A Must-Read Article

This article, by Walter E. Williams, describes, in scary clarity, the erosion of rights and freedoms that has been happening in our country without so much as a whimper. Think about all the stuff lately: seat-belt laws, prohibiting smoking in private businesses, federal laws taking away any sort of privacy w/ banking, etc. etc. It almost seems as if we're being "softened up" for something much more sinister.

Here's the article:
http://www.townhall.com/opinion/columns/walterwilliams/2005/10/19/171797.html

I really wonder what is in store for us in the future.

What is Moderate Libertarianism?

blogger's note: this piece ran a couple months ago, but I wanted to get it up again. Thanx, MBM

What is Moderate Libertarianism?
Thus far, the East Metro Libertarians have been very fortunate in our exposure and media attention. Two front-page articles in as many weeks and a 10 minute radio interview w/ Tim Bryant on WGUA 1340 is hopefully just the start. It seems that many people are rallying behind the East Metro Libertarians in a very big way. There seems to be a feeling of excitement in the air. Why? The answer seems very simple, yet at the same time can be very complex. As we have mentioned in all of our media exposure, we are, by and large, "moderate" libertarians. This concept seems to really appeal to people...it grabs them. But, what exactly is moderate Libertariansim? I've been working, off and on, on kind of a moderate libertarianism manifesto, as it were, and in the meantime I would like to lay down the main, basic points.

Moderate Libertarianism

We believe in complete individual rights so long as those rights do not forcibly interfere with others. Live and Let Live
We hold the Bill of Rights in sacred regard.
We believe in State Rights as envisioned by the Constitution.
We are , by and large, Strict Constitutionalists.
We are basically social liberals.
We are basically economic conservatives.
Whereas "hardcore" libertarians believe in a drastic (in the range of 50-100%) reduction in the size and scope of government, we tend to think in the range of 10-50%)
We are Federalists in the truest sense of the word, but anti-federalists in the context of history.
We understand the we are a Republic, not a democracy.
We are Jeffersonian Democrats
We don't think our borders should be completely open, we believe that strong and secure borders are essential to our nation's security.
We believe our military's chief concern should be national security, and not policing the entire globe. However, we believe in a very strong military and understand that evil and hate has infested itself in various parts of the world, and from time to time, we will have to do something about it.
We think many aspects of our current Federal Government are good things, and we believe that many aspects of our current Federal Government are horrendous. The same can be said of state, county, and municipal governments.
We hold the 2nd amendment in very high regard, and support strong gun rights
We hold the 4th amendment in equally high regard, and are dismayed by the state of the police state in America.
Strongly guarded property rights, being essential to the endurance of our Republic, we believe that eminent domain abuse and other improper takings, are a grave threat to our future.
Abortion, Gays, Affirmitave Action and many other issues are total non-issues to most of us. And a lot of us believe that the current politicians look on with glee that we are so polarized by many of these issues.
We think the 2-party system achieves the same results as the aforementioned bullet, in that they keep us preoccupied and polarized while the power-hungy pols take more of our money and freedom.
We belive that a change is inevitable, that we are right and they are wrong, that our cause is a righteous one, and we will prevail. We are eternal optimists.
We think Reagan was a great president.
We think FDR was a socialist.
Some of us think that JFK was the "last gunslinger"; the last true champion of the common man and that he may have gotten a bullet in the head for it. And while we're at it: Why have we not risen up and demanded the full and total truth about JKF?
Why have we allowed ourselves to be at this point?
We are ready to make a change. In a peaceful and legal way, we will change this country.
We are moderate Libertarians.

New Executive Director for LP of Georgia

Everyone is very excited that Dave "Flex" Flannigan has taken over the reigns of executive director for the Georgia LP. Dave is a heck of a nice guy and was , at the state excom level, the guiding light for the formation of the East Metro Libertarians. We are all very pleased that the Executive Director slot has finally been filled and are all very happy that it was Dave who filled it. With Mark Mosely's (state LP chair) vision for the 2006 year, and with Dave's leadership, we believe that 2006 will be a very special year for the LP.

Comments on Michael Badnarik's Constitution Class

This past Saturday, 3 East Metro Libertarians(myself included), along w/ about 20 other freedom-lovers attended Mr. Badnarik's Constitution class in Atlanta. Mr. Badnarik was the 2004 candidate for President for the Libertarian Party. The class which is based on his amazing book--"Good To Be King"--is an 8 hour primer on the Constitution, what it's supposed to be, and how far off track we have become, and what we can do to turn the tide. This class was an experience I will soon not forget. Mr. Badnarik is, in my words, a man of Truth–he tells it like it is in a clear and concise way. He will rattle your cage and he is most certainly an iconoclast. To be honest, there is a certain amount of fear and dread that you will experience as you begin to “see the light". But, it is worth it. When you walk out of the class, the fear transforms into courage. You are energized…ready to fight the good fight!!! America belongs to us–We the People–and it’s up to each and every one of us to make it happen! That’s really the thing with Badnarik’s class. He prepares us for road ahead. And knowing that there is a patriot like him, and knowing that there are numerous others out there–makes the task seem much less daunting. I recommend this class to anyone who believes in the libertarian ideals of individual rights, social and economic freedom, and less government intervention.Thank you Mr. Badnarik

Write Your congressman in support of H.R. 25

To look up and get contact info or to send an electronic letter to your Congressman, go to:
http://www.house.gov/writerep/

Here is a sample of a letter I sent to the Honorable David Scott:

Hello sir...hope all is well with you. First off, I would like to explain that I am a Libertarian in terms of political affiliation; however, I have been very impressed with you and what you've been doing in D.C. I think that many other Libertarians, as well as independents and Republicans would say the same. You seem to be a good, fair, and decent man...Lord knows, we need more like you.

