On May 24, 2010, Dr. Tom Stevens announced the formation of Bachelors For Link, a group formed to support Alden Link, the nominee of the Libertarian Party of New York for Lt. Governor in 2010.
In forming the group, Dr. Stevens said:
Bachelors often feel pressure to get married and to live a conventional lifestyle. Despite choosing to be "unattached", they often face ridicule and are the subject of "whispering campaigns" questioning their sexual orientation. We are proud to support Alden Link, the Libertarian Party's candidate for Lt. Governor of New York State, who has socially tolerant views and a principled belief that people should be able to organize their lives as they see fit without private sanction or governmental interference.
Alden Link's platform contains the following statements relevant to this issue:
People are sovereign over their own bodies and they should have the right to do with them as they please so long as they do not directly interfere with the right of others to do the same. The government should not be involved in trying to legislate morality and should not act paternalistically to protect people from making the decisions they believe are in their own best interests. Private adult consensual behavior should not be criminalized. The words contained in the United States Constitution should be interpreted to recognize that every citizen has a constitutionally protected "zone of privacy" that must not be intruded upon by the government. Gays, lesbians, bisexuals, and transgendered individuals are entitled to full equality under the law regardless of their sexual orientations or perceived gender identity or presentation.
Dallwyn Merck, President of Stonewall Libertarians New York, applauded the formation of Bachelors For Link, commenting as follows:
The formation of Bachelors For Link is a brilliant move to bring attention to Alden Link's socially progressive platform. Although people have become more tolerant since the 1940s, the fact that bachelors still face criticism by family and friends shows us how far we still have to go to obtain acceptance for all sexual and cultural minorities in this country. The formation of Bachelors For Link by Dr. Tom Stevens shows his extraordinary appreciation for history. Bravo!
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Warren Redlich: Was He Ever Serious About Seeking The Republican Party's Gubernatorial Nomination?
There has been a lot of recent speculation with respect to what happened between Warren Redlich, the nominated gubernatorial candidate of the Libertarian Party of New York, and the New York Chapter of the Republican Liberty Caucus. There had been rumors that Mr. Redlich had initially sought the endorsement of the Republican Liberty Caucus but then, upon not immediately receiving it, had informed the RLCNY that he would not accept their endorsement.
Carl Svensson recently posted the following "clarification" explaining what transpired:
Warren Redlich originally asked for the endorsement of the RLCNY, and became miffed when he did not receive it more or less on the spot. Our position was that we wanted to make sure that he was a serious Republican candidate before we made a decision in this regard. At that point, Warren told us that he did not want our endorsement, nor would he accept it. Some time after this, I encouraged various Tea Party groups to invite Warren to be vetted by their membership. Obviously, some groups did extend an invitation, and at least two groups were told he could not meet with them because he did not campaign evenings or weekends. I took it from this feedback that Warren is not a serious Republican candidate. At this point, I do not believe what Warren says in his campaign for Governor is of much interest to a Republican organization such as ours.
Dr. Tom Stevens, LPQC State Representative, responded to this information as follows:
The argument made for Warren Redlich being the gubernatorial nominee of the Libertarian Party of New York was that Redlich, who was also seeking the Republican Party's gubernatorial nomination would pull 5-7% of the Republican Primary vote and that a number of the individuals supporting him there would come over to the LP line in November, which would enable him to have a shot at obtaining the 50,000 votes necessary for the Libertarian Party to obtain Minor Party status and ballot access for the next four years.
I never believed that Warren Redlich was serious about contesting for the Republican Party gubernatorial nomination. Since he said his wife wouldn't allow him to spend a dime on the statewide petition drive necessary to get him on the ballot as a Libertarian Party candidate, I could not imagine how he intended to obtain the petition signatures he needed to get on the ballot in the Republican Party Primary. It was my stated belief at the time that Mr. Redlich and his supporters were making the argument of his running for the G.O.P. gubernatorial nomination simply to improve his chances of becoming the gubernatorial nominee of the Libertarian Party. I could never figure out whether those pushing that claim knew it was false when they made it or were simply political novices puffed up with unrealistic hopes and expectations.
With Carl Svensson's revelations, it appears that other organizations also questioned whether Redlich ever seriously intended to make an effort to run in the Republican Party's Primary for Governor. We know from other reports that Warren Redlich did not travel for interviews with Republican County Committee Chairs who held forums and interviews with prospective G.O.P. gubernatorial candidates and now we learn from Carl Svensson he allegedly told some Tea Party organizations he could not meet with them because he does not "campaign evenings or weekends".
Since Warren Redlich is already the gubernatorial nominee of the Libertarian Party of New York, I urge him to take this race seriously, to spend the money necessary to obtain places on the ballot both in the Republican Party Primary and as the Libertarian Party's gubernatorial candidate this November, and to raise the funds necessary to run an organized and serious campaign. If he really doesn't campaign evenings or weekends, I wonder how much time he can steal away from his law practice during the day to engage in campaign activities. I hope his firm doesn't mind him taking an extra 15 minutes for lunch!
Warren Redlich received the gubernatorial nomination of the Libertarian Party of New York on Saturday, April 24, 2010 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Albany, New York.
Carl Svensson recently posted the following "clarification" explaining what transpired:
Warren Redlich originally asked for the endorsement of the RLCNY, and became miffed when he did not receive it more or less on the spot. Our position was that we wanted to make sure that he was a serious Republican candidate before we made a decision in this regard. At that point, Warren told us that he did not want our endorsement, nor would he accept it. Some time after this, I encouraged various Tea Party groups to invite Warren to be vetted by their membership. Obviously, some groups did extend an invitation, and at least two groups were told he could not meet with them because he did not campaign evenings or weekends. I took it from this feedback that Warren is not a serious Republican candidate. At this point, I do not believe what Warren says in his campaign for Governor is of much interest to a Republican organization such as ours.
Dr. Tom Stevens, LPQC State Representative, responded to this information as follows:
The argument made for Warren Redlich being the gubernatorial nominee of the Libertarian Party of New York was that Redlich, who was also seeking the Republican Party's gubernatorial nomination would pull 5-7% of the Republican Primary vote and that a number of the individuals supporting him there would come over to the LP line in November, which would enable him to have a shot at obtaining the 50,000 votes necessary for the Libertarian Party to obtain Minor Party status and ballot access for the next four years.
I never believed that Warren Redlich was serious about contesting for the Republican Party gubernatorial nomination. Since he said his wife wouldn't allow him to spend a dime on the statewide petition drive necessary to get him on the ballot as a Libertarian Party candidate, I could not imagine how he intended to obtain the petition signatures he needed to get on the ballot in the Republican Party Primary. It was my stated belief at the time that Mr. Redlich and his supporters were making the argument of his running for the G.O.P. gubernatorial nomination simply to improve his chances of becoming the gubernatorial nominee of the Libertarian Party. I could never figure out whether those pushing that claim knew it was false when they made it or were simply political novices puffed up with unrealistic hopes and expectations.
With Carl Svensson's revelations, it appears that other organizations also questioned whether Redlich ever seriously intended to make an effort to run in the Republican Party's Primary for Governor. We know from other reports that Warren Redlich did not travel for interviews with Republican County Committee Chairs who held forums and interviews with prospective G.O.P. gubernatorial candidates and now we learn from Carl Svensson he allegedly told some Tea Party organizations he could not meet with them because he does not "campaign evenings or weekends".
Since Warren Redlich is already the gubernatorial nominee of the Libertarian Party of New York, I urge him to take this race seriously, to spend the money necessary to obtain places on the ballot both in the Republican Party Primary and as the Libertarian Party's gubernatorial candidate this November, and to raise the funds necessary to run an organized and serious campaign. If he really doesn't campaign evenings or weekends, I wonder how much time he can steal away from his law practice during the day to engage in campaign activities. I hope his firm doesn't mind him taking an extra 15 minutes for lunch!
Warren Redlich received the gubernatorial nomination of the Libertarian Party of New York on Saturday, April 24, 2010 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Albany, New York.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Ex-Con Christopher Cantwell Banned From Libertarian Party Of Queens County Yahoo Group
Ex-Con Christopher Cantwell, who was recently nominated by the Suffolk County Libertarian Party as its candidate for United States Congress from the 1st C.D., has been banned from the Yahoo Group of the Libertarian Party of Queens County for posting defamatory statements and making public threats against Dr. Tom Stevens, LPQC's State Representative.
In a recent post to the LPNY State Committee list, Mr. Cantwell commented that Dr. Tom Stevens "is a clear problem that needs to be solved one way or another" and then went on in other posts to make the most vile defamatory statements that one could possibly make against another individual.
Dallwyn Merck, LPQC Secretary, stated: "While I support free speech to the greatest extent, deliberately malicious, untrue slanders and implied threats against an officer of the Libertarian Party of Queens County cannot and will not be tolerated especially when the person making those threats is an ex-con."
In a recent post to the LPNY State Committee list, Mr. Cantwell commented that Dr. Tom Stevens "is a clear problem that needs to be solved one way or another" and then went on in other posts to make the most vile defamatory statements that one could possibly make against another individual.
Dallwyn Merck, LPQC Secretary, stated: "While I support free speech to the greatest extent, deliberately malicious, untrue slanders and implied threats against an officer of the Libertarian Party of Queens County cannot and will not be tolerated especially when the person making those threats is an ex-con."
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Libertarian Party Of Queens County Endorses Wayne Allyn Root For National LP Chair
On Saturday, May 8, 2010, the Libertarian Party of Queens County endorsed Wayne Allyn Root for National LP Chair. Dr. Tom Stevens, two-term LPUS Judicial Committee member who also serves as the LPQC's State Representative to the Libertarian Party of New York, has been leading the charge to get National LP Convention delegates from New York State to endorse Wayne Allyn Root for National LP Chair.
In 2009, the Libertarian Party of Queens County succeeded in helping to elect Dan Halloran to the New York City Council. Mr. Halloran is the highest serving Libertarian Party elected official who was elected in a partisan race and is the only elected Libertarian Party Member in New York State.
In 2010, the Libertarian Party of Queens County was the only LPNY Chapter to formally endorse candidates for statewide office. Three of the four LPQC members it endorsed obtained a nomination to run for statewide office this year. They were Alden Link, LPNY Candidate for Lt. Governor; Carl Person, LPNY Candidate for Attorney General; and John Clifton, LPNY Candidate for Gillibrand's U.S. Senate Seat. The Libertarian Party of Queens County has already endorsed three candidates who are running for a seat in the New York State Assembly.
In endorsing Wayne Allyn Root, the Libertarian Party of Queens County becomes the first LPNY Chapter to formally endorse any of the candidates running for National LP Chair this year. It will do all it can to encourage delegates in New York State and other states to support Wayne Allyn Root for National LP Chair at the Libertarian Party's National Convention that will be held in St. Louis, Missouri over Memorial Day Weekend.
In 2009, the Libertarian Party of Queens County succeeded in helping to elect Dan Halloran to the New York City Council. Mr. Halloran is the highest serving Libertarian Party elected official who was elected in a partisan race and is the only elected Libertarian Party Member in New York State.
In 2010, the Libertarian Party of Queens County was the only LPNY Chapter to formally endorse candidates for statewide office. Three of the four LPQC members it endorsed obtained a nomination to run for statewide office this year. They were Alden Link, LPNY Candidate for Lt. Governor; Carl Person, LPNY Candidate for Attorney General; and John Clifton, LPNY Candidate for Gillibrand's U.S. Senate Seat. The Libertarian Party of Queens County has already endorsed three candidates who are running for a seat in the New York State Assembly.
