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 The story alleged that the Daniels administration's effort to modernize Indiana's outdated and ineffective welfare system is to blame.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/

How America has changed on paupers

How we have changed this country over time. Lets take the subject of welfare. There has been a need for welfare since the time that this country was started, but not as we know it today

Did you know that the “Common Council” of People of Colonial Albany in 1799 posted a list of the needy and those who was in need of maintenance?

Even in our liberal state of Massachusetts this took place in 1833:

Towns are bound by law to support, comfortably, all such of their inhabitants as may from time to time fall into distress and stand in need of relief, and to continue such support so long as it may be needed; and during its continuance they are entitled to the reasonable services of those supported by them. . . . The rights and duties of towns and paupers are correlative. While the town supports the pauper, the pauper is bound to labor for the town. But when the support becomes unnecessary, the right to control the labor ceases.

As late as the 1880s, in some locales, paupers continued to be legally bound to serve the town which was supporting them. In 1884, for example, Connecticut towns were still farming out their paupers and still assigning the rights to their labor. In Groton, Connecticut, "the keeper of the town poor" still operated "under a written contract received an annual compensation for three years of $ 2,300 and for an additional term of three years the annual sum of $ 2,800 and the services of the paupers during both periods. http://www.sou.edu/polisci/pavlich/steinfeld_suffrage.htm

I can assure you that this kind of thing would not happen today. Can you just see what the ACLU would do if our city council would list the names of people on our welfare rolls today. Can you see us making these people even do a lick of work? Something to think about.

Another killing on the East side

Police are investigating the violent death of a 69-year-old man at a Near-Eastside home.
The Marion County coroner has not yet determined the cause of Clifford Haddix's death. Police found Haddix beaten and possibly shot to death in his home in the 3000 block of Newton Avenue at about 10:30 p.m. Sunday, Sgt. Matthew Mount said. http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080707/NEWS02/807070368

U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee has called for a congressional inquiry:

Democrat Rep. Jackson seems to think that citizens on the grand jury has tarnished our legal system. This has to do with the shooting of two suspects that was burglarizing a neighbor's home in Texas.

"With the many misgivings surrounding the Harris County legal system, it is fair to say that this local judicial system has been tarnished," Jackson Lee said. "It is time for all officials to be held accountable and true justice and democracy to be restored."

May I remind Rep. Jackson that the legal system she is talking about are the citizens of Texas, not some elected or appointed Grand Jury.

This is the story: The first thing that came to mind when I started reading this was how the reporter tells us how the illegal immigrant were gunned down. Foxnews did not report anything about Rep. Jackson saying anything about the two suspects that were killed were illegal immigrant.

"A Harris County grand jury on Monday ended the rancorous seven-month debate over Pasadena resident Joe Horn's decision to gun down two illegal immigrant burglars in his front yard, concluding the act was a justifiable use of deadly force and not murder.
The grand jury heard two weeks of testimony from witnesses, including Horn. They likely also heard his breathless 911 call, during which the increasingly frustrated retiree ignored a dispatcher's pleas to stay inside and out of harm's way. The Nov. 14 call ended with the sound of Horn racking a shell into his 12-gauge shotgun's chamber followed by three gunshots that killed Colombians Diego Ortiz, 30, and Hernando Riascos Torres, 38. Each man was shot in the back. They had taken about $2,000 in the burglary."

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/front/5864151.html ( There is also a video on this site of the police interview of Mr. Horn that you should watch).

http://www.foxnews.com/wires/2008Jul07/0,4670,BurglaryShooting,00.html

Maybe they should hold hearings on 72-year old Mario Gonzalez-Tello. The man who was shot at 38th Street and Moller Road just after 11:00 on June 30th. If you remember Mario pulled his gun on a robber but the robber cut him down before he had a chance to fire back. http://www.wishtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=8582874

Another point of this story that no one has said if the two men were unarmed or not. If Joe Horn has waited like Mario did, maybe he too would be dead instead of the two men that were breaking the law. (They had $2,000 that they had taken in the burglary)

"Horn's defense hinged on his assertion that he fired out of fear for his life, making the shooting justifiable under Texas law. The law also permits the use of deadly force to protect property under some circumstances."

From Foxnews.com

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates — Iraq has proposed a short-term memorandum of understanding with the United States rather than trying to hammer through a formal agreement on the presence of U.S. forces, the country's prime minister said Monday.

The Iraqi government proposed the memorandum after widespread Iraqi opposition to U.S. demands emerged during talks on a more formal Status of Forces Agreement. Some type of agreement is needed to keep U.S. troops in Iraq after a U.N. mandate expires at year's end.
"Now there is a memorandum of understanding replacing the draft agreement," al-Maliki told several Arab ambassadors to the United Arab Emirates during a meeting Monday.

The proposed memorandum includes a formula for the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq, said the prime minister -- an idea opposed by U.S. President George W. Bush.
"The goal is to end the presence (of foreign troops)," said al-Maliki.

The prime minister provided no details on that formula. But his national security adviser, Mouwaffak al-Rubaie, told The Associated Press on Sunday that the government was proposing a timetable that would be conditioned on the ability of Iraqi forces to provide security.

Monroe Gary

It seems that some of Indiana Barrister readers are asking why Monroe Gray and others are not being held accountable.

"speaking of cleaning up public corruption, I’d like to know when Monroe Gray will be held accountable for felony Ghost Employment and be forced to pay back the money wrongfully paid him by the City!"

