Pictures of ANWR - to make the case for drilling

Luke Puckett from Indiana's 2nd Congressional District has been very vocal that it's high time we start drilling for oil in the United States, including ANWR. Porter County Politics is proud to endorse Luke's efforts and his candidacy for Congress. Luke Puckett on drilling for oil - energy independence.

While reading one of my favorite sites, The Foundry, I came across this post tonite. I have copied in full, and I think I'm cool doing so because it appears the author there did the same from an email forward.

First, do you know what ANWR is?

ANWR = Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

Now, a comparison:

And some perspective:

Note where the proposed development area is (in the ‘ANWR Coastal Plain’):

This is what the Democrats, liberals and ‘greens’ show you when they talk about ANWR. And they are right, these are photographs of ANWR:

Isn’t ANWR beautiful? Why should we drill here (and destroy) this beautiful place?

Well, that’s not exactly the truth.

Do you remember the map?

The map showed that the proposed drilling area is in the ANWR Coastal Plain.

Do those photographs look like a coastal plain to you?

What’s going on here?

The answer is simple.

That is NOT where they are wanting to drill!

This is what the proposed exploration area ACTUALLY looks like in the winter:

And this is what it ACTUALLY looks like in the summer:

Here are a couple screen shots from Google Earth:

As you can see, the area where they are talking about drilling is a barren wasteland.

Oh, and they say that they are concerned about the effect on the local wildlife.

Here is a photo (shot during the summer) of the ‘depleted wildlife’ situation created by drilling around Prudhoe Bay. Don’t you think that the Caribou really hate that drilling?

Here’s that same spot during the winter:

Hey, this bear seems to really hate the pipeline near Prudhoe Bay, which accounts for 17% of U.S. domestic oil production.

Now, why do you think that the Democrats are LYING about ANWR?

Remember when Al Gore said that the government should work to ARTIFICIALLY raise gas prices to $5 a gallon?

Well, Al Gore and his fellow Democrats have almost reached their goal!

Now that you know that the Democrats have been lying, what are you going to do about it?

P.S.: Drilling does not “destroy.” It creates jobs, resources and strengthens our economy — all while protecting our environment. Everyone benefits, even caribou.

Join Luke's team today.

Black Republicans - A new paradigm

The Digital Farmers Blog in Indy tells a shortened story about LTC Allen West (US Army ret.) - a 22 year veteran that served most recently in the Operation Iraqi Freedom and is now running for Congress in a former Republican stronghold in Florida's 22nd Congressional District lost to a Democrat in the blue flood of 2006.

The point being that although the majority of black Americans will align themselves this year with Barack Obama, there are conservative black Americans who will vote for solid Republicans. How can the Republican Party do a better job reaching out to black Americans?

Allen West's advice to Senator Obama: "My advice to Senator Obama is to run as a Man and Leader, and the American people will evaluate you as such, not as a victim. This is a Presidential race, based solely on a capacity to lead the United States of America. It is not about skin tone…however, perhaps we should come to expect these immature statements.

It also seems rather humorous that the Presidential candidate who was supposed to be such a “uniter” and transcend race is the one talking about it the most. If Senator Obama was confident in his abilities and character, he would not need to create a crutch for failure. Senator Obama has just tipped his hand, any criticism of him and his policies will be directly attributed to racism. I congratulate Senator Obama for taking race relations in America back some 30 years."

I would love to hear Allen West's advice on how black Americans can be reached to join the conservative movement.

City of Valpo provides EMS

During the sale of the county hospital last year, the City of Valparaiso announced plans to start their own ambulatory service in conjunction with the award winning Valparaiso Fire Department.

To me, a no brainer since the new private owners of the hospital can easily shut down the ambulance service they have. But the debate started raging for some reason this week on one of the old style bulletin boards at NWI.com I've recreated below highlights from that debate so you can see the ferocity of the anger by those that for some reason just plain can't stand anything that the Costas administration does. Perhaps this will give the reader a sense that though Jon Costas has 60-70 percent support, those that don't like him are vehement.

Valparaiso Fireby billsly

Because of political pressure the city administration in Valparaiso gave in to the Fire Union and allowed them to start an ambulance service. This when everyone is talking about consolidating services. But no they tear a perfectly good County service apart. Now I hear they have the nerve to ask the County Council for money to subsidize this new service. What a joke. The Council can't back this.

Comment: Billsly started the whole attack, and must have done so when Valparaiso asked that the council reduce the amount going to the old hospital which is now serving a lot fewer people, and redirect those dollars to Valparaiso's ambulance service.

by jlawley (who incidentally works on the fire department)
Feel free to have your misguided thoughts on the hows and whys of the Ambulance Service...God Bless America! But the ambulance service run out of Porter Hospital is not County owned...it is a private company now. If you look around you will see quite a few threads about the hospital sale.

by currentevents
Come on Jeff you know it is much easier to put garbage that isn't true out there than to actually find out the truth.

by Don Corleone
I do not think anyone can question the response time of the Valpo Fire, they arrived before any Porter County Ambulance before they were running their own EMS...the fire/based ambulance is not a new concept and IT IS A CONSOLIDATION OF SERVICE.

The private hospital will honor the contract for ambulance until 2010 or 2011, fuzzy on the detail here, then who knows what will be...I'm sure things are on the drawing board, but I am not an insider to the knowledge.The county subsidizes the "Porter Ambulance Service" as well as Portage, South Haven and Ogden Dunes, so I guess my question is why wouldn't they help Valpo Fire? Cut the portion they give to "Porter" since they are no longer servicing Valpo.

Most EMS services are tax supported in part, so let's be fair. Valpo Fire is proven service and better service...I guess I don't understand what the gripe on this thread is...Personally speaking, when minutes count, I am glad to have the boys (and girls) in red tend to our emergency medical needs, it might be the difference in life or ...

by billsly (at this point he's on his own and looking for supporters)
Fact. It is and has been a County Ambulance Service. Porter just runs it under contract
for the County. After 2011 the County must take back over. Fact Porter had ambulance presence in Valparaiso at all times. Fact There are less house fires today because of smoke detectors and new building materials and therefore certain fire unions see ambulance service as a way to demand more money and growth. Fact Several years ago Valpo fireman started responding ot all Porter ambulance runs in Valparaiso Fact At the same time Valparaiso was saving money by joing Coutny 911 and talking about savings in bringing together services they had plans to gut the County Ambulance service to please the firefighters union in Valparaiso that backed the Preset (I got tired of fixing his spelling errors) administration. It is an example of government at its worst. This is how over the years these many layers of government have started. Now Valparaiso wants the County to help pay for this and also after county takes over the ambulance service after 2011 they will be faced with a system that has been torn apart.
But here is an idea. The V Line has so much ridership why not have the V Line Finance the Ambulance Service

by The Jolly Undertaker
This issue has been addressed and debated on this board many months ago, so there's not much appetite to rehash it. To recap for Billy-come-lately: the Fire Department is often the first responder to 911 calls in Valparaiso. Valpo Fire arrived at least a few minutes before the Porter Memorial ambulance last time I called 911 for a medical emergency. In many emergencies, those few minutes make a big difference.

