Free? State Libertarian ISSN 1076-3155
Volume 22 Issue 1
The Free? State Libertarian is published quarterly by the Libertarian Party of Maryland. All material is copyrighted 2000 and may be reproduced, provided credit is given as follows: "Reprinted from the Free? State Libertarian."
Email: LPMD.Newsletter*ICengineering.com
(preferably)
Mail: LPMD Newsletter, PO Box 321, Owings Mills, MD 21117
Fax: 801-640-0953
Newsletter submissions are solicited.
Editor: Robert E. Glaser
The Libertarian Party of Maryland
P.O. Box 2343, Annapolis, MD 21404-2343
1-800-MLP-1776
BBS: 301-656-4714
National LP HQ: 202-333-0008
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Discussion MDLP-subscribe*onelist.com
Check www.MD.LP.org regularly for the current event calendar, news, email listserves, photo album, and more! Be certain to submit all of your current event information to LPMD.Event*ICengineering.com to get the information online.
Table of Contents
State Executive Board Officers
Concealed Carry Testimony Solicited
Delegate Murphy Considers Medical Marijuana Legislation
Red-Light Camera Programs: For Safety or Profit?
Good News on the Registration Front
From the Trenches ... County Chapter Notes
Regularly Scheduled Libertarian Gatherings
Chair: Steve Boone 410-789-4249 LPChairMD*aol.com
Vice Chair: Spear Lancaster 410-923-3331 Maimon*aol.com
Secretary: Stuart Simms 301-681-4455 SWSimms*aol.com
Treasurer: Joe Miller 410-789-3899 hatsIwear*aol.com
Procedures/Youth: Michael Audi 410-727-2252 M.Audi*juno.com
Membership: Wayne Dougherty 301-834-6179 WDarty*aol.com
Road Show Outreach: Bill Galvin 301-990-0015 Bilib*juno.com
The executive board meets on the second Monday of every month. All meetings
are open. Contact Steve Boone for location.
Anne Arundel County: Spear Lancaster 410-923-3331 Maimon*aol.com
Baltimore City: Susan Gaztañaga 410-325-2813 DiazVivar*aol.com
Baltimore County: Nancy Millionie 410-833-8991 LibertyGrl*aol.com
Frederick County: Wayne Dougherty 301-834-6179 WDarty*aol.com
Harford County: Derek Mancinho 410-836-3104 Mancinho*aol.com
Howard County: Kevin & Deborah Wolf 410-750-8531 Wolf8495*aol.com
Prince Georges County Shay Jones 301-864-7838 theDen*mindspring.com
Montgomery County: Glenn Howard 301-585-1793 Glenn*tidalwave.net
Washington County: Kurt Sabert Freedom1*innernet.net
Libertarians from throughout the state converged at Galeano's Restaurant in Baltimore on Saturday morning, October 16th. Many were jockeying their cars around Little Italy trying to observe the arcane parking regulatory signs in an effort to resist involuntary remuneration to the City. Your editor was feeling lucky that day and didn't bother -- indeed, the police department didn't, either.
The
convention program began with Richard Stevens talking on the subject of
his book, Dial 911 and Die. The Maryland-born Mr. Stevens is an
attorney in DC who presently works for the Jews For The Preservation
of Firearms Ownership (www.JPFO.org)
organization. He said that "Gun control" survives as an idea
because most Americans believe one single myth: You don't need
a gun, because the police protect you from crime. Instead, we are supposed
to dial 911 as a solution. Presently, 90% of the American population is
covered by 911 service (50% by geographical area). This one-two punch has
been used to promote gun control laws. Government officials treat firearms
as if they are the same as life preservers, first aid kits, or seat belts.
But these devices have no government-mandated waiting periods, or licensing
requirements! Do Brinks security guards drive around without guns? Of course
not, because the myth is a lie!
The job of the police is to come in after the crime is committed, not to prevent it in the first place. Furthermore, according to the courts, the police have no legal duty to protect individual citizens. In fact, in most places the police do not even have to come when you call. Mr. Stevens pointed out that the victim is the first on the scene; and bad guys don't invade army bases. Gun control laws make it difficult or embarrassing to bear arms. The population's blind trust in big government leads to victim disarmament. He provided numerous examples of the tragedies which can occur when victims placed all of their personal security responsibilities in the hands of the 911 operator and the police. These were heart-wrenching, unbelievable tales.
A number of convention attendees purchased his book. You can order it from the JPFO website, or telephone 262-673-9745 for information.
Next,
Carol Moore spoke on Waco and its implications. She brought us up-to-date
on that fiasco, and pointed out that that event was a case in point of
how law enforcement increasingly is becoming militarized. Ms. Moore mentioned
the cases of Leonard Peltier, who is convicted of killing FBI agents --
evidence shows that the FBI was targeting the American Indian Movement;
and black activist and journalist Mumia Abu-Jamal, given the death penalty
for killing police -- many claim the case is an abuse of justice.
When thinking of government bureaucracy, she reminds us to remember
the four P's: paychecks, perks, pensions, and promotions. These explain
much of the shift in the role of government in our society. Ms. Moore closed
with a conversation on secessionism: two-thirds of people want out of their
nation states; however, civilized governments will punish secessionists.
Visit www.kreative.net/carolmoore
for followup.
The
next speaker, Lorenzo Gaztañaga, made a grand entrance ("Lucy,
I'm home!") after a busy day of campaigning for the Baltimore City
Council. He reminisced about the 1954 film The Long Long Trailer
and how it intersected in various ways with his life [the film starred
Desi Arnaz and Lucille Ball].
On to more serious matters, Lorenzo said "People are welcoming our message." He pointed out that if normal people stay out of politics because it's dirty, then we leave it to the dishonest people. We were reminded that the spirit of America is a state of mind. Lorenzo related a story to the attendees of a Patterson High schoolteacher who wanted to take his students to visit a City Council meeting -- he couldn't do so, because the school system did not have the $300 it would require to pay for the bus. Our candidate made an emotional appeal for contributions, and before he sat down, Libertarians had donated the $300 as a civics lesson for the students.
After
a break, conventioneers enjoyed an excellent Galeano's dinner. Guest speaker
Gary Nolan, WWRC radio talk show host, gave a short commentary and took
some questions and answers. After the dinner speaker, Chair Steve Boone
presented awards to hardworking MdLP members. 1999's Defender of Liberty
award went jointly to Susan and Lorenzo Gaztañaga.
Hi, folks!
The 1999 Maryland Libertarian Party Convention was a great success! I want to take the opportunity to thank both the great folks at Galeano's as well as our convention coordinator, Stuart Simms, and all of his helpers: Doris Gordon, Nancy Millionie, Jesse Markowitz, and anyone I might have missed.
The primary order of business was the election of three members of the Executive Board, and all three members were elected to another term. Spear Lancaster, Michael "Mic" Audi, and I now serve terms which will expire in 2001.
At the brief Exec Board meeting during the lunch recess, the motion "let's just have everybody do the same thing they're doing now" passed 6-0, so the Executive Board remains the same [as shown].
