Thursday, November 26, 2009

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Today is the one day a year set aside for us to give thanks. While so many of us see a lot that is wrong with the world sometimes it is easy to forget day to day to be thankful for all that is right.

For myself I am thankful for my family first and foremost. Without them I would be nothing.

I am thankful for my friends who always seem to be there when I need them the most and I never know how they know that I need them. I am thankful for waking up each day when the alternative is so much worse.

I am thankful that no matter what I still live in the freest nation on earth even with all our problems. I am thankful for those who may disagree with me so that I may have an opportunity to see the other side and learn.

Though the last year has been a tough one for so many, including me, I am thankful for the lessons learned and the chance to make it better.

I am thankful for our veterans and soldiers who sacrifice so much for us that so many take for granted. I pray for them and their families that someday we may know peace.

And I am thankful for each and every one of you who get involved and help try to make a difference.

While we may not always agree on the issues or how to solve them one day we shall overcome our differences and find a way to fix them.

I am thankful to each and every one of you who make this site a part of your day and make the MyViewMatters Radio Show a part of your week. Without you all this would be meaningless.

With so many things to be thankful for one would think I would run out of things to write about here. That will not happen anytime soon I assure you.

On this day I want to take the time to say thanks to you all. I also want to remind you each of one thing.

There are more important things in our lives sometimes than this.

Our families, friends, reaching out to those in need, these are what make us who we are and make this world a better place.

On this day I hope that most of us remember that and let them know just how much we appreciate them.

So HAPPY THANKSGIVING to you all. I will see you next week.

Ed

Monday, November 23, 2009

THIENEMAN PRESS RELEASE ON WAYSIDE

As some of you are aware current Mayoral candidate Hal Heiner had an op ed printed in the CJ on Friday. An opportunity for cooperation courier-journal.com The Courier-Journal . It now seems as though the CJ is once again proving bias.

Mayoral candidate Chris Thieneman, Hal's opponent, sent in a response to the CJ they refused to print. Any reason why they would not print opposing viewpoints between candidates in an election. Especially the Mayoral one? No bias there huh?

But I digress.

Here is the copy of Thieneman's response for your review:

An Opportunity Missed

First I want to applaud Councilman Heiner for the good words written in the CJ concerning Wayside Christian Mission. Wayside, and organizations like them who provide shelter and opportunity to our community’s high-risk women and children, should not be victims to the bureaucratic process of our Metro Government. This is an issue that could have been resolved months ago, and the inaction of our elected officials have led us to this moment, most notably you Mr. Heiner.

Councilman Heiner sits on the powerful Planning and Zoning committee. He is the Vice-Chairman.

He has the authority to place planning and zoning issues on the agenda for the committee, which then could push the issue before the full Metro Council. The issues faced by Wayside Christian Mission could be resolved in this committee. This issue could have been resolved, before the holiday season, before the cold set in, and before Mr. Heiner announced his candidacy for Mayor.

Having courage means taking difficult stances on issues and seeing the plan through. It does not mean taking a politically calculated step in the right direction only when political gain is on the line. Courage is a word not to be thrown around as political rhetoric. Courage is getting the job done for the right reasons at the right time; not months down the road while running for public office.

Mr. Heiner, you have had every opportunity in the past 6 months to attempt to rezone the old Louisville Hotel for Wayside, and you have done nothing. There have been zero, 0, attempts by the committee since June to rezone this property. Not one agenda proves a proactive approach to solve the problems facing our at-risk and homeless families.

I congratulate and whole heartily support the actions of Wayside Christian Mission in providing a much-needed avenue to care for the homeless in our city. But in them having to find an alternative means to provide this care proves Metro leadership has failed.

In the letter, there was mention that “We should invite…” a host of community organizations to the table to help the individuals once they are at Wayside. No, they should have already been invited and working to a solution. This does not rest on the shoulders of Wayside; it rests on us as human beings and as members of this community. The city has failed its people if these services are only provided when there is no other option and the family is homeless. This idea addresses a symptom. To change this environment and to show the true compassion of our city, we must treat and cure the cause.

I do not believe in reactionary leadership. I believe in tackling problems when they arise; not sitting around and letting the scene play out and hope it goes away or solves itself. I believe when a man uses the word courage to describe himself he steps up when the pressure is on, not when it makes for a good photo opportunity.

The Metro Council and Metro government have had their opportunity to solve this problem.

They have failed. Wayside has been hindered and terrorized by the bureaucratic red tape of city hall. Wayside is caring for the city’s homeless and at-risk women and children, and Mr. Heiner and his committee cannot even make an attempt to rezone the Wayside Hotel.

Our great city must provide these families with opportunities and jobs before Wayside becomes their only option. We have to attract jobs and corporations to our community who will provide our citizens with an opportunity at a better standard of living. Private citizens and community organizations should be involved in the process and leading the way. I am not saying that Metro Government should not have a seat at the table, but I believe community interests would best serve such an effort.

Mr. Heiner’s campaign is doing a penny drive and mine will be doing a clothing drive for Wayside. Both are righteous outreaches to help and support such a pillar of our community.

However, Mr. Heiner has been in a position of power to solve this problem, and now a solution comes only after he announces he wants to be Mayor. I question the sincerity and courage behind such an action. The solutions to the problems facing our community should not only come about when political gain is on the line. For Wayside, I am glad action is finally being taken. For Metro Government, I believe the time has passed to be called a leader on the issue.


Sincerely,


Chris Thieneman

Friday, November 20, 2009

IF KING TRULY CARED HE WOULD QUIT NOW




How much more can be said about Jim King. Really. I started an investigation about 1 and 1/2 years ago because I felt that there was some shady campaign finance violations that must be dealt with in order to protect the intent for anyone who runs for office. These were not minor violations there were serious concerns about the money Katie got for her election.


