged misconduct of Monroe Gray."

The democrats has been getting heat from inside and outside of the full council. How can the democrats on the city council keep defending its members? Now they have three that charges are being look at. If this was on the republican side it would be front page news everyday.

Want to buy a house?

I have been thinking of investing in maybe a rental or contract lease in the housing market. As I have looking around I thought that I may have found the right house. But after some research, it open my mind to the housing dilemma.

Here is a house that is appraised at $69,300 by the Star’s web site.
The list price by Fifth Third Bank is $21,800. But by researching the property tax, I soon change my mind. Channel 13 web site list the property tax at $1088.44 for the spring taxes alone. I don’t know if this includes any back taxes or not.
http://www.wthr.com/global/Category.asp?c=106040

Even with the new property tax cap of 2% on renters, the taxes on this home as stated value of $69,000 would be $1386 per year. I my estimate this house is not worth the asset value or even close to it. I would not asset it more then $50,000 if that. You can see a picture of this house at http://reo.53.com/display_listing/213/2027_Perkins_Avenue_Indianapolis_Indiana.html

So goes the housing dilemma with our property taxes hurting just as much as the tight and over extended credit problem that we face today.

Remember how we won in 2004 by putting democrats into the House

From Foxnews.com.
House Republicans, hours after Democrats took their last vote before their five-week August recess, stormed the empty House chamber, ordered up some pizzas, hooted and hollered, and did their best to keep the cameras on them so they could call attention to what they said was irresponsibility on Democrats' part for not passing new energy legislation.
After more than five hours, the event came to an end shortly after the Capitol closed to the public around 4:30 p.m Friday.
"I just saw one of the Democrats interviewed on television. The question was, if oil was $10 a gallon and you knew exactly where to get it in Alaska or on the coast, would you drill there, and there was no answer," House Minority Whip Roy Blunt, of Missouri, said before a last-minute gathering before reporters late Friday.
"We think we need to have more sources of energy, use energy more efficiently, and invest in the future. That's all. We want to have that debate. We think those are winning ideas in America today. But for whatever reason, the leaders of this Congress, the Democrat leaders of this Congress, are afraid of those ideas," Blunt said, using the invective form of the adjective to describe the opposite party by dropping the "ic" Democrats prefer, as in Democratic Party.


Earlier, Rep. Mike Pence, R-Ind., told FOX News: "Many of us speaking on the floor today, including the Republican leadership, believe the president of the United States should call this congress back into session immediately under Article II of the Constitution, and demand that this Congress deal with the issue of energy independence."
No word from the White House had yet filtered down, however.
And Democrats seemed to issue a collective yawn, with one top aide telling FOX News: "Who cares? I'm in a meeting actually working."
Democrats and Republicans are at loggerheads over solutions to reducing gas prices, which recently jumped to record levels, but have since eased off a few cents below a $4 per gallon national average.
Republicans are angry that Democrats blocked them from a vote on allowing more off-shore oil drilling and increasing domestic oil supplies.

WWE helping out stock investors.

Here is a different approach to business.

World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE:WWE) today declared the Company's regular quarterly dividend of $0.36 per share on its Class A shares of common stock. As previously announced, members of the McMahon family have waived $0.12 per share of the dividends. As a result, all Class A and Class B shares owned by the McMahon family will instead receive dividends in the amount of $0.24 per share. The record date for the dividend will be September 15, 2008, and the payment date will be September 25, 2008.
Additional information on World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: WWE) can be found at wwe.com and corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to http://www.wwe.com/worldwide/.

A question for a Libertarian

I am sure that all of you know Tim Maguire that ran for our city council last year. I like Tim and even voted for him. As many of you know he was appointed to the zoning board of appeals this year.

This got me to thinking (and as many of you know, that can be bad) about Tim being a libertarian and setting on a zoning board.

So off goes an email to Tim with this question.
"Tim, Most Libertarians do not believe that there should be no zoning laws on the books. They believe that zoning laws are only a form of central planning by the government. So my Question is how can you sit on Metropolitan Board of Zoning Appeals and believe as most libertarians do on this subject?"

I did get a reply saying that was a very interesting question and He was late for a appointment. But he did reply with this: "I will however, start with this: My duty on this board of appeals is to vote on just that: appeals. We’re not making new policy, nor changing old ones. We simply hear appeals to the strict application of the zoning ordinances."

I will leave this story as it is for you to make up your own mind unless Tim wants to respond and I will gladly put it here on this blog. I remember an old saying "a penny for your thoughts" Tim.

Indianapolis Star mistake!

You may have seen the front page story in today's Indianapolis Star, "Rollout of Indiana welfare changes halted," describing the difficulties a Marion County resident experienced navigating the welfare system. The story alleged that the Daniels administration's effort to modernize Indiana's outdated and ineffective welfare system is to blame. This story is inaccurate and the Indianapolis Star has already made corrections to the story online and removed references to this case. We expect further clarifications and retractions in tomorrow's edition of the paper.

In truth, in the county where this case occurred, modernization reforms have not yet been implemented. The difficulties and long wait times experienced in this case are some of the very reasons the Daniels' administration is working to revamp Indiana's welfare system.

Mistakes by the media can happen and it's unfortunate when they do. However, it's vitally important that you understand, and share with your friends and family members, the truth about Governor Daniels' efforts to repair and reform the welfare system considered one of the worst in the nation when he took office.