With that said, here is why I am writing:
I am writing to ask to take a very close and serious look at H.R. 25--The Fair Tax Bill. It is a good bill, it might be the thing that saves our country from certain financial ruin. I mean, let's face it Mr. Scott, Social Security and Medicare are running on borrowed time. Several prominent and well-respected economists agree that the FairTax would double the size of our economy in 15-20 years which would lead to a corresponding increase in govt. revenues. Furthermore, we would bring back billions of lost dollars when businesses come back to the country after having left due to harsh tax codes. The time has come for America to have a tax that makes sense, and a tax that is fair. The income tax is a bad, bad thing...we all know it. So let's do something about it. Change is in the air, Mr. Scott...we are on the verge of a political renaissance in which freedom and individual rights are what is considered when it comes to government decisions. The times they are a changin...It would be nice to have you on board. What do you say, Mr. Scott? Will you support the FairTax?

Ron Paul--A True American Patriot

author's note: I already ran this once early in the blog's life (May) but wanted to run it again. MM

Ron Paul--A True American Patriot
Between Liberal hacks like John Kerry, Nancy Pelosi, and Teddy "Dripping Wet" Kennedy and Republicans such as Tom Delay and Bill Frist, it is refreshing to find one man in the halls of congress who is a true American Patriot--a freedom lover and a supporter of individual rights. That Man is Ron Paul (R-TX), a member of the house of representatives for many years, he exemplifies what a true politician should be. Technically a Republican, he is a libertarian by nature and ran for president on the LP ticket in the 80's . I consider Mr. Paul to be my "adopted" representative in Congress. Find out more about this amazing man:

http://www.house.gov/paul/ --his congressional page
www.ronpaul.org --his website
www.ronpaul.net --a campain page
www.house.gov/paul/openingpage.htm --Project Freedom

Write Mr. Paul and let him know that you appreciate his unique gift to our Republic, and also let him know that you would like for him to be your "adopted" representative. Also ask him to be the LP candidate for President in 2008!

Passing H.R. 25--The Fair Tax can Happen

The reaction for the the Fair Tax book by Neal Boortz and John Linder has been absolutely amazing!!! People are ready for this. Hell, they're more than ready, they are way past ready. This needs to happen. And for the first time maybe ever, people are starting to realize that it could happen. If every freedom-lover bought the book at some point in the near future, it would probably stay on the NY Times best seller list for a year. This is sending a message--Congress is watching!! We need to support this book and support Mr. Linder in his quest for getting H.R. 25 to the floor. Buy the book. Write your congressman. Write letters to the editor of your local newspaper, do a write-up on your blog. Do anything and everything to help this thing along. Remember--Congress is watching...so is the President, and so is everyone else. This plan can work. It will work. We must act now!!!

What is Moderate Libertarianism?

Thus far, the East Metro Libertarians have been very fortunate in our exposure and media attention. Two front-page articles in as many weeks and a 10 minute radio interview w/ Tim Bryant on WGUA 1340 is hopefully just the start. It seems that many people are rallying behind the East Metro Libertarians in a very big way. There seems to be a feeling of excitement in the air. Why? The answer seems very simple, yet at the same time can be very complex. As we have mentioned in all of our media exposure, we are, by and large, "moderate" libertarians. This concept seems to really appeal to people...it grabs them. But, what exactly is moderate Libertariansim? I've been working, off and on, on kind of a moderate libertarianism manifesto, as it were, and in the meantime I would like to lay down the main, basic points.

Moderate Libertarianism

• We believe in complete individual rights so long as those rights do not forcibly interfere with others. Live and Let Live
• We hold the Bill of Rights in sacred regard.
• We believe in State Rights as envisioned by the Constitution.
• We are , by and large, Strict Constitutionalists.
• We are basically social liberals.
• We are basically economic conservatives.
• Whereas "hardcore" libertarians believe in a drastic (in the range of 50-100%) reduction in the size and scope of government, we tend to think in the range of 10-50%)
• We are Federalists in the truest sense of the word, but anti-federalists in the context of history.
• We understand the we are a Republic, not a democracy.
• We are Jeffersonian Democrats
• We don't think our borders should be completely open, we believe that strong and secure borders are essential to our nation's security.
• We believe our military's chief concern should be national security, and not policing the entire globe. However, we believe in a very strong military and understand that evil and hate has infested itself in various parts of the world, and from time to time, we will have to do something about it.
• We think many aspects of our current Federal Government are good things, and we believe that many aspects of our current Federal Government are horrendous. The same can be said of state, county, and municipal governments.
• We hold the 2nd amendment in very high regard, and support strong gun rights
• We hold the 4th amendment in equally high regard, and are dismayed by the state of the police state in America.
• Strong guarded property rights, being essential to the endurance of our Republic, we believe that eminent domain abuse and other improper takings, are a grave threat to our future.
• Abortion, Gays, Affirmitave Action and many other issues are total non-issues to most of us. And a lot of us believe that the current politicians look on with glee that we are so polarized by many of these issues.
• We think the 2-party system achieves the same results as the aforementioned bullet, in that they keep us preoccupied and polarized while the power-hungy pols take more of our money and freedom.
• We belive that a change is inevitable, that we are right and they are wrong, that our cause is a righteous one, and we will prevail. We are eternal optimists.
• We think Reagan was a great president.
• We think FDR was a socialist.
• Some of us think that JFK was the "last gunslinger"; the last true champion of the common man and that he may have gotten a bullet in the head for it. And while we're at it: Why have we not risen up and demanded the full and total truth about JKF?
• Why have we allowed ourselves to be at this point?
• We are ready to make a change. In a peaceful and legal way, we will change this country.
• We are moderate Libertarians.