What started out as just one simple question: Is it legal? turned into something much greater. I didn't plan it there was no personal vendetta just thought there were relevant questions to be asked and answered for the sanctity of elections.
Unfortunately King and/or his handlers decided to start spreading rumors about me to other folks including bloggers and media types trying to denigrate myself and my integrity. You can read about that here: Louisville News and Politics: AND THE BEAT OF THE KING GOES ON........ At that point I made it a mission to seek the truth and get answers. This of course as you all know has led to so much information that I have shared through the last 18 months or so that today the King's have become the poster children for all that is wrong with egotistical, arrogant power run amok. Especially when they represent We The People.

The information I get has come from multiple sources and I get calls daily asking me to check out something or other on the King's. Some things I print after investigated that I can substantiate and so many others I do not because I cannot verify. Such is life.

Throughout this time I have been labeled many things a sycophant, cyber stalker, dumbass, one trick pony. Well you get the gist. I have faced my fair share of threats as well from King staffers, or King himself (some have been through the Internet and emails so who knows). No biggie.

What I cannot fathom throughout all of this is where has the mainstream media been and why has King been allowed a free ride until now?

Andy Alcock has been the only reporter even interested in covering the things King has been up to throughout this time until recently. Kudos to Andy. But now the rest are jumping on the bandwagon. All I can say is this.

It is about time. Take a look at the picture above in this article. King purposefully, knowingly laid out a false impression that St. X was supporting him and the alumni was hosting a fundraiser for him. This of course is preposterous as everyone now knows King lied again.

He apologizes now saying the email was only meant for friends and colleagues. I ask this: Do your friends not know how to contact you or you them? Doesn't seem likely that is a problem for friends does it?

Secondly ask yourself this. How did King get the list in the first place? Gaining the list and using it illegally are quite different than responding what your intended audience was. Using it illegally is the key here not who actually received it. And that is the problem with this guy. Knowingly violating any laws he deems as being in the way of what he seeks.

I know how Tierney is trying to spin it (read more about those ties here: Louisville News and Politics: BRIDGE PANEL SELECTIONS: METRO COUNCIL HYPOCRITES) and it does not add up.

Even if we are to believe the email list was garnered off of St. X's email list from the website it clearly states those email addresses cannot be used for solicitation. The school’s website “user agreement” says specifically that the information is not to be used for solicitation. (St. X says King didn’t have authorization to contact alumni courier-journal.com The Courier-Journal)

Are we now to assume that after all the mess King started by trying to manipulate the KREF , a mess that is continuing today, that he still has not learned how to read and obey the law?

The evidence does not add up and quite frankly based on the history of King and his wrongful doings we should demand he step down from the Metro Council at this point as well. We deserve so much better as a citizenry we cannot allow this type of situation to continue.

We cannot say his staff does not know better.

Hell he hired every known campaign strategist in town for this race. SO either ALL of them are idiots OR they are just on the payroll for looks, or simply bought to keep them from working for his competition. It is becoming increasingly clear that King does what he wants.

While I may not have much respect for some of the folks he hired to "run" his campaign I certainly do not think all are idiots. Some are idiots, in my opinion admittedly, but I doubt ALL are stupid enough to tell this clown what he is doing is OK.

And therein lies the rub.

King does what he wants when he wants and the law or anyone in the way be damned. That is not a suitable thing for anyone wishing to represent us.

That is exactly what we do not need in government and it is time to tell him so.

For those who have been bought and paid for to help cover his mistakes I would say get out of the way now and protect yourself. If you think this will help your reputations in any positive way think again and look at yourself in the mirror.

For Jim King quit the Mayoral race and resign the Council. For once in your life do the right thing. To do anything different is an insult to those you seek to represent.

Your thoughts?

Thursday, November 19, 2009

MYVIEWMATTERS RADIO W/ CANDIDATE KAVEN RUMPEL.

Many of you already know Kaven Rumpel from the show as we have had him on as the President of the Ky Charitable Gaming Association and their issues. My partner Ed Martin remembered that we had not actually had Kaven on as a guest to discuss his Metro Council District 19 candidacy.

Tonight we corrected that and had Kaven on and discussed the issues facing Louisville. Check it out you will not be disappointed.


Monday, November 16, 2009

BOZA SIDES WITH JBS: GOOD JOB!

I have had a problem for a long time with this whole JBS situation which seemed to really catch fire when an outsider to our area came here 18 months ago by the name of Jon Salomon. The NIMBY folks have gotten away with so much that it is a wonder anything gets accomplished and we have jobs at all.

Take the Butchertown area for example. It did not get its name because it smelled of flowers. It got its name because of the Stockyards and meat packaging operations that were so prevalent in our history. Though I will often times side with the argument that sometimes historical buildings may outlast their usefulness and it would be better for the community to demolish it so they can move ahead, in this case I do not agree.

JBS, formerly Swift and a whole host of other names, has been an integral business in the Butchertown community for 100 years. It has not been a building that sat idly by and deteriorated it has provided jobs for the community and taxes for the City. While I will not say they have been the perfect example of cooperation, in some instances, I will say this what gives?

Jon Salomon graduated high school in Lexington, went to college in St. Louis, got his law degree in New York where he practiced at Cleary Gottlieb Steen Hamilton. Jon began practice as a litigation associate where he represented major financial institutions and public corporations (including three of the Fortune 10 companies) in a variety of matters including securities and business litigation, International Chamber of Commerce arbitrations, and investigations conducted by the Securities and Exchange Commission and various United States Attorneys' Offices. He represented banks, insurers and other clients in a wide variety of business litigation matters.

Jon's practice focuses on complex and multidistrict litigation, and he represents financial institutions in matters involving lender liability, employment discrimination, non-compete provisions and real estate disputes.

This info was gotten from his current law office bio.

So what gives? Why would a successful New York attorney with no roots or ties to Louisville move here and practically immediately decide to go after the area's most prominent employer?

Consider some things. What would be the real estate value of the Swift property if they were gone. Who would benefit?

According to a LEO article the land is considered prime real estate.Meatpacked Louisville's Alt-Weekly LEO Weekly so it seems a logical conclusion that something stinks and it isn't just the odor from JBS.