In the past, Valpo Fire was somewhat but not fully trained in providing the necessary services. Fully equipping them to provide a full ambulance service is a great example of doing more (and making the city safer) without creating significant extra cost to taxpayers. If you think the city needs fewer firefighters and this is a case of featherbedding, then show up at a city council meeting and make your case. Otherwise you're just bellyaching.

by jlawley
While I admire your passion for this argument you might want to check on some of these so-called FACTS First the employees and all EMS realted equipment belongs to the new private owner of the private hospital, so the county does not actually own anything EMS related. There is a contract paid by the county for EMS service through 2011 aterwhich is anybodies guess...if you check this private companies other hospitals you will find that they have not kept their hand in EMS services and most, if not all, are privately held outside the company. This Private factor is one that is important to me as a citizen of Valparaiso because as long as the city runs it I have a say, through my elected officials, to the quality and scope of the service. Valpo Fire never responded to all of Porters calls while they were county owned, we actually had a limited protocol and were only dispatched on what would be considered major calls. (i/e Heart Attacks, strokes, etc.) These response were never billed for and were done to provide care for the citizens of Center Township and Valpo, since porter response times could be lengthy depending on where their ambulance was coming from. 911 consilodation took quite awhile and was the right thing to do as evidenced by house bill 1001. Your Union comment is being ignored on purpose since it bears no weight or validity. As far as 2011 is concerned there have been alot of rumors about what is going to happen, all I can tell you is that in 2011, and the years leading up to it, the citizens of Valparaiso and Center township will not have to worry about their service, or quality of service, while the parts of the county without may end up with the lowest bidder. We are beholden to the citizens we serve and strive to give them the best service possible. In the words of Forrest Gump "That's all I got to say about that." V Line comment ignored as ignorant.

by DAYOFF
Most all county fire departments paid and volunteer run parallel to the ambulance on life threatening calls with a first responder service and have since before 1990. Yes the fire department can often beat the ambulance; it’s called location, location, location since the fire departments have many more stations and can answer directly from their homes. Some firemen are EMT and Paramedics.

Is Valpo ambulance a duplication of service? It will be to at least 2011. Valpo wants their own say so. Was 911 a duplication? Yes even before when they were a block apart. But Valpo wanted a say so on how 911 was handled in their city.

Not much has changed in Valpo. Just different names and different services and different fire department toys to play with. Center Township may get a different fire response than those "in the city". Valpo used to only allow so many trucks and men outside the city. Portage Twp never had a county ambulace station to my knowledge and no duplication with the county.

by billsly
What really is going to happen is the person who is going to get something is the taxpayer.
What are they going to get. A bigger tax bill.
Thanks Mayor and Valpo Fire.

by Don Corleone
Are not the collection rates fairly decent within Valparaiso/Center Township? Insurance, medicare and private pay? I would think they are. Primarily, yes there were start up costs for rigs and medical supplies...wasn't grant money used for some of these initial costs? Or grant monies yet to be received?

I can agree with one statement made by either Billy come lately or Day Off, LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION...and this my friends make all the difference in a serious medical situation, when minutes/seconds count.

I have said this before and I will say it again, if there is one thing I demand from my tax dollars it's to dial 911, have the phone answered promptly and dispatch the police, fire or ambulance (whatever the need) ASAP. For the ambulance service, at least in part it is fee based funded ANNNNNDDDDDDD Valpo Fire/EMS provides the most expedient response. They did so when they weren't even their own EMS service, usually arriving before the ambulance.

For the fire end of the spectrum, I understand that the insurance rating for their fast response time and evaluation of such gave most of us a slight break on our homeowners policies. Way to go VFD. I am glad to have your dedicated service and know if the unforeseen happens, I or my loved ones are in good hands. Enough said.

by shftwrkr
The statement referrence there is always a Porter Ambulance presence in Valpo is not entirely correct. The town is divided in to response areas. East side of Sturdy Rd and areas east of Sturdy are handled primarily by Porter Hospital. Everything on the west side and areas west of Sturdy are Valpo EMS. If Porters ambulance is on a call, Valpo EMS is the one that goes. The ambulance from Porter also covers Morgan Township and Washington Township. Every effort is made to replace the busy Porter ambulance stationed in Valpo, but that doesn't always occur.

by billsly
Bottom line.
Ambulance service was working fine.
Mayor caved in to firemans union.
Tax payers are going to pay more.

by DAYOFF
Shftwrker,

So you say if you live east of Sturdy but in the city, your first call ambulance is Porter? It probably would be closer for Porter on Laporte Ave, at least south of Evans. City taxpayers east of Sturdy aren't getting much for their money.

by Iam Watching
Typical When you lose an argument Taxes are going Up. What a strategy!!!!! You guys need to find a new line of recreation. Your terrible at this.

Religion Candidate Waterman slow to get signatures

The Howey Report suggest that John Waterman - actually the John Price religious right machine - may not get the 33,000 authenticated signatures they need to make the ballot. First it will take 40,000 to make sure they all count, and then the churches that make up this movement are frankly tougher to align. I know in Porter County Fairhaven Baptist, which was in lockstep in years past, is much more happy with Mitch Daniels.

State Sen. John Waterman is indicating to associates that he does not know if he can submit 33,000 authenticated signatures by Monday to qualify his Taxpayer Party gubernatorial ticket on the November ballot. The informed and reliable source who talked with Waterman earlier this week said that Waterman and his running mate, Glenna Jehl of Fort Wayne, are relying on a network of churches to attain the signatures. The source suggested that Waterman might need more than 40,000 actual signatures in order to cross the 33,000 authenticated signature threshold. The source suggested the odds of doing that "are less than 50 percent."

It's my humble opinion that the far right church movement has peaked. They may still be mad that they didn't get Eric Miller elected four years ago, but Mitch Daniels has done such a great job in Indiana that they are having to stretch to take shots at him. I would expect Micah Clark and Eric Miller and other strong religious right leaders to get as much space as possible from John Waterman and John Price. Or maybe Price will toss Waterman under the bus?

Price's one knock on the Governor is that he signed an affirmative action policy for hiring state employees that could conceivably allow a cross dresser to get hired. Whatever ... that's lame litmus testing.

The tale of two states: Illinois and Indiana

What an interesting year for elections, real choices between ways to govern and run our states and our nation.

On the one side you have Barack Obama's Illinois-style:

From: Chicago Tribune

Gov. Rod Blagojevich has been interviewed multiple times by federal investigators looking into allegations that he and key members of his administration offered contracts and state work in exchange for campaign fundraising help, according to documents unsealed Thursday.

The documents were made public in the Antoin "Tony" Rezko criminal case on the same day that Blagojevich held a major fundraising event at the River East Arts Center. Similar events in past years have reaped millions of dollars for the governor's campaign, much of it coming from firms that landed lucrative state contracts and individuals given coveted state jobs or board appointments.

From: Frugal Hoosiers

an economist with the Illinois Department of Employment Security, announced that the unemployment rate in Illinois jumped one full point, from 5.4% to 6.4%.

Thousands more Illinoisans are looking for work, part of an unusually high jump in the state's unemployment rate in May that makes some puzzled and worried.

Illinois' unemployment rate jumped to 6.4 percent in May from 5.4 percent in April. That climb of one percentage point is the largest one-month increase here in more than 20 years and is the nation's third-highest increase in May. (Incidentally the economist bears the name of our Governor Mitch Daniels)

On the Indiana side of the border:

From Fort Wayne News:

Bob Pastrick left the East Chicago mayor’s office following defeat in a 2004 special election prompted by rampant absentee ballot fraud in the regular contest a year earlier (Guinane, Times of Northwest Indiana). His last successful re-election, in 1999, later was tainted by the unearthing of a massive sidewalks-for-votes scandal that snared a trio of top aides and three city councilmen.

Comment: Indiana Democrat Superdelegate former Mayor Bob Pastrick is finally being pulled into trials relating to his corruption and theft from taxpayers to buy votes. Two choice for Attorney General, Linda Pence on the Democrat side who appears to be soft on these corruption charges so far, and Greg Zoeller who has vowed to take the prosecution all the way. It's time to clean out Lake County, feeling too much like neighbor Illinois.