Fighting the Good Fight

During a time when it seems that a lot of Georgia libertarians are stuck in an inertia-type rut, or just wanting to "talk the talk" rather than "walk the walk", it is very refreshing indeed to see James Bell and the Libertarian Action Network, Inc. out there doing their thing to advance the cause of liberty. While some libertarians think its better to just "spread the word" or simply field symbolic candidates, L.A.N. Inc. is truly an "action" organization in the traditional sense of the word. Please visit their webpage at www.libact.net and see what this dynamic organization is up to. In particular, pay attention to the S.T.O.P. campaign as we, the East Metro Libertarians, will be working in concert with L.A.N. until there is not a threat of improper eminent domain in the 7 county east metro area.

And now, in what will become a weekly tradition,

The East Metro Shoutouts:

Jason Pye--Henry Co. LP chair who has been in the printed and televised media several times in the recent weeks. We will be working together w/ Jason and the Henry LP during the S.S.#17 race next fall and we look forward to working w/ them.

James Bell--for the aforementioned reasons.

The Covington News--for giving our article front page coverage

The manager at Stevi B's (can't remember his name)--for being Johnny on the Spot and taking such good care of us.

Our thoughts and prayers are with our British brothers and sisters

A lot of us come from at least a partial British lineage, and of course, we as a country, came from Great Britain, so there is a strong kinship and a lot of feelings that we have for our distant relatives across the pond. Therefore, the sadness, anger and rage are especially strong today. Strange thoughts and feelings on this Friday morning. I can't speak for the East Metro Libertarians as a whole, but personally, I hope they track down the cowards that did this and kill them dead. If it was the work of Islamic terrorists (which seems likely), then it is yet another example of why we need to track these vicious S.O.B.'s down and exterminate them like rodents. And while I personally am not in favor of the Iraqi occupation, I, along with many, many Libertarians, am fully in support of the War On Terror in which we take the fight to these thugs and hopefully kill as many as possible. As many others have said, probably much better than I can, there is no understanding or logic w/ these Lunatics. All they know is killing; therefore, we should help give them a complete understanding of that word. And it's not because of Iraq, or Israel, or Afghanistan, or any other reason. The Lunatic fringe of the Islamic faith has been around for 1500 years and will continue into the foreseeable future. It didn't start with 9/11, nor with the U.S.S. Cole, or the embassy bombings in Africa...it goes way, way back. The Olympic hostage incident in '72, the continued terror, bombings, and wars against Israel over the last 50 years, Islamic aggression during the 1,000-1,500 A.D. period through Europe. Most people forget that we came real close to losing all of Europe during that period. And hey--I might sound like Bush here, but I'll say it--We're right and They're wrong. They are Evil. They should die.

My deepest sympathies go to our British brothers and sisters. As Bush said shortly after 9/11, America has no greater ally than England, and hopefully the British know that it is true the other way. May God Bless the U.K.

One of the Best Quotes Ever!!!

P.J. O'Rourke is a real genius, and an American patriot and true freedom-lover. This following quote sums things up nicely:

There is only one basic human right, the right to do as you damn well please. And with it comes the only basic human duty, the duty to take the consequences.

P. J. O'Rourke

Happy Fourth of July

Happy Forth of July!!!

This is a day for all of us to stop and reflect about our founding fathers, The Declaration, and why we need to work together to return this country to its founding ideals.

This 4th, in particular, we should really stop and think about how Bush and company are spending billions of dollars while hundreds of our troops die in a war that cannot ever be won in the traditional sense of the word. But, wait! We are advandcing the cause of Freedom and all that crap. Meanwhile, our freedoms, here in America, are being whittled down literally by the day. Think about it.

And ask yourself this?

How would the signers of the Declaration of Independence feels about our country in 2005. They'd be LIVID!!! They would be very upset...and rightfully so. We are so off-course right now. It's up to freedom lovers like you and me to do something about it. So let's do something about it. Remember who we are:

WE THE PEOPLE

and contrary to popular belief, we are in charge of these out-of-control , so-called "public servants" and now the time has come for us to do something about.