Also during the lunch break, three groups discussed ways of outreach to get the 1% voter registration that we need by December 31, 2002, and want to have by December 31, 2001. Those recommendations were presented to the meeting following the second afternoon speaker.
One of the recommendations common to all three groups was to set up a speakers bureau -- a list of Libertarians who are comfortable in taking the LP message to the public at various forums. Please forward contact information to me, as well as topics of particular interest.
The
silent auction sitting on the table in the corner found its voice at 8:15
pm, with our lovely Junior Miss Liberty, a.k.a. Katie Millionie (doing
her best "Vanna" impression), holding the items while the auctioneer
conducted the bidding wars. The hottest item: a book on Robert and Elizabeth
Dole, which went bidless. Well, actually, it did get a bid of $1.00
if we were to burn it that instant. The auctioneer declined to accept
the bid. It was set aside and later auctioned off as a "mystery book"
and, after a mild bidding session, fetched a provisional bid of $5.00 "provided
that you keep it and use it in your next auction." SOLD!
I was pleased at the convention turnout. We saw a lot of people show up who've not been to such an event in the past. Many seemed to be enjoying themselves and participated in discussion groups. We had a large number of people give a proxy who were not able to attend in person, so a great majority of the Central Committee was indeed represented.
Be certain not to miss the 2000 Convention!
-- Steve Boone
Hope your holiday season was happy and healthy, and may the new year bring more recognition of liberty for us all! It's hard to believe that another year has ended. It's also time for many of us to renew memberships in the Libertarian Party of Maryland. You may have received this issue of the Free? State Libertarian as a complimentary copy because you are a member of the national LP, or are registered as a Libertarian. If so, consider joining the MdLP to get a subscription to this newsletter. Usually, we try to get notifications out by Thanksgiving each year. This year, though, we were a little busy, since we had just finished working on Lorenzo Gaztañaga's campaign for City Council.
Although Lorenzo didn't win, we were able to mobilize a number of people to get out, learn some campaign skills, and work the polls. And, we got noticed! Ken Maylath, of WCBM radio, in his election night analysis, complimented Lorenzo's campaign on having a number of people covering many of the polls in his district.
But that's not all we did! We showed up at more fairs, festivals, and even parades this year than we have in the past, getting the Libertarian message out and letting the public know we're around. We did the Howard County Fair for the first time, as well as the Bay Bridge Rendezvous in Queen Anne's County.
We testified on bills before the General Assembly, such as the Tobacco Tax, and even had State Senator Andy Harris [R-9] jokingly ask if "we had assigned seats in the Gallery," since he and his colleagues saw us there all the time on Monday evenings.
Several changes are underway to bring the Party into the next century: the new Annapolis Post Office Box address; a new membership database; an ongoing fundraising project using the internet and a secure link that will allow us to greatly increase our available funds and become far more competitive; and finally, look for several proposals to be brought to Central Committee meetings to amend the Constitution and By-laws, and plan for future growth.
Financial Incentives
As a reminder, Md/local membership is $20.00 per year. For an additional $10.00, you can get national membership too, but only if you join/renew through the State Party. National and Md memberships may expire at different times. Renewing both through the State Party extends your national membership one year (the incentives below do not apply to national). To maintain national membership, you may need to renew both through the State Party prior to your Md expiration date shown on this mailing label; so please take note of your national expiration date shown on the label affixed to the LP News.
In case you like the idea of incentives... the Executive Board approved the following. If you've already sent your renewal in, this offer applies to you as well.
For those of you whose Md membership expired 12/31/99, or if you are joining for the first time, if your renewal/application is postmarked by February 10, 2000, your Md membership will not expire until April 30, 2001. If your Md membership expires this year and you renew by 2/10/00, you will get an extra two months of Md membership at no cost. If your Md membership expired 12/31/99, or if you are joining for the first time, and your renewal/application is postmarked by February 24, 2000, your Md membership will not expire until March 31, 2001. If your Md membership expires this year and you renew by 2/24/00, you will get one extra month of Md membership at no cost. What all of this means is that you should get your check in the mail TODAY! Your prompt renewal will help the MdLP continue its growth and outreach programs for 2000.
The application/renewal form can be downloaded from the website (www.MD.LP.org/join-form.pdf) or found on page 15 of this issue of the Free? State Libertarian. Mail to the LP-Maryland's new Annapolis address:
LP-Maryland
P.O. Box 2343
Annapolis, MD 21404-2343
-- Steve Boone
State Senator Timothy R. Ferguson, a Republican representing District 4 (Frederick & Carroll counties) is looking for assistance in promoting a concealed carry law. If you have any statements which might help, please contact the Senator at 410-841-3704, 301-858-3704, 800-492- 7122 ext. 3704; timothy_ferguson*senate.state.md.us; or fax 301-858-1133, 410-841-1133.
Legislative
Action Alert
-- Taxes and the $1 Billion Surplus
Action needed: Write the Governor, the Comptroller, the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House, and your State Senator and Delegate(s).
The State of Maryland last year ran nearly a $1 Billion (yes, with a B) surplus. Does that mean that this came from wise fiscal management of tight funds? Hardly. It came from one simple premise: the people of Maryland were way OVERTAXED during the year.
The Commonwealth of Virginia during the same period ran nearly an identical surplus. Some of it was due to wise fiscal management of tight funds. Some of it was that the citizens of Virginia happened to be overtaxed.
The difference between the two states and how they handled it is instructive. Maryland's politicians, led by Parris Glendening and his cronies, immediately ran around figuring how they could spend a major portion of it on one-time projects. New transportation this, new capital project that. Oh, and, yeah, let's give each taxpayer a $100.00 per person break in taxes.
Virginia's legislature met and promptly rebated nearly ALL of the surplus back to the taxpayers. Further, expecting a similar revenue surplus the following year with the same tax rates, they set about REDUCING the rates so that there would not be such a huge surplus.
Amazing, isn't it? And typical, unfortunately, here in the People's Democratik Republik of Maryland. Tax, tax, tax, spend, spend, spend. Some of the Republican legislators to whom I've spoken are making excuses... "THEY won't allow us to return more than $100 per person... it's all we can get."
Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to write to the Governor, the Comptroller, the Speaker of the House, the President of the Senate, and your Senator and Delegate(s). Ask them why, when there's such a huge surplus, they have to scurry around finding new projects to spend it on rather than giving REAL tax relief to the citizens of Maryland. Don't we know how we can spend our money better than they? What are they going to do to reduce the tax rate so that the amazing surplus doesn't recur next year?
I'm
asking you to write to the list of folks for a very important reason. I'd
like you to include a tea bag in your correspondence. Mention
the word Libertarian if you want, you'll get extra credit from us!
You can even write a letter to the editor stating what you're doing, and
why. And, most importantly -- don't forget to tell your friends! Remember,
Massachusetts didn't have the only tea party before the Revolution. There
was one in Chestertown, in Kent County, in May 1775, when the Peggy
Stewart was burned. The issue, then and now, was taxes.
Please, be respectful, but firm. Request an answer. Send a copy of your correspondence, if you'd like, to us as well at the Annapolis PO box, and we'll keep it as part of a lobbying file.