From The Herald Journal

The state's overall seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose from 4.8 percent in April to 5.3 percent in May, but Workforce Development director Teresa Voors said Indiana's rate is still lower than the U.S. as well as neighboring states.Michigan saw the highest rate among Indiana's neighbors with 8.5 percent unemployment.Illinois came in next at 6.4 percent with Ohio following close behind at 6.3 percent and Kentucky at 6.2 percent.Voors said advances in some areas have tempered the global economy's effect on the state."New business initiatives, such as life sciences, are diversifying the state's economy and lessening the severity caused by the current global economic slowdown," Voors said.

You choose. Do you want Barack Obama's Illinois style corruption, vote buying, tax increasing and economic messes? Or, do you want taxes reduced, government cleaned of both corruption and people that have been there too long, and economic investment and job creatoin?

Easy call for me.

Reaching young voters online

Young Internet Voter.com post today on Capital Gig gives the results of a survey of young voters and the way they follow news and interact.

Some highlights, go to link above to read entire article:

Digital Strategy Trumps Traditional Marketing/PR

Getting Social: Perhaps some of the most telling statistics revolve around this demographic’s monthly participation in social media

Waggener Edstrom Worldwide released results from the Young Internet Voter of 2008 Study.

The author goes on to state a very important point though, will these young voters who are so engaged right now online, actually go to the voting booth? Obama's success in the primaries would seem to suggest that they will. But a hard fought bitter campaign may also frustrate these voters and cause some apathy on election day.

From my perspective, Republicans aren't doing enough to engage each other or undecideds online and in social media.

The Illiana Expressway is Back!

Three Plans For Illiana Expressway

Just when it seemed like action on the Illiana Expressway had ground to a halt after the rough and tumble political battles of last year comes new that its planners have been moving forward with their studies.

The first of six Illiana Expressway studies has fixed the boundaries of the proposed highway that will connect I-65 to I-57. Within those boundaries, Illiana Expressway planners will explore a northern, central and southern Illiana Expressway route.

Thanks for the report Chris, I am 100% for this construction project. How about you?

Obama must be proud of Lake County

When Indiana was in the center of the primary news coverage, and wasn't that all fun, there was quite a bit of talk about Obama's strongholds versus those of Hillary Clinton. Hillary won Porter County of course, with quite a large Operation Chaos vote (personal observation).

Obama though won Lake County, a large and important vote in Indiana, convincingly. Do you remember the late nite games? It seemed that Mayor Clay (Gary Indiana) was actually trying to pad the election results to make sure that Obama kept the state close.

Brian has commented recently on the somewhat embarrassing fact one of the Democrat Superdelegates from Indiana is the corrupt former Mayor of East Chicago, none other than Mayor Pastrick. Will the Obama factions distance themselves from this "chicagoland corruption style politics" or will they allow political criminals to use their tactics to deliver the inner city vote in metro areas across the country?

Former Lake County Council President is a racketeer?

Buzzcut, the blogger and author, posts regularly on Lake County corruption and political criminality. Keep an eye on his site, he'll be sure to dig up more to show that Lake County Indiana is a mess.

Update: From Frugal Hoosiers

Untouchable status never lasts forever.

"Joel Markovich, a former city contractor and former president of Lake County Council, has joined the growing list of people who are agreeing to cooperate against former Mayor Robert Pastrick in a civil Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act lawsuit.

Markovich and former City Engineer Pedro Porras signed agreements

Obama helping a Republican Senator?

I don't quite know how to feel about this ad...


In every Presidential Election year, each Party's candidate helps others. Obama's name is likely to help several Democratic candidates down ballot, but what about a Republican?

Oregon Sen. Gordon Smith, one of the most vulnerable Senate Republicans, is stressing his history of working with the presumptive Democratic nominee in a new campaign ad that hit airwaves Tuesday.

Obama camp immediately made clear Barry is supporting Smith's Democrat opponent. Of course they did... now Obama has be more more Democrat that before...

"Barack Obama has a long record of bipartisan accomplishment, and we appreciate that it is respected by his Democratic and Republican colleagues in the Senate," Obama spokesman Bill Burton said. "But in this race, Oregonians should know that Barack Obama supports Jeff Merkley for Senate. Merkley will help Obama bring about the fundamental change we need in Washington."

Alright, I understand the tactic. I won't hide the fact that I don't know Oregon. But I know I have a bit of a hard time with the fact that a sitting member of the Senate and a well respected Republican would step away from principles just to get elected.

I don't know... what are your thoughts?

Democrats in disarray at convention

Some of the "blue" variety were gleeful about our Republican convention and the highly contested AG race ... even suggesting that the battle showed Governor Daniels some problems in November. That was until they started their own convention to enough problems of their own.

Reports from around the state:

Democrat hatred of Jill Long Thompson unifies democrats at convention
Complete with a comment suggesting some democrats would rather see four more years of Mitch Daniels than Jill.

The United Auto Workers have refused to endorse the gubernatorial campaign of Jill Long Thompson. According to Danny Ernstes, chairman of the Marion County UAW CAP Council, the UAW met at the Indiana Democratic Convention this morning and voted not to endorse the Democratic nominee. -- Howey Politics Indiana

Word had it that the ousting of Democratic Chairman Michael O'Connor may be imminent, possibly after this weekend's state party convention. O'Connor in the past two years has presided over the campaigns of two major Democratic losses: Melina Kennedy for prosecutor and Bart Peterson's bid for re-election as mayor. -- Indianpolis Star

Lake County Indiana Democrat Judge - Corrupt

Have you ever seen a judge thrown off the bench by the voters? Not too often, voters seem to think that voting yes is utilizing their right to vote, without even thinking about the judge's performance.

Buzz at Blue County in a Red State reports:

"Lake County Democrat Judge Julie Cantrel, last seen letting illegal immigrants get away with DUI before they go on to kill themselves and others on the road, is involved in another scandal.Her father, Bob Cantrel, was the former North township Republican chairman. His claim to fame was working secretly with Democrats to run sham candidates, thus ensuring that the Democrat machine held on to power."

Head over and read the whole article, for the sordid details on how this judge made her dad $500,000 in fraudulent money on the taxpayer dime. He'll do jail dime, she probably won't, heck she'll probably get re-elected.

Can You Be A Republican If.....

Can you be a Real Republican if you don't support the Republican candidates? I was in the salon the other day and there were several discussions going on about politics.

One lady stated that she has always been a strong republican as I sat there listening to her I wondered is she? She stated that she would never vote for Mitch and was going to go listen to what JLT had to say and I said (of course I couldn't just sit there quietly) why? She stated Mitch was going to run a highway right through her house and he sold the toll road to a foreign company.

I of course had to delve further run a highway through your house? Yes I saw the map she said. I chuckled to myself as I had heard there were some possiblities drawn on paper. She then went on to state that she would have been homeless. Again I jumped in with both feet. You mean that they were going to take your house and throw you in the street (yes I knew better)? She said well I don't know how that all works but I just know that no one came and talked to me about it. I then told her what I knew about it, that she would have gotten more than fair market value and if they had even been thinking about putting a highway through her house I am SURE someone would have come and talked to her. I also told her about all the great thing Mitch has done more child welfare workers, a balanced budget for the first time, and on and on (don't want to get me started here Mitch is definitely my Man).

Then the Ron Paul discussion started. One of the people that work there made the statement that the Republican Ron Paulers are going to support Barr. I said let me correct your statement the Liberaterian Ron Paulers are going to support Barr. He said that the Paulers were Republicans. I of course said well if they were Republicans they would be supporting the Republican candidate. There is nothing wrong with someone wanting to support a candidate that is not from one specific party or the other but these people would be called independents.