I mean River Park, museums, restaurants, the new downtown arena, 4th Street Live, Slugger Stadium, all are righ there.

Think about this. In June of 2008 ( less than 18 months ago) Salomon and Keturah Gray bought 1426 E Washington Street for $465,000.00. A 132 yr old, roughly 2400 square foot condo.

Think JBS being in close proximity may hurt the resell? Perhaps with JBS gone the value goes up as does the surrounding homes in the area? Ever see the movie Wall Street? Michael Douglas , as Gordon Gekko, makes a speech at a shareholders meeting and states "Greed is good."

Take a guy with no ties to the area, learns his law in New York the overinflated real estate capitol of the world, who then moves to a new yuppie condo in a working class neghborhood and immediately goes after the working class business.

Add in the fact that our good pal Abramson has been going to New York on "business" and would love nothing better than to see JBS get moved, without having to take the political heat for it, so that real estate can be taken over by the City, and probably given away to Cordish or someone else he gains from, what do you have?

Some will call me a conspiracy theorist for this article admittedly. But based on history with the shady dealings that go on with those who think they are the power elite in this town, one has to wonder.

Sorry, pardon the expression, but this pig just won't fly.

So what gives?

Sadly for them I want to know that answer.

Stay tuned..............

Saturday, November 14, 2009

BRIDGE PANEL SELECTIONS: METRO COUNCIL HYPOCRITES

As most know by now Abramson has hand picked our reps for the Bridges Panel. No real surprise with his choices. You can read about them here: Council questions bridge panel picks courier-journal.com The Courier-Journal

No real surprises at all.

The biggest surprise is the idiots on the Council who have rubber stamped each and every appointment by Abramson since merger now are trying to act like they care.

Seems now that Abramson is on his way out they can act like they have some balls knowing full well the Democratic majority will approve these people regardless. After all Abramson has another year left (unless he resigns sooner to "focus" on his bid for Lt. Governor) so why not act like you care now.

I mean even the Courier gets that much: "Mayoral appointments to boards and commissions normally get council approval with little fanfare — Abramson's office can't recall the council voting down an appointment since the 2003 merger."

So what gives now?

Some on the Council now act like they seem concerned. Take Rick Blackwell's statement here:

"But Rick Blackwell, D-12th District, said that the council made clear to Abramson that they wanted a council voice among the membership when it passed a bridges resolution in July.
“It's a really important issue for the community,” he said. ‘We're going to be talking about a lot of things that affect our districts — including the possibility of tolls.”


Yeah Rick we believe you really care based on your history of votes on the Council and siding with your good friend and lack of ethics partner Bob Henderson. Puhleeze.

If you look at the names Abramson has submitted for rubber stamp approval then it automatically raises questions. Of course his appointments have always raised questions in the citizenry. It is only the rubber stamp Council members who failed to ask them.

Carlton said that the mayor wanted his appointments to include civic-minded people who have been involved in the transportation planning issues and are “knowledgeable of the issues.”

And these are civic minded people not Abramson or party cronies? I beg to differ.

Start with Sandra Frazier CEO of the Tandem agency. The Tandem agency on paper seems to be ok. I am not knocking what they do for a living but after reviewing some of the things they work on and some of the people on staff one has to wonder.

I mean Frazier is supposedly an independent yet admittedly her firm counts among its clients the Bridges Coalition, a group of businesses, labor organizations and governments supporting the project.

She also is listed among past donors to River Fields, a conservation organization that opposes an eastern bridge.

Gee no conflict there is there. Not to mention Michael Tierney on staff does work for Mayor wannabe Jim King. Are we to believe that they want to be involved purely because they are civic minded? Very suspect to say the least.

Or look at everybody's favorite non City agency that just so happens to seem to be in the middle of everything that goes on here. You know who I am talking about.

Good old Greater Louisville, Inc (GLI). Joe Reagan of GLI I would not trust for dog catcher. Sorry folks. A non governent agency being funded with our tax dollars by a board Abramson and david Tandy just happen to sit on. Yep.

As far as Moyer and Richmond are concerned with these other people Abramson wants to appoint why even worry about them.

So gee um thanks Rick Blackwell, Vickie Aubrey Welch, Bob Henderson, Dan Johnson, and a whole host of other rubber stamp council members who have allowed this Mayor to screw us with appointments through the years under your watch.

To act like any of you suddenly care is hypocritical at best.

Your thoughts?

Thursday, November 12, 2009

MYVIEWMATTERS RADIO SHOW W/ KY GRASSROOTS RADIO

Tonight's guest in studio were the guys behind Kentuckiana Grassroots Radio who now simulcast our show every week. Clint Hardy and Matt Singleton were in studio to discuss what Ky Grassroots radio is about and current events such as the recent healthcare reform and Casino Gambling.

Check it out below for more!


Wednesday, November 11, 2009

THANK A VETERAN

November 11 each year is designated as Veteran's Day as many know. For a history on Veteran's Day you can visit here: History of Veterans Day - Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs.

Just some background from the link:

In November 1919, President Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day with the following words: "To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations…"

The original concept for the celebration was for a day observed with parades and public meetings and a brief suspension of business beginning at 11:00 a.m.

The United States Congress officially recognized the end of World War I when it passed a concurrent resolution on June 4, 1926, with these words:

Whereas the 11th of November 1918, marked the cessation of the most destructive, sanguinary, and far reaching war in human annals and the resumption by the people of the United States of peaceful relations with other nations, which we hope may never again be severed, and

Whereas it is fitting that the recurring anniversary of this date should be commemorated with thanksgiving and prayer and exercises designed to perpetuate peace through good will and mutual understanding between nations; and

Whereas the legislatures of twenty-seven of our States have already declared November 11 to be a legal holiday: Therefore be it Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives concurring), that the President of the United States is requested to issue a proclamation calling upon the officials to display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings on November 11 and inviting the people of the United States to observe the day in schools and churches, or other suitable places, with appropriate ceremonies of friendly relations with all other peoples.