Time is of the essence. If you can do this before February 10, 2000, it will send a real message to the General Assembly, and might even do some good!
-- Steve Boone
Contact Addresses
Parris N. Glendening, Governor
State House
Annapolis, MD 21401
William Donald Schaefer
Comptroller of the Treasury
Goldstein Treasury Bldg #121
80 Calvert Street
Annapolis, MD 21401-0466
Thomas V. "Mike" Miller
President of the State Senate
Room H-107 State House
Annapolis, MD 21401-1991
Casper R. Taylor, Jr.
Speaker of the House of Delegates
Room H-101 State House
Annapolis, MD 21401-1991
Senator [ ]
James Senate Office Building
110 College Avenue
Annapolis, MD 21401-1991
Delegate [ ]
Lowe House Office Building
6 Gov. Bladen Boulevard
Annapolis, MD 21401-1991
Hey,
we made it! Happy new year 2000, everyone! Now, is it the New Millennium?
Back around Christmas, I remember seeing a cartoon in The Cumberland Times-News that showed two or three employees of "Polls, Inc." discussing the results of their latest survey. "Seven percent believe the New Millennium starts on January 1, 2000. Six percent believe the New Millennium doesn't start until January 1, 2001. Eighty-seven percent believe the other 13 percent need to get a life."
But, seriously, that doesn't change the fact that we have lots of work ahead of us in the coming year! I'd like to discuss our goals, and the resolutions we've identified to help bring them to pass. They're fairly comprehensive, and many will have parts that overlap.
Continue professionalizing the Md LP and its operations
This past year, we moved our address to a post office box in Annapolis and began working to streamline operations essential to the Party's function. This move alone cuts more than a week of processing time from receipt of checks to deposit, and cash enters the bank far more quickly to be used for operations. Any mail that needs forwarding also gets sent on its way more swiftly.
We also improved our membership and follow-up system, allowing for a quicker reply to requests for information and sending out thank you notes and acknowledgements for those who contributed or joined.
We've been working on centralizing and updating the database, then putting it up in a secure web site, which will allow several users access to it when needed. It will also prevent having to update multiple lists just to figure out who has proper credentials at Central Committee meetings.
The more professional our operations are now, the better we will be able to meet the challenges of growth that lie ahead.
New affiliate development/existing affiliate growth
Part of the growth strategy depends on developing new county affiliates or regional groups. Recently, we developed an Open House concept in Howard County. This allowed members in Howard the opportunity to meet each other in a social setting, and gave prospects the chance to get answers to their questions about the Party. Further, it identified people interested in restarting a Howard County affiliate. Reviews from those who attended were very positive, and I'm happy to say we were successful. Congratulations to Kevin Wolf, the new Chair pro tem of Howard County!
After analyzing our efforts in Howard, we're going to fine-tune them and take them on the road to other counties as well. Basically, an Open House consists of getting a room, whether it be in a restaurant, a church social hall, or even a library, where we can have light refreshments, to allow people from the area to come in, meet others, ask questions, and get to know each other. There is no admission fee for this type of event. If the county is unorganized, the State Party will send out invitations, provide follow-up data, plan food, and kick in some cash toward the effort.
Likely targets for 2000 will be: Carroll, Cecil, Charles, and Queen Anne's. We could conceivably include Calvert and St. Mary's in with Charles' Open House, and do one each on the Mid-Shore and the Lower Shore as well. If you live in one of those areas and would like to help with such an effort, please let me know.
Increasing Libertarian registration
As most of us know, the new laws on ballot access make voter registration an important component for ballot status. Gathering 1% of the state's registered voters does two very vital things for us: (1) it keeps us on the ballot for another term, and, (2) it allows us to nominate our candidates by convention, rather than by petition.
Ideally, we'd like to have the 1% of the voter registrations by December 31, 2001, so that our candidates in 2002 won't need to gather signatures. Frankly, that just may not be very likely for us to accomplish. However, it is very feasible, with a presidential and a gubernatorial campaign, that we can do that by December 31, 2002, which will guarantee us continued status on the ballot.
Must we run a gubernatorial nominee? Yes, because one way we retain our access will be to have a gubernatorial candidate garner at least 1% of the statewide vote. And, it's important to offer a top of the ticket because of the synergy between candidates for lower levels and the gubernatorial nominee. In practical terms, each helps the other, and we should aim for both a gubernatorial nominee and several General Assembly or county level offices. The other is to gain 1% of the statewide registration by December 31, 2002.
Voter registration will continue to be a focus, especially in our outreach activities.
Leadership and candidate development
As exciting as all that is, however, we must turn our attention to some details that we've not done much with in the past. As we add new county affiliates, they're going to need leaders. Current State Party leaders won't be around forever, either. We'll need new people to take over from where the current ones leave off.
There will be workshops in various areas of the State. Nuts-and-bolts sessions will provide lots of information for both the activist and potential leadership. Questions dealing with legal requirements of the State of Maryland, as well as what the State and County LPs will need will be fully discussed. Participants do not have to be county officers, this will be general development training designed for any active member.
And, for our big push in 2002, we need to identify NOW candidates to run for various offices in that year. We'll need to give some training so that they are comfortable in forums, able to campaign effectively, and can favorably represent the Party to the voters. The State Party's program will likely be the basis for our entire slate. A gubernatorial campaign is in the works at this time, and we're looking for perhaps another statewide office plus state legislative and various county office seekers. We will have a better chance at maintaining ballot status in 2003 and beyond if we have a well-organized coalition and outreach program.
We already have some candidates who have stepped forward to run for office. Are there others willing to take the chance?
Increased visibility in the state legislative process
The Gallery Gang celebrates its third year during this General Assembly session. We have found it an effective way to let the legislators know we're around, because we buttonhole them on the way into their sessions on Monday nights, watch the proceedings from the Gallery, and then catch them on the way out after the session is finished.
In the past two years, we have continued to offer testimony on various bills, and we have targeted three specific issues this year to address: working to pass a liberalized concealed carry law, legalizing the medical use of marijuana, and fighting along with 2nd Amendment groups to help make sure that the governor's "smart gun" legislation goes down to defeat.
Last year, we were visible, and some legislators got to know us. This year, we'll be even more visible, wearing the Legalize Freedom: Libertarian Party of Maryland stickers on our coats. They'll become even more used to seeing us this year as we struggle for the issues we identify as important to us.
People who cannot make it to the Gallery Gang can still be invaluable. Take the time to write, not phone, your legislators, and make your voice heard on various issues, but especially those on which we're concentrating. See a separate article [page 3] about making your voices heard on the subject of taxes and the nearly $1 BILLION budget surplus for the state.
Increased visibility to the public
Fairs and festivals have been sure sources of contact with the public, and will remain part of our effort to become more visible. We've had occasions where people have told us they've seen us at prior events, but never stopped by. Now, they're talking to us, getting answers to their questions. But, fairs are not going to be our only outlets.