Support the Libertarian Party and, of course, The East Metro Libertarian Party. Also, learn more about groups such as the Institute for Justice, the Fully Informed Jury Assocation, and The Cato Institute (all of which can be found on our links page) and start to support any and/or all of these organizations. Personally, I have made a July 4th resolution. And while, God Knows, I probably can't afford this, I am going to set aside 5% of all of my net income to give, donate, and raise funds for all parties, groups, organizations, etc. to "truly" help advance freedom. I ask all of you to do the same. The time has come, we must make a change.

God Bless the Republic of the united States of America

Some Great Quotes concerning Politics

Quote:
I have come to the conclusion that politics is too serious a matter to be left to the politicians.
Author:
Charles De Gaulle 1890-1970, French President during World War II


Quote:
The whole aim of practical politics is to keep the populace alarmed [and Hence Clamorous To Be Led To Safety] by an endless series of hobgoblins.
Author:
H. L. Mencken 1880-1956, American Editor, Author, Critic, Humorist


Quote:
In politics we presume that everyone who knows how to get votes knows how to administer a city or a state. When we are ill... we do not ask for the handsomest physician, or the most eloquent one.
Author:
Plato BC 427?-347?, Greek Philosopher


Quote:
It has been said that politics is the second oldest profession. I have learned that it bears a striking resemblance to the first.
Author:
Ronald Reagan 1911-, Fortieth President of the USA, Actor

Liberty Action Network, Inc. unveils the "S.T.O.P" campain

This is an issue that we all must get together on.


S.T.O.P. Stop Taking Our Property!
Stop Eminent Domain Abuse! Restore Property Rights!

Is your home and property in jeopardy? Will the government seize your land?
Will your home become a Mall? Will you be paid “fair market value”?

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that local governments can seize your land/home and sale or give it to private developers for the purpose of generating more taxes.
This ruling has put your property and community in jeopardy!

Things you can do to S.T.O.P. it. Start with your local government.

City Councils- County Commissioners – State Reps. And Senators:
Call or FAX your council members, county and state officials and demand an ordinance/code that protects your property rights from private development. Attend work sessions and business meeting and speak on the issue. Demand your elected officials to go on the record in support of property rights.

For more information and assistance please contact: The S.T.O.P. Campaign
Office: 770-739-1543 Email: libactnet@yahoo.com
Write to: Libertarian Action Network, Inc. P.O. Box 582 Austell, Georgia 30168
Sign Online Petition: www.libact.net - Donations welcomed and needed!

Supreme Court rolls out another dud

The Supreme Court has handed down two rulings concerning the display of the 10 commandments in courtrooms and on government property. In a usual 5-4 decision, the High Court said NO to the commandments in courthouses but yes to their display at state capitals and other government properties? Furthermore, the majority opinion written by David Souter, doesn't read very well at all; however, the dissenting view written up by Scalia is much better and makes much more sense. I know there are many libertarians who will disagree with me on this, but read the decision and really think about the fact that there is no clause about "seperation of church and state" anywhere in the Constitution. The First Amendment refers strictly to prohibiting a state-sanctioned religion i.e. how the Church of England was to Britain. The Founding Fathers refered to God and Judeo-Christain principles over and over again. You cannot discount that. So, I feel, once again--The Supreme Court has messed up again--

text of first decision:
http://wid.ap.org/documents/scotus/050627mccreary.pdf

2nd decision:
http://wid.ap.org/documents/scotus/050627vanorden.pdf

Leninist Leanings on the Supreme Court

Rudy Takala wrote a terrific article about the comparisons between the writings of Vladimir Lenin and John Paul Stevens--the Supreme Court justice who wrote the majority decision in the New London, CT eminent domain case.

E.g.

"If the peasants sow the fields poorly, they should be helped – and this particularly applies to the poor peasants – by means of collective cultivation of the large estates. There is no other way of helping the poor peasants." Therefore, "the landed estates must be confiscated immediately."
V.Lenin

compared to:

"The city has carefully formulated an economic development plan that it believes will provide appreciable benefits to the community, including -- but by no means limited to -- new jobs and increased tax revenue."

One of my previous blogs dealt with the fact the the United States is indeed a communist country. Let's re-examine that:


Karl Marx mentioned 10 Planks of Communism. America, to some degree or another, has all 10. The Ten Planks of Communism:
1.Abolition of Private Property
2. A Progressive Income Tax
3. Abolition of Inheritance
4. Confiscation of property of all emigrants and rebels
5. A Central Bank
6. Centralization of communications and transportation
7. Extension of factories and instruments of Production into the hands of the State
8. Equal Liability of all to Labor
9. Combinations of Agriculture with Manufacturing Industries
10. Free Education for all Children