In endorsing Wayne Allyn Root, the Libertarian Party of Queens County becomes the first LPNY Chapter to formally endorse any of the candidates running for National LP Chair this year. It will do all it can to encourage delegates in New York State and other states to support Wayne Allyn Root for National LP Chair at the Libertarian Party's National Convention that will be held in St. Louis, Missouri over Memorial Day Weekend.
Carl Person Endorses Wayne Allyn Root For National LP Chair
On May 11, 2010, Carl Person announced his endorsement of Wayne Allyn Root for National Chair of the Libertarian Party.
Carl Person, who recently obtained the nomination of the Libertarian Party of New York for Attorney General, said:
I heartily endorse Wayne Allyn Root for National LP Chair. Wayne is a great public speaker, who holds his audience spellbound when he speaks. He has a message and it is convincing. He will obtain members, volunteers, contributions and converts for Libertarianism and the Libertarian Party. It would be difficult for me to think of anyone better able to lead the National Libertarian Party. Clearly, Wayne will be a major asset to the NY Libertarian Party in its 2010 election campaign.
Carl Person, the nominated candidate of the Libertarian Party of New York for Attorney General joins Alden Link, the nominated candidate of the LPNY for Lt. Governor in endorsing Wayne Allyn Root for National LP Chair. They join Sam Sloan, the State Representative of the Manhattan Libertarian Party, and Dr. Tom Stevens, the State Representative of the Libertarian Party of Queens County in leading the charge for Wayne Allyn Root supporters who are attending the Libertarian Party's National Convention in St. Louis over Memorial Day Weekend as delegates from New York State.
Carl Person, who recently obtained the nomination of the Libertarian Party of New York for Attorney General, said:
I heartily endorse Wayne Allyn Root for National LP Chair. Wayne is a great public speaker, who holds his audience spellbound when he speaks. He has a message and it is convincing. He will obtain members, volunteers, contributions and converts for Libertarianism and the Libertarian Party. It would be difficult for me to think of anyone better able to lead the National Libertarian Party. Clearly, Wayne will be a major asset to the NY Libertarian Party in its 2010 election campaign.
Carl Person, the nominated candidate of the Libertarian Party of New York for Attorney General joins Alden Link, the nominated candidate of the LPNY for Lt. Governor in endorsing Wayne Allyn Root for National LP Chair. They join Sam Sloan, the State Representative of the Manhattan Libertarian Party, and Dr. Tom Stevens, the State Representative of the Libertarian Party of Queens County in leading the charge for Wayne Allyn Root supporters who are attending the Libertarian Party's National Convention in St. Louis over Memorial Day Weekend as delegates from New York State.
Stevens Urges LP Delegates In St. Louis To Oppose Efforts To Decrease Involvement In Party Affairs
Dr. Tom Stevens, two-term LPUS Judicial Committee member and State Representative of the Libertarian Party of Queens County to the Libertarian Party of New York, has urged delegates attending the Libertarian Party's National Convention in St. Louis over Memorial Day Weekend to oppose proposed bylaw amendments that would have the effect of decreasing the participation and involvement of party members in party affairs.
Dr. Stevens stated the most dangerous proposed bylaw amendment involves putting into place a new "conflict of interest" rule that will allow the national Libertarian Party leadership to target disruptive individuals serving the party on a national level and to seek their removal if they are active in another political party. Stevens said, "The LPNY has no such conflict of interest rule. We have members who are left Libertarians who are active in the Green Party and right Libertarians who are active in the Republican Party. All make positive contributions to the growth of the Libertarian Party in New York State. I would not want to see them excluded. My position is the same with respect to those party members who are active on the national level."
Another proposed bylaw amendment would again reduce the number of delegates allotted to state affiliates. The argument here is that not all the delegate slots are usually filled and that, therefore, we should reduce the number of potential delegates so the LP National Committee can plan to hold smaller conventions. Stevens said, "The Libertarian Party should be addressing this issue not by reducing the number of potential delegates but by working to increase party membership and by making the conventions more interesting so that more people will want to attend them." This same argument applies against the proposed bylaw amendment that would end the practice of holding national conventions every two-years, making them every four years instead. Stevens said, "Libertarian Party National Conventions energize activists. They then bring their enthusiasm back to their state affiliates, run for local office and recruit new party members. It is important we make those National Conventions available for people to attend every two years."
Stevens mentioned that participation by delegates and candidates at National Conventions is also being placed in jeopardy by the proposed bylaw amendment that will require 20 seconds instead of 1 for a motion to be debated and the proposed bylaw amendment that would require a higher bar for candidates seeking national office to participate in televised debates and to contest for the nomination. Stevens said, "I support increasing the opportunity for candidates to contest for the Presidential and Vice-Presidential nominations of the Libertarian Party. The more candidates there are, the more exciting the process and the more people who will choose to be involved. Similarly, requiring 20 seconds for every motion before debate can begin on an issue stifles the ability of individual delegates to have an impact on business conducted at the conventions."
Finally, the most controversial proposed bylaw amendment is the one that seeks to ban the charging of a "mandatory convention registration fee" for all attendees at LP National Conventions. Dr. Stevens made the motion putting the Libertarian Party of New York on record against charging a "floor fee" for delegates attending the LP National Convention. Stevens said, "The proposed bylaw amendment seeking to ban a mandatory convention registration fee requires a 2/3 vote of the delegates to pass and presupposes that a floor fee is permitted by the LP National Bylaws through its reference to Robert's Rules of Order. With the bylaw amendment proposed in this manner, future mandatory convention registration fees will be permitted unless 2/3 of the delegates voting in St. Louis oppose the imposition of a floor fee. While not taking a position on the legality of charging mandatory convention registration fees under the LP National Bylaws, I believe such floor fees should not be charged and that the convention packages offered should be made more attractive to encourage delegates to purchase them. I also support the formation of a fund that would enable delegates with more financial resources to help out delegates who would not be able to attend the LP National Convention without a little financial help. In the final analysis, I believe delegates selected by the state affiliates should not be asked to jump another hurdle to be credentialed to vote during the business sessions of the LP National Convention."
Dr. Tom Stevens said, "It is very important that delegates attending the LP National Convention in St. Louis over Memorial Day Weekend see this package of proposed bylaw amendments for what they are. Namely, an attempt to decrease involvement of LP members in party affairs. I call on all delegates seeking positions on the LNC and all affiliates to speak out on these proposed bylaw amendments so awareness can be raised and coordinated action can be taken to alert the delegates regarding what is at stake."
Dr. Stevens stated the most dangerous proposed bylaw amendment involves putting into place a new "conflict of interest" rule that will allow the national Libertarian Party leadership to target disruptive individuals serving the party on a national level and to seek their removal if they are active in another political party. Stevens said, "The LPNY has no such conflict of interest rule. We have members who are left Libertarians who are active in the Green Party and right Libertarians who are active in the Republican Party. All make positive contributions to the growth of the Libertarian Party in New York State. I would not want to see them excluded. My position is the same with respect to those party members who are active on the national level."
Another proposed bylaw amendment would again reduce the number of delegates allotted to state affiliates. The argument here is that not all the delegate slots are usually filled and that, therefore, we should reduce the number of potential delegates so the LP National Committee can plan to hold smaller conventions. Stevens said, "The Libertarian Party should be addressing this issue not by reducing the number of potential delegates but by working to increase party membership and by making the conventions more interesting so that more people will want to attend them." This same argument applies against the proposed bylaw amendment that would end the practice of holding national conventions every two-years, making them every four years instead. Stevens said, "Libertarian Party National Conventions energize activists. They then bring their enthusiasm back to their state affiliates, run for local office and recruit new party members. It is important we make those National Conventions available for people to attend every two years."
Stevens mentioned that participation by delegates and candidates at National Conventions is also being placed in jeopardy by the proposed bylaw amendment that will require 20 seconds instead of 1 for a motion to be debated and the proposed bylaw amendment that would require a higher bar for candidates seeking national office to participate in televised debates and to contest for the nomination. Stevens said, "I support increasing the opportunity for candidates to contest for the Presidential and Vice-Presidential nominations of the Libertarian Party. The more candidates there are, the more exciting the process and the more people who will choose to be involved. Similarly, requiring 20 seconds for every motion before debate can begin on an issue stifles the ability of individual delegates to have an impact on business conducted at the conventions."
Finally, the most controversial proposed bylaw amendment is the one that seeks to ban the charging of a "mandatory convention registration fee" for all attendees at LP National Conventions. Dr. Stevens made the motion putting the Libertarian Party of New York on record against charging a "floor fee" for delegates attending the LP National Convention. Stevens said, "The proposed bylaw amendment seeking to ban a mandatory convention registration fee requires a 2/3 vote of the delegates to pass and presupposes that a floor fee is permitted by the LP National Bylaws through its reference to Robert's Rules of Order. With the bylaw amendment proposed in this manner, future mandatory convention registration fees will be permitted unless 2/3 of the delegates voting in St. Louis oppose the imposition of a floor fee. While not taking a position on the legality of charging mandatory convention registration fees under the LP National Bylaws, I believe such floor fees should not be charged and that the convention packages offered should be made more attractive to encourage delegates to purchase them. I also support the formation of a fund that would enable delegates with more financial resources to help out delegates who would not be able to attend the LP National Convention without a little financial help. In the final analysis, I believe delegates selected by the state affiliates should not be asked to jump another hurdle to be credentialed to vote during the business sessions of the LP National Convention."
Dr. Tom Stevens said, "It is very important that delegates attending the LP National Convention in St. Louis over Memorial Day Weekend see this package of proposed bylaw amendments for what they are. Namely, an attempt to decrease involvement of LP members in party affairs. I call on all delegates seeking positions on the LNC and all affiliates to speak out on these proposed bylaw amendments so awareness can be raised and coordinated action can be taken to alert the delegates regarding what is at stake."
Ernie Hancock & Wayne Allyn Root Face-Off In Debate For National LP Chair
On Monday, May 10, 2010, Ernest Hancock & Wayne Allyn Root appeared at the Ukrainian East Village Restaurant located at 140 2nd Avenue in Manhattan for a meeting co-sponsored by the Manhattan Libertarian Party and the Libertarian Party of Queens County where each candidate for National LP Chair had an opportunity to present their vision for the future of the Libertarian Party.
Mr. Hancock led off with a presentation which was supposed to be about The Power of the Individual Activist but turned out instead to be a litany of his past battles with the national Libertarian Party. He mentioned the Arizona Libertarian Party's former opposition to the Unified Membership Program (UMP) and stated how the National LP tried to recognize an insurgent Libertarian Party faction out of Tucson and how eventually, the elected state leadership won in the Courts and then deliberately decided not to place Harry Browne on the ballot in Arizona as the Libertarian Party's Presidential Candidate, putting someone else on instead.
Mr. Hancock also mentioned how he came up with the "rEVOLution" logo but then refused to support Ron Paul for the Republican Presidential Nomination even though he knew Ron Paul would defend and be proud of the fact that he is a Libertarian. He also stated he would like the Libertarian Party to stick by its principles and be THE Anti-War Party. Mr. Hancock stated he has no interest in "obtaining a seat at the King's Table" and has no interest in competing for elective office with the Democrats and Republicans. His only interest is in spreading "a principled libertarian message to change people's minds" and believes "electoral success will follow as a natural result of the party's success in promoting its principles".
Mr. Hancock said "immigrants came to this country and wrapped their arms and legs around the liberty tree" and "now we are the only ones still protecting that tree". He complimented Wayne Allyn Root for being a fighter but said about his efforts, "You're scaling the ladder but it's against the wrong freakin' wall!"
When Wayne Allyn Root spoke, he set forth a vision for the Libertarian Party that was completely different from that laid out by Ernie Hancock. Mr. Root described himself as a "Big-Tent Libertarian" who, if elected National LP Chair intends to be "Rainmaker-In Chief" raising sufficient funds to make the Libertarian Party and its candidates viable and competitive throughout the country. He stated that if elected, he would ask LP candidates "to take a pledge not to accept any campaign contributions from corporations, lobbyists or unions".