We'd like to try some public forum events on questions of the day, like the "Smart Gun" bill; allowing both sides to come in and present their views. Letter-to-the-editor writers, now and in the past, have been getting published on a fairly consistent basis. We need to encourage more people to become involved in projects such as these to get our points of view across.
We can also use the LTE columns to reach out to writers who express views similar to our own. Anne Arundel County is doing this with people who write letters to The Capital. It's too early to tell what effect it's had, but it's a project worth watching.
Wrapping it all up
We believe we're on the right track to move the Libertarian Party of Maryland forward into the years ahead:
Now, it's up to you. . .
If you're willing and able to help us achieve any of the above goals, please let me know. We'll find a place for you to use your time and talents so you'll find satisfaction in a project well done. We'll make visible progress for the LP.
With your help, we'll be effective in working for Liberty in our lifetimes!
-- Steve Boone
On Saturday, January 15th an open house was held at M&D's
Country Pub in Glenelg. The purpose was to bring Howard County libertarians
out of the woodwork, and to try to revitalize the county organization.
Fourteen people showed up for the informal get-together, including two
from Delaware to lend encouragement and advice. There was plenty of good
discussion and food to go around.
Sufficient interest was evident to restart the local chapter; Kevin Wolf agreed to take the rein initially. A monthly meeting is in the planning stages and expected to begin in February. Check the MdLP web page (details will be posted when finalized), or contact Kevin (shown above right) for more information.
As
an individual who has played a somewhat active role in a number of Libertarian
Party functions for almost eight years, I would like to comment on several
important matters concerning the present and future of the LP in Maryland
and nationally.
I became involved with the Libertarian Party in 1992 when I felt that our leaders were giving little concern to liberty, integrity, and representative government. I realized early that year that I must play a part in becoming involved in community and political activities. As the presidential race that year progressed, these factors were made quite evident. During the legislative sessions of 1991 and 1992 in Annapolis, three gun-rights rallies were held. At the two rallies in 1991, I saw no Libertarian activists, and was puzzled and disturbed by their absence, especially since I had heard so many good things about them on a talk show just prior to the 1988 elections. At the one rally in 1992, however, I was fortunate to meet two Maryland activists distributing literature. I became interested in the LP and the Andre Marrou campaign, particularly after I realized that Ross Perot, whom I had seriously considered supporting, was no better than George Bush or Bill Clinton. At that time, I realized that the LP and the libertarian movement offered the best ideas for turning our country around, and there was no turning back.
Since then, I saw abysmal election results surface. In more recent years, particularly since 1996, I feel that this has become less of an excuse because of increased exposure, presence, and awareness. It is time to construct a plan to create a deeper awareness of our objectives, ideas, and principles.
Throughout most of 1998 and into early 1999, I collected about 1,600 signatures to help the MdLP regain its lost ballot status. I also helped Lorenzo Gaztañaga collect about 140 signatures for his Baltimore City Council campaign. I was, and still am, very proud of these accomplishments. Yet I realize two factors are evident: First, I'm disturbed that more didn't take part in these endeavors. No, I'm not asking that people make the sacrifice that I made, nor would I ask that people even get ten percent of what I got. More power to you if you could've done it. Many who could have made an effort to collect signatures didn't. Second, these (ballot access) endeavors were merely a "first step" in trying to build our party, and there is so much more to do. As difficult as the ballot access drive was, that will be easy compared to what our future tasks will entail. We must now promote the cause of liberty, and win over the hearts and minds of enough of the public so that they will register with us, and/or vote for our candidates in large numbers over the next two election cycles and beyond. Outreach must be paramount! If we fail to accomplish these goals, I will question if we'll have enough of an activist base to continue. If this happens and our ballot status is lost after 2002, I will likely conclude that another petition drive would be an exercise in futility. As such, my involvement in another such effort is very much in doubt without an exponential increase in political interest. We cannot become a viable political force if we are going to be forced to repeat steps that would be otherwise unnecessary with the proper outreach.
Over the years, I've noticed certain individuals continue to treat the party as if it were a debating society, and lose sight of our objectives as a political party. Despite the fact that I'm seeing less of this more recently, it still remains a problem. In the December 1999 issue of Liberty magazine, R. W. Bradford stated in his article, "An Opportunity for the Libertarian Party," that it appears our principal function seems to be more akin to that of a social club or a debating society. Current State Chair Steven E. Boone voiced his dismay of this fact at the 1997 state convention. The most vocal criticism of this -- as most of us will remember -- was given at the 1998 state convention during the after suppertime address by radio talk show host Brian Wilson. And while I must question the way he handled one individual at that event, I cannot overlook one fact: Brian Wilson told us what we needed to hear!!! No political movement ever succeeded by its activists staying amongst themselves debating irrelevant and inane topics, and by intellectually stimulating and stroking each other. We must stay focused on our objectives, and concentrate our efforts to build a stronger movement: go amongst the crowds and spread the message of freedom to the people; create networks with potential prospects; and maintain an organization that will leave a substantial impact on politics, both here and nationally.
One place where we need to concentrate efforts is our meetings and other social gatherings. Granted, over the last few years there has been increased activism where there had been a weak or non-existent presence. While I laud the increase in activism, I have concerns regarding the new county chapters and social gathering meetings, particularly in the form of the Libertarian Drinking and Debating Societies (LDDS). I have seen too many social gatherings that have started up and continued for a given time, only to fade away because of overaggressive personalities, mindless pontification, deficiency of interesting topics to discuss, lack of objectiveness, meaningless drivel, and not enough outsiders attending and giving their input. If attendance at your functions is stagnant or falling off, something is wrong! When we hold social gatherings and other meetings, we must ask ourselves if we are having productive and meaningful discussions, if outsiders are attending our gatherings, are these individuals made to feel welcome, and are we avoiding the liabilities mentioned above? Only then will we be able to continue persevering with the cause.
In addition to having others attend our functions, we should make an effort to attend their functions. If we expect people to know that we are out there, we must make a presence at functions where potential prospects are. I've seen more of this lately, yet I think there is more that can be done. At some of these functions, we may also have the chance to speak publicly. For these occasions, we should follow certain guidelines: Rehearse your presentation beforehand; preferably, before an objective person or people who will critique your presentation well! Read your audience so you will make a presentation they can relate to; thus they will be less likely to ignore you! Lastly, speak well, and don't forget to sell the crowd on the Libertarian Party! In the past, I have seen too many of our compatriots fail to sell the crowd on the LP, and/or make mediocre speech presentations that left, in my opinion (and I'm sure the audiences'), a great deal to be desired. If your audience "carries-on" while you're making your presentation, that's not good -- pay heed! If individuals come to you with approval after a speech you have given, that's a good sign! I advise bringing literature and a notepad with you. This way, you can exchange information easily. Most importantly, try to stay in touch with these people!