An Act (52 Stat. 351; 5 U. S. Code, Sec. 87a) approved May 13, 1938, made the 11th of November in each year a legal holiday—a day to be dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be thereafter celebrated and known as "Armistice Day." Armistice Day was primarily a day set aside to honor veterans of World War I, but in 1954, after World War II had required the greatest mobilization of soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen in the Nation’s history; after American forces had fought aggression in Korea, the 83rd Congress, at the urging of the veterans service organizations, amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the word "Armistice" and inserting in its place the word "Veterans." With the approval of this legislation (Public Law 380) on June 1, 1954, November 11th became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.

Later that same year, on October 8th, President Dwight D. Eisenhower issued the first "Veterans Day Proclamation" which stated: "In order to insure proper and widespread observance of this anniversary, all veterans, all veterans' organizations, and the entire citizenry will wish to join hands in the common purpose. Toward this end, I am designating the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs as Chairman of a Veterans Day National Committee, which shall include such other persons as the Chairman may select, and which will coordinate at the national level necessary planning for the observance. I am also requesting the heads of all departments and agencies of the Executive branch of the Government to assist the National Committee in every way possible."

History indeed is significant in that sometimes we learn from it and sometimes we do not. Today's military is entangled once again in War across the globe. Afghanistan, Iraq, and many other smaller escalations we really pay not much attention to.

The sacrifices for these volunteers who choose to do this work so we do not have to are something many that have not served will never fully understand. Yes this includes some of the so called elected leaders who make decisions without knowledge in these matters.

As a veteran myself I pray for each and every soldier daily. I pray for their families whose sacrifice is just as great yet rarely mentioned. More importantly I pray for a day when we no longer need to have "Holidays" like this.

My sincerest thanks to all Veteran's past and present who choose to fight for us all so we can sleep at night.

God Bless you all and God Speed for a safe return.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

CHECK OUT TODAY'S PARTIES YOU MAY BE SURPRISED

You know I get invited to a lot of places and make time for what I can. Last month I decided to take advantage of 2 invitations to see the "other" side if you will. The first invite I accepted was to sit in on a Libertarian Party monthly meeting a couple of weeks ago. I have to admit I was surprised.

The Libertarians of today are no longer the "100%'ers" most grew to know years ago. What with the face of Donna Mancini being the most prominent one out there who could take them seriously? That is entirely different today. The Libertarian Party of today seems to be made up of seriously disgruntled ex Republicans along with the Libertarian faithful.

There efforts seem to be organized which in itself is a new development, or not since it has been so long since I checked into them, but with the addition of so many ex Republicans the Libertarians seem to be poised to be the 3rd Party many have been looking for. At least locally.

Time will tell but it would be worth the effort to listen to the Libertarian candidates and see what they have to offer.

Which brings me to the 2nd invitation I accepted.

I had a choice tonight of attending my very first Republican Party meeting or attending Joni Jenkins Community forum. No offense to Joni but the thought of spending a night with idiots like Councilman Rick Blackwell, Councilman Bob Henderson, and Councilwoman Vickie Aubrey Welch was not very enticing.

While Jenkins forum was a worthy one the facts are the idiots there to listen have nothing to do with education that they can change and quite frankly need to be educated themselves on what their job is. If they have not got that one right by now the chances they can offer anything substantive to the fight for better education are slim to none.

So with that in mind I decided to take advantage of an invitation from Wade Hurt, Ellen Reitmeyer, Kaven rumpel, and Jerry Miller to attend the local Republican monthly meeting tonight. It was standing room only.

I have to be honest here.

I have attended Democratic club meetings in the past and was not impressed they all seem to have their own agenda and rarely does it coincide with what was best for the people. It always looks like a free for all and you are constantly waiting to see which member will eat their young and turn on the other members.

This mentality is just one of many reasons I left the party. It no longer seems capable of being able to do anything that isn't self serving and probably one reason I decided to check out my other options this month.

In this instance I was surprised at the flow of the Republican meeting. Of course you had the usual we must win the seats garbage as both parties have that mantra but there was something inherently different at this Republican meeting.

It was organized, thoughtful, and well attended. Councilmen Hawkins and Fleming were in attendance and a few notable candidates such as Chris Thieneman, Republican candidate for Mayor, and Kaven Rumpel, District 19 Metro Council candidate.

The meeting itself was unique. The membership listened, paid attention, and got involved in the discussion. The meeting was not we are better than the Dems and we must beat them at all costs. It was one of here is where we are and operated like a well oiled machine.

That is the difference I believe in the local Republican party today versus the days of Jack Richardson IV.

Rather than spend their time decrying how bad the Democrats are they spent their time taking care of business and focusing on a message of unity.

One sign of that was a motion to overturn the edict by Jack Richardson that screwed Chris Thieneman within the Republican Party. The motion was to reinstate Chris as a good standing member and expunge all records by Jack Richardson IV that stated otherwise.

The motion carried unanimously and that is as it should be. It was a great show of reaching out for unity within the party itself and a sign that they may be finally getting on the right track.

The members were eager to talk about the issues and seemed very sincere in making sure they had credible candidates running for office who actually wanted the office for the right reasons not personal gain. The mix of attendees ranged from young to old and meshed well.

It seems the local Republican party is willing to acknowledge there have been mistakes and are willing to work on the problems to better the party which ultimately will lead to better representation for us. They seem to understand why some have left the party and they are eager to earn those folks back.

Bottom line. Regardless of where you stand in the upcoming elections it will be worthwhile to look into candidates from all sides in this upcoming election cycle. They are all catering to the wants of us all and there are good candidates there for the choosing in most cases.

If we get over the whole I am a (insert party name here) mindset and open our eyes to other people you may be surprised. The 2010 elections will prove to be pivotal in showing just how much we have learned from mistakes on both sides.

Get involved and make a difference today. Seriously the days of being passive and toeing the party lines are over. Open your eyes to the newcomers regardless of their party, or non party affiliation.

I was surprised at the Republican party meeting tonight. Hey if I can open my eyes I think you can too.