I think that if you are going to call yourself a Republican you support Republican candidates. Now let me just say that in the past there have been a few Republicans that I did not support however, I would keep that to myself and when I went into the voting booth they simply did not get my vote. I would never vote for the democrat or third party candidate and I would definitely not help campaign for them. You see I am a Republican and have been a Republican since I was 18 years old.

Your thoughts on this?

More jobs created in Porter County

Software Developer to Expand Its Headquarters, Development Center in Valparaiso

VALPARAISO, Ind. (June 18, 2008) -Software and systems developer Integrated Process Automation and Control Technologies Inc. (IPACT) announced today it will expand its corporate headquarters and development center here, creating 10 new engineering jobs by 2011.

The company, which develops software and systems to improve the efficiency of manufacturing operations, will invest more than $2 million to construct a new headquarters and development facility in the northwest Indiana city.

"IPACT is a home-grown Indiana company and a prime example of a technology-based, high-growth business that will help advance and diversify our economy," said Lt. Governor Becky Skillman.

IPACT, which has developed efficiency improvement solutions for international companies in markets ranging from aerospace to food production, currently employs 25 associates and will begin hiring additional design and engineering associates this summer. It plans to open its new facility in the fourth quarter of 2008.

Founded in 1986, IPACT designs planning services and software to integrate operations such as supply chain management, manufacturing and distribution under the umbrella of one software database. The company was recently chosen to redesign the process automation system for a major candy manufacturer's chocolate production lines and as a result, was able to significantly increase the accuracy of the company's reported additive consumption.

"IPACT's strengths in manufacturing automation coupled with the growing opportunities within the sectors of food, metals, petrochemical, and aerospace have primed us for a larger state-of-the-art engineering and demonstration facility," said Mark Harbison, owner and senior staff engineer of IPACT. "We are genuinely excited about this expansion project and look forward to supplementing our already strong engineering team with graduates from nearby Valparaiso University, several Purdue University campuses and local technical schools like Ivy Tech. We believe Indiana represents an excellent location for our continued growth and for serving both our local and global clients, and the incentives from state and local governments have been an important part of making this expansion possible."

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered IPACT up to $100,000 in performance-based tax credits and $13,500 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. The city of Valparaiso will provide property tax abatement.

"We're pleased to see companies like IPACT succeed in Valparaiso," said Valparaiso Mayor Jon Costas. "From their facility here, IPACT is able to serve companies worldwide, including Fortune 500 clients. Their expansion puts Valparaiso on the map for the industry, and adds new professional jobs -- not to mention a new state-of-the-art facility at Eastport Center."

Indiana's manufacturing industry was rated sixth in the nation and given an overall "A" grade, the highest ranking in the Midwest, according to Conexus Indiana's 2008 National Manufacturing and Logistics Report Card,. The report concluded that Indiana's manufacturing and logistics industries are "healthy vibrant and growing."

About IPACT
Incorporated in 1986, IPACT provides process and project design solutions for manufacturers in a variety of industries. IPACT has grown to a core group of 25 engineers with 10,000 square feet of operational space. Located about 40 miles southeast of Chicago in Valparaiso, Ind., IPACT has quoted and installed systems worldwide.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Indiana Secretary of Commerce Nathan Feltman serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. Since Daniels created the IEDC, the state has posted three consecutive years of record-breaking commitments for new jobs. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Kudos to Mayor Costas and the Valparaiso Economic Development team headed by Matt Murphy for working to create technology jobs in Valparaiso.

Source: Indiana Economic Development Corporation

Governor Daniels endorsed by Right to Life

In another show of conservative support for Governor Mitch Daniels, the Indiana Right to Life PAC has endorsed him for Governor over either of the other two candidates. I won't even mention the cranky righty guy, since it looks iffy if he'll even get enough support to run.

From My Man Mitch

Indianapolis, Indiana - Indiana Right to Life PAC announced today its endorsement of Governor Mitch Daniels in his bid for a second term. "We are proud to endorse Governor Daniels in recognition of his steadfast support for the sanctity of life," states IRTL-PAC chairman Mike Fichter.

The 2008 gubernatorial race will provide a clear contrast on abortion between Governor Daniels and his opponent Jill Long-Thompson, an EMILY's list supported candidate who supports abortion access for the full nine months of pregnancy.

I know we have some readers who don't feel that Mitch Daniels is conservative enough for their tastes, so come on step up and tell me why that is?

Whatever Happened to the Contract with America?

I was just asking someone that question the other day, and it was answered after reading the latest edition of Imprimis, a conservative publication of Hillsdale College. There's a great article written by Dick Armey, the principal author of the famous 1994 "Contract with America," and the entire speech has been posted to my blog, Letters from Lady Liberty. I'd highly recommend that you invest five minutes of your time to read it.

He makes an interesting point when he explains the reasons for the abandonment of the contract. He says, "In 1994, when he wrote the Contract, entrepreneurs were strong. Today, as most of the time, bureaucrats are running things."

He then went on to explain the difference between a legislative entrepreneur and a legislative bureaucrat. Armey says that a legislative entrepreneur is "a person who has a set of principles and is willing to take risks on its behalf;" whereas, a legislative bureaucrat "seeks only to perpetuate the current situation with the motive of remaining safely in office."

Armey made an excellent point when he wrote, "George Washington might have become our king, but he chose not to. His governing idea was that government is our servant because we are inherently free. It is an idea too many in government today forget."

This statement made me long for the days of 1984. I agree with Dick that Washington is full of legislative bureaucrats. Armey goes on to explain that "there have been only three great moments of pro-Constitution entrepreneurship" in his adult lifetime, which included the presidential campaign of Barry Goldwater, the presidential campaign of Ronald Reagan, and lastly, the 1994 Contract with America.

I agree that "the Republican majority, having forgotten the lessons of 1994 and having committed themselves only to the next election, not only failed their country, but lost their power."

Okay, so now that we've been reminded, what are we going to do about it?

A Politically Incorrect but Scientifically Sound Global Warming Test

Are you brave enough to try it? Better yet, are you brave enough to share your final score?

http://www.geocraft.com/WVFossils/GlobWarmTest/start.html

McCain Needs to Pick a Female VP

As millions of women who thought that Hillary was the best female hope for a president are looking for the next best thing what a better way to capture that vote.

I think McCain could look around and find a perfect VP. She would have to be a strong very conservative woman that could relate to the homemaker as well as relate to the working mom.

Anyone with any ideas?

I don't want one of those I am woman hear me roar females. I would rather see a gee she is like one of the guys female. One that fits in a mans world as well as any man.

I mean after all don't they say behind every successful man lies a woman oh wait that was the Clinton years.

Indiana FOP endorses Mitch Daniels for Governor

From Northwest Indiana Times

INDIANAPOLIS | The re-election campaign of Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels got a boost Monday from the men and women in blue. He picked up the endorsement of the Fraternal Order of Police of Indiana.

"Governor Daniels has earned the respect and support of those of us who work in law enforcement and public safety and his door has always been open to us," FOP President Tim Downs said in a statement. "Mitch Daniels has worked hard to develop strong and effective relationships with law enforcement and he’s always responded to our needs. The FOP appreciates Governor Daniels’ leadership and we enthusiastically support his re-election."

The Professional Firefighters Union of Indiana endorsed the Republican governor last month. Cam Savage, a spokesman for the Daniels campaign, said the endorsements underscore a wide base of support in the race against Democrat Jill Long Thompson. Neither union backed Daniels four years ago.