The Need for Change
Welfare Reform -
Indiana ranked last in the nation in reducing its welfare caseloads over the past decade.
Caseworkers carry an average workload of 300 cases, with caseworkers in urban areas carrying as many as 500 cases. They rarely have time to use their expertise to help clients strive toward self-sufficiency.
High Error Rates -
In Medicaid, TANF and Food Stamps, these errors cause over $100 million taxpayer dollars to be misspent annually (Indiana dollars only).
In 2005, FSSA paid Food Stamps recipients $33.9 million more than they were entitled.
Fraud and Corruption -
21 people have been accused of stealing over $1 million in taxpayer money.
More than 15 employees have been arrested since 2003 for fraud-related activities with the average case cost costing taxpayers $50,000.
Access -
The current system is almost completely paper-based; clients can't apply for benefits through the Internet, use e-mail to communicate with caseworkers, or send electronic versions of documents.
County offices are typically open only during regular office hours, creating difficulties for applicants with work or family responsibilities. Clients must make multiple trips to their county office to become eligible for benefits.

Mitch Daniels is delivering on the change he promised four years ago.

Modernizing the welfare system in Indiana will mean better, faster and less expensive services. The modernization project is expected to save $350 million to $500 million over 10 years. The eligibility modernization project motto is "Do it right, not fast," and for this reason a regional approach to implementation is being taken. In the 12-county area pilot project, in north central Indiana, Hoosiers can now apply online and over the phone for services. In addition, clients can arrange personal appointments that include new options - such as applying at a variety of community organizations.

Channel 6 backs up what I have been saying on crime.

There is not much more I can say: Maybe they can get out again but this time maybe someone will die.

http://www.theindychannel.com/news/17030470/detail.html
Twin 14-year-old brothers arrested in connection with a bold break-in at a west-side gun store each have extensive criminal histories, police said.
The brothers -- who turned 14 this week -- were wearing home detention monitors when they were arrested Friday night in connection with the early-morning burglary at Don's Guns.
Police said so far this year the twins have racked up 12 arrests for auto theft, an arrest for burglary and one for armed robbery, 6News' Jack Rinehart reported.

Police said the twins are believed to be part of a juvenile gang that has targeted Indianapolis-area car dealerships. The twins have been identified as suspects in break-ins at seven car dealerships and in the thefts of at least 25 vehicles, police said.
Investigators told Rinehart they were concerned that the boys hadn't been kept off the streets.
"To be arrested that many times for the same offense … and to actually wander out of home detention and go commit another crime, it's very alarming," said IMPD Capt. Craig Converse.
Shortly before the Don's Guns burglary, police said the twins were involved in an armed robbery on the city's west side.
The twins will be in court Friday afternoon for their initial hearing in the gun store burglary. A judge Monday ordered them held at the juvenile center until then.
_______

Who is at fault for crime?

Its time to learn what is causing our youth of today in commiting crime after crime in this city. Are we, as people, setting a good example for our kids? While get out your paper and pencils. I am going to tell you some things that are not good examples.

Let me start off with our City County Counsel. Yes I am sure that our kids read or can still watch the news. When we have people sitting on the city counsel in the likes of Monroe Gray that has been under investigation get re-elected to his post, is not a good example for parents to set.
When a member of the City Counsel can assault the police and call them racist like our own Doris Minton-McNeill did in June. Here it is August in a few days and still no charges being filed on this matter. Also none of our City Counselors have come out to the public on their feeling about the above story. As for Counselor Bateman, I will withhold judgement as of this time.

Parents are the ones that kids follow. It’s no secret that the black race is leading in one parent homes. Fathers no where to be found in these homes. But I consider that race has nothing to do with our crime problem because it is a people problem. What example is it setting when the either parent is in and out of jail? What example is it when the parent relays the message that society is to blame for their own situation today? Why are our schools only having fifty percent of the students show up for classes this summer? Where are the parents? Then we have those who wants more of our money to fund projects to keep kids out of trouble. Is it our responsibility to raise all children with taxpayers money? I find most of these programs do not meet the criteria that the kids of today need.

Then there are our famous TV shows and the movies that have been put out over the years. It’s hard for kids growing up to know what fiction is and what is real. I set in astonishment as I see the bad guy fire hundreds of rounds of bullets without hitting the good guy even once. Or the guy who falls from a three story building then jumps up and runs away.

In ending, I ask you is it the kids of today or is it the people setting the example for them? We have Travis W. Mead, 17 of Greenwood, In. appearing for an initial hearing on murder and robbery charges in the death of David Flannery. We have three juveniles 13 and 15 year olds charged in the Don’s Guns break-in.

As a parent, it is our responsibility, your obligation, to see to it that our children get adequate education to become useful members of society. This education process begins in the home, not the school. The skills your children learn before they start school are an integral part of what they retain throughout their lives. As parents, you must set an example for your children to follow which demonstrates the ability to be tolerant and get along with others. Child "disfunctionality" (if that is a word) has increased dramatically over the last 10-15 years, and continues to be a problem. Children today display more-than-normal behavior leaning towards violent aggression, a total disregard for authority, and a general confusion about what is right and what is wrong. Parents, it is your job to instill decency and responsibility into your children; not the police, not the schools, not your minister, but you.

ABDUL Gets the boot.

From Indiana Barrister:

Here’s something that doesn’t happen everyday. I got kicked out of a meeting of the Indianapolis-based Concerned Clergy this morning. I’m shaking my head too. It would have been one thing if I was a money changer, but I’m just a guy with an opinion and humble radio talk show. I know I’m not a fan favorite of some the Clergy members, particularly the lady who is the secretary and prime candidate for cardiac arrest or Type-2 Diabetes. But I’ve never been thrown out of a meeting before.
The sad thing is I was there to talk to some of the clergy members about violence in the African-American community, the weekend robbery at Don’s Gun Store and the fact that IPS has the worst dropout rate in the nation when it comes to Black males. I was hoping to get some meaningful discussion going and find out what concrete steps were being taken to address these types of issues other than the more traditional rallies, prayer vigils and lip service.
I guess we’ll never know because apparently the hatred for a productive Black man who can help influence opinions and break down stereotypes is more important for some people than keeping the streets safe from other Black men who aren’t as productive and perpetuate stereotypes.
I wonder what Jesus would have done? http://www.indianabarrister.com/archives/2008/07/that_wasnt_very_christian.html

I have also contacted several of these "Concerned Clergy" in regard to Aug 23rd with not one reply.