Just saying.................

UPCOMING EVENTS

From Joni Jenkins SW Community Forum Tonight:


Make your voice be heard at this event. Though a couple of Council members slated to attend do not seem to do much at all it is a great chance to make the issues relevant and get heard.
From Metro Democratic Club:
Wendell Berry is coming to speak to the Metro Dems on November 11 at 6:30. He will read from one of his latest books and then answer questions from the audience.

Mr. Berry is a world acclaimed Kentucky author of over 50 books. His works include fiction, poetry and nonfiction and is a philosopher, political observer, environmental steward and critic of industrial agriculture. He lives and works on his farm in Henry County.

Carmichaels Book Store will have many of his books available that evening.

Refreshments at 6, meeting at 6:30
American Legion Hall2919 Bardstown Road

Please visit the MDC website at
http://www.metrodems.com/

Metro Democratic Club
P. O. Box 17315.
Louisville, KY 40217
Check this out for sure. Mr. Berry is a world renowned figure from Kentucky and it should be a great meeting.
Republican Party Meeting tonight:
And not to be outdone there is a meeting at the Jefferson County Republican Headquarters at 232 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd. tonight as well.
It starts at 6 pm.
This should be a good meeting since next month's meeting will basically be a Christmas party. Check out the goings on within the party and see how they are faring since the departure of Brad Cumming's.
Make plans to attend all of the above and learn more about what is going on within your party and community!

Saturday, November 7, 2009

RAND PAUL IN THE VALLEY!




Valley Station that is. Rand Paul came to Valley High School in Louisville today to speak at a health care forum moderated by Republican Mayoral candidate Chris Thieneman. I admit I was unsure of what the turnout would be since it was on a Saturday morning and many folks were tied up with sports games and activities with the kids.

I should not have wondered at all.

Approximately 275-300 people showed up eager to check out Dr. Paul and hear what he had to say. When interviewing people on the way out it appears they were not disappointed.

Chris Thieneman opened the event with a speech and stated that 'the issue may be argued in Washington but the bill will effect each and every one of us in a personal way," thus setting the stage for Dr. Paul.

Dr. Paul laid out his thoughts and his plan for fixing health care in America in a precise clear cut manner almost anyone could understand. He spent a great deal of time discussing how capitalism would help make health care affordable and how we would benefit from it. He compared term life insurance to health care in a way that was easy to follow.

Most of which in my opinion made more sense than anything I have read or heard so far. Believe me that is saying something.

Chris did a great job moderating and proved he is ready to handle the onslaught of being in the public eye and most certainly did his best to make sure everyone understood they would be heard.

There were notables in attendance besides myself of course.

Senator Dan Seum was there along with candidates for office: Brian Simpson candidate for 46Th District State House. Patrick Duerr candidate for Louisville Metro Council District 9, Marilyn Parker candidate for 3rd District House, and several with exploratory committees.

Republican 37Th District LD Chair Wade Hurt, and my radio co host, partner, and former Libertarian Candidate Ed Martin were there as well.

I found no one who was disappointed by the event whatsoever and in fact found that this event was attended by folks across all political spectrum's. Of course there were Republicans and Libertarians there. There were also Democrats, Independents, and Grassroots supporters from all across the City.

And that folks was what we need and Valley Station delivered today. A broad spectrum representative of us all in an environment that had pure open honest communication. Whether you liked the message, or the messenger, is irrelevant. This was an example of what together we can accomplish.

Dr. Paul did not disappoint. He did not shy away from any questions nor did he tell anyone what they wanted to hear. He spoke for about 30 minutes then spent the next hour and a half answering questions from anyone who wanted to ask them.

He also did not ask them to show their ID to be heard like our elected Congressional folks did over the summer.

Nope this forum was exactly what it was billed to be. A frank discussion on health care with an openness and frank question and answer period with no strings.

If this is what Rand Paul has to offer I admit I like it. We need people that will listen and tell us the truth regardless of whether we like the answers or not.

Chris Thieneman job well done by helping bring Dr. Paul to Valley High, and for moderating the event, for this discussion.

Dr. Paul job well done by taking the time to answer all questions with no caveats.

I believe we the people finally got the chance to at least be heard.

Whether you support Rand Paul or not one thing is clear.

I now know why he has surged ahead in the most recent polls. He is willing to allow himself to be open and honest. In politics that is a rare sight to behold and the one thing we should all demand from anyone running for office.

Pay attention in the coming months this will get more interesting to say the least.

Friday, November 6, 2009

HEALTHCARE FORUM AT VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL

Saturday from 10am - Noon There will be a Health care Town Hall forum at Valley High School on Dixie Highway. The event is hosted and moderated by Chris Thieneman Republican candidate for Louisville Metro Mayor.

U.S. Senate candidate Rand Paul is the featured guest will be addressing our health care situation. There will be an open question period.

Please make plans to attend it is open to all.

Here is the official announcement:

Dr. Rand Paul will be in Louisville to discuss the state of health care. Please attend if possible info provided below.


Date: Saturday, November 7, 2009
Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm
Location: Valley High School
Street: 10200 Dixie Hwy
City/Town: Louisville, KY

Thursday, November 5, 2009

MYVIEWMATTERS RADIO WORLDWIDE TONIGHT W/ CHRIS THIENEMAN AND DAVID ADAMS!

As announced the MyViewMatters Radio Show started simulcasting tonight with Kentucky grassroots Radio online! With the new addition of simulcast we now reach worldwide literally. This gives us the chance to get into more content not only locally, but Statewide , and National issues as well.

Of course this also means we reach a larger audience and now is the time for advertisers to jump on board one of the fastest growing local shows on the air today!.

With that in mind we introduced a new member of the show. We now have an on site reporter for events around town and he will be going to events during the show around town and getting feedback from the people at these events on topics of the day. You never know where he may turn up so let us know what events you have going!

The new on site reporter is a familiar name to many. Paul Holliger is Operations manager for the STOP I.T. organization (STOP Invisible taxes), the operations guy behind the Independent tipline at (502)410-1009 and now on site reporter for MyViewMatters Radio.