Wayne Allyn Root stated, "The Purity Police have been chasing the impure away through vicious comments. It is time we welcomed more people into our ranks with a message of smaller government and more individual freedom". He said, "it does the party no good focusing on issues like the legalization of heroin that will just scare people away". Mr. Root mentioned how "important it is that we package our message in a way that will be attractive to voters". As an example, he mentioned that when the fish "grouper" was on restaurant menus, no one bought it but when they started calling it "Chilean Sea Bass", people ordered it to the point that the fish is now an endangered species. His point was that "packaging and presentation" is everything.
After the meeting, Dr. Tom Stevens, LPQC State Representative, invited nine attendees to join him at Cafe Mocha for coffee and continuing political discussions. In attendance was Alden Link, the LPNY Candidate for Lt. Governor; Carl Person, the LPNY Candidate for Attorney General; Sam Sloan, MLP State Representative; and Dallwyn Merck, LPQC Secretary. A poll was taken regarding who everyone thought won the debate. The result was unanimous. Wayne Allyn Root was declared the winner. Dr. Tom Stevens said he "fully expects Wayne Allyn Root to be elected National LP Chair" and "for the Libertarian Party to enter into a new era of growth and opportunity under Root's inspired leadership".
Mr. Hancock led off with a presentation which was supposed to be about The Power of the Individual Activist but turned out instead to be a litany of his past battles with the national Libertarian Party. He mentioned the Arizona Libertarian Party's former opposition to the Unified Membership Program (UMP) and stated how the National LP tried to recognize an insurgent Libertarian Party faction out of Tucson and how eventually, the elected state leadership won in the Courts and then deliberately decided not to place Harry Browne on the ballot in Arizona as the Libertarian Party's Presidential Candidate, putting someone else on instead.
Mr. Hancock also mentioned how he came up with the "rEVOLution" logo but then refused to support Ron Paul for the Republican Presidential Nomination even though he knew Ron Paul would defend and be proud of the fact that he is a Libertarian. He also stated he would like the Libertarian Party to stick by its principles and be THE Anti-War Party. Mr. Hancock stated he has no interest in "obtaining a seat at the King's Table" and has no interest in competing for elective office with the Democrats and Republicans. His only interest is in spreading "a principled libertarian message to change people's minds" and believes "electoral success will follow as a natural result of the party's success in promoting its principles".
Mr. Hancock said "immigrants came to this country and wrapped their arms and legs around the liberty tree" and "now we are the only ones still protecting that tree". He complimented Wayne Allyn Root for being a fighter but said about his efforts, "You're scaling the ladder but it's against the wrong freakin' wall!"
When Wayne Allyn Root spoke, he set forth a vision for the Libertarian Party that was completely different from that laid out by Ernie Hancock. Mr. Root described himself as a "Big-Tent Libertarian" who, if elected National LP Chair intends to be "Rainmaker-In Chief" raising sufficient funds to make the Libertarian Party and its candidates viable and competitive throughout the country. He stated that if elected, he would ask LP candidates "to take a pledge not to accept any campaign contributions from corporations, lobbyists or unions".
Wayne Allyn Root stated, "The Purity Police have been chasing the impure away through vicious comments. It is time we welcomed more people into our ranks with a message of smaller government and more individual freedom". He said, "it does the party no good focusing on issues like the legalization of heroin that will just scare people away". Mr. Root mentioned how "important it is that we package our message in a way that will be attractive to voters". As an example, he mentioned that when the fish "grouper" was on restaurant menus, no one bought it but when they started calling it "Chilean Sea Bass", people ordered it to the point that the fish is now an endangered species. His point was that "packaging and presentation" is everything.
After the meeting, Dr. Tom Stevens, LPQC State Representative, invited nine attendees to join him at Cafe Mocha for coffee and continuing political discussions. In attendance was Alden Link, the LPNY Candidate for Lt. Governor; Carl Person, the LPNY Candidate for Attorney General; Sam Sloan, MLP State Representative; and Dallwyn Merck, LPQC Secretary. A poll was taken regarding who everyone thought won the debate. The result was unanimous. Wayne Allyn Root was declared the winner. Dr. Tom Stevens said he "fully expects Wayne Allyn Root to be elected National LP Chair" and "for the Libertarian Party to enter into a new era of growth and opportunity under Root's inspired leadership".
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Suffolk County Libertarian Party Set To Nominate Ex-Con Chris Cantwell For Congress
Despite being rejected by a mainstream Tea Party in Suffolk County and having been singled out for explicit rejection by the Republican Liberty Caucus, it appears the Suffolk County Libertarian Party is virtually certain to nominate Ex-Con Chris Cantwell for election to Congress from the 1st Congressional District, which is located entirely in Suffolk County. Even though he has not yet received the nomination of the Suffolk County Libertarian Party, the vote for which will take place on Saturday, May 15, 2010 at the SCLP Convention, Mr. Cantwell has stated: "the SCLP has already confirmed to the Chair that I am their candidate, hence my still being listed by LPUS." In that respect he is correct since Mark Axinn, the LPNY State Chair, told the national Libertarian Party to list him as the LP Candidate for Congress for the 1st C.D. and has decided to keep his name listed unless for some reason Chris Cantwell is NOT nominated as the candidate of the Suffolk County Libertarian Party at its Convention on May 15, 2010.
Jeff Grizlo, the Executive Vice-President of Rising Action who is also a Suffolk County resident, said:
I am used to people getting elected to Congress who later get arrested. It is an interesting twist in the natural order of things and certainly a change in tactics for the Suffolk County Libertarian Party to consider nominating an ex-con right up front. People deserve second chances but there are a few problems with this particular prospective candidate. While he was incarcerated in the year 2000, he has been very silent about the circumstances that surrounded his arrest and conviction. All he has said is that he did not go to prison for "good behavior" and that if he raped a 4 year old girl, he would like to think the Suffolk County Libertarians would not be considering given him their nomination. I am not so sure. In addition to being an ex-con, there is evidence that he has not been fully rehabilitated. According to recent reports, he is currently awaiting trial on a D.W.I. charge.
Finally, I recently criticized Christopher Cantwell for his stated belief that the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution as currently written gives a constitutional right to all citizens to privately own and possess nuclear weapons. For that stand, I called him Kooky Cantwell. So basically, the Suffolk County Libertarian Party is set to endorse an alcoholic, ex-con who believes everyone has a current constitutional right to own and possess nuclear weapons. Perhaps it's the Suffolk County Libertarian Party that should be called kooky!
Carl Svensson of the Republican Liberty Caucus recently singled out Chris Cantwell of all the prospective Republican Party candidates running for office in New York State this year and stated:
I do want to publicly state that I will be placing a motion before our State Board that we -- the RLCNY --should not recommend endorsing Mr.Cantwell to our National Board for their consideration.
In addition, the Conservative Society for Action, a local Tea Party group in Suffolk County, refused to allow Chris Cantwell to interview with them for possible endorsement. Yet for the Suffolk County Libertarian Party, Chris Cantwell's status as an ex-con, his upcoming D.W.I. trial and even his belief that a constitutional right currently exists for private citizens to own and possess nuclear weapons appears to be no problem.
Dr. Tom Stevens, the State Representative of the Libertarian Party of Queens County, has stated:
I think it is unfortunate and a set-back to the legitimacy of the Libertarian Party in New York State that the Suffolk County Libertarian Party is considering endorsing this man for Congress. However, it is their decision and however embarrassing this endorsement may prove to be for the Libertarian Party, democratic principles must be respected and there is no doubt the Suffolk County Libertarian Party has the right to nominate Chris Cantwell for Congress. Once they have done so, you will not hear another word from me on this issue because I would not want to bring further publicity to this pending disaster. The reason I have sought clarification with respect to why Chris Cantwell went to prison, the status of his D.W.I. trial and his belief in a current constitutional right for private citizens to own and possess nuclear weapons is that I wanted to make certain the Suffolk County Libertarian Party had accurate information about the man they are hell-bent to nominate for Congress. Once they do so, the blood will be on their hands!
Christopher Cantwell was born on November 12, 1980 and was recently elected to serve as an At-Large member of the State Committee of the Libertarian Party of New York.
Jeff Grizlo, the Executive Vice-President of Rising Action who is also a Suffolk County resident, said:
I am used to people getting elected to Congress who later get arrested. It is an interesting twist in the natural order of things and certainly a change in tactics for the Suffolk County Libertarian Party to consider nominating an ex-con right up front. People deserve second chances but there are a few problems with this particular prospective candidate. While he was incarcerated in the year 2000, he has been very silent about the circumstances that surrounded his arrest and conviction. All he has said is that he did not go to prison for "good behavior" and that if he raped a 4 year old girl, he would like to think the Suffolk County Libertarians would not be considering given him their nomination. I am not so sure. In addition to being an ex-con, there is evidence that he has not been fully rehabilitated. According to recent reports, he is currently awaiting trial on a D.W.I. charge.
Finally, I recently criticized Christopher Cantwell for his stated belief that the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution as currently written gives a constitutional right to all citizens to privately own and possess nuclear weapons. For that stand, I called him Kooky Cantwell. So basically, the Suffolk County Libertarian Party is set to endorse an alcoholic, ex-con who believes everyone has a current constitutional right to own and possess nuclear weapons. Perhaps it's the Suffolk County Libertarian Party that should be called kooky!
Carl Svensson of the Republican Liberty Caucus recently singled out Chris Cantwell of all the prospective Republican Party candidates running for office in New York State this year and stated:
I do want to publicly state that I will be placing a motion before our State Board that we -- the RLCNY --should not recommend endorsing Mr.Cantwell to our National Board for their consideration.
In addition, the Conservative Society for Action, a local Tea Party group in Suffolk County, refused to allow Chris Cantwell to interview with them for possible endorsement. Yet for the Suffolk County Libertarian Party, Chris Cantwell's status as an ex-con, his upcoming D.W.I. trial and even his belief that a constitutional right currently exists for private citizens to own and possess nuclear weapons appears to be no problem.
Dr. Tom Stevens, the State Representative of the Libertarian Party of Queens County, has stated:
I think it is unfortunate and a set-back to the legitimacy of the Libertarian Party in New York State that the Suffolk County Libertarian Party is considering endorsing this man for Congress. However, it is their decision and however embarrassing this endorsement may prove to be for the Libertarian Party, democratic principles must be respected and there is no doubt the Suffolk County Libertarian Party has the right to nominate Chris Cantwell for Congress. Once they have done so, you will not hear another word from me on this issue because I would not want to bring further publicity to this pending disaster. The reason I have sought clarification with respect to why Chris Cantwell went to prison, the status of his D.W.I. trial and his belief in a current constitutional right for private citizens to own and possess nuclear weapons is that I wanted to make certain the Suffolk County Libertarian Party had accurate information about the man they are hell-bent to nominate for Congress. Once they do so, the blood will be on their hands!
Christopher Cantwell was born on November 12, 1980 and was recently elected to serve as an At-Large member of the State Committee of the Libertarian Party of New York.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Chris Cantwell Believes 2nd Amendment Permits U.S. Citizens To Own Nuclear Weapons
Chris Cantwell, who is seeking the nomination of the Suffolk County Libertarian Party and the endorsement of the Republican Liberty Caucus to run for Congress from the 1st C.D. (New York), has recently posted his belief that the 2nd Amendment currently grants a constitutional right to all citizens to privately own nuclear weapons. The Second Amendment to the United States Constitution reads as follows:
A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.