The LP must also be able to recruit candidates to run for any number of given offices. These individuals must possess the integrity, common sense, character, discipline and necessary drive to do what is needed to run a decent and professional campaign. They must also recognize and respect the principles of liberty, freedom, and non-aggression that are the keystones of our party's agenda and platform, and the hope for our country's future. I feel that this was exemplified fairly well with Lorenzo Gaztañaga's campaign for City Council. True, we were not as successful as we would have liked. There were things that could have been done better. I feel, however, that Lorenzo handled himself in a professional manner and was able to leave positive impressions. We need more people like this. When you're a political party trying to gain visibility, it may be tempting sometimes to accept someone who may appear to be an ally, when they are simply trying to leverage the party to advance their own agenda -- even when that agenda may be hostile to our principles and reputation. It is up to all of us to maintain the high moral ground by staying loyal to our principles and by never letting down our guard!
The Bradford article also suggested that we may wish to use a "wedge issue" where people's views are strong enough for them to abandon their traditional political behavior. He believes that the drug issue is such an issue. In Maryland, I feel that the gun rights issue also is. I surmise that the state GOP may abandon these individuals. As such, we should let these folks know that we exist, and that we are on their side.
While we've come a long way, the journey has only just begun to go well -- I hope. We have been privileged to have Steve Boone offer us quality leadership. (I hope that when it comes time for Steve to move on, the momentum will continue.) We've reclaimed our ballot status that will be good for at least four years -- longer than any other time previously. There is a greater interest in liberty now than there has been in the past, and people are thirsty for new ideas. We have our best opportunity now! Let's not blow it! If it seems like I'm being critical, perhaps I am. Despite this, I feel the immediate tasks ahead of us are possible, but it will take some work. Granted, I haven't been the most savvy libertarian foot-soldier. I've exercised poor judgement in some instances, and I've stepped on people's toes in the past. One fact remains indisputable: If we are to ever see liberty in our lifetimes and move the LP and libertarianism forward, we must ALL do our respective parts. Find an area where you can contribute to the cause, and then do it.
-- Tony Spezio
The Baltimore County Board of Elections desperately needs people to serve as judges of election on March 7 as well as November 2, 2000. Although the law seems to indicate that registered Libertarians are ineligible to serve in that capacity, the Board sought and got a ruling from the assistant attorney general that, in a precinct with more than 6 judges, the Board MAY hire a Libertarian.
That having been said, I've been appointed to a precinct near me for those days, and I'll be working. I'm looking for other Baltimore County Libertarians who are willing to work as poll judges as well. It's a long day, but an easy one, the pay is $125 per day (I think), and it gets us a great deal of goodwill in the Board.
Last time out, I even received a list of registered Libertarians in the county for FREE, because I was trying to contact folks and see if I couldn't get some more judges for their office. I'm trying to work the same deal out this time as well.
If you're in Baltimore County, and willing and able to help out the elections process by serving a day as a poll judge, PLEASE contact Renee at the Board at 410-887-5700. Tell her I referred you to her and that you saw this in the Free? State Libertarian.
For those NOT in Baltimore County, the ruling would apply to you as well. County Chairs might want to check with their local Boards to see if they need some Libertarians to serve in their county. If your county is NOT organized, you may want to make that call yourself.
Either way, the fact that we're willing to participate in the political process makes us everso much more a player.
-- Steve Boone
The
rain started, then the rains blew. And when it stopped, the winds picked
up further and the temperature dropped rapidly. This is a message for all
the bullheaded tin-can-eatin' goats in the MdLP that braved the elements
and fought for Liberty in horrendous weather on election day -- and I mean
"fought." Perennial poll workers told me that they'd not ever
seen such bad weather on an election day in all their years of experience.
Umbrellas were breaking in winds that drove the rain horizontally. Election
Board signs tore away and flew down the streets. Candidates' signs broke
away from their staples and were tossed about like rubbish; and whatever
electioneers were left were too wet and too exhausted from fighting the
wind to run after them. But Lorenzo's signs stayed... the only ones that
were corrugated plastic -- the expensive ones -- (and to think I criticized
his getting them). And as the Democrats and Republicans retreated from
the weather, we stayed. We fought to get to every voter that came dashing
from every car trying to do their "civic duty," and get that
piece of literature into their hand.
When we finally landed at Galeano's Tuesday night, we were indeed a haggard bunch -- but so glad to be warm and drying out (except for the water squishing around in our shoes -- that took a few days by the heater to rectify). But it occurred to me that night that you people that I've known, and some of you that I'd never met, are my family. The bond I felt in that room of people with red tee-shirts, and straggly hair, and water rolling around your toes (trying to look noble, of course... like "Oh... No big deal...") touched me so deeply. You people are the best damn people on earth. And I'm so proud to have the honor of knowing you. Lorenzo was defeated -- but he did not lose. He wasn't victorious, but he did win. And the blessing is that he took all of us with him. He stuck his neck out, and took it on. For this state, his numbers were amazing.
The Democrat Machine was actually nervous. They sent a van around to the poll I was working (in a "democrat neighborhood") four times, blaring, "Vote for the Democrats" from a loudspeaker. It was so amusing.
But here is what is so beautiful and victorious for the MdLP from election day. Think of this:
For years we have been wanting to do "outreach" to the Community-at-large, and let them know we're here. Well, this time, it was not a Fair booth for "the curious" to stop by and be "curious." Out of over 49,000 registered voters in the 1st district, 11,000 plus usually vote. On election day, actual voters at the polls -- about 10,000 of them -- came to realize not only that the LP exists... but that we're on the ballot in Maryland. We've never been able to reach these people before. We didn't know who they were... but now they know us. We used the election to inform them. This state is such an "old boy network"... even the Republicans who ran mostly relied on nepotism or cronyism and coat-tail riding and big wallets to get their names out. But Lorenzo did it, and "we" did it, one neighborhood at a time. One business-owner at a time. One couple sitting on their porch, at a time. Can we crack the democrat machine? What are you willing to do? The Republicans have tried for years, using the same old crap that the Democrats use, but with less "connections," and they've failed. But then again, the Republicans have no message. Nothing new... just repackaged political garbage and no political clout. (That and the fact that they have truly earned their name "Country Club Republicans" because they're still arguing over where to have their functions. It seems that they're unsatisfied with "the old place on Belair Road" because there are not enough chandeliers. It's not classy enough.) I am drop dead serious.
November 2nd, 1999, the MdLP scored a major victory in Maryland, the Kremlin on the Chesapeake. Through the efforts of Lorenzo Gaztañaga and a band of staunch gritty activists (50-some), and the generous support of many people, our obscure LP candidate raked in numbers that rivaled the Republicans. I say that's a day's work damn well done. In neighboring states that have had EASY access to their ballots and have run candidates for YEARS, the final numbers are still usually around 5%. We got over 3% our first time out! It's not that we particularly "know what we're doing" per se. I think rather that it's the dedication of the MdLP members themselves. You guys deserve a lot of credit. Like all good families, we bury our squabbles and put our shoulders to the wheel in unison to further our common goal. That cannot be said about all other LP organizations. So give yourselves a pat on the back. Ya done good! Now, thousands and thousands of people in the City know we have ARRIVED. Let's keep that momentum going! And thank you all again for all of your help.
-- Nancy Millionie
On
election day November 1999 I spent the cold, windy, rainy day at the polls
in Baltimore helping Lorenzo's campaign. What I found: The Republican campaign
worker was handing out literature. The Libertarian campaign worker (me)
was handing out literature.