We hope these changes will be to your liking and we hope to get enough advertisers to expand the show in the near future to a 2 hour segment and possibly a daily show. SO remember to advertise with MyViewMatters Radio and help us get your message out!

Tonight's show centered on Healthcare with Republican Mayoral Candidate Chris Thieneman and U.S. Senate candidate Rand Paul campaign manager David Adams.

Chris is sponsoring and moderating the Healthcare forum at Valley High School this Saturday November 7 from 10 am-12 Noon. Rand Paul is the featured speaker and it is a great opportunity to get your voice heard!

I look forward to seeing you there so drop by and say hi. Thanks to Chris and Rand for making it possible for us to get heard.

On with the show!


MYVIEWMATTERS RADIO SIMULCAST TONIGHT!

Tonight the MyViewMatters Radio Show on WKJK 1080 AM at 7 pm begins simulcasting each week on Kentucky Grassroots radio network.

You can link in here for the show. http://www.blogtalkradio.com/KY-GrassRoots-Radio Coverage begins at 6:30 for KGR with Gatewood Galbraith as their guest tonight then switches to MyViewMatters at 7.

With this new simulcast and podcast format we now have the capability to reach across the entire State with issues and allows us to branch out even more than we already do.

Tonight's show will focus on health care with Chris Thieneman and David Adams in th studio. We will be discussing the upcoming health care forum for this Saturday November 7 that will be moderated by Republican Mayoral candidate Chris Thieneman with featured guest Senate candidate Rand Paul.

Make plans to listen in tonight and attend the forum on Saturday at Valley High School from 10am - 12pm.

ARE OPEN RECORDS UNDER ATTACK?

The Courier Journal did yet another piece today based on their Kentucky Open Records law request regarding the King divorce records. Believe it or not I am not going to spend this article on King.

Other than the fact that FitzGerald did allow a handful of documents to be kept private, including custodial evaluations of the Kings and a 1991 affidavit by Rebecca King that involved the state of mind of one of their three children, rumored to be Katie King, I have no real problem except this.

Don Cox, a lawyer for Rebecca King, said his client would like to negotiate a settlement with the newspaper to keep certain documents private and avoid an appeal.
“We’re hopeful we can reach a resolution of this issue,” he said.
The newspaper’s executive editor, Bennie Ivory, said, “We’re pleased with the judge’s decision, and we’re waiting to see the records that she authorized to be made public.”

The article can be found here: Judge refuses to seal Kings’ divorce records courier-journal.com The Courier-Journal

This is the problem for me. ALL divorce records are public regardless of who you are.

Take Jim King out of the mix for a minute if you will. I know it is hard to do even for me but consider this.

What precedent does it set if a "deal" is reached with a media outlet that would allow certain parts of the case to be private?

What happens to open records then. No independent authority should be able to make a deal that will affect ALL on behalf of a petitioner.

If the CJ agrees to keep certain parts of the file confidential, would I have to agree to the same thing by default? I think not. If the CJ agrees NOT to report certain segments that agreement does not and should not affect anyone else who gains public records.

If the Judge agrees to keep certain info private because of a deal between Cox and the CJ then it cannot apply to anyone else. Period.

What the CJ agrees to report or not report is there business but to compromise the open records process is all of our business. There are things I report all the time that the CJ will not. Many of us do.

SO in this case does this mean the King's, particularly Rebecca King and her attorney Cox, are going to make "deals" with each and every person that gets a copy of the file to keep them quiet?

Does this mean the Judge will seal part of the records because the CJ agreed to it. we must stay tuned and pay attention to this case.

I am not sure I like the precedent this may set in regards to open records.

Your thoughts?

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

HERNDON DROPS LAWSUIT AND IMPLIES JIM KING INVOLVED

UPDATE: Rick Redding over Louisville Mojo had a great link on the story about Herndon. Check it out. Kudos Rick. http://www.tastymojo.com/LouisvilleMojo/photos_news/Herndon%20--%20Signed%20Notice%20to%20Dismiss%20Action%20I.pdf (warning pdf file is 24 pages long)

You know it is becoming a daily habit of having Jim King's name involved in something illegal or unethical at best. Take this Courier article by Joe Gerth for example:

http://www.courier-journal.com/article/20091103/NEWS0106/911030350/Herndon+asks+for+dismissal+of+defamation+suit
 
Ken Herndon you may recall was running for the Metro Council 6th District seat held by George "do nothing" Unseld last year. Herndon ran a strong campaign and was defeated in the primary by Unseld. One of the contributing factors for this loss most believed at the time involved a mailer sent out by an "anonymous" source that purported to show a picture of Ken Herndon at a gay pride parade and said "this is the type of life he lives behind your back."


The photo was altered and Herndon claimed he was never there. I, for one, believe him.

It was one of the lowest most pathetic personal attack mailers I personally have seen used against an opponent for office. Ken Herndon filed suit, hired investigators, and did everything he could to find out exactly who did this as he should have done. I myself was contacted by an investigator in regards to this mailer. I was asked about different political people and what I may know about them and their possible involvement.

At the time there were many rumors and speculation that Jim King and Denise Bentley were involved. Bentley, who worked on George Unseld's campaign and a friend of the King's, and Jim King himself were pressuring Herndon to get out of the race in favor of Unseld. It didn't happen.

So what to do then?

Simple discount your opponent as some homosexual who lives a disgusting lifestyle and make sure families were sickened enough to remember it. While Herndon felt he did not have enough evidence to continue the suit he still points at King as being involved.

Many I speak with today still believe Jim King and Denise Bentley worked together on it. In my opinion I do not think it is a far fetched idea considering what I have reported on Jim King, the other things I have uncovered during research, and people I talk to who deal with him daily.

Even Matt Conway, King’s former chief of staff, saw a copy of the mailer in King’s Metro Council office seven to 14 days before it arrived in mailboxes. In an affidavit, Conway said he saw only the side of the mailer that displayed the photo of Herndon and didn’t attach any significance to it.