In the Jon Costas v Greg Zoeller nomination campaign, Mayor Costas was called a liberal by some conservatives for gaining support from Northwest Indiana unions. Will this hold for the Governor's race? I bet not. And what's left for Jill Long Thompson if she can't pick up union support, the one Democrat stronghold for the last four decades?

Are the ice floes beginning to crack and shift?

From: The Handwriting on the Wall, a run down on the Irish rejection of the EU treaty and some conservatives bucking the "party" leaders. But my favorite part was at the end of the article with the following list by the author:

The Labour Prime Minister says the Treaty of Lisbon is dead.

A Conservative leader breaks ranks and Labour Party members support him.

Democrats who back Hillary Clinton say that they will vote for John McCain.

Some Republicans insist that they will stay home and let Barack Obama win rather than vote for John McCain.

Black conservative columnist Armstrong Williams may vote for Barack Obama out of racial solidarity.

Are the ice floes beginning to crack and shift?

Is it possible that the political arrangements of the last half-century, which until quite recently seemed set in stone, are finally starting to change?

We’ll know soon enough. Keep an eye on electoral politics in Europe and the United States.

We live in interesting times.

Indiana Democrat Party in leadership quandry

Jeff, an Obama supporter writes of his concern that the Indiana Democratic Party is in a leadership vacuum in Indiana Democratic Leadership?

When looking for the Audacity to lead in the Indiana Democratic Party of late I feel that the leadership left for South Bend when Joe Kernan went home. I have no idea what Dan Parker is doing at the party but it sure does not seem to be leading. Now I am more then willing to be corrected Dan but if you are leading it's sure in private back rooms.

He goes on to list all the back and forth problems and toe-smashing that has transpired lately, with this whole Lt. Gov. thing a total mess for JLT. I get the feeling he's most worried that his messed up party will lose Indiana for his chosen Obama.

The light bulb police are coming!

Global Warming - everything that happens

Have you noticed that everything that happens is blamed on global warming, or will end up causing global warming? I'm getting a little skeptical.

Today from Environmental Catch-22?: Mending Ozone Hole May Worsen Climate Change

Now scientists are suggesting that the elimination of chemicals that were opening a hole over the poles, in the protective ozone layer, may close the hole. Good news! Kinda, but not really, now they think this may make global warming worse too.

Decades of chemical pollution have damaged the ozone layer of the upper atmosphere that shields Earth from the harmful effects of the sun's ultraviolet rays, each summer eating a hole over the South Pole that expands to nearly the size of Antarctica. But since 1996, when an international treaty banned the culprit chemical refrigerants and propellants (known as CFCs, or chlorofluorocarbons), the size of the seasonal tear has been shrinking—and scientists predict it may stop forming by the end of this century.

You would think that was good news. But atmospheric scientists caution in a new study published in Science that sewing up the rift in the ozone (a type of oxygen) layer may exacerbate another environmental woe: climate change.

So, should be go back to hairspray aerosols? Or, are we finding that these scientists don't actually have it down yet? I heard today that the cows create more pollution that all the cars on the entire globe .... MR. Gore?

JLT Picks her running mate

According to democratic insiders, Jill Long Thompson will announce her running mate on Monday:

State Rep. Dennie Oxley II sings gospel music in quartets, but now he'll be part of a duet -- as the running mate to Democratic nominee for governor Jill Long Thompson.

Oxley, 37, did not return calls Friday seeking comment, and Long Thompson would only say that she'll discuss her choice on Monday, during a series of news conferences around the state. However, other Democrats, including House Speaker B. Patrick Bauer, D-South Bend, confirmed that Oxley is Long Thompson's choice.

From Indianapolis Star
With HT to Hoosier Access
Cross Posted to (Indy Hardball and NWI Connect)

Steve Carter given a "B" on foreclosures test

This is an opportunity for Greg Zoeller to step away from the Steve Carter shadow and make a name for himself. Foreclosures matter a lot to people in Indiana. While Linda Pence is fighting her past, and JLT is trying to woo someone to get on the losing ticket with her ... the AG hopeful Zoeller should take on this issue.

As a real estate investor and former home builder myself, I can assure you that the foreclosure process in Indiana is neither transparent nor understandable to homeowners in distressed situations. Be careful though, Mr. Zoeller, this is no time for threats of retaliation (Spitzer style) against mortgage companies or real estate agents ... this is a time for solutions that save homes.

Follow the Governor's lead, go look at the crisis, look for emergency solutions ... then surround yourself with people that understand the problem and come up with long-term strategies to avert the problem in the future ... but keep in mind that the dream of homeownership is not to be trampled in this race to look like a savior!

Group Gives Indiana AG "B" Grade For Dealing With Foreclosures

A national community group for low-and-moderate income earners gives Indiana Attorney General Steve Carter a "B" for dealing with the foreclosure crisis. The Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now (ACORN) has graded Attorneys General across the country on how they have handled the issue.

No commuter rail yet - but buses for now to Valpo

Although the battle over extending the South Shore to Valparaiso and Lowell, at a cost of $1 Billion will go on for a while ... for the time being it looks like Valparaiso will get 4 buses to run a commuter service into Chicago.

To make things a little more palatable, Valparaiso Redevelopment Commission officials actually reduced the cost of the proposal. Mayor Costas took a beating on conservative blogs last month for having a citywide bus service and pushing for the South Shore Extension, which some conservatives thought was a sign of big spending largess. We have endorsed the South Shore Extension, even at $1 Billion, because it is important to the region's economic development and will provide competition to the Toll Road.

A realignment of grants for the proposed Valparaiso-to-Chicago commuter service and downtown Village Station will save local funding sources $238,000 under a plan to be submitted to the Regional Development Authority.

Valparaiso Redevelopment Commission executive director Stu Summers presented the amended application to fund start-up service, for which a favorable recommendation was approved by the RDA working group meeting at Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission headquarters Thursday.

The RDA had approved the original application for a total of $2.1 million for purchase of four buses.

The revised version includes the parking lot for the future Valparaiso South Shore commuter station at Lincolnway and Franklin Street.

In the application, Mayor Jon Costas said the new arrangement will provide the exact same level of service on a quicker start-up schedule, in addition to the savings.

Summers said NIRPC was to have built the parking lot with one component of the grant money, while the RDA was going to buy the buses.

But, he noted, the authority has none of the experience buying buses that regional planners do, and NIRPC doesn't want to be in the position buying property in order to build the parking lot.

He said if the RDA board approves, the agency will provide $440,000 as a local match for money from NIRPC to buy the buses and $1,422,000 for the parking lot, which would be built under state guidelines that are less strict that federal regulations.

Summers said the buses would provide service to and from Chicago until the South Shore extension to Valparaiso is up and running, at which time the Regional Bus Authority would take over the service.

Prayers for the Scouts

As a Scouter, Eagle Scout, former member of Troop 48 in Crown Point and father of a Star Scout now in the Crossroads of America Council, I ask you all please to keep the families of the four Scouts who lost their lives last night as a violent tornado ripped thru the Little Sioux Scout Ranch, which lies outside of Blencoe, Iowa.

The National Weather Service reports that a twister struck at about 6:35pm, only twelve minutes after a warning went out.

The Little Sioux Scout Ranch is a wilderness camp, where nearly 120 people had gathered for a junior leadership training program. A Youth Staffer and three Boy Scouts attending the program lost their lives. There were 93 scouts, aged 13 to 18, attending the program. Some were hiking and engaged in other activities when the storm struck.

State and Boy Scout officials and local media said the tornado made a virtually direct hit on the Scout Ranch, destroying some of the 1,800-acre area's few buildings and collapsing the brick chimney of one shelter where many of the scouts and staff had taken refuge.