"Ok Brizzi. Time to do something instead of you and Tom John spending your days plotting on how to trip Ballard up and you get elected mayor in 3 years. How about going after Sweet Pea."

Well do I have to say anything more about this? No, all I have to do is direct your attention to the following. http://indianapolsnewgoverment2008.blogspot.com/2008/05/more-on-investigation-of-monroe-gray.html

Are you ready to join the fight?

Sheila Jenkins from the non-profit Community Development Law Center is
exploring ways to challenge these property taxes. But she must
demonstrate the need. That people are in danger of losing their
properties, or that their lives will otherwise be severely impacted.
She has to show powers that be that there are real life consequences
in the making. Sheila, under the aegis of NESCO (Near Eastside
Community Organization) is spearheading a forum for:

>>next Saturday, July 12,
>> 9 am,
>> at Englewood Church
>> 57 N. Rural, Indpls, IN

Anyone 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.com
637-6242
__________

Now its up to us to fill these meetings. As this person said, you have to demonstrate a need for this kind of action. If you are happy about your property taxes, do nothing. If you think the current system is unfair then show up at this meeting.

What happen--Aaron E. Haith

Things of the past seem to go away with time. But I got to thinking about some of the things taking place before the election of our new local government.

10-16-2007
If you remember, there was a request for investigation filed by Virginia Crain, council member concerning Aaron Haith then the attorney of Monroe Gray and also the attorney for the city council. You can find this at: http://www.bartlies.com/Ethics-Filing.pdf
But we have heard nothing to how this complaint came out or if there was even any action taken. When I check the Indiana roll of Attorneys, http://hats.courts.state.in.us/rollatty/roa1_inp.jsp, they say there is no pending discipline.
My point of bring this up is just like the Monroe Gray issue, matters seem to drop out of site as time passes. When things are important only for political reason, we will never have the clean house that taxpayers want.

Man arrested for protesting.

VALPARAISO, Ind. -- A judge told a Valparaiso man whose song protests high gasoline prices that he might want to change his tune.
Jay Weinberg, 29, was arrested for climbing to the roof of a gas station to sing his song protesting high gas prices. He pleaded guilty Thursday to a trespassing charge.

Porter Superior Judge David Chidester warned Weinberg not to get in trouble again during his six months on probation.
Listen to Weinberg's song.

"The next song you'll be singing is 'Chain Gang' by Sam Cooke," he said.
On May 5, Weinberg carried a guitar and a megaphone to the roof of the Family Express station in Valparaiso, where gas was selling that day for $3.78 per gallon.
He performed a song titled "Price Gouge'n" for about 15 minutes to the cheers of commuters before police arrived and arrested him.
Weinberg says he's not done with his protests of high gas prices. And he's selling his song online.
http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080704/NEWS02/807040431
_______________________________

Now the question I have is why we have not seen any gas price protest in the Indianapolis area? I know property taxes are important but the price of gas is hurting everyone but we have been silent on this subject.

2008 tax protest

While July 4th 2007 was a nice sunny day, we were not as lucky this year. But let there were about fifty people that went down to the Governor’s mansion to protest our current property taxes. I heard stories of people not being able to pay the current property taxes and even having to take loans out to meet all the demands. While other investors abandoning renter properties. I also notice there still is lots of for sale signs in the area of the Governor’s Mansion.
One person told me that it takes 4 months of rent just to cover the new property tax the house she rents out. I know myself of a house that is a small rental that it might bring in $550 per month with property taxes at $2,000 a year.

Why people are not as enthusiastic as they were in 2007?
I think it’s because they are giving some time for the current plan. Understanding that we got hit this year with higher taxes but realizing that next year will be one and one half percent of apprised value of property. Then it should go down to the 1% cap the next year.

Of course we heard from the folks who think property taxes are against the Constitution the State of Indiana. That no schools should be supported by property tax.
ARTICLE 8. Section 2. The Common School fund shall consist of the Congressional Township fund, and the lands belonging thereto; The Surplus Revenue fund; …The Bank Tax fund, and the fund arising from the one hundred and fourteenth section of the charter of the State Bank of Indiana; …Taxes on the property of corporations, that may be assessed by the General Assembly for common school purposes. http://www.angelfire.com/indie/aaahome/hhh.001.horningplatform.html

I know that the weather was not favorable for people to get out in but I am glad to have seen people show up to show that they are not happy with our current system of today.

Sex for gas?

FORT WRIGHT, Ky. — Police in northern Kentucky arrested a woman who officers say traded sex for gasoline.

Police in Fort Wright set up a prostitution sting and said one of the suspects they arrested engaged in sex for a $100 gasoline card and other gifts.

Angela Eversole, 34, of Fort Wright is charged with prostitution and doing business without an occupational license. She pleaded not guilty at a Tuesday arraignment.

Police also arrested a man they said paid Eversole. He is 50-year-old Kenneth Nowak of Avon, Indiana.

Kenton County prosecutor Ken Easterling said it's sad when people are selling their bodies for gas.http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,375101,00.html

Property tax rebate

You can see how much your rebate is by going to :http://www.indygov.org/eGov/County/Treasurer/home.htm You will need your pacel number.

Mine is $132.00 but I had to pay $413.00. that is more then $280 more the I paid in 2006.
Don't forget to meet July 4th at 10:00 am.