On May 2, 2010, Mr. Cantwell posted the following:
I’ve had the nuclear 2nd Amendment discussion before and I agree, the Constitution does not define arms, so I see legitimacy to the argument that the 2nd Amendment, as written, would provide such a protection as radical as that may be, a Constitutional Amendment defining arms would be required to outlaw private ownership of nuclear weapons.
Chris Cantwell is seeking the nomination of the Republican and Libertarian Parties to run for United States Congress from the 1st Congressional District, which is located exclusively in Suffolk County.
Jeff Grizlo, a Suffolk County resident who is also Executive Vice-President of Rising Action, said:
This guy Cantwell seems to lack common sense! The Founders could not have anticipated the creation of weapons of mass destruction. Just because the Second Amendment doesn't define "arms" doesn't mean that a Constitutional Amendment is necessary before the private ownership of nuclear weapons can be prohibited. If Kooky Cantwell ran the country, people would have the right to purchase nuclear weapons on eBay or at Amazon.com. How can anyone take this man seriously and actually consider electing him to Congress?
Dr. Tom Stevens, LPQC State Representative, said:
In fairness to Chris Cantwell, he did say he would support a Constitutional Amendment to ban the private ownership of nuclear weapons but I am concerned about Cantwell's recognition of the constitutional right of people to purchase nuclear weapons and how many such weapons will be purchased by enemies of the United States until such an amendment passes.
Chris Cantwell was recently elected at the LPNY State Convention held on Saturday, April 24, 2010 in Albany, New York to serve as an At-Large Member of the LPNY State Committee.
A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.
On May 2, 2010, Mr. Cantwell posted the following:
I’ve had the nuclear 2nd Amendment discussion before and I agree, the Constitution does not define arms, so I see legitimacy to the argument that the 2nd Amendment, as written, would provide such a protection as radical as that may be, a Constitutional Amendment defining arms would be required to outlaw private ownership of nuclear weapons.
Chris Cantwell is seeking the nomination of the Republican and Libertarian Parties to run for United States Congress from the 1st Congressional District, which is located exclusively in Suffolk County.
Jeff Grizlo, a Suffolk County resident who is also Executive Vice-President of Rising Action, said:
This guy Cantwell seems to lack common sense! The Founders could not have anticipated the creation of weapons of mass destruction. Just because the Second Amendment doesn't define "arms" doesn't mean that a Constitutional Amendment is necessary before the private ownership of nuclear weapons can be prohibited. If Kooky Cantwell ran the country, people would have the right to purchase nuclear weapons on eBay or at Amazon.com. How can anyone take this man seriously and actually consider electing him to Congress?
Dr. Tom Stevens, LPQC State Representative, said:
In fairness to Chris Cantwell, he did say he would support a Constitutional Amendment to ban the private ownership of nuclear weapons but I am concerned about Cantwell's recognition of the constitutional right of people to purchase nuclear weapons and how many such weapons will be purchased by enemies of the United States until such an amendment passes.
Chris Cantwell was recently elected at the LPNY State Convention held on Saturday, April 24, 2010 in Albany, New York to serve as an At-Large Member of the LPNY State Committee.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Alden Link Appoints Jack Roque Of Norwich As Campaign Treasurer
Alden Link, Libertarian Party Candidate for Lt. Governor of New York State in 2010, has appointed Jack Roque of Norwich, New York as his Campaign Treasurer.
After accepting the position, Mr. Roque made the following statement:
It will be an honor to support Alden Link’s campaign for NY Lieutenant Governor. An accomplished & accountable entrepreneur, Alden’s commitment to liberty, family & responsible government is lifelong & enviable. In view of the crumbling state-of-affairs in Albany & beyond, we couldn’t ask for a more appropriate candidate for the position & devotee to the principles of Libertarianism.
If we’re ever to maintain a representative government, for the People, and opportunity for our children & grandchildren, we need to collectively (& loudly) voice our objection to the interventionist policies designed, crafted & implemented by current leadership.
Government, at any level, should not be considered as the benevolent patron, a provider of solutions, but rather the support function for prevailing financial, economic, social & cultural markets.
Jack Roque has a degree in Chemistry from Binghamton University (1988), and an MBA from The Pennsylvania State University (2001), in the fields of Supply Chain & Entrepreneurship.
Jack & family, which include his wife, Jennifer, and two children, Julian, 7, and Alexandra, 5, reside in Norwich, a vibrant town nestled among the beautiful rolling hills of south central NY.
After accepting the position, Mr. Roque made the following statement:
It will be an honor to support Alden Link’s campaign for NY Lieutenant Governor. An accomplished & accountable entrepreneur, Alden’s commitment to liberty, family & responsible government is lifelong & enviable. In view of the crumbling state-of-affairs in Albany & beyond, we couldn’t ask for a more appropriate candidate for the position & devotee to the principles of Libertarianism.
If we’re ever to maintain a representative government, for the People, and opportunity for our children & grandchildren, we need to collectively (& loudly) voice our objection to the interventionist policies designed, crafted & implemented by current leadership.
Government, at any level, should not be considered as the benevolent patron, a provider of solutions, but rather the support function for prevailing financial, economic, social & cultural markets.
Jack Roque has a degree in Chemistry from Binghamton University (1988), and an MBA from The Pennsylvania State University (2001), in the fields of Supply Chain & Entrepreneurship.
Jack & family, which include his wife, Jennifer, and two children, Julian, 7, and Alexandra, 5, reside in Norwich, a vibrant town nestled among the beautiful rolling hills of south central NY.
Friday, April 30, 2010
LPNY Nominates Carl Person For Attorney General
At the State Convention of the Libertarian Party of New York held on Saturday, April 24, 2010 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Albany, New York, Carl Person was nominated by the delegates to be the Libertarian Party candidate for Attorney General this November.
In an interview after receiving the nomination, Carl Person said:
After dropping out of high school, I joined the U.S. Army and became a high speed ship-to-shore radio operator, stationed for 2 years in Okinawa. After that, I graduated from Long Island University (B.A. in political science) and then from Harvard Law School. I worked for several years as a "Wall Street lawyer", and then went out on my own as an individual practitioner, representing small businesses against major corporations. During this period, I was instrumental in creating the paralegal field and obtained a patent (now cited by in others) for my invention of a portable global positioning system that worked from a fixed database of latitudes and longitudes instead of real-time satellite triangulation.
I have specific proposals, many that can be implemented without any new statutes. One of them is to create in New York State a stock market to finance small business, with local investors, for the purpose of expanding local businesses and hiring local employees, and keeping the money in local circulation instead of having local money, after purchases, being moved into the non-local or foreign bank accounts of multi-national corporations.
Also, I want to help municipalities in New York State obtain gainful employment for their residents and work for their small businesses through creating a local task marketplace to help residents make use of the millions of dollars of unused time that exists for the residents and small businesses in each town, village and county in NYS. I estimate that a town of 10,000 residents has about $160,000,000 in unsold time each year (at $30/hour) of unemployeds, underemployeds and persons seeking 2nd and 3rd sources of income. I believe that this task (and small business) database would result in use of at least 25% of the unsold time.
I would also use my office as NYS Attorney General to encourage the federal government to adopt my "The First 3 Are Free" idea to exempt the first 3 employees of every employer from all government regulation (including withholding taxes and payroll reporting requirements) by having them designated as "independent contractors". This simple legislative change by Congress would create millions of new jobs by encouraging small businesses to hire without the complications of compliance with payroll withholding requirements and let employers be FREE to establish their own relationships as to their first 3 employees.
I plan to promote liberty among NYS residents by promoting small business, self employment and economic independence of towns and villages, to enable New Yorkers to offset the nation's and NYS's growing economic problems. I recognize that the powers of the NYS Attorney General are awesome and want to use them for the benefit of New Yorkers, to create opportunity, hope, freedom and liberty for New Yorkers. I plan to take my program to voters throughout NYS by a pickup truck tour in which I will address voters and their concerns from the back of the truck.
Carl Person is a member of the Libertarian Party of New York and the LPUS. He founded the Paralegal Institute and is a delegate to the Libertarian Party's National Convention that will be held in St. Louis, Missouri over Memorial Day Weekend. The only chartered LPNY affiliate to formally endorse Carl Person for Attorney General prior to his receiving the nomination was the Libertarian Party of Queens County. It was Dr. Tom Stevens, the LPQC's State Representative, who recruited Carl Person to run for Attorney General and to seek the nomination of the Libertarian Party of New York.
In an interview after receiving the nomination, Carl Person said:
After dropping out of high school, I joined the U.S. Army and became a high speed ship-to-shore radio operator, stationed for 2 years in Okinawa. After that, I graduated from Long Island University (B.A. in political science) and then from Harvard Law School. I worked for several years as a "Wall Street lawyer", and then went out on my own as an individual practitioner, representing small businesses against major corporations. During this period, I was instrumental in creating the paralegal field and obtained a patent (now cited by in others) for my invention of a portable global positioning system that worked from a fixed database of latitudes and longitudes instead of real-time satellite triangulation.
I have specific proposals, many that can be implemented without any new statutes. One of them is to create in New York State a stock market to finance small business, with local investors, for the purpose of expanding local businesses and hiring local employees, and keeping the money in local circulation instead of having local money, after purchases, being moved into the non-local or foreign bank accounts of multi-national corporations.
Also, I want to help municipalities in New York State obtain gainful employment for their residents and work for their small businesses through creating a local task marketplace to help residents make use of the millions of dollars of unused time that exists for the residents and small businesses in each town, village and county in NYS. I estimate that a town of 10,000 residents has about $160,000,000 in unsold time each year (at $30/hour) of unemployeds, underemployeds and persons seeking 2nd and 3rd sources of income. I believe that this task (and small business) database would result in use of at least 25% of the unsold time.
I would also use my office as NYS Attorney General to encourage the federal government to adopt my "The First 3 Are Free" idea to exempt the first 3 employees of every employer from all government regulation (including withholding taxes and payroll reporting requirements) by having them designated as "independent contractors". This simple legislative change by Congress would create millions of new jobs by encouraging small businesses to hire without the complications of compliance with payroll withholding requirements and let employers be FREE to establish their own relationships as to their first 3 employees.
I plan to promote liberty among NYS residents by promoting small business, self employment and economic independence of towns and villages, to enable New Yorkers to offset the nation's and NYS's growing economic problems. I recognize that the powers of the NYS Attorney General are awesome and want to use them for the benefit of New Yorkers, to create opportunity, hope, freedom and liberty for New Yorkers. I plan to take my program to voters throughout NYS by a pickup truck tour in which I will address voters and their concerns from the back of the truck.
Carl Person is a member of the Libertarian Party of New York and the LPUS. He founded the Paralegal Institute and is a delegate to the Libertarian Party's National Convention that will be held in St. Louis, Missouri over Memorial Day Weekend. The only chartered LPNY affiliate to formally endorse Carl Person for Attorney General prior to his receiving the nomination was the Libertarian Party of Queens County. It was Dr. Tom Stevens, the LPQC's State Representative, who recruited Carl Person to run for Attorney General and to seek the nomination of the Libertarian Party of New York.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Sam Sloan, Manhattan LP State Representative, Endorses Wayne Allyn Root For National LP Chair
On April 29, 2010, Sam Sloan endorsed Wayne Allyn Root for National LP Chair. Mr. Sloan is the Manhattan Libertarian Party's Representative to the State Committee of the Libertarian Party of New York and a delegate to the upcoming Libertarian Party National Convention that will be held in St. Louis, Missouri over Memorial Day Weekend.