The Democrat campaign worker had no literature. He had a cell phone. Turnout was low in the bad weather. But the Democrat had reason to use his cell phone about 5 or 6 times an hour. Someone complained about trash in an alley a block away. Beep beep beep, Public Works! "I need a crew over here in 10 minutes." And a screeching Public Works truck pulls up. Another voter complains about trash a couple blocks away. Beep beep beep, Public Works! Someone else complains about a next door neighbor putting an extension on their house, which the voter objects to. Beep beep beep. Building Inspector's Office! Promise given that the next door neighbor will get a surprise inspection before the voter gets back home.
This went on all day. The cell phone beat both literature candidates by a landslide. Makes me wonder if the rest of the country worked the same way in 1996?
-- Bob Hunt
Saturday, March 4, 2000
Wyndham Garden Hotel
Wilmington, Delaware
See what our neighbors to the east are up to. Maybe even come back with some new ideas! Speakers include Harry Browne. Contact Jay Lawrence for information (email grinn01*hotmail.com).
Annapolis,
Maryland -- Delegate Don Murphy (R-12A), hosted a round-table discussion
in Annapolis recently to discuss the possible introduction of legislation
providing for limited medical use of marijuana in treatment for which such
use has proven beneficial. Participants included a physician, an oncological
nurse, representatives from Hospice, the Board of Physician Quality Assurance,
Maryland Hospital Association, and Baltimore Substance Abuse System. Numerous
personal experiences of the failure of therapies currently used to provide
relief were discussed. Discussion covered the pros and cons of legalization
for medical purposes.
This legislation follows the passage of the assisted suicide prohibition which took effect October 1, 1999. The bill which passed during the 1999 session, also provided for limited pain management by doctors.
One cancer patient provided information that he endured extreme side effects of his chemotherapy treatments resulting in dramatic weight loss and weakness. Only the use of marijuana gave relief from the vomiting, loss of appetite and fatigue. "The government should not interfere with a doctor's ability to prescribe medication to these critically ill patients," said Murphy.
Mr. Murphy said he introduced the legislation after he was approached by a constituent, a friend of the late Darrell Putman, a Frederick native and Green Beret.
Mr. Putman, who died recently after battling cancer, lobbied for the medical use of marijuana and persuaded the Howard County Farm Bureau to adopt the stance.
Mr. Murphy said he was hoping Mr. Putman would be in Annapolis to testify. "I hope his family will be there."
He said he thinks it's only right to help someone alleviate the severe pain associated with cancer or other medical conditions. "We should err on the side of the patient," he said.
The Baltimore delegate said many of his Republican colleagues phoned when he announced his plans. "They told me I was committing political suicide," he said with a laugh.
Even the White House dialed him.
"They tried to talk me out of it, saying it was against federal policy... I told them they were more than welcome to come testify against it," he said.
It is not certain whether the bill will be heard in the judiciary or environmental matters committee.
Mr. Murphy said he hopes people using marijuana to help them cope with their disease will be willing to testify. "I know it's going to be difficult," he said. "I don't know many people who want to admit using something illegal, especially if the cameras are rolling." For those who are interested in supporting this effort, please write to Delegate Murphy. Members of the medical community and other interested parties are encouraged to contact the Delegate's office with comments and opinions regarding this legislation. "I believe strongly that legislation of this type will enhance the quality of life for many citizens in treatment for various debilitating diseases," he added.
For more information about medicinal marijuana, visit www.MPP.org/Maryland.
How to support the marijuana policy project: MPP is funded entirely by the contributions of its dues-paying members nationwide. To support MPP's work and receive the quarterly newsletter, Marijuana Policy Report, send $25.00 annual membership dues to: Marijuana Policy Project, P.O. Box 77492, Capitol Hill, Washington, DC 20013.
-- Mike Barnes
Police and local governments should manage camera systems, not the contractors who provide them.
Reprinted from AAA World
Red-light
running is a scourge to suburban/urban America. No doubt about it. It's
the number-one cause of personal injury accidents in America's cities.
And where aggressive driving is concerned, one of the behaviors that appears
on just about everybody's list is motorists running traffic signals. Red-light
cameras have been introduced to curb the problem but have raised another
one instead. Are the camera programs set up for safety or for revenue generation?
From all indications, red-light running is near epidemic proportions. Locally, the city of Alexandria reported its cameras had caught more than 7,500 violators in fewer than six months. Howard County reports its system is catching 2,000 motorists running red-lights a month.
This illegal activity can be reduced, and there are good ways and some bad ways this can be done. All involve the use of roadside cameras to photograph those who run red lights. A ticket is then sent to the offender with a photo of the violation. Such programs can be effective at curbing the problem. Victoria, Australia, for example, has been using a similar system since 1983, and law enforcers there report a 32-percent reduction in injuries in the last 10 years.
Properly implemented, AAA Mid-Atlantic strongly supports the use of red-light cameras to improve traffic safety. Further, in our annual poll, nearly two-thirds of the region's motorists strongly favored the use of red-light cameras. Given your strong support, the club worked to gain passage of the authorizing legislation in Maryland and Virginia.
Several jurisdictions in our region are getting into the act. Among them Baltimore; Washington, D.C.; Fairfax, Alexandria, Vienna, and Arlington County in Virginia; and Montgomery and Howard Counties in Maryland.
However, not all red-light running camera systems are equal.
Consider Howard County's system, for example. The county involves several contractors to provide technical support, does some of the installation itself and then pays the contractor for work performed. AAA Mid-Atlantic believes this is the correct way to provide for these systems. Yet not all jurisdictions use this method, such as the District of Columbia and the City of Baltimore.
The district, for instance, contracts with a company that gets a share of each $75 red-light violation fine. The city pays nothing for the cameras. The only payment the contractor receives is $32 per ticket. Some call that "tickets for commission," and it concerns us.
In a letter to Mayor Anthony Williams protesting this contract and asking him to seek changes, AAA Mid-Atlantic stated: "The driving force behind such cameras must be traffic safety.
"Clearly, when a for-profit company is getting a commission for each ticket, the entire process could become tainted... citizens could reasonably question whether the District is acting to save lives or make money, or worse, make money for the corporate contractor." The D.C. contractor is estimating $28 million in revenue during a three-year period.
At issue is what local governments expect to accomplish. Do they want to end red-light running or just catch red-light runners? The difference is significant. The District's goal, for example, should be no red-light runners tomorrow. But if a contractor were spending tens of thousands of dollars to install red-light cameras and the only payment received for this equipment was a commission on each ticket, the contractor would have no interest in seeing red-light violations end tomorrow. It's likely the strategies one might follow in placing equipment, announcing its presence and setting the timing for the yellow-light cycle could all be quite different.
D.C. City Council members Carol Schwartz and Harold Brazil agreed the D.C. contract should receive further scrutiny. Unfortunately, the City of Baltimore last summer initiated a program much like the District's, where there is only one contractor involved, and the only payment to that contractor is portion of the ticket revenues.