Fifteen-year-old Rob Logsdon, interviewed on CNN, said that as the group huddled in the building to escape an intensifying storm, a scout leader took a flashlight, peered outside, and hollered for everyone to take cover.

"Everybody dived under the tables . . . and two seconds later the tornado was on top of us," Logsdon told the cable network. "The next thing I knew the walls and windows were gone . . . The chimney fell down behind me."

Logsdon described a chaotic scene in which scouts were digging through the rubble of the collapsed building to rescue their friends.

"I was pulling bricks off the tables as fast as I could," Logsdon said.

Scouts "were under the tables and stuff and on their knees, but they had no chance," scout supervisor Thomas White told Omaha television station KMTV, according to the AP.

White, an Eagle Scout and one of the group's leaders, was outside when the tornado struck and said he got low to the ground as it approached. In an interview with CNN he estimated that about 50 scouts and some adults were in the shelter when the tornado destroyed it.

Iowa Gov. Chet Culver, interviewed on the "Today" show earlier this morning, said the damage throughout the camp was "massive."

The group had been practicing disaster drills and first aid just the day before, and "they responded as quickly as they could, and I think lives were saved," Culver said.

In my youth, I was a BSA Staffer at a Junior Leadership Training Camp for the Calumet Council up at Camp Betz in Berrien Springs, Michigan. When bad weather struck, we relied on each other, the good Lord and a weather radio.

Scouting traditionally teaches kids about life. And this lesson is a tough one to learn. But knowing the Scouting community, they will all pull together especially with all of our prayers.

Third Rate Candidate for Governor

There has been some talk here, and at Hoosier Access and Hoosier Pundit, probably other places too this week ... basically this guy is an embarrassment to Republicans so far. He has every right to run for Governor, but he needs to expect even his supporters to defect as the process unfolds. The only sites excited about his run, and probably the only people signing his petition, are democrats.

Abdul says what we're all thinking about the John Waterman run:

DEAR JOHN…

from Indiana Barrister by Abdul Hakim-Shabazz

"Republican State Senator John Waterman of Shelburn is announcing his third-rate, (uh third-party) bid for Governor. I can’t say I’m too familiar with Waterman except for the fact that he reminds me of a character from “SOAP” especially with his sideburns and jackets.

I do want to offer him this little bit of advice. Waterman has reportedly chosen Glenna Jehl of Ft. Wayne to be his running mate. If my memory serves me correctly, Jehl was the campaign manager for Matt “May be going to jail” Kelty ..." (read entire article at link above)

Radical Lefties and Obama

Through the Democratic primary season we heard very little from the far left, for either of the two strong Democratic candidates. Now, it seems we'll get a picture of the people who are really talking in Obama's ear. This is a bit of the opposite of the normal process ... wherein the candidates lean left during the primaries to gain the nomination and then lean back to the middle for the general election. Will Obama begin to show what he really stands for, and in doing so lean to the radical left of his strong supporters?

From Gateway Pundit:

Johnathon Martin at the Politico reported today that Jodie Evans is bundling for Barack Obama:

A co-founder of the anti-war group Code Pink that has made a name for itself by interrupting hearings on Capitol Hill is a fundraising bundler for Barack Obama.

Jodie Evans has pledged to raise at least $50,000 for Obama, according the Democrat's campaign site.

According to research being circulated by GOP sources, Evans has a record of inflammatory statements such as saying that women were better off in Iraq under Saddam Hussein, "Men are dying in their Hummers in Iraq so you can drive around in yours," and, my favorite, that the invasion of Iraq amounted to "global testosterone poisoning."

Evans, though, is not just a single-issue crusader. She's worked in politics and liberal causes for decades, including stints working for Jerry Brown during his years as governor and in his 1992 White House run.

Real leadership in troubled times

Mitch Daniels has always been one who gets in there and rolls up his sleeves when it comes to fixing things.

And this past week's weather has become something that will need some leadership, as to how the state can help people who have ran into trouble.

But then, there was one problem... Mitch was due to leave for Japan to help market Indiana to Japanese companies to relocate here. He was due to leave today.

The, something happened that I know made Jill Long Thompson upset.

The governor’s office announced earlier in the day that the Gov. had cancelled the trade mission to Japan.

The Gov's office said in a statement: "He will return to Indianapolis from Fort Wayne this afternoon and continue to coordinate the state's efforts to respond to severe weather that has impacted much of the state."

Sorry JLT. You cannot pick on Mitch for leaving at a time of crisis... But then, it gets better.

LG Becky Skillman toured the town of Seymour with Mayor Craig Luedeman. They toured Coventry Place, an upscale neighborhood where the streets today looked more like canals.

During the tour, Skillman had an announcement:
The state is planning to set up a one-stop call center where victims of the flooding could call for answers to their questions.

Darn, strike two JLT. Now you cannot say that the state did not react quick enough...

Real leadership. That is what is going on.

Instead of flying around or listening to briefings, you will find the Gov and Becky Skillman on the ground, helping and being involved.


(Crossposted at Indy's Hardball)

McCain 2008 Strategy Briefing

How cool is the internet...?

Modern times now have brought the campaign volunteer into a bigger picture.

Now, they can be part of daily updates, talking points and "marching orders" within minutes of the campaign giving the okay.

Need something out to your "army" fast? Email it.

Or better yet, put it up on YouTube:



This is thorough and interesting look at what the McCain Camp has and what is ahead.

Has any other campaign ever putting this sort of information out on YouTube before?

(Crossposted at Indy's Hardball & Hoosier Access & Hoosiers for McCain & NW Indiana Connect)

Good news - we still get to choose

This is why they still vote

from Frugal Hoosiers by Frugal Hoosier (go read entire post at link)

Talk about a tough week for the state's political elite. First, Jon Costas went down after being endorsed by Governor Daniels. Then, this past Saturday, Rep. Matt Bell lost his bid to replace retiring Sen. Bob Meeks on the ballot to his colleague Rep. Marlin Stutzman. Bell was endorsed by Sen. Meeks and supported by Senate President David Long.

I am still concerned that we aren't stepping up like the Ron Paul and Barack Obama teams of internet denizens and creating massive grass roots organizations. We as Republicans have a lot to accomplish if we want to continue growing this state and nation on principles of small government and freedom.

Social Politics - My Barack Site

Patrick Ruffini writes a compelling post that suggests the conservative pundits who are railing against My Barack sites anti-semitic posts by some supporters are wasting their time. It's high time to build a social political scene with viral growth, similar to the Ron Paul and Barack Obama type movements ... not waste time picking on a few supporters saying dumb things.

Stop Attacking

"...The conservative blogosphere is in a full-on feeding frenzy over an anti-Semitic, user generated blog post on My.BarackObama.com entitled "How the Jewish lobby works." The Obama campaign has, appropriately, scrubbed the post from its website ...

...Stories like this win tactical, one-day skirmishes but lose us the broader war. The damage to the Obama campaign will last 24-48 hours, and by then we'll have moved on to the next line of attack. But in the meantime, thousands more people will sign up to My.BarackObama.com ...

"...There's a reason that we here at The Next Right have chosen an open format in which anyone can blog, not unlike MyBO. Because it works. It builds more traffic, more community, and more engagement. If someone posts something defamatory or racist or antisemitic, you can be sure we'll do exactly what the Obama campaign did: take it down ..."

What are your thoughts? Seriously, do you think Barack and his website should be the news story as we attempt to paint he or his supporters as anti-semitic? If for one think that many of Barack's statements have been anti-Israel.

Or, do you agree with Super Blogger Patrick Ruffini's suggestion that we are wasting our time and should be building a grass roots monster movement like Barack is?