Conway, you may recall, also resigned being the treasurer for Katie King's campaign because of ethical concerns.

King of course denies ever seeing the mailer.

If I had to choose who to believe it would have to be Conway.

Seriously, a lawyer who would lie in an affidavit over something like this? A lawyer who resigned over ethical concerns while working in a prominent position for a Judge candidate?

Conway could have written his own ticket if he played ball. He could also lose his license to practice law if lying in an affidavit.With so much to lose or gain what does Conway have to prove here?

It just does not add up. Conway by his actions has proven so far to be a man with integrity.

King in so many of his actions finally being uncovered has not.

For Ken Herndon I hope he stays in politics and runs again. Every piece of feedback I have gotten on him says he is a man of integrity and we need people like that in office.

While we may never be 100% sure who actually mailed this garbage out and defamed Ken Herndon one thing is for sure.


Jim King sure does seem to have his hand in many shady dealings and apparently the list is growing.

Your thoughts?

WHAS REPORTS RAND PAUL IS AHEAD

You know it was just a few short months ago that everyone was discounting Rand Paul and using names such as "Paultards" etc when referring to his supporters. What started out as name calling turned into a source of pride for those who follow Mr. Paul. It would seem in light of this report by WHAS Joe Arnold that the tides have indeed turned and Mr. Paul has become the front runner (within the margin of error of course) in the Republican Primary for Jim Bunning's seat.

Read below:


by Joe Arnold

The Republican party in Kentucky has never seen anything like it.Bowling Green eye doctor Rand Paul has no political experience, but with the support of the same people who backed his Dad, Texas Congressman Ron Paul, when he ran for president. Rand Paul has now at least pulled even with Secretary of State Trey Grayson in the GOP U.S. Senate primary.


32% Grayson
35% Paul
2% Johnson
1% Oerther
3% Thoney
10% Other
18% Undecided


In fact, the WHAS11/Survey USA poll has Paul ahead of Grayson by three percentage points, with a 4.1 percent margin of error. While Grayson is down five from our last poll 11 weeks ago, Paul has gained nine points since then.

Meanwhile, in the Democratic primary, Lt. Gov. Daniel Mongiardo now leads Attorney General Jack Conway by 11 points.


28% Conway
39% Mongiardo
2% Price
1% Sweeney
5% Miller-Johnson
10% Other
16% Undecided

Mongiardo maintains the same 39 percent support from the last poll, but Conway is slightly down. Yet a full third of the likely voters in each primary don't back any of the four major candidates.

Yep folks Trey Grayson, a Democrat or Republican, depending on what office he wants or who he wants to sway for a vote, has a serious challenge for what was once thought to be his seat for the taking. Backed by incumbent Jim Bunning and our favorite mess of a Senator Mitch McConnell this could very well be a test of Mitch McConnell's waning political power.

For myself I say good job Rand Paul. While we may not agree on every issue I certainly am glad to see that We The People are showing signs of being sick and tired of the same old insider game played by our entrenched politicians.

Today's issues need real leaders to solve them. We do not need more of the same. Though this is an early poll it is very promising in that it shows a pattern of behavior that is rapidly changing in the electorate.

In short, we are starting to look beyond the force fed candidates thrown at us by the incumbents like McConnell and Bunning.

I hope this is a sign of things to come so that ALL who seek office are finally being allowed to be heard.

Well done!

1st ANNUAL DIXIE HIGHWAY RUN

by Brian Bailey

For many years I have been an active participant in Southwest Louisville particularly the Dixie Highway area. There is so much history and pride in this area that I decided to organize a facebook group simply titled "I Am Dixie Highway."

In just a few short weeks the response has been so overwhelming that we were recently featured in the Courier Journal (10/28/2009) http://www.courier-journal.com/article/20091028/ZONE08/910280334/1027/NEWS0102/Facebook%20fans%20salute%20Dixie%20Highway.

I created the group as a forum for "Dixievillian's" to gather and reminisce and it has grown at such a fast pace (currently over 2000 members) that I decided to take it to the next level.

I am currently organizing the "1st Annual Dixie Run" http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=99324332851&v=app_2344061033#/event.php?eid=167676223180&index=1 scheduled for Sat. November 28th (Thanksgiving weekend) and the outpouring of support and people wanting to attend has been incredible to say the least. It is growing by leaps and bounds and I am asking everyone who wants to join us please sign up today!

The "1st Annual Dixie Run" is going to be a major event with hundreds already committed to joining in. It is our intent to showcase our local businesses and help those less fortunate through the holidays as well. With this in mind we are in talks with Toys~R~US to use them as our launch pad for the night, so that we can incorporate a toy drive to benefit the needy during the holiday season in our Dixie Highway families.

All participants of the Dixie Run are signing up online at the Group's Events page http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=99324332851&v=app_2344061033#/event.php?eid=167676223180&index=1. Everyone will meet up on Saturday November 28 at 6:00 p.m. to kick off the night. Each participant will receive a name tag with their name, what part of Dixie that they are from, and they will receive an Index card with a list of Dixie Businesses that they will visit that night...for Fun, Food and Beverage, Holiday Shopping Discounts, Prizes, and much more!

There will be a Family Friendly side and an Adult side...so there will be something for everyone. Some may choose to use this run to take advantage of special Dixie Run discounts and complete some of their Holiday shopping...others may simply use it as an opportunity to visit the local bar scene (We ARE highly encouraging the use of a Designated Driver).

Several businesses have said they would offer specials and prizes for participants and we will have a volunteer at each location to 'punch cards' as they make a purchase. Once the participants have completed the run, and have the correct number of hole-punches, they will take it to an end point (yet to be determined) and receive a free t-shirt. The front of the t-shirt reads "I AM Dixie Highway and I spend my money on Dixie Highway"...the back of the shirt says "1st Annual Dixie Run" and will contain ALL of the sponsoring businesses logos.

It is my sincerest hope that this run will be a profitable evening for our Dixie Highway businesses as well as a great way to give back to the community through the toy drive.