In endorsing Wayne Allyn Root, Mr. Sloan said:
Of the candidates for Chairman of the National Libertarian Party,Wayne Allyn Root is by far the most active and energetic. He constantly appears in the media on radio and TV talk shows. He is the author of several books on Libertarian philosophy. His political talk radio show, The Wayne Allyn Root Show, is broadcast in New York City, Los Angeles and Chicago. Root is a frequent guest on several nationally syndicated radio shows such as Savage Nation, The Jerry Doyle Show, and Mancow's Morning Madhouse. He has made numerous appearances on various programs on the Fox News Channel. He is a frequent speaker at Tea Party events across the United States. Root's political columns appear in the Las Vegas Review Journal and at Newsmax.com. I support Wayne Allyn Root for Chairman of the National Libertarian Party.
The effort to organize support for Wayne Allyn Root in New York State has been spearheaded by Dr. Tom Stevens, the State Representative of the Libertarian Party of Queens County, who supported Wayne Root for the Presidential nomination of the Libertarian Party in 2008 after Alden Link dropped out of the race. Alden Link, the Libertarian Party of New York's candidate for Lt. Governor also recently endorsed Wayne Allyn Root.
Two of Root's opponents, George Phillies and Ernie Hancock, have been making great efforts to recruit supporters in New York State. Mr. Phillies was a Guest Speaker at the LPNY's State Convention held in Albany, New York on Saturday, April 24, 2010. Mr. Hancock was a Guest Speaker at the Manhattan Libertarian Party's Annual Convention in January and is the MLP's featured speaker on Monday, May 10, 2010. Mr. Root has been given 15 minutes to speak at the upcoming meeting of the Manhattan Libertarian Party.
For more information on Wayne Allyn Root, visit his website at: http://www.rootforamerica.com
In endorsing Wayne Allyn Root, Mr. Sloan said:
Of the candidates for Chairman of the National Libertarian Party,Wayne Allyn Root is by far the most active and energetic. He constantly appears in the media on radio and TV talk shows. He is the author of several books on Libertarian philosophy. His political talk radio show, The Wayne Allyn Root Show, is broadcast in New York City, Los Angeles and Chicago. Root is a frequent guest on several nationally syndicated radio shows such as Savage Nation, The Jerry Doyle Show, and Mancow's Morning Madhouse. He has made numerous appearances on various programs on the Fox News Channel. He is a frequent speaker at Tea Party events across the United States. Root's political columns appear in the Las Vegas Review Journal and at Newsmax.com. I support Wayne Allyn Root for Chairman of the National Libertarian Party.
The effort to organize support for Wayne Allyn Root in New York State has been spearheaded by Dr. Tom Stevens, the State Representative of the Libertarian Party of Queens County, who supported Wayne Root for the Presidential nomination of the Libertarian Party in 2008 after Alden Link dropped out of the race. Alden Link, the Libertarian Party of New York's candidate for Lt. Governor also recently endorsed Wayne Allyn Root.
Two of Root's opponents, George Phillies and Ernie Hancock, have been making great efforts to recruit supporters in New York State. Mr. Phillies was a Guest Speaker at the LPNY's State Convention held in Albany, New York on Saturday, April 24, 2010. Mr. Hancock was a Guest Speaker at the Manhattan Libertarian Party's Annual Convention in January and is the MLP's featured speaker on Monday, May 10, 2010. Mr. Root has been given 15 minutes to speak at the upcoming meeting of the Manhattan Libertarian Party.
For more information on Wayne Allyn Root, visit his website at: http://www.rootforamerica.com
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Alden Link Endorses Wayne Allyn Root For National LP Chair
On April 27, 2010, Alden Link announced his endorsement of Wayne Allyn Root for National Chair of the Libertarian Party.
Alden Link, who recently obtained the nomination of the Libertarian Party of New York for Lt. Governor, said:
I am proud to support Wayne Allyn Root for National LP Chair and I will cast my vote for him at the Libertarian Party's National Convention, which is scheduled to take place in St. Louis, Missouri over Memorial Day Weekend. Of all the announced candidates for National Chair, I am convinced that only Wayne Allyn Root has the personality and energy to take the Libertarian Party to the next level. He alone can take advantage of the discontent currently being expressed against incumbents everywhere and to bring many of these individuals into the ranks of the Libertarian Party.
I have been very concerned about factions within the Libertarian Party who are supporting bylaw amendments that will have the result of shrinking the party and limiting the participation of its members. There are proposed bylaw amendments that seek to end bi-annual national conventions, that seek to reduce the delegate allocation allotted to each state affiliate and that seek to restrict the number of motions made on the floor by requiring 20 seconds for any motion.
I have not spoken to Wayne Allyn Root about my concerns but I believe that instead of scaling back the size and frequency of national conventions, we need to build party membership so that every delegate spot is filled and so that we will soon need to find larger venues to hold our conventions instead of smaller ones. Only Wayne Allyn Root has the skill and ability to build the party in this manner. I encourage you to visit his website at http://www.rootforamerica.com
Alden Link joins Dr. Tom Stevens, LP Judicial Committee Member, who recently announced his endorsement of Wayne Allyn Root for National LP Chair.
Alden Link, who recently obtained the nomination of the Libertarian Party of New York for Lt. Governor, said:
I am proud to support Wayne Allyn Root for National LP Chair and I will cast my vote for him at the Libertarian Party's National Convention, which is scheduled to take place in St. Louis, Missouri over Memorial Day Weekend. Of all the announced candidates for National Chair, I am convinced that only Wayne Allyn Root has the personality and energy to take the Libertarian Party to the next level. He alone can take advantage of the discontent currently being expressed against incumbents everywhere and to bring many of these individuals into the ranks of the Libertarian Party.
I have been very concerned about factions within the Libertarian Party who are supporting bylaw amendments that will have the result of shrinking the party and limiting the participation of its members. There are proposed bylaw amendments that seek to end bi-annual national conventions, that seek to reduce the delegate allocation allotted to each state affiliate and that seek to restrict the number of motions made on the floor by requiring 20 seconds for any motion.
I have not spoken to Wayne Allyn Root about my concerns but I believe that instead of scaling back the size and frequency of national conventions, we need to build party membership so that every delegate spot is filled and so that we will soon need to find larger venues to hold our conventions instead of smaller ones. Only Wayne Allyn Root has the skill and ability to build the party in this manner. I encourage you to visit his website at http://www.rootforamerica.com
Alden Link joins Dr. Tom Stevens, LP Judicial Committee Member, who recently announced his endorsement of Wayne Allyn Root for National LP Chair.
LPNY Nominates Alden Link For Lt. Governor
At the State Convention of the Libertarian Party of New York held on Saturday, April 24, 2010 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Albany, New York, Alden Link was nominated by the delegates to be the Libertarian Party candidate for Lt. Governor this November. Mr. Link will run with Warren Redlich, who obtained the Libertarian Party's nomination for Governor.
In an interview he gave after receiving the nomination, Alden Link said:
I am an entrepreneur, real estate developer and aviator. As a businessman, I am aware how government regulation can stifle the entrepreneurial spirit. As a real estate developer, I understand how eminent domain abuse has gotten out of hand. As an aviator, I feel the spirit of freedom swelling in my heart as I soar through the skies. This feeling inspires me to fight for freedom until the government learns to respect every man's natural right to life, liberty and property. I am my own man, with no political baggage, who owes nothing to any special interest. As the Libertarian Party's candidate for Lt. Governor, I will promote libertarianism with all my heart and hope to make a significant contribution to the cause of liberty.
Regarding economic policy, I intend to work for the elimination of the New York State Income Tax. Taxation is theft. I will seek to shrink the size of New York State government by cutting back on the amount of taxes it collects and the amount of money it can borrow. I will encourage localities to repeal all property taxes that give the government a permanent claim against the land and home you own. I will seek to end the over-regulation of business and barriers to free trade. I want to free up the creative spirit of entrepreneurs to develop new technologies. In short, I believe citizens have a right to keep the money they earn and that they know best how to spend that money. They will then be in a better position to purchase the services they need, to send their children to the schools of their choice, and to save for their retirement. Government involvement interferes with the efficiency of the free market. The more money people keep in their own pockets, the better.
Regarding my social agenda, I am of the belief that people are sovereign over their own bodies and have the right to do with them as they see fit without the interference of a paternalistic government. I would end the War on Drugs and would pardon and expunge the criminal records of all individuals doing time for the use and/or possession of drugs. I would repeal all laws against pornography and all other "victimless crimes". I believe gays, lesbians, bisexuals and transgender individuals are entitled to full equality under the law regardless of their sexual orientations or perceived gender identify or expression. I believe the government should get out of the business of granting marriage licenses in order to allow people to enter into contractual relationships as they see fit but so long as New York State grants marriage licenses to heterosexual couples, I believe gay couples are entitled to the "equal protection" of the law.
I am honored to be the Libertarian Party's candidate for Lt. Governor and I will work tirelessly to promote the cause of liberty through the remainder of this campaign. My goal is to do my part to help the Libertarian Party obtain the 50,000 votes it needs to obtain minor party status for the next 4 years.
Alden Link is a member of the Libertarian Party of Queens County and the Objectivist Party of New York. He sought the nomination of the Libertarian Party for President in 2008 and was the candidate of the Objectivist Party for Vice-President of the United States in 2008, having appeared on the ballot in Colorado and Florida.
In an interview he gave after receiving the nomination, Alden Link said:
I am an entrepreneur, real estate developer and aviator. As a businessman, I am aware how government regulation can stifle the entrepreneurial spirit. As a real estate developer, I understand how eminent domain abuse has gotten out of hand. As an aviator, I feel the spirit of freedom swelling in my heart as I soar through the skies. This feeling inspires me to fight for freedom until the government learns to respect every man's natural right to life, liberty and property. I am my own man, with no political baggage, who owes nothing to any special interest. As the Libertarian Party's candidate for Lt. Governor, I will promote libertarianism with all my heart and hope to make a significant contribution to the cause of liberty.
Regarding economic policy, I intend to work for the elimination of the New York State Income Tax. Taxation is theft. I will seek to shrink the size of New York State government by cutting back on the amount of taxes it collects and the amount of money it can borrow. I will encourage localities to repeal all property taxes that give the government a permanent claim against the land and home you own. I will seek to end the over-regulation of business and barriers to free trade. I want to free up the creative spirit of entrepreneurs to develop new technologies. In short, I believe citizens have a right to keep the money they earn and that they know best how to spend that money. They will then be in a better position to purchase the services they need, to send their children to the schools of their choice, and to save for their retirement. Government involvement interferes with the efficiency of the free market. The more money people keep in their own pockets, the better.
Regarding my social agenda, I am of the belief that people are sovereign over their own bodies and have the right to do with them as they see fit without the interference of a paternalistic government. I would end the War on Drugs and would pardon and expunge the criminal records of all individuals doing time for the use and/or possession of drugs. I would repeal all laws against pornography and all other "victimless crimes". I believe gays, lesbians, bisexuals and transgender individuals are entitled to full equality under the law regardless of their sexual orientations or perceived gender identify or expression. I believe the government should get out of the business of granting marriage licenses in order to allow people to enter into contractual relationships as they see fit but so long as New York State grants marriage licenses to heterosexual couples, I believe gay couples are entitled to the "equal protection" of the law.
I am honored to be the Libertarian Party's candidate for Lt. Governor and I will work tirelessly to promote the cause of liberty through the remainder of this campaign. My goal is to do my part to help the Libertarian Party obtain the 50,000 votes it needs to obtain minor party status for the next 4 years.
Alden Link is a member of the Libertarian Party of Queens County and the Objectivist Party of New York. He sought the nomination of the Libertarian Party for President in 2008 and was the candidate of the Objectivist Party for Vice-President of the United States in 2008, having appeared on the ballot in Colorado and Florida.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Dr. Tom Stevens Celebrates 32 Years In The Benevolent & Protective Order Of Elks
Dr. Tom Stevens was initiated into the Benevolent & Protective Order Of Elks on March 19, 1980. On that day, he became a member of Great Neck Lodge No. 1543, which later merged with the Port Washington Lodge, eventually becoming Great Neck/Port Washington Lodge No. 1543. In 1994, Dr. Stevens left Lodge No. 1543 to become a brother in Queens Borough Lodge No. 878, which is now known as Brooklyn/Queens Lodge #878. It is located at 82-20 Queens Boulevard, Elmhurst, New York 11373-4243.