1. Abolition of Private Property--There is no such thing as true private property in America right now. First of all, Zoning laws compromise your true ownership of land. Also, if you pay property taxes, you are in essence, renting your ownership. And finally, with widespread cases of eminent Domain abuse and as evidenced by the state legistlature this past session, the concept of true private property is simply a joke now. And now, as of the infamous Supreme Court Decision of 6.23.5, Karl Marx is smiling fondly from his grave.
2. A Progressive Income Tax--Enough Said
3. Abolition of all rights of Inheritance--This kind of ebbs and flows from time to time depending on who's in power. Right now things are looking good; however, at some point in the future liberals and socialist will eventually take control of our country and I believe you will see this plank come to fruition within the next 20-50 years.
4. Confiscation of the property of all emigrants and rebels--As of right now, there are several federal agencies that can confiscate and sell your land without giving you due process of law. For most people, this pertains to drug dealers and tax evaders; however, a little known law from 1997 allows the government to do this to people who speak out against the government i.e. me. And let's not forget the patriot act.
5. A Central Bank-- The Federal Reserve is a private corporation which makes fiat money out of nothing and then lends it to the government at interest. It is a diabolical and evil cartel that should be done away with.
6. Centralization of Communications and Transportation--This one is also a real no-brainer. FCC and DOT are obvious choice; however, there other regulatory agenices on the federal and state levels that add more government interference with these issues. Transportation is a big one for me--with the concept of "implied consent", the government feels that you should have ZERO rights whenever traveling on a public road. There does exist, in my mind, a constitutional right to travel that the government is infringing upon with this so-called "implied constent". So therefore, once again, constitutional rights are being trampled on by statuatory and regulatory actions.
7. Extension of factories and instruments of Production into the hands of the State--this refers to government control of agriculture and manufacturing. Think of the Department of Agriculture spending millions of dollars every year on subsidies, payments, fees, monies paid to farmers not to plant certain items, etc. Also, the Dept. of the Interior.
8. Equal Liability of all Labor--Social Security, Department of Labor, OSHA, etc.
9. Combinations of Agriculture with Manufacturing Industries; Regional Planning
--regional planning does exist in this country with the Planning Reorganization Act of 1949 and a couple of odd executive orders
10. Free Education for all Children--public education, Dept. of Education

May Justices Stevens, Souter, Ginsburg, Breyer and Kennedy all rot in Hell!!!

Supreme Court Decision

Supreme Courts rules in favor of municipial governments taking property through eminent domain for private use.
News Article from Worldnet Daily:
http://www.worldnetdaily.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=44952
Full text of decision:
http://wid.ap.org/documents/scotus/050623kelo.pdf

A few quotes:

Just as man can't exist without his body, so no rights can exist without the right to translate one's rights into reality, to think, to work and keep the results, which means: the right of property"
Ayn Rand

"No power on earth has a right to take our property from us without our consent"
John Jay
This is truly a say day for those of us who cherish freedom and realize that vigourously guarded property rights are essential for the endurance of our Republic. May God bless us, we're going to need it.

Great Quote on Property

"The moment the idea is admitted into society that property is not as sacred as the laws of God, and there is not a force of law and public justice to protect it, anarchy and tyranny commence"

John Adams
2nd US president (1797-1801), 1735-1826

Supreme Court Says Property Rights Don't Exist

We are dead in the water...I really think this is the event, and that this date--June 23rd, 2005--will be remembered as the threshold when America went from simply being on the wrong track to actually barelling, out of control, down the proverbial downward spiral. May God bless all of the freedom lovers...were gonna need it. I give this country 50 years tops!!! Maybe only 20. We're through--

National LP responds to Supreme Court's unfortunate decision on medicinal marijuana

http://www.lp.org/media/article_150.shtml

Tables get Turned--Rancher sues an Enviromental Groups--And Wins!!

Very interesting read.
http://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/Issues/2005-05-26/news/feature.html

Ron Paul--A True American Patriot

Between Liberal hacks like John Kerry, Nancy Pelosi, and Teddy "Dripping Wet" Kennedy and Republicans such as Tom Delay and Bill Frist, it is refreshing to find one man in the halls of congress who is a true American Patriot--a freedom lover and a supporter of individual rights. That Man is Ron Paul (R-TX), a member of the house of representatives for many years, he exemplifies what a true politician should be. Technically a Republican, he is a card carrying member of the LP and ran for president on the LP ticket in the 80's . I consider Mr. Paul to be my "adopted" representative in Congress. Find out more about this amazing man:

http://www.house.gov/paul/ --his congressional page

www.ronpaul.org --his website

www.ronpaul.net --a campain page

www.house.gov/paul/openingpage.htm --Project Freedom

Write Mr. Paul and let him know that you appreciate his unique gift to our Republic, and also let him know that you would like for him to be your "adopted" representative. Also ask him to be the LP candidate for President in 2008!

-Marshall

Another Land Grab

One Man's fight against an egregious government taking has come to an end.

Check out: http://jessehardy.com/

Be prepared to feel strong emotions about this.

Without a serious change, this republic will not endure I'm afraid.

What will happen to state budget surplus? Libertarian Action Network, Inc. weighs in...

Libertarian Action Network, Inc.
News Release #9
For Immediate Release
Contact: James Bell 770.739.1543 LibActNet@yahoo.com

“Give Back Our Money!” Georgia Libertarian Group Says Fears $200 Million Revenue Surplus will be squandered