I am doing this for the people of our community to show our pride, as a way of helping our struggling local business community on Dixie Highway, and helping the needy of our community during the holidays.

Please make plans to attend. You never know who you will see after all the years on Dixie. Hope to see you there!

Brian Bailey

FIREFIGHTERS FINALLY GETTING THEIR DUE

It is official Louisville firefighters now will get paid what they should have been paid 9 years ago. A $45 million settlement agreement is being sent to the Metro Council for approval where it is expected to be passed quickly. Read here for more info:
Mayor submits plan to give firefighters first payment in overtime dispute courier-journal.com The Courier-Journal

The firefighters, as you may recall, have been involved in a 9 year struggle to get the overtime pay and other incentives they are entitled to resolved and put in their paychecks. The problem for over 9 years has been the idiocy of Mayor Abramson trying to screw them out of what they deserve.

Simply put if Abramson would have done his job and paid them justly we would have owed somewhere in the neighborhood of $6 million, NOT $45 million, and if paid in a timely manner it would have certainly garnered more favorable attention than what he created by fighting.

Abramson was the one who fought the firefighters over their overtime pay and when he lost the first court case decided to continue the fight anyway. This of course led us to be on the hook for $45 million instead of $6 million.

That payment includes $14.3 million to more than 800 current and former firefighters involved in two lawsuits over an overtime pay dispute that has gone on nine years. It also includes $1.5 million to cover attorney fees.

Under Abramson’s plan, the city would make additional payments of $14.3 million by March 31 and $14.9 million by July 15 to complete the settlement.

Abramson has long touted us as being broke and now all of a sudden he "finds" $14.3 million in the budget to make the first installment? Seems he always finds money to help himself doesn't he?

Anyone wonder why? Because he cannot afford to have this hanging over his head during the Gubernatorial election.

Also consider this. After this first installment is made the rest will be paid through the use of bonds.

According to Jane Driskell (remember her? one of Abramson's favorite go to people and double dipper) the December payment would come from cash already allocated in the metro budget.

About $7.1 million would come from a reserve account where money was accumulated in recent years to pay for the litigation.

The rest will come from the sale of an investment, Driskell said.

She said the second and third payments would be covered by bond sales. She said money to cover the employer costs would have to be bonded.

So now thanks to the arrogance of the idiot Mayor not only have we screwed the firefighters all these years we now are on the hook for $45 million in payouts, of which most will be bonded costing us even more money.

My congratulations go out to the hard working men and women of the Louisville Fire Department for this hard fought victory. If not for their willingness to negotiate this figure could have been millions higher. Kudos to IAFF President Craig Willman for standing firm and also to Councilman Kelly Downard who has tried to get this resolved for years.

My condolences to the hard working people in our Metro for having to deal with the idiocy of this Mayor and his purse strings. We have suffered enough financially from the poor leadership and cronyism he espouses.

Remember these idiotic decisions and the cost associated with his leadership when it is time to vote for Governor of the Commonwealth. In my opinion it is time to say goodbye to Abramson from politics.

Your thoughts?

Monday, November 2, 2009

MONDAY ROUNDUP

What not to do when your dad is Mayor: According to the CJ Male High students suspended for vandalism courier-journal.com The Courier-Journal several Male students were suspended for vandalism to Manual High School.

Seems Jerry Abramson's son was one of the students involved. Why a story?

According to sources this is not the first time Abramson's son has been in trouble with the law.

There are reports of him getting pulled over for speeding while driving a City car and a few other things along the way. Considering all the speculation on Jerry Abramson and a few encounters he himself has gotten away with it would seem the apple does not fall far from the tree.

Ford votes down concessions: Ford UAW employees voted down the latest concessions asked for by Ford by a hefty margin. Seems 84% of those who voted (approximately 82% turnout) decided enough is enough. While the employees are getting bashed over on the CJ comments section the real question is this.

Why does Ford need yet a 3rd concession vote on the contract ratified in 2007 when it was announced today they had a $1 BILLION profit for last quarter. Ford negotiated the contract and approved of it where is the backlash for them wanting to reopen it every few months.

The employees of the UAW have given enough. Kudos to them for having the guts to stand firm in these trying times.

Conway says just the facts Sir: Apparently AG Jack Conway took some offense at the CJ for a story they wrote and which he claims the allegations were not factual. Conway: editorial based on ‘factual errors' courier-journal.com The Courier-Journal

I have called Jack Conway out myself on occasion when I felt it was necessary but the facts are the facts. While I like the reporting Andrew Wolfson does over at the CJ, a rare admission I admit, I have to agree with Conway on this one.

Finally Jim King should just go away: I hate to even have to write this but it is necessary. It seems some people are under the delusion that I, or some phantom friend, supplied Joe Gerth over at the CJ with the divorce files of Jim King so they could report them.

I admit openly I have tried to get those files for almost 2 years now, including most recently the day before Gerth reported on them, but sadly I have never seen the case files nor has anyone I know seen them. If they had I would have either ignored the story or run it myself. Each time I searched the files were not there (kind of interesting to say the least considering I first checked into them almost 2 years ago).

Considering all the backlash I receive daily because I do not shy away from the controversy, does it really seem logical I need someone to hide behind or do my dirty work?

The allegations against me are hilarious at best. But I will say this. ALL divorce records are open records including Jim King's. While the charges of abuse are something I believe should be reported, and according to some sources these claims are more recent than just the ones in the 80's, the facts are if King was not a politician most would not even care or be aware of them.

I also see a positive side to this as well. Anything that helps bring to light domestic violence, regardless of who the players are, is a good thing. So many are too scared to move forward with claims it is a cycle of abuse that goes on and on.

How you treat others goes to the heart of who you are.

So sorry to disappoint you folks but this one wasn't mine. Kudos to Joe Gerth.

9/11 Twenty-One Years later....

This will not be the post you expect from the headline. Fair warning..... Most remember the events of 9/11. How anyone could forget I have n...