Fundraiser for Fishburn

This Sunday July 27 The Tie Die Grill, 1311 N Sandland Ave. is holding a fund raiser from 11am to 3pm. I plan to be there to show my support of guy that we needed while he was on duty. Now he needs help from all of us.

Another fundraiser for Fishburn is scheduled for Aug. 23 at the St. Joseph Council Knights of Columbus, 4332 N. German Church Road. I am not sure of the time.

Monroe Gray

I have a little story to tell about the Monroe Gray issue. I am not sure of the dates so bear with me on this one. I believe it was March on a Monday that I sent an email off to our new city council about the Monroe Gray issue. All of a sudden, there was a meeting held that Thursday evening in witch I attended. While they met in executive session in the second meeting that the public was not able to attend. No one from the public attended the third. (You can still see this video on the city county site.) They decided that since the members of the public were not interested in this issue, they would put this off again.

I ask reader of this blog and those posting on the Indianapolis star forum to email the city council with their concerns and complaints. I also this Monday sent off a letter to an important member on the council pointing out some political points that might arise from some of the goings on within the council. In that email I pointed out that this council was doing the same thing that the proceeding council did. Keeping quit and hoping that it would go away. “Remember how we bashed then Mayor Peterson for not committing on Monroe Gary?” “Remember that we accused the democratic lead council in protecting their own members”?

Lord behold I could not sleep tonight and got up to read the story in the star about City-County Council ethics committee Thursday recommended City-County Councilman Monroe Gray be censured for failing to disclose his concrete company’s subcontracting work for a major city contractor.

Even if this is not as far as we wanted to see this go, we may have gotten it done by keeping the pressure on. I have posted the email address on this blog and the Indianapolis star forum a few times this last several weeks. It seems that many took this advice and did just that. We can do this again by showing up Aug. 23th on the circle at 10:00am, Subject, CRIME in our city.

Suicide Before Home Foreclosure

TAUNTON, Mass. — A 53-year-old wife and mother fatally shot herself shortly after faxing a letter to her mortgage company saying that she'd be dead by the time they foreclosed on her house that day.

Police said that Carlene Balderrama used her husband's high-powered rifle to kill herself Tuesday afternoon, shortly after faxing the letter at 2:30 p.m.
The mortgage company called police, who found Balderrama's body at 3:30 p.m. The auction was scheduled to start at 5 p.m. and interested buyers arrived at the property in Taunton, about 35 miles south of Boston, while Balderrama's body was still inside, according to Taunton police chief Raymond O'Berg.

Police did not immediately release the name of the mortgage company. O'Berg said Balderrama's fax read, in part, "By the time you foreclose on my house I'll be dead."
O'Berg also said a suicide note found next to Balderrama told her husband, John, and 24-year-old son to "take the (life) insurance money and pay for the house."

Citizens to take our city back

I don’t know about you but I for one “had enough” of the crime in this city. I have gotten some responds to the issue of a showing on the circle by the citizens of this town. Mark this date down. August 23rd with a rain date of August 30. I am making this on Saturday because I want the churches that have been holding prayer vigils to have the opportunity to take part.

Why am I doing this? Its not for personal recognition for I would rather not be the one who is heading this. But, I do not see anyone else doing anything about crime in this city.
I would rather be sitting here writing this blog or enjoying my time in retirement. But, I do not see anyone else doing anything about crime in this city. I am not what you would call a leader but I see no one else leading.

What I need is a few people to help out. If you want to contribute any of your time, please let me know. We need some sort of p.a. system in place. We need all of you to spread the word about the citizens showing that they are fed up. I will see that some of our important people will be invited to speak.

All I am saying here is that we have the right to bear arms and I will be excising my right August 23rd. I urge you to do the same if you have a legal permit to do so. This does not apply to long guns.

If you desire, you can email me at IndyRacer57@comcast.net or call me at 898-1981. Lets get the ball rolling.

Breaking news. Three more die in Indy.

A domestic dispute turned into a double murder-suicide Tuesday morning and a 13-year-old girl is the only survivor.

Police said the triple fatal shooting began around 7:15 a.m. on the city's northwest side at 5051 Winterberry Drive. They received calls around that time reporting a domestic disturbance.
Sgt. Matt Mount with IMPD said a woman, her boyfriend, and her 13-year-old daughter were inside an apartment when the woman's ex-husband came inside. The teenager was awoken by a popping noise, which later police determined to be gunfire that killed the woman's current boyfriend.

Police said the shooter forced his ex-wife into his car. She was able to escape and return to her apartment, but police said the ex-husband forced his way back into her apartment and grabbed both her and her daughter and forced them into his car and drove off.
Police believe the woman was shot and killed in the car near the apartment complex at 59th and Georgetown.

When police spotted the vehicle, the shooter fled with the woman's body and teenager inside, heading south on I-65 to the 21st Street exit with police in pursuit.
A police officer performed at PIT maneuver at 25th and Pennsylvania, bringing the car to a stop. Police said the driver then turned the gun on himself.
The teenager did suffer a blow to her head, but it was not from a gunshot. She is being treated for the injury.