Atlanta Ga.- May 12, 2005: While Georgia Republicans and Democrats fight over what should happen to over $200 million in state revenue surplus, Libertarians say the money should be returned to the taxpayers.James Bell, director of the Libertarian Action Network, Inc. (L.A.N) said he wants the money returned to it rightful owners; the taxpayers of Georgia. “Libertarians are fed up with the tax and spend mentality of the two (political) parties”, Bell said. “The more we allow them to collect, the more they will spend; there’s no end to it!”Bell said he was pleased with Governor Sonny Purdue’s handling of the state budget when he first came into office. Revenue collections were down and the Governor did the responsible thing to order a 10% across the board cut in agency spending. But with a growing surplus Bell fears the state will simple find ways to spend the surplus then turn around and take more from the taxpayers.Bell points out that in spite of the budget cuts, the state government managed to operate with little effect on services rendered. When revenues are lower than expected, agencies are forced to tighten their belts and use the funds available to them, as most households must do. “This is the responsible thing to do”, Bell said.Libertarians have long advocated less government, lower taxes and have been responsible for helping to reducing spending across the country by billions of dollars. Kathryn Weitzel, assistant director for LAN said the Republican Party had a chance to show the voters of Georgia that they could be fiscally responsible with our tax dollars, instead they choose to grow the government by $1 billion, giving tax payers no relief.“Before (Republican leadership) our concern was the liberal spending of the Democrats, now we have to keep the Republican hands out of the cookie jar”, Weitzel said. “As the Republicans again control of the budget process, we see little difference in the way the government is operated, the citizens of Georgia need a tax break”.Libertarian Action Network, Inc. is an independent libertarian organization founded in 2004 by activists dedicated to advancing libertarian ideals through direct political action projects. LAN is not an affiliate of the Libertarian Party.

# # #

Article about one congressman's fight against illegal alien amnesty

One Reporter's Opinion – Speak Up for Tom Tancredo

George Putnam Friday, May 20, 2005

It is this reporter's opinion that it is time to rally around Republican Congressman Tom Tancredo of Colorado in the battle against the illegal invasion and his efforts to preserve the sovereignty of the United States of America.
Tancredo recently blasted the amnesty legislation introduced by Senators Ted Kennedy, D-Mass., and John McCain, R-Ariz. This legislation would grant LEGAL STATUS to the millions of illegal aliens currently in the country. It would require taxpayers to cough up additional money on top of the billion already earmarked by Congress to provide health care free of charge to illegal aliens.
Kennedy and McCain, sponsors of this amnesty plan, bill it as "a way to improve border security," despite the fact that it contains few if any such provisions. What it does provide is instant amnesty for the millions of illegal aliens who have broken our laws.
Tancredo says, "There might be a little more lipstick on this pig than there was before, but it's certainly the same old pig." He concludes: "Time and time again history has shown us that amnesty increases illegal immigration. There is a word for doing the same thing over and over again, expecting a different result, and that word is INSANITY."
This will not win Tancredo any friends at the White House. It is recalled that when he last visited Karl Rove, the Bush ayatollah, and spoke of the illegal invasion, Rove told Tancredo to leave the office and not to "darken the doorstep again." Rove, who speaks for the president, told the Republican hierarchy not to support Tancredo financially and actually suggested they find another Republican to run against him.
More recently, credible sources within the Border Patrol told Tancredo of a decision by Naco, Arizona, supervisors to keep new arrests on the border between Arizona and Mexico to a minimum in order to make the Minutemen appear less effective. Says Tancredo: "It's like telling a cop to stand by and watch burglars loot a store but don't arrest any of them. It's another example of decisions at the highest levels of the Border Patrol that are hurting morale and rotting the agency from within."
Tancredo blames the Bush administration for setting an immigration enforcement tone that suggests to those enforcing the law that he is not serious about secure borders. "We need to get the president to come to grips with the seriousness of the problem. I know he doesn't like to utter the words 'I was wrong,' but if we have another incident like 9/11 by people who come through our borders, I hope he doesn't have to say, 'I'm sorry.'"
The latest attack on Tancredo comes from fellow Republican representative Chris Cannon of Utah. His exact words: "I don't think there is a place in the Republican Party for racism or xenophobia or ideas fundamentally un-American."
Tancredo faces continuing battles with elements of his own party. He courageously defended the cause when he went up against Representatives Cannon, Luis Gutierrez of Illinois, and a room full of Hispanic business leaders at a forum hosted by the Latino Coalition. Cannon's outrageous remarks should not go unanswered.
An example of how low the attacks on Tancredo have become is when an element in Denver tried to hold Tancredo somehow responsible in the murder of Detective Donald Young and the wounding of Detective John Bishop by illegal alien Raul Garcia-Gomez, who reportedly fled to Mexico. What a stretch!
Garcia-Gomez had used false documentation to get a job at the Cherry Cricket Restaurant, owned in part by Denver, Colorado, Mayor John Hickenlooper. How about that? The mayor of the city hiring an illegal alien!
It is time to speak up for Tom Tancredo. Send a few letters to the editor of the Rocky Mountain News, Congressman Cannon's office, and the GOP. It's time to rally around the flag and let your voice be heard for this great patriot, Congressman Tom Tancredo of Colorado.

Communist States of America Part II

Karl Marx mentioned 10 Planks of Communism. America, to some degree or another, has all 10. The Ten Planks of Communism:
1.Abolition of Private Property
2. A Progressive Income Tax
3. Abolition of Inheritance
4. Confiscation of property of all emigrants and rebels
5. A Central Bank
6. Centralization of communications and transportation
7. Extension of factories and instruments of Production into the hands of the State
8. Equal Liability of all to Labor
9. Combinations of Agriculture with Manufacturing Industries
10. Free Education for all Children

Picking up where we left off:

6. Centralization of Communications and Transportation--This one is also a real no-brainer. FCC and DOT are obvious choice; however, there other regulatory agenices on the federal and state levels that add more government interference with these issues. Transportation is a big one for me--with the concept of "implied consent", the government feels that you should have ZERO rights whenever traveling on a public road. There does exist, in my mind, a constitutional right to travel that the government is infringing upon with this so-called "implied constent". So therefore, once again, constitutional rights are being trampled on by statuatory and regulatory actions.