Thomas Robert Stevens just received his 2010-2011 Member Card indicating he is now in his 32nd year as a member of the Benevolent & Protective Order Of Elks.
A brief history of the Elks follows:
The moving spirit for the Elks was an Englishman named Charles Algernon Sidney Vivian. Born October 22, 1842, this son of a clergyman was a successful comic singer and dancer in the music halls of London. In November 1867, Vivian arrived in New York City to try his fortune.
Other actors and entertainers soon gravitated toward his magnetic personality. With everything closed on Sunday because of New York City Blue Laws, a group of theatrical people began meeting for their own amusement under Vivian's leadership. A loose organization was formed to make sure the larder was well-stocked for these gatherings. They called themselves the Jolly Corks, a name derived from a trick introduced by Vivian in which the uninitiated purchased a round of refreshments.
When one of their members died shortly before Christmas in 1867, leaving his wife and children destitute, the Jolly Corks decided that in addition to good fellowship, they needed a more enduring organization to serve those in need.
On February 16, 1868, they established the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and elected Vivian to head it. Its social activities and benefit performances increased the popularity of the new Order. Membership grew rapidly. Elks traveling to other cities spread the word of the Brotherhood of Elks. Soon there were requests for Elks Lodges in cities other than New York. In response to these appeals, the Elks asked the New York State legislature for a charter authorizing the establishment of a Grand Lodge with the power to establish local Lodges anywhere in the United States. When the Grand Lodge Charter was issued, the founders then received the first local charter as New York Lodge No. 1 on March 10, 1871.
Dissension soon erupted. Legitimate actors headed by George F. McDonald wanted to restrict membership to the theatrical profession. This view was opposed by Vivian and his friends. Taking advantage of Vivian's absence due to an out-of-town engagement, the McDonald group summarily expelled Vivian and several of his closest friends. Years later the Order rectified this illegal act, but it gave rise to a controversy whether Vivian was actually the founder of the Order. In 1897, a formal inquiry firmly established his right to this honored title.
Vivian continued, after his expulsion from the Order, to enchant audiences across the country. He starred with some of the largest road companies of the time. Together with his actress wife, the former Imogene Holbrook, Vivian set up a repertoire theater in Leadville, Colorado. Shortly thereafter he died of pneumonia on March 20, 1880. In 1889, the Elks moved his body from Leadville, Colorado, to Mt. Hope Cemetery, Boston, Massachusetts. Mrs. Vivian received a stipend from the Order her husband founded until her death in 1931.
The legacy of Charles Vivian continues to this day. In addition to aiding members in distress, the Elks raise money for children with disabilities, college scholarships, youth projects and recreational programs for patients in veteran's hospitals.
On June 14, 1907 the Order held a Flag Day observance. This tradition later was declared a national holiday by President Harry S. Truman.
During World War I, the Elks funded and equipped the first two field hospitals in France and built a 72-room community house in Camp Sherman, Ohio, and a 700-bed rehabilitation hospital in Boston, which they turned over to the War Department. They also raised money for the Salvation Army's frontline canteens.
Their loans to 40,000 returning veterans for college, rehabilitation and vocational education were the precursor of the GI Bill.
When World War II broke out, the Elks were the only civilian organization asked to help recruit construction workers for the military, a task that was completed three months ahead of schedule. The Elks also contributed more than half a million books to the Merchant Marines so that their men would have reading material on board ship.
The Korean War again brought out the best in the Elks. They donated more than half a million pints of blood to help wounded soldiers.
When the wounded from Vietnam needed help, the Elks responded. They provided the funds for a recreation pavilion at the Navy Hospital on Guam. The wounded at Tripler Medical Center in Hawaii were sweltering in the heat. When the Elks heard of their plight, they purchased 24 air-conditioning units so these patriots could recuperate in some degree of comfort.
When Operation Desert Storm took place, the Elks again led the support for our fighting men and women in the Persian Gulf. Subordinate Lodges undertook letter-writing campaigns to help keep up the spirits of the defenders of freedom. The Elks were also among the first to welcome them home and thank them for a job well done.
Thomas Robert Stevens just received his 2010-2011 Member Card indicating he is now in his 32nd year as a member of the Benevolent & Protective Order Of Elks.
A brief history of the Elks follows:
The moving spirit for the Elks was an Englishman named Charles Algernon Sidney Vivian. Born October 22, 1842, this son of a clergyman was a successful comic singer and dancer in the music halls of London. In November 1867, Vivian arrived in New York City to try his fortune.
Other actors and entertainers soon gravitated toward his magnetic personality. With everything closed on Sunday because of New York City Blue Laws, a group of theatrical people began meeting for their own amusement under Vivian's leadership. A loose organization was formed to make sure the larder was well-stocked for these gatherings. They called themselves the Jolly Corks, a name derived from a trick introduced by Vivian in which the uninitiated purchased a round of refreshments.
When one of their members died shortly before Christmas in 1867, leaving his wife and children destitute, the Jolly Corks decided that in addition to good fellowship, they needed a more enduring organization to serve those in need.
On February 16, 1868, they established the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and elected Vivian to head it. Its social activities and benefit performances increased the popularity of the new Order. Membership grew rapidly. Elks traveling to other cities spread the word of the Brotherhood of Elks. Soon there were requests for Elks Lodges in cities other than New York. In response to these appeals, the Elks asked the New York State legislature for a charter authorizing the establishment of a Grand Lodge with the power to establish local Lodges anywhere in the United States. When the Grand Lodge Charter was issued, the founders then received the first local charter as New York Lodge No. 1 on March 10, 1871.
Dissension soon erupted. Legitimate actors headed by George F. McDonald wanted to restrict membership to the theatrical profession. This view was opposed by Vivian and his friends. Taking advantage of Vivian's absence due to an out-of-town engagement, the McDonald group summarily expelled Vivian and several of his closest friends. Years later the Order rectified this illegal act, but it gave rise to a controversy whether Vivian was actually the founder of the Order. In 1897, a formal inquiry firmly established his right to this honored title.
Vivian continued, after his expulsion from the Order, to enchant audiences across the country. He starred with some of the largest road companies of the time. Together with his actress wife, the former Imogene Holbrook, Vivian set up a repertoire theater in Leadville, Colorado. Shortly thereafter he died of pneumonia on March 20, 1880. In 1889, the Elks moved his body from Leadville, Colorado, to Mt. Hope Cemetery, Boston, Massachusetts. Mrs. Vivian received a stipend from the Order her husband founded until her death in 1931.
The legacy of Charles Vivian continues to this day. In addition to aiding members in distress, the Elks raise money for children with disabilities, college scholarships, youth projects and recreational programs for patients in veteran's hospitals.
On June 14, 1907 the Order held a Flag Day observance. This tradition later was declared a national holiday by President Harry S. Truman.
During World War I, the Elks funded and equipped the first two field hospitals in France and built a 72-room community house in Camp Sherman, Ohio, and a 700-bed rehabilitation hospital in Boston, which they turned over to the War Department. They also raised money for the Salvation Army's frontline canteens.
Their loans to 40,000 returning veterans for college, rehabilitation and vocational education were the precursor of the GI Bill.
When World War II broke out, the Elks were the only civilian organization asked to help recruit construction workers for the military, a task that was completed three months ahead of schedule. The Elks also contributed more than half a million books to the Merchant Marines so that their men would have reading material on board ship.
The Korean War again brought out the best in the Elks. They donated more than half a million pints of blood to help wounded soldiers.
When the wounded from Vietnam needed help, the Elks responded. They provided the funds for a recreation pavilion at the Navy Hospital on Guam. The wounded at Tripler Medical Center in Hawaii were sweltering in the heat. When the Elks heard of their plight, they purchased 24 air-conditioning units so these patriots could recuperate in some degree of comfort.
When Operation Desert Storm took place, the Elks again led the support for our fighting men and women in the Persian Gulf. Subordinate Lodges undertook letter-writing campaigns to help keep up the spirits of the defenders of freedom. The Elks were also among the first to welcome them home and thank them for a job well done.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Libertarian Party Of Queens County Endorses Alden Link For United States Senator
On Saturday, February 13, 2010, the Libertarian Party of Queens County voted unanimously to endorse Alden Link, who is seeking the nomination of the Libertarian Party of New York for the United States Senate seat currently held by Senator Charles E. Shumer.
Alden Link announced his campaign will focus on the following issues:
Repealing the P.A.T.R.I.O.T. Act
Repealing the recently adopted Health Care Bill
Legalizing Drugs
Supporting the Individual Constitutional Right of All Citizens to Keep & Bear Arms
Eliminating the Military's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" Policy
Supporting Equal Rights for all Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Individuals
Encouraging Private Investment To Achieve Energy Independence
Supporting Reproductive Choice
Moving the United Nations out of the U.S. (possibly to Somalia)
Alden Link sought the nomination of the Libertarian Party for President of the United States in 2008. Mr. Link is a member of the Libertarian Party of Queens County and has been selected to be a Delegate to the Libertarian Party's National Convention that will be held from May 28-31, 2010 at the Renaissance Grand Hotel in St. Louis, Missouri.
The Libertarian Party of New York will hold its annual convention on Saturday, April 24, 2010 at the Hilton Garden Inn located at 1389 Washington Avenue in Albany, New York.
Alden Link announced his campaign will focus on the following issues:
Repealing the P.A.T.R.I.O.T. Act
Repealing the recently adopted Health Care Bill
Legalizing Drugs
Supporting the Individual Constitutional Right of All Citizens to Keep & Bear Arms
Eliminating the Military's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" Policy
Supporting Equal Rights for all Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Individuals
Encouraging Private Investment To Achieve Energy Independence
Supporting Reproductive Choice
Moving the United Nations out of the U.S. (possibly to Somalia)
Alden Link sought the nomination of the Libertarian Party for President of the United States in 2008. Mr. Link is a member of the Libertarian Party of Queens County and has been selected to be a Delegate to the Libertarian Party's National Convention that will be held from May 28-31, 2010 at the Renaissance Grand Hotel in St. Louis, Missouri.
The Libertarian Party of New York will hold its annual convention on Saturday, April 24, 2010 at the Hilton Garden Inn located at 1389 Washington Avenue in Albany, New York.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
LPNY Reimburses CDL $449.00 For Untimely Convention Mailing Sent Out Without State Committee Authorization
At a Special State Committee Meeting held by teleconference on Sunday, February 21, 2010, the Libertarian Party of New York voted to reimburse members of the Capital District Libertarians $449.00 (7% of its current State Treasury Balance) for a Convention Registration Mailing sent out without prior State Committee authorization. This reimbursement was made even though Jeff Russell of the Capital District Libertarians had apologized to the LPNY State Committee and had indicated that those responsible for the mailing would cover its cost.
According to Dr. Tom Stevens, LPQC State Committee Representative, there were two major problems with the unauthorized mailing. The first problem was that it did not contain an option for LPNY members to register to attend only the Business Sessions of the convention for free. The second problem was that it was intentionally sent out well before the notice period required by the LPNY bylaws as an "extra mailing" and will, therefore, necessitate a second mailing being sent to all LPNY members formally announcing the convention.
The vote at the Special State Committee Meeting held solely for the purpose of authorizing this reimbursement was 9 in favor and 1 opposed. However, the one person opposed to the motion opposed it because it was felt a motion wasn't necessary to reimburse the Capital District Libertarians for the unauthorized mailing. Dr. Tom Stevens, LPQC State Representative, did not attend the Special State Committee Meeting.