The names of the shooter and the two victims have not been released.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available. Tune in to 24-Hour News 8 at Noon for the very latest.http://www.wishtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=8713153

From Indiana's Consrvative Harball

Monday, July 21, 2008

Gary, Indiana: getting their act together
Gary, Indiana.One time known for winning the title of being the most dangerous city in America, having more murders than anywhere else.But something is going on up there....The Indianapolis Star is reporting:
The city has seen less than half the number of homicides it had by this time last year, and other Northwestern Indiana communities also have shown declines.

According to statistics from police and the Lake County coroner's office, Gary has had 20 homicides so far in 2008, compared with 42 through July of last year.Mayor Rudy Clay attributes the decline in part to a willingness among residents to come forward when crimes are committed."The people of Gary are saying 'Hey, we're tired of it. We're not going to take it anymore,' " Clay said.Now wait a second... Homicides are down around 50%? In Gary?Rudy Clay says that the people aren't going to take it anymore?(Maybe me and my family can take in a Railcats game, knowing it may be safer downtown Gary than before.)

But in Indianapolis, completely different story.As of Sunday, 7/19/08, Indy's homicide numbers were completely different than that of Gary. Indy hit the 70 mark. And even though some say it is a lower number than before, it is nevertheless, 70 homicides.But the people of Gary have decided that they are not going to take it anymore.Wonder when the people of Indianapolis are going to make that same decision?

I wrote about this last week. People can get pissed off enough about property taxes enough that they rally around the Circle and at the Governor's Mansion. They start to lobby the legislature even.But when it comes to murders and crime, for some reason that I cannot figure out, the people get quiet. No voices, no out crys.

How many more murders/homicides have to happen before Indianapolis wakes up and says "we're not going to take this anymore either"? http://indyhardball.blogspot.com/2008/07/gary-indiana-getting-their-act-together.html

Councilwoman Doris Minton-McNeill.

How long will it be till we see charges brought against Councilwoman Doris Minton-McNeill. It was back on June 23rd that we seen Doris arrested and carted off to jail. How long does it take a special prosecuting attorney to interview those people who were involved in this case. Will we let this fall by the wayside as we did Monroe Gray issue. Its up to you and the action you take.
Email the city counselors at http://www.indygov.org/eGov/Council/contactus.htm

Number of homicides

That is not Indianapolis but would you believe Gary Indiana:

According to statistics from police and the Lake County coroner's office, Gary has had 20 homicides so far in 2008, compared with 42 through July of last year.

Mayor Rudy Clay attributes the decline in part to a willingness among residents to come forward when crimes are committed.
"The people of Gary are saying 'Hey, we're tired of it. We're not going to take it anymore,' " Clay said. http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080721/LOCAL/807210349/1304/LOCAL

Make this number 70

The daughter of the Rev. Malachi and Dawn Walker was shot about 1 a.m. today at her home in the 2400 block of Morningstar Drive, police said. She died later at Wishard Hospital, according to her parents.

Is it not time for all of us to come together?

Crime in Indianapolis

Posted at Indy star:

If you remember last year tax protesters filled the circle to voice their concerns about taxes. But let this year with 69 homicides in our city, I see no blogs or post where they are planning any kind of action on crime. Sixty nine and counting and that’s only homicides. How many more crimes happen in this city each day?

I would like to see citizens letting their voices heard about crime in this city. I would like to see citizens fill the circle to let the criminals that we are not going to take this lying down. Would anyone be willing to start what you could call a protest like we did on property taxes? If so I am open to suggestion. You can view my blog (witch has my email address) and I would like to hear you comments about the above subject. http://indianapolsnewgoverment2008.blogspot.com/

If I do not get any feed back then I guess you are not interested in forming some kind of event.

Indiana comes in 16th

This may be good news but not this time. Indiana ranks 16th when it comes to adult obesity prevalence. You can see other states at this site. http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,385549,00.html

More than 30 percent of adults in Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee are considered obese. In part, experts blame Southern eating habits, poverty and demographic groups that have higher obesity rates.

The study found that about 36 percent of black survey participants were obese, while 28.5 percent of Hispanics and 24.5 percent of whites were.

California State high court

California State high court refused to remove same-sex marriage ban from ballot. Gay-rights advocates sued June 19 to block a vote on Prop. 8, arguing that the measure would destroy fundamental rights that can’t legally be abolished by an initiative.

The court rarely takes up legal challenges to a ballot measure before an election, and could consider the same issue in another lawsuit if the measure passes.

The suit was "a desperate effort to keep the amendment away from the democratic process," said attorney Glen Lavy of the Alliance Defense Fund, which represents sponsors of Prop. 8.
_________
Just like here, these people will do anything to keep you from our right to vote.

INDIANA BARRISTER REPORTS

This Can’t Be Good
According to my colleague Jack Rinehart at RTV 6, City-County Councilor Paul Bateman is under investigation for his role in a charitable foundation that is missing more than $1.5 million.
Marion County Grand Jurors served a search warrant last week on the headquarters of the Russel Foundation seizing computers, IRS records and other documents.

Bateman is listed as the Chief Operating Officer on the charity’s website. Bateman would not comment on the warrant to RTV 6, but he would only say he has done nothing wrong.

I will be the first person to stand up and say a search warrant is not guilt and Bateman and I, while having philosophical disagreements at times, have always been cordial to each other.
However, this news can’t be good for Marion County Democrats in general and Black Democrats in particular. Bateman’s potential troubles come on the heels of Doris Minton-McNeil being arrested on disorderly conduct charges. And last year Monroe Gray and Ron Gibson found themselves at the center of controversies.

I don’t know who’s running the local Democratic party these days, but these incidents are evidentiary of an absence of leadership and getting people in line.
Posted: 071708 at 11:08 pm by Abdul Hakim-Shabazz

Bad news for Jill long but Good news for the state.