There's More Than One Way To Skin a Cat

Ron Paul Republicans aren't taking any chances in Texas. After being warned that they would be shut out of the process the same way delegates were shut down in Indiana, the libertarian-minded Republicans sued their convention leadership and won!

"A Harris County judge on Wednesday ordered the Texas Republican Party to comply with state election law at its state convention in Houston next week after Republican activists alleged that the party illegally uses procedures to minimize grass-root dissent, " reported the Houston Chronicle.

Apparently, this news has encouraged many of the Ron Paul Republicans from Indiana as some of them are already contemplating taking similar action for Round Two prior to the next convention. I must say that I admire their spunk and determination. Maybe this is what the state GOP needs to shake things up a little and to remind a few people who may be "getting a little too big for their britches" that grassroots involvement is a good thing and not something to be feared.

Feel free to join 'My Tea Party' anytime.

http://diana-vice.blogspot.com/

McCain's Ad First Out for General Election

John McCain's camp was the first on the playing field this morning, releasing its first ad of the general election, a spot called "Safe".

Looks like McCain is going to stay positive as long as he can. But rumors out of the campaign is that they are planning on hitting Obama hard on his lack of experience.

In the spot, McCain looks directly at the voter and says:

"Only a fool or a fraud talks tough or romantically about war. ... I was shot down over Vietnam and spent five years as a POW. ... I hate war. And I know how terrible its costs are. I'm running for president to keep the country I love safe."

(Crossposted at Indy's Hardball)

Linda Pence gets stepped on

On her big day even, while she's trying to make her announcement for AG, Frugal Hoosiers notes that Jill Long Thompson once again steps on her own people:

Stepping on the Story: JLT's non-announcement announcement over-shadowing Linda what's her name

Effect of Ron Paul supporters in GOP

As the dust settled on the Indiana GOP state covention, there was some conversation here and on Hoosier Access about the effect of the Ron Paul supporters at the convention. Some of the Ron Paul supporters were just sporting for trouble, and many were loyal Republicans looking to use democratic means to take part and direct the party in the future.

I don't know convention rules, so won't digree into a full debate over the process, but to say that in each meeting I attended (I was in 7 of the district meeting with Jon Costas) the Ron Paul support caucus was trying to raise some transparency issues with regards to how delegates to the national convention are elected. We've read that there was a lot more acrimony in other states, but here in Indiana it all seemed perfectly well meaning.

Update: a post by a Ron Paul supporter who suggests that they had 400 votes and Greg Zoeller went to meet with them the week prior to the convention to gain their support:

How the GOP kept the Pauliacs Quiet on Monday

I was sent a link Tuesday to a Ron Paul meetup conversation where the author a Joel Ferguson outlined his thoughts as a delegate. He called for the Ron Paul caucus to attempt to take a majority position in the convention in two years, by tripling their numbers. I don't think this will happen, but it sure falls within the democratic intent of the process.

I guess the key is to make sure that Republicans statewide take being a precinct chair or state delegate serious. In many counties there were more appointees than elected delegates. That's a bit moronic. If you are serious about conservative principles and want to see a great party, register to be a delegate, a chair, and get involved.

If you recall the largest argument here and on many conservative sites over the AG nomination was all about the Marion County Chairman supposedly "ordering" his appointees to vote for Jon Costas. He wouldn't have that kind of power if all the delegate positions were filled by elected Republicans.

Changes coming for Valparaiso Schools

Just like many other school systems, perhaps all school systems, Valpo Schools are looking at potential changes and consolidations. They just completed a process of strategic planning with a consultant that could costs quite a bit of money, at least the options studied could.

Valpo school consolidation decision to take time

It looks like there will also be at least one school board seat to be refilled. In Valparaiso, the school board is appointed, I believe some members by the mayor and others by the council. Due to the very apolitical nature of these appointments, they seldom get much notoreity. Well, perhaps it's time the school board get some "change" as is the mantra this year.

If you have strong opinions about the schools, they are the largest single user of your property tax doallars, then perhaps you have some opinions about how they plan too? Leave comments here if you want.

Mitch Daniels' new one percent assessed value property tax cap will have a great affect on the schools. That same law also forces them to go to referendums for large new school construction projects. Do you think they will be able to spend $50-100 million on school construction if they need the approval of the tax payers?

Update: some options for interacting were listed in the Times - "Parent Christopher Pupillo said he was shocked by the scope of the proposals after he had received only a "very innocuous note" to elementary school parents."The process was not transparent," Pupillo said. "I fear the School Board did not want to raise what they thought would be a contentious issue."Pupillo is organizing a group to assess sentiment within the community toward the proposals and find ways to address concerns. He can be contacted at pino44@mac.com."I want my say," Pupillo said. "Let's get a little sunshine on this."Community radio host Paul Schreiner plans a two-hour live call-in show on the issue from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday on WVLP 83.3 FM. Task force member Larry Baas, other task force members and residents of the Central Elementary School area will take part, Schreiner said. "

Who are you supporting to VP choice for McCain?

We've covered a few of the choices right here on Porter County Politics, and when the Democrats were in Northwest Indiana for the primary we pointed out some of the key differences.

I am most serious about Sarah Palin, the current Governor of Alaska. I am stopping short of an outright endorsement, even though I would pick up some link juice from the "draft sarah palin" sites. But, she's a strong conservative, pro-life, pro-guns, budget balancing, drill in ANWR, female successful politician who's run a state. That's a darn good start.

So, I'm sure many of you have opinions, let's hear em.

Back to Porter County

... news and happenings. It's been a wild couple weeks covering the state convention and the AG race, but it would probably be good to get caught up here at home briefly.

Portage panel delays decision on subdivision

PORTAGE The city's Plan Commission this week tabled a request to approve the
primary plat for development of a subdivision after neighbors raised concerns
about stormwater drainage and sanitary sewers.

I think my favorite part of this story is that the land owner is Democrat County Auditor Kopp, and he's getting the run around from Democrat controlled City of Portage on his own property. Basically like every developer in the last few years, this one is being told to fix problems the city let lie in disrepair as a bribe for getting approval. I am on record, and continue to dislike this kind of misuse of municipal approval.


Driver's ed canceled at VHS

VALPARAISO After decades of offering driver's education to students at
Valparaiso High School, the program was eliminated this year because of a state
law that has been on the books for years.James McCall, assistant principal at
VHS, said a memo went to local dealerships, issued by the Indiana Bureau of
Motor Vehicles, that affected the use of the program's cars."Last year in June,
the dealerships received this memo informing them of the fact that there was
some confusion over state statute. This law requires all vehicles on the road to
be titled prior to being registered, including those in the driver's ed
program," McCall said.Prior to knowledge of the law, dealerships in Valparaiso
loaned cars to the program at little or no expense to the school. However, due
to titling fees and car depreciation, the cost of titling would be too expensive
for the school.

My thought? Why does the school need to offer driver's ed? There is a certified driver's ed school right next door to the high school that offers driver's ed all year. Similar to other services that have been added to school budgets, this one probably needs to go away. The one percent of assessed value property tax cap sure isn't going to allow any extra money for special services that aren't necessary.

Portage to borrow money to pay bills

PORTAGE The city will have to borrow up to $12.4 million to keep itself running, and officials are urging county officials to support a plan for relief from the loan's interest.

It was nice of Republican Treasurer Jim Murphy to offer a plan to let the cities and towns affected by the circuit breaker borrow from the county at low interest rates. The county is sitting on over $100 million from the sale of the county hospital, and Treasurer Murphy has suggested limiting the loans to just the portion of the money that the county makes in interest on that principal. I also found it interesting that Democrat controlled City of Portage leaders are encouraging their citizens to contact councilmen to encourage them to vote for Republican Murphy's proposal. Nice to see some bi-partisanship in Porter County.