Dr. Tom Stevens, LPQC State Representative, responding to the vote said:
Every State Committee Member has a fiduciary responsibility to spend LPNY State Treasury funds in a responsible manner. While I understand the desire many have to make sure that volunteers are not out money spent in good faith in support of LPNY activities, I also feel that seasoned LPNY activists should be responsible for their actions. It wouldn't have taken much effort to seek the approval of the State Committee before sending out a mailing that would cost 7% of the LPNY's State Treasury Balance, especially if the mailing was intended as an "extra mailing" that was not required by the LPNY bylaws. The Capital District Libertarians sought authorization for the deposit they needed to reserve the room at the hotel and should have come to the State Committee for authorization to do the mailing. The Capital District Libertarians also did not run the Convention Registration Fee Schedule by the State Committee for feedback. Had they done so, the absence of the "attending Business Session" for free option would have been caught immediately. People donate money to the LPNY and pay membership dues in the expectation that LPNY State Committee Members will spend that money wisely. This is a responsibility LPNY State Committee Members should take very seriously in the months and years ahead.
The LPNY State Convention will be held on Saturday, April 24, 2010 at the Hilton Garden Inn located at 1389 Washington Avenue in Albany, New York.
According to Dr. Tom Stevens, LPQC State Committee Representative, there were two major problems with the unauthorized mailing. The first problem was that it did not contain an option for LPNY members to register to attend only the Business Sessions of the convention for free. The second problem was that it was intentionally sent out well before the notice period required by the LPNY bylaws as an "extra mailing" and will, therefore, necessitate a second mailing being sent to all LPNY members formally announcing the convention.
The vote at the Special State Committee Meeting held solely for the purpose of authorizing this reimbursement was 9 in favor and 1 opposed. However, the one person opposed to the motion opposed it because it was felt a motion wasn't necessary to reimburse the Capital District Libertarians for the unauthorized mailing. Dr. Tom Stevens, LPQC State Representative, did not attend the Special State Committee Meeting.
Dr. Tom Stevens, LPQC State Representative, responding to the vote said:
Every State Committee Member has a fiduciary responsibility to spend LPNY State Treasury funds in a responsible manner. While I understand the desire many have to make sure that volunteers are not out money spent in good faith in support of LPNY activities, I also feel that seasoned LPNY activists should be responsible for their actions. It wouldn't have taken much effort to seek the approval of the State Committee before sending out a mailing that would cost 7% of the LPNY's State Treasury Balance, especially if the mailing was intended as an "extra mailing" that was not required by the LPNY bylaws. The Capital District Libertarians sought authorization for the deposit they needed to reserve the room at the hotel and should have come to the State Committee for authorization to do the mailing. The Capital District Libertarians also did not run the Convention Registration Fee Schedule by the State Committee for feedback. Had they done so, the absence of the "attending Business Session" for free option would have been caught immediately. People donate money to the LPNY and pay membership dues in the expectation that LPNY State Committee Members will spend that money wisely. This is a responsibility LPNY State Committee Members should take very seriously in the months and years ahead.
The LPNY State Convention will be held on Saturday, April 24, 2010 at the Hilton Garden Inn located at 1389 Washington Avenue in Albany, New York.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
LPQC Members Elected As Delegates To 2010 LPUS National Convention
The following members of the Libertarian Party of Queens County have been elected to serve as delegates from New York State to the Libertarian Party's National Convention that will be held May 28-31, 2010 at the Renaissance Grand Hotel in St. Louis, Missouri: Mark Axinn, Andrew Clunn, Dan Halloran, Dodge P. Landesman, Alden Link, Carl Person, Sam Sloan & Dr. Tom Stevens.
Each of the delegates have been encouraged to purchase at least the mandatory Basic Package, which costs $99.00 up front. However, a $50.00 rebate is available for those who purchase the Basic Package and who reserve a room in their name at the Renaissance Grand Hotel for a minimum two-night stay. The special convention room rate is $109.00 per night plus applicable taxes and fees. To be eligible for the rebate, each delegate must keep a copy of their Convention Registration Fee receipt and a copy of their final Hotel Bill. Rebate forms will be handed out at the National Convention. All reservations can be made through links at http://www.gatewaytoliberty.com/
Delegates have been informed that Southwest Airlines is the least expensive carrier flying from New York City to St. Louis although most of its flights are not direct. Most stop in Chicago. However, the fare on Southwest can total less than $300.00 round trip. It has been suggested that delegates fly into St. Louis on Friday morning and leave on Monday afternoon. Of course, if a delegate has more time to spare, adding an extra few days to the trip can serve as a nice vacation.
Dr. Tom Stevens, LPQC State Representative, who made the motion to have the above-mentioned individuals elected as delegates, has requested that he be told when each of the elected delegates has purchased the Basic Package, made their room reservations, and purchased their round trip airline tickets. Time is of the essence since Convention Registration Fees and airline fares both go up the closer it gets to the event.
Each of the delegates have been encouraged to purchase at least the mandatory Basic Package, which costs $99.00 up front. However, a $50.00 rebate is available for those who purchase the Basic Package and who reserve a room in their name at the Renaissance Grand Hotel for a minimum two-night stay. The special convention room rate is $109.00 per night plus applicable taxes and fees. To be eligible for the rebate, each delegate must keep a copy of their Convention Registration Fee receipt and a copy of their final Hotel Bill. Rebate forms will be handed out at the National Convention. All reservations can be made through links at http://www.gatewaytoliberty.com/
Delegates have been informed that Southwest Airlines is the least expensive carrier flying from New York City to St. Louis although most of its flights are not direct. Most stop in Chicago. However, the fare on Southwest can total less than $300.00 round trip. It has been suggested that delegates fly into St. Louis on Friday morning and leave on Monday afternoon. Of course, if a delegate has more time to spare, adding an extra few days to the trip can serve as a nice vacation.
Dr. Tom Stevens, LPQC State Representative, who made the motion to have the above-mentioned individuals elected as delegates, has requested that he be told when each of the elected delegates has purchased the Basic Package, made their room reservations, and purchased their round trip airline tickets. Time is of the essence since Convention Registration Fees and airline fares both go up the closer it gets to the event.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Bill McMillen Informs LPNY He Will No Longer Be The Contact For The Hotel At Which The LPNY Is Holding Its Convention
After receiving criticism for sending out an unauthorized Convention Registration mailing to all Libertarian Party members living in New York State that provided no option for delegates to register to attend the Business Session of the LPNY Annual Convention for free, LPNY Member Bill McMillen has now announced that on Tuesday, February 16, 2010, he intends to call the Hilton Garden Inn, where the LPNY Convention is scheduled to hold its Annual Convention on Saturday, April 24, 2010, to tell them he wants his name removed as the contact for the contract he signed as a member of the Capital District Libertarians on behalf of the Libertarian Party of New York. Unless immediate action is taken to communicate with the hotel and provide a new contact person, Bill McMillen's action may very well jeopardize the LPNY's ability to hold its Annual Convention at that hotel requiring it to start making new plans from scratch for a new location.
Bill McMillen sent out a mailing last week to all Libertarian Party members living in New York State without having obtained approval for the mailing from the State Committee nor did he or anyone else run the Convention Registration Fee Schedule by the LPNY State Committee for feedback. He came under criticism by Dr. Tom Stevens, LPQC State Representative, for apparently establishing a "poll tax" and "floor fee" for voting at the Business Session of the Annual Convention since no option was provided for an LPNY member to register for free to attend and vote exclusively during the Business Session. Dr. Stevens conceded that this was probably just an oversight and an error. However, he stated that it would probably now necessitate a refund to all those who pay $25.00 for the "speakers and business session" option but who only wished to attend the Business Session. Dr. Stevens also criticized the Convention Fee Schedule for charging registrants $50.00 if they wanted to partake in the "deli lunch" offered from 12 noon to 1:00 p.m. before the business session commenced. He believed that price for a "deli lunch" to be a bit steep.
On Sunday, February 14, 2010, the State Committee was notified that even though Bill McMillen signed the hotel contract as a member of the Capital District Libertarians on behalf of the LPNY and therefore was not financially responsible, that he would nevertheless call the hotel on Tuesday, February 16, 2010 to tell them to remove his name and number as the contact for the event. The LPNY has been told that without a contact person, the Hilton Garden Inn will no longer hold and reserve the rooms we contracted for. The result will be that the Libertarian Party of New York will need to search for a new location at which to hold its Annual Convention in Albany, New York this year.
Since the Libertarian Party of New York authorized the Capital District Libertarians to contract for the convention location, the CDL must designate someone new to be the contact person for the hotel and must have that person substituted by Tuesday, February 16, 2010 if they intend to save the contract Bill McMillen has now placed in jeopardy by his impulsive ultimatum.
Bill McMillen sent out a mailing last week to all Libertarian Party members living in New York State without having obtained approval for the mailing from the State Committee nor did he or anyone else run the Convention Registration Fee Schedule by the LPNY State Committee for feedback. He came under criticism by Dr. Tom Stevens, LPQC State Representative, for apparently establishing a "poll tax" and "floor fee" for voting at the Business Session of the Annual Convention since no option was provided for an LPNY member to register for free to attend and vote exclusively during the Business Session. Dr. Stevens conceded that this was probably just an oversight and an error. However, he stated that it would probably now necessitate a refund to all those who pay $25.00 for the "speakers and business session" option but who only wished to attend the Business Session. Dr. Stevens also criticized the Convention Fee Schedule for charging registrants $50.00 if they wanted to partake in the "deli lunch" offered from 12 noon to 1:00 p.m. before the business session commenced. He believed that price for a "deli lunch" to be a bit steep.
On Sunday, February 14, 2010, the State Committee was notified that even though Bill McMillen signed the hotel contract as a member of the Capital District Libertarians on behalf of the LPNY and therefore was not financially responsible, that he would nevertheless call the hotel on Tuesday, February 16, 2010 to tell them to remove his name and number as the contact for the event. The LPNY has been told that without a contact person, the Hilton Garden Inn will no longer hold and reserve the rooms we contracted for. The result will be that the Libertarian Party of New York will need to search for a new location at which to hold its Annual Convention in Albany, New York this year.
Since the Libertarian Party of New York authorized the Capital District Libertarians to contract for the convention location, the CDL must designate someone new to be the contact person for the hotel and must have that person substituted by Tuesday, February 16, 2010 if they intend to save the contract Bill McMillen has now placed in jeopardy by his impulsive ultimatum.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Libertarian Party Fails To Maximize Income From Membership Dues
Basic Membership (a/k/a Sustaining Membership) in the Libertarian Party requires a $25.00 contribution. A number of members from New York State recently decided they wished to be relieved of the responsibility of keeping track of their renewal dates and would prefer to increase their annual contribution to the Libertarian Party to $36.00 annually by joining the Liberty Pledge Club and making a monthly contribution.
These members were told they could not make that increased contribution to the party through a monthly pledge and that the only way they could join the Liberty Pledge Club is if they donated a minimum of $10.00 per month for an annual contribution of $120.00. As a result, these members have kept their annual contributions at $25.00.
Dr. Tom Stevens, a member of the Libertarian Party, stated:
This policy of requiring a minimum monthly pledge of $10.00 for an annual contribution of $120.00 makes no sense. If a Sustaining Member wishes to increase his or her contribution from $25.00 to $36.00 or $48.00 or some other figure lower than $120.00, the Libertarian Party should set them up in the Liberty Pledge Club and take their monthly contribution. Whatever credit card fee is charged for this automatic processing is more than covered by the increased contribution that member is making to the Libertarian Party. The monthly minimum contribution required to join the Liberty Pledge Club should be immediately reduced to $3.00 per month, which is $36.00 per year. A member may be inclined to donate $5.00 per month, which would be an annual contribution of $60.00 per year. The Libertarian Party is losing an opportunity to increase the revenue they collect from dues. The leaders of the party should rectify this situation without further delay.