Unless I missed it, I notice the star did not cover this story at less on line.

Indiana's state government ended the last fiscal year with its third consecutive balanced budget and a bigger surplus at a time when many states are making major spending cuts or considering tax increases to deal with deficits.

"We are standing on firm, sound, financial ground," state Auditor Tim Berry said Thursday.
State officials closed the books on the fiscal year that ended on June 30 with revenues exceeding spending by about $321 million. That's in part because of spending restraints Gov. Mitch Daniels ordered last December after revenue projections were lowered because of a sagging economy.
State government spent about $133 million less over the past 12 months than was allocated by lawmakers.

The savings were achieved in part by leaving some agency staff positions open and postponing some capital projects, including construction of two state police posts and installing new flooring in state office buildings, State Budget Director Chris Ruhl said.
The state ended the year with nearly $600 million in its main checking account. That combined with savings accounts left the state with a budget surplus of about $1.4 billion.

Update on Jason Fishburn

Doctors operated on Indianapolis police officer Jason Fishburn to removed fluid from under the scalp. Today I was also told that he rejected another breathing tube. When they tried to put it in this time, lets say that he gave them a sign that he did not want it. He is also responding to verbal commands. Lets hope that Jason recovers from this and justice will be served in the end.

Have you heard news from Iraq?

No? Here is why:

COMBAT OUTPOST COPPER, Iraq — It's quiet around here in farm country, south of Baghdad where Al Qaeda once held sway. Just months ago U.S. foot patrols through the wheat fields nearby would regularly draw fire — if the soldiers managed first to elude Al Qaeda-planted roadside bombs.
"The difference is night and day," says Capt. George Morris, 26. He and his soldiers in Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division walked the area this week to visit a handful of farm families five miles east of the town of Latifiyah, not far from the Tigris River.
And it's not just here. Throughout the country, Al Qaeda in Iraq, an insurgent organization thought to be affiliated with the global terrorist network but comprised mainly of Iraqis, has lost so much clout it is close to becoming irrelevant to the outcome of the war. The group has not been eliminated, however, leaving open the possibility of resurgence if the Iraqi government fails to follow up the military gains with civilian services like the irrigation that's badly needed here.

Either way, however, the moment seems to have passed when Al Qaeda could prevail in this conflict. It has been forced out of its original strongholds in Anbar province, and more recently it has lost Baghdad and the northern city of Mosul, although it still can pull off a deadly attack there and elsewhere.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,384525,00.html

It seems that Barbie has some upset

The doll’s image is transformed with kinky fishnets, motorcycle jacket, black gloves and boots.
Makers Mattel say Black Canary Barbie, out in September, is based on a DC comic superhero of the same name.
But religious group Christian Voice said: “Barbie has always been on the tarty side and this is taking it too far.
A children’s doll in sexually suggestive clothing is irresponsible – it’s filth.”

Click the headline to see Barbie in her new outfit.

McDonald's Franchisee Fined $1M

RENO, Nev. — Two executives and the corporate owner of 11 northern Nevada McDonald's restaurants pleaded guilty to felony immigration charges and agreed to pay $1 million in fines.
Authorities say Mack Associates Inc. employed illegal immigrants at the fast-food restaurants by giving them names and Social Security numbers belonging to others.
Nevada U.S. attorney Gregory Brower says the company pleaded guilty Wednesday as a corporation to two felony charges including conspiracy and aiding and abetting.
The case stems from the arrests last September of 56 people in Immigrations and Customs Enforcement raids at restaurants in Reno, Sparks and Fernley, and at franchise offices in Reno.
Company directors Joe Gillespie of Sparks and former vice president Jimmy Moore pleaded guilty in federal court in Las Vegas to one charge each.
About 30 of the illegal workers have returned to their native countries while the rest were allowed to stay in the United States until the case closes.

IPS plan may go to voters

Under the new law voters will have the right to voice their opinion Nov 14th.

More than 250 signatures were filed with the county this week asking for a referendum on Indianapolis Public Schools' proposed $278 million building blitz.
County officials are working to verify that those who signed are registered voters or property owners, Voter Registration Board member Linda Mowery said.

Nancy Pelosi no impeachment proceedings.

Some of you were fooled again.


House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., has made clear since she ascended to that post that there would be no impeachment proceedings. But that didn't stop Kucinich from introducing 35 articles of impeachment, spending four hours in June reading them on the House floor and demanding hearings. The House summarily dispatched them for burial to the Judiciary Committee.

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,383361,00.html

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told you

But Action speaks louder the words.


Two years ago Pelosi told you that the democrats had the answer for the solution to high gas prices. While we are paying over $4.00 per gallon for gasoline, we are still waiting for the answer.
Since the Democrats took control of Congress gas has went up 77% in the last two years. Obama would’ve preferred a more gradual adjustment in fuel prices. Our own Harry Reid believes all fossil fuels are dirty and need to be eliminated. But what are they offering us? And do they know what this is doing to our economy. If I was you I would be writing to these people everyday until they stop all their bull and get on with doing their jobs.

Bush to life Ban

WASHINGTON — President Bush will lift an executive ban on offshore oil drilling, although new oil exploration on the Outer Continental Shelf will remain off limits until Congress also takes action.

The president will make a Rose Garden statement on Monday, where he is expected to announce his lifting of the ban.

The Outer Continental Shelf has been a particularly hot debate, with the Bush administration saying new drilling technology would make U.S. shores safe from environmental disaster while helping to drive down prices with greater supplies.
Democrats say energy companies already have plenty of space to look for oil and have stalled on investing in more oil production while reaping record profits.