7. Extension of factories and instruments of Production into the hands of the State--this refers to government control of agriculture and manufacturing. Think of the Department of Agriculture spending millions of dollars every year on subsidies, payments, fees, monies paid to farmers not to plant certain items, etc. Also, the Dept. of the Interior.

8. Equal Liability of all Labor--Social Security, Department of Labor, OSHA, etc.

9. Combinations of Agriculture with Manufacturing Industries; Regional Planning
--regional planning does exist in this country with the Planning Reorganization Act of 1949 and a couple of odd executive orders.

10. Free Education for all Children--public education, Dept. of Education

Welcome to the Communist States of America

Yes!!! That is Correct--we are communists...Congratulations!

Shaking your head a little bit? Thinking I've lost my mind? Well...wrap your mind around this:

In 1848, Karl Marx wrote a little thing called the Communist Manifesto. In this document, he describes the ten steps or Ten Planks needed to destroy a free-market, capitalist state and to replace it with communist state. Here are those 10 planks:

1. Abolition of Private Property
2. A Progressive Income Tax
3. Abolition of Inheritance
4. Confiscation of property of all emigrants and rebels
5. A Central Bank
6. Centralization of communications and transportation
7. Extension of factories and instruments of Production into the hands of the State
8. Equal Liability of all to Labor
9. Combinations of Agriculture with Manufacturing Industries
10. Free Education for all Children

Is your head swimming around a little bit now? This is a little difficult at first for most people, but now that you are coming to terms with the fact that you live in a Communist State, let's look at each plank one by one.

1. Abolition of Private Property--There is no such thing as true private property in America right now. First of all, Zoning laws compromise your true ownership of land. Also, if you pay property taxes, you are in essence, renting your ownership. And finally, with widespread cases of eminent Domain abuse and as evidenced by the state legistlature this past session, the concept of true private property is simply a joke now.

2. A Progressive Income Tax--Enough Said

3. Abolition of all rights of Inheritance--This kind of ebbs and flows from time to time depending on who's in power. Right now things are looking good; however, at some point in the future liberals and socialist will eventually take control of our country and I believe you will see this plank come to fruition within the next 20-50 years.

4. Confiscation of the property of all emigrants and rebels--As of right now, there are several federal agencies that can confiscate and sell your land without giving you due process of law. For most people, this pertains to drug dealers and tax evaders; however, a little known law from 1997 allows the government to do this to people who speak out against the government
i.e. me

5. A Central Bank-- The Federal Reserve is a private corporation which makes fiat money out of nothing and then lends it to the government at interest. It is a diabolical and evil cartel that should be done away with.

6-10 to come later.

M

Out-of-State Wine Sales May Become a Reality

In Georgia, along with 23 other states, it is illegal for a winery to directly ship stock to customers; however, the Supreme Court, with an unusual grouping of justices, voted 5-4 to strike down this law. But rest assured that it will be years of appeals and delays before anything happens--alcohol distibutors in Georgia are one of the richest and most powerful forces in this state. Personally, I mixed on this issue...ultimately I would have to say I'm opposed to the Supreme Court decision. I think it should be a state by state issue.
Anyway, here's an article about it:

Court Lets Wine Lovers Buy Out-Of-State
By HOPE YEN Associated Press Writer


WASHINGTON — Wine lovers may buy directly from out-of-state vineyards, the Supreme Court ruled Monday, striking down laws banning a practice that has flourished because of the Internet and growing popularity of winery tours.
The 5-4 decision overturns laws in New York and Michigan, which supporters said were aimed at protecting local wineries and limiting underage drinkers from purchasing wine without showing proof of age. In all, 24 states have laws barring interstate shipments.
The court said the state bans are discriminatory and anticompetitive.
"States have broad power to regulate liquor," Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote for the majority. "This power, however, does not allow states to ban, or severely limit, the direct shipment of out-of-state wine while simultaneously authorizing direct shipment by in-state producers."
"If a state chooses to allow direct shipments of wine, it must do so on evenhanded terms," he wrote in an opinion joined by Justices Antonin Scalia, David H. Souter, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Stephen G. Breyer.
The ruling means that legislatures in the 24 states barring out-of-state shipments will have to review their laws to make sure in-state and out-of-state wineries are treated equally. As a result, states could choose to allow wineries to sell to consumers directly, but could also bar all wineries from doing so.
The wine industry is booming, with an estimated $21.6 billion in sales and tourists flocking to wineries for tastings and tours. The recent hit movie "Sideways" took a lighthearted look at California's love affair with the grape.
While wineries have proliferated, there also has been consolidation. Smaller wineries say they can't compete with huge companies unless they can sell directly to customers over the Internet or by allowing visitors to their wineries to ship bottles home.
The Supreme Court case centered on the 21st Amendment, which ended Prohibition in 1933 and granted states authority to regulate alcohol sales. Nearly half the states subsequently passed laws requiring outside wineries to sell their products through licensed wholesalers within the state, allowing state governments to collect millions in alcohol taxes.
But the Constitution also prohibits states from passing laws that discriminate against out-of-state businesses. That led to a challenge to the Michigan and New York laws.
In a dissent, Justice Clarence Thomas argued the ruling needlessly overturns long-established regulations aimed partly at protecting minors. State regulators under the 21st Amendment have clear authority to regulate alcohol as they see fit, he wrote.
"The court does this nation no service by ignoring the textual commands of the Constitution and acts of Congress," Thomas wrote. He was joined by Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist and Justices Sandra Day O'Connor and John Paul Stevens.
While the ruling only involves wine sales, industry groups expect that it will soon apply to beer and other alcoholic beverages currently regulated through state-licensed wholesalers and retailers.
Wine lovers immediately cheered the ruling.
"This is the best day for wine lovers since the invention of the corkscrew," said Clint Bolick, counsel for the Institute for Justice, which represented local wineries in the dispute. "It demonstrates that in the era of the Internet, the court will vindicate the principles of free trade that made this country great."
Juanita Swedenburg, the Middleburg, Va., vintner who sued to overturn New York's laws said called the ruling "a boon for America's wine-loving consumers who like to have various wines from throughout the nation."
But Nida Samona, chairwoman of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission, said the decision was a setback for Michigan's efforts to battle underage drinking. She said her commission will urge lawmakers to bar direct shipments for both local and out-of-state wineries.
"That protects the class we are fighting for — to make sure minors cannot purchase and consumer alcohol before they are of age," she said.
In the ruling, Kennedy wrote that states do not have the authority to regulate liquor simply to protect their economic interests. He argued there is little evidence that unauthorized wine sales to minors over the Internet is a problem that justifies discriminating against out-of-state businesses.
Minors typically consume beer and wine coolers, rather than wine, and could just as easily order wine illegally from in-state wineries that sell over the Internet, Kennedy wrote. States also could take measures to deter minors by requiring adults to sign for wine packages.
"Without concrete evidence that direct shipping of wine is likely to increase alcohol consumption by minors, we are left with the states' unsupported assertions," Kennedy wrote.
The Washington-based Institute for Justice says the 24 states that ban direct shipments from out-of-state wineries are Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Montana, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah and Vermont.
The cases are Granholm v. Heald, 03-1116; Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association v. Heald, 03-1120; and Swedenburg v. Kelly, 03-1274.

SB 90 about to become REALITY

Well...Ole' Sonny signed SB 90 into law. This is truly a sad time for freedom lovers everywhere. Now that we have accepted the fact that business owners and property owners have no rights, how long will it be until they really start sticking it to us? This is absolute B.S. and the time has come for action. Go the the state legislature page at www.legis.state.ga.us and write to every S.O.B. who voted for this thing in either chamber. And write to Perdue as well! This gives the L.P. ammunition for the 2006 elections. Anyone who voted for this (which includes Doug Holt and John Douglas) has officialy declared that they are anti-freedom, anti-business, and anti-property rights. We need to start getting these words out there about these folks. We need for the folks in the East Metro Atlanta area to start equating Holt, Douglas, et al w/ socialist state, nanny govt. supporters.

from www.lpgeorgia.com
Outrage of the Week: Senate Unanimously Passes the "Real ID" Act
By Shane Cory
In a 100-0 vote, the U.S. Senate passed the 2nd largest supplemental spending bill in the history of the nation. If that were not enough reason to question the common sense of our legislators, the Republican and Democrat leaders also passed the Real ID Act which was hidden within the spending bill.

With the passing of the bill, states will have to abide by federal standards for providing driver's licenses and I.D. cards to citizens. States will also have to link their citizen databases to federal systems in order obtain funding for the program.

Driver's licenses issued by states not fulfilling federal requirements will not be accepted by any federal agency. What does that matter? Here are a few scenarios that may occur if your state were to not fulfill the new federal obligations:

Flying to see a relative in another state? Don’t forget your papers: Domestic travelers could not pass through airport security checkpoints without a passport or a "Real" I.D. card.
Want to serve your country? Apply for a passport first: Prospective military enlistees could not meet identification requirements with only state issued identification.
Want to get a job? Not without federal documentation: The INS I-9 form is a required document for all U.S. workers. Section Two of the form requires identification to be examined by the employer. As no federal agency will accept "old" driver's licenses, your I.D. would no longer be valid. Be sure to bring your passport along to your next job interview.
Aside from the authoritarian restrictions that will be implemented within the next three years (the bill is to be fully implemented by May 2008 if signed by President George W. Bush), there are many other consequences of the bill.

The forthcoming database sharing will now put U.S. citizens in the same class as criminals. While the Social Security Administration tracks names and employment data, the federal government will now have access to at least your physical description, disabilities, and your photo. In the past, this level of detail was only offered to the federal government within criminal databases.
If you are comfortable with the above, please take the time today to send a "thank you" note to your Republican or Democrat senators. Be sure to let them know that you enjoy having your personal freedom and privacy stolen. Otherwise, choose to support the Libertarian Party, which will continue to follow principle and fight for your individual liberty.