At press time, AAA Mid-Atlantic staff had been frustrated in their attempts to see Baltimore's contracts or the program's directors. Worse, there appears to be credible evidence of tickets issued involving yellow-light cycles shorter than the three- to six-second national standard.
The bottom line is that red-light running is costing lives and causing serious injuries every day in our communities. Camera programs can be an effective tool to combat red-light running and to save lives. But in a democracy, the people must have faith in their police and believe that law enforcement is for the public good, not revenue generation.
We urge both the cities of Baltimore and Washington to reconsider their contracts, and rewrite them to ensure that safety, not revenue generation is the guiding principle.
-- Lon Anderson
AAA Mid-Atlantic Director of Public and Gov't Relations
Montgomery County 270 (+13) Anne Arundel County 261 (+33) Baltimore County 214 (+20) * Carroll County 155 (+7) * Howard County 109 (+1) Harford County 97 (+6) Frederick County 88 (+5) Prince George's 84 (+14) Baltimore City **** 79 (+33) * Cecil County 69 (+4)
Here is some information that I received from the State Board of Elections regarding Libertarian numbers in Maryland. No, granted, we're nowhere near the 1% total we need to become a convention party. As of October 31, 1999, the last available figures, there were a total of 2,556,030 registered voters statewide.
Between the end of September and the end of October, some very interesting results came about... Total Libertarian statewide registration rose from 1635 in September, to 1800 in October. Libertarian registrations increased in 21 out of the 23 counties and Baltimore City. The three counties, Dorchester, Queen Anne's, and Talbot, maintained the same registration, meaning no county lost LP registrations.
The "Top 10" Counties in registration totals are as shown in the center box, and (+n) is the increase in registrations over the previous month.
Looks like there's a good old-fashioned horse race between Anne Arundel and Montgomery for the #1 slot! Way to go, both of you!
Note that the counties with an asterisk are counties where we do not now have a formal organization. Howard is in the process of coming online now, and we have more viable targets in Carroll, Cecil, and St. Mary's. St. Mary's, by the way, was #10 in September, but because of a major registration surge in Baltimore City, dropped just out of the top 10. These 11 counties hold 1482 of the 1800 registered LP voters... we've got some work to do... Someone want to adopt a neighboring county?
It's also important to point out that the Baltimore City numbers show a bump (72% increase) because there was an active campaign doing a registration effort at various events.
-- Steve Boone
In looking over the MdLP Web site, I found it attractive and a nice source of introductory information about things libertarian. It could be improved, however, on how it handles abortion. I found links on it to libertarian sites outside of the MdLP that stand against protecting the rights of prenatal human offspring. I found none, however, that stand for protecting them. This could lead surfers to assume that libertarianism demands unconditional support for government protection of abortion, unless they also found the one link that says, "Abortion is an issue where many libertarians are deadlocked. Many view it as a simple extension of personal liberty, while others believe that the fetus has individual rights of its own."
But we are talking about the MdLP Web site. If surfers come here to learn about the MdLP, let's tell them what the MdLP itself has said on this division of opinion. Called the "Proposed Plank for the Libertarian National Platform", it was introduced by an MdLP Committee to Discuss Abortion Plank, and passed on May 9th, 1998 by a vote of 17-7 of the Central Committee of the Maryland Libertarian Party. It said,
The Libertarian Party opposes forced abortion and tax-funding of abortion. There is principled disagreement among Libertarians about whether or not abortion is a form of aggression when done with the mother's consent. Therefore, the Libertarian Party takes no position concerning to what extent consensual abortion should be regulated by law and leaves the question to each of its members and candidates for their conscientious consideration.
Such information is important for MdLP members to have, including our candidates for public office, and our delegates to the upcoming national LP convention. Without easy access to it, it can get lost down a memory hole. Fortunately, there is a good place on the Web site for the "Proposed Plank" statement. The Local Party Information link contains only one category, the MdLP newsletter archive. I suggest that Local Party Information be listed under a broader category: MdLP Time Capsule. Under that could be a second category that might be called The MdLP Looks at the Libertarian Party Platform (but better titles are invited). The Proposed Plank could be listed under that, with a link to another page where the proposal itself would appear. A comment could be added to this page about the existence of links to those other libertarian sites on abortion that can be found elsewhere on the MdLP Web site. Since there is no link as yet to any libertarian site that is pro-life, one could be added on this page for Libertarians for Life's site, www.L4L.org -- which happens to be based in Maryland. It might also be noted parenthetically that in 1973, three years before I founded LFL, I helped organize the MdLP.
By the way, this isn't the first time the MdLP Central Committee dissented from the "Women's Rights and Abortion" plank in the national LP's platform. Our own Dean Ahmad, who had chaired the 1993 Platform Committee, introduced a resolution about replacing the last paragraph of the 1994 version of this plank with other wording. On May 7, 1994, the Central Committee approved it unanimously (see www.L4L.org/library/ablppl94.html, or contact me). That paragraph was replaced by the delegates to the 1996 national convention, thanks to Dean. If we had a Time Capsule on the MdLP Web site, we could highlight this and other successes by the MdLP. Would anyone like to suggest other information to archive there?
-- Doris Gordon
Webmaster Michael Listman's reply: We need to focus our efforts on basic needs: to swell our ranks, encourage activism, and raise funds. The MdLP position is not very different from National's on abortion. I plan to link to Doris' site, and counter it with a "Pro-Choice" link. I also intend to post the entire MdLP charter, platform, and whatever other documents we have. If any members have these records in electronic format, please forward them to me at mlistman*ix.netcom.com. I also encourage members to send their overall suggestions for the website directly to me.
Three yards of black fabric enshroud my computer terminal. I am mourning the passing of an old friend by the name of Common Sense. His obituary reads as follows:
"Common Sense, aka C.S., lived a long life but died from heart failure at the brink of the millennium. No one really knows how old he was, his birth records were long ago entangled in miles and miles of bureaucratic red tape. Known affectionately to close friends as Horse Sense and Sound Thinking, he selflessly devoted himself to a life of service in homes, schools, hospitals and offices, helping folks get jobs done without a lot of fanfare, whooping and hollering. Rules and regulations and petty, frivolous lawsuits held no power over C.S.
A most reliable sage, he was credited with cultivating the ability to know when to come in out of the rain, the discovery that the early bird gets the worm and how to take the bitter with the sweet. C.S. also developed sound financial policies (don't spend more than you earn), reliable parenting strategies (the adult is in charge, not the kid) and prudent dietary plans (offset eggs and bacon with a little fiber and orange juice).
A veteran of the Industrial Revolution, the Great Depression, the Technological Revolution and the Smoking Crusades, C.S. survived Sundry cultural and educational trends including disco, the men's movement, body piercing, whole language and new math. C.S.'s health began declining in the late 1960's when he became infected with the If-It-Feels-Good, Do-It virus. In the following decades his waning strength proved no match for the ravages of overbearing federal and state rules and regulations and an oppressive tax code. C.S. was sapped of strength and the will to live as the Ten Commandments became contraband, criminals received better treatment than victims, and judges stuck their noses in everything from Boy Scouts to professional baseball and golf.