From Indiana BARRISTER

Officer Jason Fishburn is showing definite signs of improvement. We are coming close to the end of those initial critical 72 hours and Jason has not shown any signs of getting worse. On the contrary, he has shown signs of reaction to stimuli and his physical condition is improving. Doctors are still cautiously optimistic and will be proceeding with tests to determine the extent of damage caused by the injury. The family is so grateful for the prayers of fellow officers and the community, and have said on numerous occasions that they have felt the support of those prayers and of family, friends, and people they have never met, as they continue through this challenging and difficult time. They know it is through those prayers and blessings from the Lord that Jason is being cared for and looked after. They ask for continued prayers and will try to keep everybody informed of his progress as they are able.

Thanks Abdul for the update.

Prayer vigil for Officer Jason Fishburn

I attended the prayer vigil for officer Fishburn this afternoon. To say the least it was moving. I have known Mayor Ballard for a year now and I have never seen him so nerved as he was today. I could tell that this was laying on him more then I have ever seen anything that he had to deal with in the past. There were a few hundred people that showed at Indiana Av and 10th street. They announced that our Mayor has been to three such events this week.

The last word of Officer Fishburn is that he is still clinging on to life but they will not give a long-term prognosis. They are saying that just for him to be alive at this moment is a miracle. Tonight, let’s all think of Officer Fishburn and be wishing him well.


But here is something to think about. As you are reading the star tomorrow, you will see many events canceled today because of the weather. Morning rains canceled events today, including a run-walk and a cleanup at the site of a May tornado. Morning thunderstorms also washed out all but the indoor events of Unite 2 Fight: Race against Prostate Cancer. More than 2,000 people planned to participate in the sixth annual 5K run and walk Downtown. Officials canceled the annual Fishers / Lawrence Township Safety Day. The event, scheduled through 3 p.m. today in the parking lot at Menards and Sam's Club on 96th Street west of I-69, was designed to educate people about fire safety and provide other emergency information.

But as we stood there today looking up at the warm clear skies, one has to think that someone may have been looking down on Officer Jason Fishburn.

France says No to Muslim woman

Click on the story for more details.

Moroccan woman was denied citizenship in France because her head-to-toe Islamic veil, which shows only her eyes, was "incompatible" with French gender equality, Reuters reported.
According to Reuters, the woman has three children with her French husband and has been living in the country for the last eight years. The 32-year-old woman wears a black burqa that shows only her eyes, and lives in "total submission," according to French social services.

IndyMac Bank falls

IndyMac Bank's assets were seized by federal regulators on Friday after the mortgage lender succumbed to the pressures of tighter credit, tumbling home prices and rising foreclosures.
The bank is the largest regulated thrift to fail and the second largest financial institution to close in U.S. history, regulators said.
The Office of Thrift Supervision said it transferred IndyMac's operations to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation because it did not think the lender could meet its depositors' demands.
IndyMac customers with funds in the bank were limited to taking out money via automated teller machines over the weekend, debit card transactions or checks, regulators said.
Other bank services, such as online banking and phone banking were scheduled to be made available on Monday.
"This institution failed today due to a liquidity crisis," OTS Director John Reich said.
The lender's failure came the same day that financial markets plunged when investors tried to gauge whether the government would have to save mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,381130,00.html

The FDIC estimated that its takeover of IndyMac would cost between $4 billion and $8 billion.

Lets show our support.

Saturday July 12, 2008The Indianapolis Police Department announced a special prayer vigil for Officer Jason Fishburn - Saturday July 12, 2008 - Intersection of 10th and Indiana Avenue, near Wishard Hospital at 4:00pm.

Parking is available in the old YMCA lot.There has been a great deal of violence in our city, and Officer Fishburn is a true hero. Officers like him are working daily to keep us safe and secure. If you can't make this prayer vigil, please pray and keep him, his family, and our officers in your thoughts throughout this weekend.

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called Sons of God."- Matthew 5:9

Jill long wants to "soften" voters ID law

"If elected governor, Jill Long Thompson would work to ease the state’s voter-ID law and strengthen the Indiana Civil Rights Commission."

"The ideas were among a handful of proposals the Democratic gubernatorial candidate unveiled Thursday, first in a conference call with minority-run newspapers and then to all media."

“As governor, I will work to ensure all people are actively engaged in Indiana’s progress and I will work to ensure our government better reflects the people it represents,” she said.

______

Jill show us where Indiana ID law would keep someone from voting. I am sure that you and your party would be glad to help those who wants to get the ID.

_____

"Long Thompson wants to adopt the federal standards, which would allow Hoosiers to use a utility bill, bank statement, government check, current paycheck or other government document showing the name and address of the voter as proof of identification."

Boy this would be hard to get to vote in another persons name. Anyone got a utility bill, bank statement, government check I can borrow? If this guy has just passed away, who would know?

Then I could vote twice.

Now here is a surprise:

Long Thompson also suggested:
• Expanding the responsibilities of the Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, including directing it to work specifically on preventing teenage pregnancies, parenting skills, reducing the high school dropout rate and lowering the rate of recidivism in Indiana communities. Long Thompson also would create a statewide Board of Faith and Community Partnerships to advise the office and her administration on these matters.

And Here is two that does not surprise us:

Strengthening the Indiana Civil Rights Commission, including allowing victims of confirmed discrimination to have their attorney’s fees paid by the offending employer, allowing either party to have a case moved to state court rather than the commission and giving those involved in a case the right to a jury trial.
• Increasing Internet connectivity and access in urban centers.

Jill I have to pay for my Internet Connection. Why should we have to pay for someone to use it for free?

Patrolman Fishburn.

Surgeons caring for wounded IMPD patrolman Jason Fishburn said today that most patients with similar injuries do not survive.
"His condition is still guarded," said Dr. Gerardo Gomez, director of the IU-Wishard Level 1 Trauma Center at a 3:15 p.m. press conference outside the hospital. "Our main concern is survival."