Dr. Tom Stevens serves as a member of the Judicial Committee of the Libertarian Party and is the LPQC State Representative to the Libertarian Party of New York.
These members were told they could not make that increased contribution to the party through a monthly pledge and that the only way they could join the Liberty Pledge Club is if they donated a minimum of $10.00 per month for an annual contribution of $120.00. As a result, these members have kept their annual contributions at $25.00.
Dr. Tom Stevens, a member of the Libertarian Party, stated:
This policy of requiring a minimum monthly pledge of $10.00 for an annual contribution of $120.00 makes no sense. If a Sustaining Member wishes to increase his or her contribution from $25.00 to $36.00 or $48.00 or some other figure lower than $120.00, the Libertarian Party should set them up in the Liberty Pledge Club and take their monthly contribution. Whatever credit card fee is charged for this automatic processing is more than covered by the increased contribution that member is making to the Libertarian Party. The monthly minimum contribution required to join the Liberty Pledge Club should be immediately reduced to $3.00 per month, which is $36.00 per year. A member may be inclined to donate $5.00 per month, which would be an annual contribution of $60.00 per year. The Libertarian Party is losing an opportunity to increase the revenue they collect from dues. The leaders of the party should rectify this situation without further delay.
Dr. Tom Stevens serves as a member of the Judicial Committee of the Libertarian Party and is the LPQC State Representative to the Libertarian Party of New York.
Monday, February 8, 2010
LPNY Opposes LPUS Mandatory Convention Registration Fee
On Sunday, February 7, 2010, the Libertarian Party of New York passed the following motion opposing the institution of a mandatory convention registration fee imposed upon all elected delegates seeking to attend the Libertarian Party's National Convention in St. Louis over Memorial Day Weekend:
MOTION: Whether or not the Libertarian Party's National Committee has the legal right to assess a registration fee upon all duly elected delegates attending the LPUS National Convention in St. Louis, Missouri over Memorial Day Weekend, the payment of which is being treated as a mandatory prerequisite to the Credentials Committee seating said delegates, it is the opinion of the Libertarian Party of New York that such a mandatory registration fee should not be assessed for delegates who wish to attend and vote exclusively at the business sessions of the LPUS National Convention.
Dr. Tom Stevens, who serves as the State Representative of the Libertarian Party of Queens County, drafted and proposed the motion. During debate, he said: "putting aside the issue of whether the Libertarian Party's National Committee has the legal right to assess a mandatory registration fee on duly elected delegates, the payment of which has become a prerequisite to the Credentials Committee seating said delegates, this motion merely expresses the opinion of the LPNY that such a fee should not be assessed for delegates who wish to attend and vote exclusively at the business sessions of the LPUS National Convention. While this motion will have no impact on the rules adopted for this convention, I hope that national takes our opinion into account when establishing the rules for the 2012 LPUS National Convention."
Sam Sloan, State Representative of the Manhattan LP, supported the motion stating that "some of our most important activists make an extraordinary effort to simply attend the convention" and that "requiring a mandatory registration fee would effectively exclude these individuals from participation during the business sessions of the national convention."
Blay Tarnoff, State Representative of the Nassau LP, in opposing the resolution called the language of the motion "bellicose" and stated that "a $25.00 mandatory registration fee" was acceptable to him. Joseph Dobrian, LPNY Vice-Chair, who spoke in favor of the motion stated, "there is nothing "bellicose" in the language of the motion". Dr. Stevens then spoke again pointing out that the mandatory convention registration fee is $99.00, not $25.00. M Carling, who serves as LPNY Secretary and in a number of appointed positions on the national level, warned that although he will ask for national's financial help with upcoming statewide petition drives both this year and in 2012, he fears his requests will fall on "deaf ears" if the LPNY expresses its opposition to the mandatory convention registration fee. In the end, Chris Edes, LPNY Chair, broke a tie and voted in favor of the motion. He will be informing national of the LPNY's opinion on this issue.
Dr. Stevens stated: "It is important that the Libertarian Party of New York express itself on this issue. In my opinion, the LPUS can charge for its cocktail parties, for convention materials, for access to the vendor floor or even to hear speakers. However, it should not require a mandatory registration fee be paid before the Credentials Committee will seat a duly elected delegate. In my opinion, every duly elected delegate should be credentialed and should have the right to vote during the business sessions of the LPUS National Convention."
MOTION: Whether or not the Libertarian Party's National Committee has the legal right to assess a registration fee upon all duly elected delegates attending the LPUS National Convention in St. Louis, Missouri over Memorial Day Weekend, the payment of which is being treated as a mandatory prerequisite to the Credentials Committee seating said delegates, it is the opinion of the Libertarian Party of New York that such a mandatory registration fee should not be assessed for delegates who wish to attend and vote exclusively at the business sessions of the LPUS National Convention.
Dr. Tom Stevens, who serves as the State Representative of the Libertarian Party of Queens County, drafted and proposed the motion. During debate, he said: "putting aside the issue of whether the Libertarian Party's National Committee has the legal right to assess a mandatory registration fee on duly elected delegates, the payment of which has become a prerequisite to the Credentials Committee seating said delegates, this motion merely expresses the opinion of the LPNY that such a fee should not be assessed for delegates who wish to attend and vote exclusively at the business sessions of the LPUS National Convention. While this motion will have no impact on the rules adopted for this convention, I hope that national takes our opinion into account when establishing the rules for the 2012 LPUS National Convention."
Sam Sloan, State Representative of the Manhattan LP, supported the motion stating that "some of our most important activists make an extraordinary effort to simply attend the convention" and that "requiring a mandatory registration fee would effectively exclude these individuals from participation during the business sessions of the national convention."
Blay Tarnoff, State Representative of the Nassau LP, in opposing the resolution called the language of the motion "bellicose" and stated that "a $25.00 mandatory registration fee" was acceptable to him. Joseph Dobrian, LPNY Vice-Chair, who spoke in favor of the motion stated, "there is nothing "bellicose" in the language of the motion". Dr. Stevens then spoke again pointing out that the mandatory convention registration fee is $99.00, not $25.00. M Carling, who serves as LPNY Secretary and in a number of appointed positions on the national level, warned that although he will ask for national's financial help with upcoming statewide petition drives both this year and in 2012, he fears his requests will fall on "deaf ears" if the LPNY expresses its opposition to the mandatory convention registration fee. In the end, Chris Edes, LPNY Chair, broke a tie and voted in favor of the motion. He will be informing national of the LPNY's opinion on this issue.
Dr. Stevens stated: "It is important that the Libertarian Party of New York express itself on this issue. In my opinion, the LPUS can charge for its cocktail parties, for convention materials, for access to the vendor floor or even to hear speakers. However, it should not require a mandatory registration fee be paid before the Credentials Committee will seat a duly elected delegate. In my opinion, every duly elected delegate should be credentialed and should have the right to vote during the business sessions of the LPUS National Convention."
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
OPNY Holds Read-In To Celebrate Ayn Rand's Birthday
On Tuesday, February 2, 2010 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., the Objectivist Party of New York held a Read-In to celebrate Ayn Rand's Birthday at Panera Bread located at 160 Walt Whitman Road in Huntington Station, New York.
OPNY members brought the following books written by Ayn Rand to the Read-In: Atlas Shrugged, The Fountainhead, Anthem and We The Living. Each person read their book for 15 minutes identifying an interesting quotation or situation. Then each person shared their thoughts on that text during a 30 minute discussion period. This format was then repeated a second time.
Dr. Tom Stevens, OPNY President, hosted the event.
OPNY members brought the following books written by Ayn Rand to the Read-In: Atlas Shrugged, The Fountainhead, Anthem and We The Living. Each person read their book for 15 minutes identifying an interesting quotation or situation. Then each person shared their thoughts on that text during a 30 minute discussion period. This format was then repeated a second time.
Dr. Tom Stevens, OPNY President, hosted the event.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Objectivist Party Governing Board Holds Meeting In Manhattan
On Saturday, January 30, 2010 at 10:00 a.m., the Governing Board of the Objectivist Party held a meeting at Cafe Mocha located at 116 2nd Avenue (on the southeast corner of 7th Street) in Manhattan.
Present at the meeting were Dr. Tom Stevens, Dodge P. Landesman and Dallwyn Merck. Jonathan Damgaard Jakobsen was unable to attend.
The current state of the Objectivist Party was discussed as was its policies and programs.
Present at the meeting were Dr. Tom Stevens, Dodge P. Landesman and Dallwyn Merck. Jonathan Damgaard Jakobsen was unable to attend.
The current state of the Objectivist Party was discussed as was its policies and programs.
OPNY Holds Executive Committee Meeting In Manhattan
On Saturday, January 30, 2010 at 11:00 a.m., the Objectivist Party of New York held an Executive Committee Meeting at the Ukrainian East Village Restaurant located at 140 2nd Avenue in Manhattan.
Present at the meeting were the following officers:
President - Dr. Tom Stevens
Executive Vice-President - Andrew Clunn
Vice-President - Dodge P. Landesman
Secretary - Dallwyn Merck
The following officers were absent:
Treasurer - Ronald S. Ramo
Executive Assistant - Jay Stempel
Youth Coordinator - Peter Schonert
Upcoming events and plans for the future were discussed.
Present at the meeting were the following officers:
President - Dr. Tom Stevens
Executive Vice-President - Andrew Clunn
Vice-President - Dodge P. Landesman
Secretary - Dallwyn Merck
The following officers were absent:
Treasurer - Ronald S. Ramo
Executive Assistant - Jay Stempel
Youth Coordinator - Peter Schonert
Upcoming events and plans for the future were discussed.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Sam Sloan Elected To Represent The Manhattan Libertarian Party On The LPNY State Committee
On January 30, 2010, Samuel Howard Sloan was unanimously elected to serve as the representative of the Manhattan Libertarian Party to the State Committee of the Libertarian Party of New York. The election took place at the Manhattan Libertarian Party's Annual Convention, which was held at the Ukrainian East Village Restaurant located at 140 2nd Avenue in New York, New York.
Sam Sloan is currently a resident of the Bronx and has announced his intention to seek the nomination of the Libertarian Party of New York for Governor in 2010. He was given an opportunity to address the packed convention hall and surprised everyone by beginning his remarks in Pashtun, which he claims to have learned while imprisoned in an Afghan jail. Sam Sloan is a Muslim and is known in Islamic circles as Haji Mohammed Ismail Sloan.
Mr. Sloan previously served as an officer of the Manhattan Libertarian Party, having been elected Director of Media Relations for a one-year term in 2006.
Read more about Sam Sloan in an article that appeared in the New York Sun on June 30, 2004 entitled "The Man In The Yellow Cab: Sam Sloan" at: http://dackman.homestead.com/SamSloanSun.htm
Sam Sloan is currently a resident of the Bronx and has announced his intention to seek the nomination of the Libertarian Party of New York for Governor in 2010. He was given an opportunity to address the packed convention hall and surprised everyone by beginning his remarks in Pashtun, which he claims to have learned while imprisoned in an Afghan jail. Sam Sloan is a Muslim and is known in Islamic circles as Haji Mohammed Ismail Sloan.
Mr. Sloan previously served as an officer of the Manhattan Libertarian Party, having been elected Director of Media Relations for a one-year term in 2006.
Read more about Sam Sloan in an article that appeared in the New York Sun on June 30, 2004 entitled "The Man In The Yellow Cab: Sam Sloan" at: http://dackman.homestead.com/SamSloanSun.htm
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