His deterioration accelerated as schools implemented zero-tolerance policies. Reports of 6-year-old boys charged with sexual harassment for kissing classmates, a teen suspended for taking a swig of Scope mouthwash after lunch, girls suspended for possessing Midol, and an honor student expelled for having a table knife in her school lunch were more than his heart could endure.
As the end neared, doctors say C.S. drifted in and out of logic but was kept informed of developments regarding regulations of low-flow toilets, mandatory air bags and a government plan to ban inhalers from 14 million asthmatics due to a trace of a pollutant that may be harmful to the environment. Finally, upon word that a North Carolina town council was attempting to restrict front porch furniture to lawn chairs and settees that are aesthetically attractive, C.S. breathed his last.
Services will be at Whispering Pines Cemetery. C.S. was preceded in death by his wife, Discretion; one daughter, Responsibility; and one son, Reason. He is survived by two stepbrothers, Half-Wit and Dim-Wit. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Institute for Rational Thought. Farewell, Common Sense. May you rest in peace. Hopefully, in a casket the state of North Carolina deems aesthetically attractive."
-- Lori Borgman of the Indianapolis Star and News
Hello Fellow Libertarians: I would like to let you know about a chatroom on America On Line called Libertarian Chat. This is a chatroom where both libertarians as well as AOL members come to chat about libertarian issues and learn more about the Libertarian party. At this time it is created by AOL members and people are mostly in this room in the evening. I believe if enough AOL members know about this chatroom, it can have a very big impact on how libertarians communicate with one another, as well as educate other AOL members about the Libertarian party. There are more then 19 million members on AOL today. With enough people coming to this site, I believe that we can eventually have enough people entering this chatroom to keep it up and running 24 hours a day.
It is usually in News, Sports, and Finance. If you can't find it, search all AOL member chats.
With the presidential race just around the corner, as well as other libertarians running for office, I feel this is the perfect time to let others learn about this chatroom. This can be a very powerful tool.
-- Mark Baldwin (gobazooka1*aol.com)
Please take note of the new location of the Thursday evening LDDS: Enrico's at 200 South Haven Street (one block south of Lombard St.), around 7:00 pm. Take exit #12 (Lombard St.) off of the Harbor Tunnel throughway North (895) and go west. For info, contact Earle Pearce, 410-327-1776.
The first meeting of the Frederick Libertarian Drinking and Debating Society (LDDS) will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 15th, 7:00 pm at the Red Horse Steak House, 996 W. Patrick Street in Frederick. This is an opportunity to meet fellow Libertarians in the Frederick area. For more information, contact Mike Barnes at 301-695-9211 or montybarnes*yahoo.com.
-- Wayne Dougherty
We are planning a mailing to Harford county libertarians every other month this year. Last year we doubled the county membership this way. We continue meeting on the fourth Monday of each month from 6:30-8:30 pm at Harford Community College, Edgewood Hall, room 209. Join us!
-- Derek Mancinho
Best regards to Lorenzo Gaztañaga for running for the position of City Council in the first district of Baltimore. Thanks for the help he received from the Montgomery County members and the members throughout the state.
In November, our county had a mailing campaign to five hundred plus people who had registered Libertarian in the county during the past cycle. As most of you know by now, the Board of Elections in each county usually drops the names of those who were registered as Libertarian the last time the Maryland LP was a recognized party. Getting these people registered for the LP again often requires initiative on our part to get them back on the books. John Prue, one of our members, was instrumental in getting the data off magnetic media and into a usable form for the mailing. Thanks John!
December brings along happy cheer and the holiday party. Doris Gordon let us use her place again for the party. Gerry and Dorothy Schneider hosted the event and Dean Ahmad, as he has done for many years, conducted the contribution drive auction. Thanks to all!
This coming year should be an exciting one with the presidential election and more dissatisfied voters looking for a home. The Montgomery County LP has many outreach events planned. They will be posted on MdLP-announce*onelist.com and the website. If you are not on this e-mail announce list, please join. Hope to see you at one of the events!
-- Glenn Howard
The regular meeting of the Washington County LDDS has been discontinued for the time being due to lack of interest. Hopefully there will be revived interest sometime in the future.
-- Kurt Saberg
$60 Full Page
$50 3/4 Page
$40 1/2 Page
$30 1/4 Page
$20 1/8 Page
Make checks payable to the Md. Libertarian Party and send along with copy to PO Box 321, Owings Mills, MD 21117.
Note: consult www.MD.LP.org/events for up-to-date info. Contact numbers for persons listed on page 3 are omitted here. Regularly scheduled events are listed separately on the back page.
February 15 (Tuesday): 7:00 pm. First meeting of the Frederick Libertarian Drinking and Debating Society at the Red Horse Steak House, 996 W. Patrick St. Mike Barnes 301-695-9211, montybarnes*yahoo.com
March 27 (Monday): 6:00 pm. Baltimore County Central Committee meeting at the Dragon House Restaurant, Garrison Forest shopping center, Reisterstown Rd., Owings Mills. Nancy Millionie
Stay up-to-date on MdLP activities with our online calendar-of-events: visit www.MD.LP.org/events (often!). Check page 3 for contact numbers not listed here.
Gallery Gang: Mondays through April 10, 7:45 pm -- lobby legislators, attend session, and meet for drinks; State House steps at Lawyer's Mall, Annapolis. Steve Boone
LDDS (Libertarian Drinking and Debating Society): Thursdays, 7:00 pm at Enrico's, 200 S. Haven St. (one block south of Lombard St.), Balto. Earle Pearce, 410-327-1776
LDDS (Montgomery Co.): 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 7:00 pm at Bennigan's, Rockville Pike in Federal Plaza near Twinbrook Pkwy. (behind Texaco gas station). Glenn Howard
LDDS (Annapolis): 3rd Friday, 6:30 pm, at Piezano's, just east of the Rt. 2 and West St. intersection, next to the TrakAuto store. Wendy Jones (redleo*juno.com)
LDDS (Timonium): 2nd & 4th Fridays, 7:30 pm in Bowling Alley lounge, opposite Fairgrounds. Nancy Millionie
LDDS (Essex): 2nd Wednesday, 7:00 pm at the Poplar Inn, Merritt Blvd. and Wise Ave. Nancy Millionie
LDDS (PG County): Wed. week after 3rd Monday, 6:30 pm at the 94th Aero Squadron, 5240 Paint Branch Pkwy., College Pk. James McLaughlin (jimmcl*hotmail.com)
Northwest Baltimore Supper Club: 4th Monday, 7:00 pm at the Dragon House Restaurant, Garrison Forest shopping center, Reisterstown Rd., Owings Mills. Nancy Millionie
Prince George's Libertarians: 3rd Monday, 6:30 pm at Franklin's Deli, 5121 Baltimore Ave. (US Rt. 1) in Hyattsville. James McLaughlin (jimmcl*hotmail.com)
Harford County Lib's: 4th Monday, 6:30 pm at Harford Community College, 209 Edgewood Hall. Derek Mancinho