This does not look good for one of our IMPD finest. Our prayers are with him.

Some more bad news for Jill Long

CNBC's America's Top States for Business 2008 report recently called Indiana the Most Improved State for Business:

"This year's Most Improved State for Business is Indiana, which jumps 13 places to number 13. Indiana improved in eight of our 10 categories, with its biggest jump in the Economy category, rising to number 37 from number 48. Indiana's reliance on commodities-both agricultural and industrial-helped improve the state's economy from its near-bottom ranking last year."

Mitch has never been bashful in declaring jobs as his #1 priority. The results are showing.

The survey scored all 50 states - using publicly available data - on 40 different measures of competitiveness. States received points based on their rankings in each metric. Then, they separated those metrics into 10 broad categories, with input from business groups including the National Association of Manufacturers.

They weighted the categories based on how frequently each is cited in state economic development marketing materials.Indiana improved in eight of its 10 categories, with its biggest jump in the "economy" category, rising to 37th from No. 48. Indiana's reliance on commodities -- both agricultural and industrial -- helped improve the state's economy from its near-bottom ranking last year.Another reason Indiana moved up from an overall score of 26th in 2007?

CNBC said Indiana is No. 3 based on the perceived "friendliness" of their legal and regulatory frameworks to business. Our state is also ranked fourth for transportation.

Sad day for Indianapolis

At 7:20pm on the east side of Indianapolis a officer was shot in the head. "Fishburn suffered a "devastating'' gunshot wound to the head and was in surgery for several hours after the shooting, which occurred at about 7:20 p.m. Spears said doctors tried to relieve swelling on Fishburn's brain. He said the officer also was shot in the torso but that his bullet-proof vest took the brunt of that shot."

This hit me a little more because just this day I was joking with a police officer that was named Jason. But as it turns out this is not the person I was thinking of. Its time for the citizens of this city to get on the ball and take our streets back. The police nor the Mayor can do it alone.

At 6:30am Officer Fishburn is still clinging to life.

2nd Amendment Patriots Endorse Mitch Daniels

The Second Amendment Patriots, a Southwest Indiana-based grassroots organization dedicated to preserving the rights, freedoms, and civil liberties of Americans, has announced its endorsement of Mitch Daniels for re-election.

"Governor Daniels has taken every opportunity to promote gun rights and reinforce the Second Amendment and the Right to Keep and Bear Arms," said Jim Tomes, director of the 2nd Amendment Patriots. "He quickly signed the Lifetime Handgun License, the only such license in the country, and the Castle Doctrine, which allows citizens to defend themselves without the fear of retribution."Governor Daniels initiated an Executive Order that allows those with a handgun license to carry in state parks and other state property. This order ultimately became permanent.Under his administration, the DNR has made more land available to hunting.

Governor Daniels also signed into law a Hunter Apprenticeship program that will promote youth hunting."Because of this Administration's commitment to firearms ownership, the 2nd Amendment Patriots endorses Gov. Mitch Daniels and Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman for reelection," Tomes said.

Join Sportsmen for Mitch!

Reminder:

Are you ready to join the fight?
Sheila Jenkins from the non-profit Community Development Law Center isexploring ways to challenge these property taxes. But she mustdemonstrate the need. That people are in danger of losing theirproperties, or that their lives will otherwise be severely impacted.She has to show powers that be that there are real life consequencesin the making. Sheila, under the aegis of NESCO (Near EastsideCommunity Organization) is spearheading a forum for:>>next Saturday, July 12,>> 9 am,>> at Englewood Church>> 57 N. Rural, Indpls, INAnyone in a precarious position especially should contact me ASAP so that I can pass their info along to Sheila. It is imperative to demonstrate the impact it is having on people's lives for Sheila to be able to fight this. We can't do anything without it. So please call or email me ASAP, and pass this on to anyone who is affected.Thanks!Laurie Klinger lklinger@indy.rr.com637-6242

Don't worry about Immigrants are not speaking English

O'bama said your kids should be able to speak Spanish: http://youtube.com/watch?v=g6gfcAe3-as

In a March 2004 questionnaire, Obama was asked if the government should "crack down on businesses that hire illegal immigrants." His reply? "OPPOSE."

In June 2007, Obama voted AGAINST English as America 's Official Language -- when 91% of American Citizens want English officially designated as our language.

In January of this year, in order to win Hispanic voters in California, Obama proclaimed his SUPPORT for granting driver's licenses to illegal aliens.

This year, Obama voted AGAINST increased funding for border security, 700 miles of fencing, and placing 6,000 National Guardsmen on the border.

Also this year, Obama voted FOR the "DREAM" Act, which would allow illegal aliens to receive in-state tuition rates at public universities, discriminating against U.S. citizens from out of state and law-abiding foreign students.

Again in May of 2006, Obama voted YES on allowing illegal aliens to participate in Social Security

252,363 homes received at least one foreclosure-related notice in June

WASHINGTON — The number of homeowners stung by the rout in the U.S. housing market jumped last month as foreclosure filings grew by more than 50 percent compared with June a year ago, according to data released Thursday.
Nationwide, 252,363 homes received at least one foreclosure-related notice in June, up 53 percent from the same month last year, but down 3 percent from May, RealtyTrac Inc. said. One in every 501 U.S. households received a foreclosure filing last month.
Foreclosure filings increased from a year earlier in all but 11 states. Nevada, California, Arizona, Florida and Michigan continued to have the highest foreclosure rates.
Irvine, Calif.-based RealtyTrac monitors default notices, auction sale notices and bank repossessions. More than 71,000 properties were repossessed by lenders nationwide in June, the company said.
While foreclosures continue to rise nationwide, efforts in some states to give borrowers more time before losing their homes appear to be working.http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,379343,00.html

Your tax dollars

Just click on this story to go to Indiana Barrister. The story is as follows:

Breaking the Law, Breaking the Law
Has the Center Township Assessor been listening to Judas Priest lately? You could make the argument that Eugene Akers has.
As citizens have been going in to appeal their property tax assessments, Akers’ office has been handing out political literature telling them to vote against transferring the Township Assessor’s duties to the County Assessor.