Update: Democrats and Republicans are lining up to support Jim Murphy's proposal. Basically Porter County would immediately cap property taxes at one percent instead of waiting until 2010, but in return the county would lend money to the cities and towns from their interest on the $130 million now in hospital proceeds. Now once again, we're seeing leadership from Porter County, will other counties follow suit?

New writers here on Porter County Politics

Due to the increased volume and commenting activity we've decided to add a few more writers to our Porter County Politics site.

If you are a regular reader and avid political hack, leave a comment below if you'd like to also write on the site. The site is "not" devoted to entirely Republican ideas and candidates, although so far since I am strongly Republican that seems the general direction. I am open to a free flow of ideas ... as the blogosphere so wildly celebrates.

Our writers will post thoughts, ideas, links to things we need to read, event notices and even argue a bit. I'll moderate and delete if things get too far off the path ... and would prefer no foul language or spamming. The goal of the site is not for everyone to agree, but for more to be challenged to think and get involved.

Lessons Learned this week

Was asked an interesting question that I thought I'd throw here today. What lessons did you learn from the convention this week?

First, a dedicated group of grass-roots activists can make a difference. To be specific the Ron Paul people have been dedicated in attempting to democratically organize inside the Republican party. I'm guessing that 10% or more of the delegates at the convention yesterday were Ron Paul people who registered in each county to be county delegates. In today's "who cares" society, very few people actually register to be county delegates or even precinct chairs. If a dedicated group wants to make something happen, it sure wouldn't be hard to gain control of a county, or even the convention.

Second, the Greg Zoeller campaign was very well run. They just plain did a great job of reaching out to delegates and making sure they got their votes on the floor. Hats off to a great campaign team and making sure the details were covered. Again if a dedicated challenger wants to win at the convention, it takes a terrific strategy and working it all the way through to the minute details.

Lastly, Mitch Daniels got a threat from the far-right conservatives, perhaps a "reminder" is the better term. They made their point, and made it loudly. No one wants a candidate shoved down their throats ... even by the Governor. Daniels will win in November by taking this reminder to heart and building together a winning team that minds the details, uses a strategy maximizing all the potential energy of the party in our great state. The Governor delivered one of the best speeches I've ever heard yesterday, now it's time to take this team to the next level.

Republican State GOP Convention

Some parting thoughts and links for the day after.

First, Greg Zoeller won in a strong vote return, by more than 300 votes. There was no doubt the majority of the delegates decided to go with Deputy Zoeller for their AG candidate. During the convention the candidates were positive and as far as I heard, no one was being derogatory.

All in all the convention was a very pleasant and educational experience. Here's today's Post Tribune on the convention loss. I will disagree with the Costas delegate quoted, I think Daniels did as much as a sitting Governor should do. The Zoeller people had the votes, probably all along. Most major media suggest that AG Carter's endorsement was the deciding point for delegates, see LegalNewsline. That's probably true, delegates probably believe that the sitting AG knows best who can do the job after he's gone. I've see this before, and don't totally agree that Steve Carter was best positioned to choose his successor, I'll leave it at that so Linda Pence doesn't pick up ammo for November.

Todd Rokita gave advice in many ways that Zoeller should probably take to heart, most surrounding other state offices needing legal work and not being able to rely on the AG office under Steve Carter's authority to supply it. I join many in saying that Zoeller probably heard this loud and clear and will need to move immediately to fix this inner government problem. I'd like to hear Rokita tell us all that this has been fixed prior to November.

Enough on all that for now, on Porter County Politics we'll be using the next month to watch the ongoing Hillary Clinton v Barack Obama world and get some interviews with candidates on the local politics level. In my opinion we are in dire straits and need the Indiana House returned to Republican hands, not an easy feat, and we need to try to pick up a US House seat or two, although this could be year for a lot of losses.

Mitch will win. McCain will win. But there will be a lot of down ballot tight races. More on all that later.

Zoeller Wins AG Race

Winner - Greg Zoeller. We were hoping for a Costas win. More to follow from Steve...

And the GOP Convention Vote Goes To...

3:49 PM -- Winner = Greg Zoeller. Arggghhh!!

3:22 PM -- Voting closed they're buying time while we wait... Waiting for results...


2:52 PM -- Front and center, we're voting, 2000 delegates and 90 voting booths, could take a while...


2:43 PM -- We are headed to vote at machines... Refresh this post for the results!!!

LIVE from GOP Convention: Mitch Speaks

2:30 PM -- More Mitch:

Do you feel inferior to Illinois or michigan? Do you want to pay more taxes?

We don't want to be as good, we want to be better.

Parties of hope bear a huge responsibility, it would so easy to be Illinois places of mediocrity. Slow inevitable decline. How ironic that when everyone wants to be like us, that anyone would propse we act like them, like our opponents have suggested

I am more determined that we need to extend this record of results in our state...

2:25 PM -- Mitch speaking:
Dems - like a bad satellite radio station ... All negative all the time

The next constructive idea they put forward will be their first ever

The only jobs they want to grow, are the government jobs they've lost

They say "private' like its a bad word ... we wouldn't have a balanced budget if we hadn't used private enterprise ... Why would we charge the government more?

I'm for smaller state government and bigger private business

They want change of direction, I say they want to move into reverse gear

2:20 PM -- Governor Mitch Daniels speaking right now "maybe Dems should come back and check out real change..."


2:17 PM -- Mitch is speaking:

All about business and job growth and balanced budgets. It's all about leadership.

A balanced budget without tax increases that's what were all about

Thanks, you did this. A movement for change and reform. Indiana doesn't have to settle, thanks.

I just wish while the dems were here in the spring, they had looked around and seen some change. Some real change. But no they stayed in their cacoons and blew thru. Empty promises aren't change....

LIVE from the GOP Convention!

2:02 PM -- Still haven't voted yet. Finishing nomination speeches, Becky Skillman just had a drum corp!

Hoping we get candidate speeches and then vote soon. Greg's gonna say experience and Costas' gonna say leadership...

1:47 PM -- My sign for Costas, they're talking something foolish right now!


1:45 PM -- Bunch of kids for Tony Bennett for Superintendant...

AG Convention Update

1:36 PM -- Marion Cty Prosecutor, the guy that doesn't like Tom John, nominating Greg Zoeller. Hard edged, pushing crime issues hard.

Greg has 93 percent win rate keeping bad guys in prison.

You the delegates are the jurors. Says he considers Jon a friend, but Greg is candidate with experience.

Are we going to pick a guy by pointing to a spot on a map and choosing a guy from where he was born?

Dorky nomination...

1:28 PM -- They played Jon Costas' video, I bet there is no video from Zoeller...


1:27 PM -- Eric Turner speech nominating Jon Costas, tension building.

"He has the skill and knowdledge ... Experience managing family business and city ... Background to run the office on day one ... Proven vote getter in NW Indiana ... A place where republicans are outnumbered ... He wins! Strong conservative history.

... Protect the life of the unborn.

New ideas and more energy.".

Huge eruption of ovation!

1:20 PM -- John Mutz nominating first candidate...


1:15 PM -- Announcing national convention delegates, all power houses of the party and for the most part mitch people. Getting ready for speeches by candidates...

1:00 PM -- Introducing Steve Carter, outoing AG and Mitch supporter:


12:50 PM -- Introductions, I think we'll get to assistant to the dog catcher soon and be able to start arguing about something

Word is that the Paulistas are going to cause trouble

On dias it looks pretty evenly split between Costas people and Zoeller people