I know this is true because I went to the Office last week and they not only gave me a copy, but made several copies, at my request, to hand out to all my friends.
Here’s the text of the flyer…

JUST SAY NO!
If you wish to retain local representation in Center Township, vote NO on the November 4th General Election Referendum issue:
“Should the assessing duties of the Elected Township Assessor in the township be transferred to the County Assessor?”
Please look for this referendum on the backside of your ballot!
JUST SAY NO!Thank you for your Support!

There was no disclaimer on the flyer nor was there a disclosure statement as to who paid for it (of course we know who did, it was the taxpayers).
I wasn’t sure about the legality of this until I called the Indiana State Board of Accounts and was told the agency would take exception to the township assessor paying for political activities out of public funds.

We can have a debate about whether consolidation of the township assessors into the County assessor is a good thing, but it doesn’t help the township assesssors when one of them does really dumb things like this.

It also makes me wonder if someone is stupid enough to engage in blatant politicking on government time, do they really need to keep their job?

Posted: 07808 at 8:22 am by Abdul Hakim-Shabazz
Thanks Abdul for bring this out. But why has the Star not put this story in print?

Bob Barr statment one gay marriage.

May 15, 2008 7:33 pm EST
Bob Barr, former Member of Congress from Georgia and current candidate for President for the Libertarian Party, today issued the following statement in reaction to today's decision by the California Supreme Court allowing for the recognition of same sex marriage in that state:

"Regardless of whether one supports or opposes same sex marriage, the decision to recognize such unions or not ought to be a power each state exercises on its own, rather than imposition of a one-size-fits-all mandate by the federal government (as would be required by a Federal Marriage Amendment which has been previously proposed and considered by the Congress). The decision today by the Supreme Court of California properly reflects this fundamental principle of federalism on which our nation was founded.

"Indeed, the primary reason for which I authored the Defense of Marriage Act in 1996 was to ensure that each state remained free to determine for its citizens the basis on which marriage would be recognized within its borders, and not be forced to adopt a definition of marriage contrary to its views by another state. The decision in California is an illustration of how this principle of states' powers should work."
____________
Thanks to Lizzy for posting this but I go back to his statement on his web site:

“As a conservative Republican member of Congress from 1995 to 2003, I was hardly a card-carrying member of the gay-rights lobby. I opposed then, and continue to oppose, same-sex marriage, or the designation of gays as a constitutionally protected minority class.”

As for each state deciding for on their own, first we must get it on the ballot to vote. Most gay rights people are against this. Now this brings another question. If the Federal government does not recognize gay marriage, how would that affect taxes. Would you still have to file single or married?

Why are they supporting Bob Barr?

It surprises me that a lot of our local folks and blogs are supporting Bob Bar for President. Do we really know who Bob Barr is? What he stands for?

Bob Barr voted for The PATRIOT Act

Bob Barr is a conservative Republican who does not support gay marriage.

It was Barr who in 1996 wrote the Defense of Marriage Act, which said states didn't have to recognize gay marriages performed in other states.
“As a conservative Republican member of Congress from 1995 to 2003, I was hardly a card-carrying member of the gay-rights lobby. I opposed then, and continue to oppose, same-sex marriage, or the designation of gays as a constitutionally protected minority class.”

Bob Barr is for the right for people to own and carry guns and is an NRA board member:

“These and other firearms-related issues likely will – and should – occupy the attention of our legislators during the 2008 session. One hopes that organizations like the NRA and GeorgiaCarry.Org, will continue to proactively educate and advocate on behalf of the inherent Second Amendment rights of all law-abiding Georgians, just as the lawyers representing such citizens in the District of Columbia will be doing in the Supreme Court early next year.”

“The extent to which Georgia’s laws restrict the carrying of a firearm by an otherwise law-abiding citizen as a result of these long-standing, but little-known laws is startling; and such laws should be amended. For example, unlike California, Georgia law prohibits the carrying (by a holder of a carry permit) of a firearm on a bus or a train – or even at or near a train or bus stop parking lot.”

Iran: He does not say much about Iran but he says that:
“Unlike the Iraqi population before the 2003 U.S.-led invasion, which had never enjoyed a participatory political system, millions of Iran's citizens have tasted and understand the benefits of such freedom. It would be a shame if, in a rush to prove something politically at home or abroad, the U.S. were to initiate a military confrontation that would not only destroy that base of support, but lead to a conflict vastly more costly and lengthy than the invasion of Iraq has turned out to be”

“Should Washington simply sit back and leave Iran alone — free to support terrorist groups and regimes in other countries, including Iraq, and to develop a nuclear capability? Of course not.” So Bob how do you stand on Iran?

Since leaving Congress, Barr has taken an advisory post with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and started writing a column for Atlanta's alternative weekly Creative Loafing -- neither ordinarily a haven for Republicans.

In closing, after reading Barr’s web site, I find it hard to find out what he stands for or against. (Except for the examples above)
But the point I am trying to make here, it looks as if our Libertarian party is supporting a conservative Republican that is against many issues the they are in favor of. And true Republicans would not vote for anyone that is a connected with the ACLU.
http://www.bobbarr2008.com/about/