What's your plan to make your vote count tomorrow? Congratulations if you took advantage of early voting to cast your ballot in the important 2011 primary.
If you haven't yet voted, it's time to take a hard look at Irv Stumler for Mayor.
Where reporter talks of Irv Stumler flirting to run as a Republican:
http://newsandtribune.com/floydcounty/x150250904
Newsmeat's selected contributions of Irv Stumler, you must select SEARCH after you open the link but this clearly shows his contributions to the National Republican Congressional Committee:
http://www.newsmeat.comkentuckyrncdonations/
Update from other sources:
RNC 2010 Donation - $5,000
RNC 2011 Donation - $5,000
2008 Louisville Donations:
Committee to Elect Ann Northup (R) - $300.00
Committee to Elect Mitch McConnell (R) - $1,000.00
Committee to Elect Dr. Steve Henry (D) - $300.00
As Oprah says: If it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, Irv Stumler IS a Republican duck!
----
Stumler claims to be such a successful businessman, let's see what we found:
This is the first of his business in BAD STANDING with the State of Kentucky. We contacted the Secretary of State and they explained a BAD STANDING is they are in violation of KY Law in some form:
https://app.sos.ky.gov
Second company in BAD STANDING with the Commonwealth:
https://app.sos.ky.gov
Third company in BAD STANDING with the Commonwealth:
https://app.sos.ky.gov
Fourth company in BAD STANDING with the Commonwealth:
https://app.sos.ky.gov
Fifth company in BAD STANDING:
https://app.sos.ky.gov
----
Has Stumler ever had a business venture go bankrupt? Yes!
We ask that you check the Commerce Commission of Kentucky for the answer.
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This is a 2010 unsettled class action lawsuit brought last year against 11 polyurethane companies for price fixing. Sean Stumler. as executive at IRC was the President of the Board of Directors of the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance for many years:
http://www.vocecon.com
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Here is an interesting case involving his brother Melvin in an injury case at the company that is the Parent of the Mt. Tabor Road IRC business. Maybe this is part of the reason Irv left his brother, is there a reason? This case is pending:
http://www.vocecon.com
----
Our final thoughts before election day tomorrow:
For the changes we need in New Albany, from the Mayor's Office on down, please get out and vote tomorrow. If you've already voted, please help to make sure your family, friends and neighbors get out and vote tomorrow too.
Well you may not hear the truth in many other places, but you have heard it from us. If you doubt this, just check Irv Stumler out.
Vote Jeff Gahan for Mayor
Monday, May 02, 2011
AFTER 10 YEARS & $500 BILLION DOLLARS BIN LADEN IS FINALLY DEAD...
The death of bin Laden, who achieved near-mythic status for his ability to elude capture under three U.S. presidents, closes a bitter chapter in the fight against al Qaeda, but it does not eliminate the threat of further attacks.
The credit goes to our intelligence agencies and the Navy Seals Special Forces 6.
God Bless America
The credit goes to our intelligence agencies and the Navy Seals Special Forces 6.
God Bless America
Sunday, April 24, 2011
HAPPY EASTER...
A special message to all our family and friends this Easter Sunday:
John 6:40 "For this is the will of my father, that everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last day."
We wish you and your family a very Happy Easter.
Freedom Of Speech Staff
John 6:40 "For this is the will of my father, that everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last day."
We wish you and your family a very Happy Easter.
Freedom Of Speech Staff
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
DEBIT LIMIT...
With our government elected officials constantly lying to the people, and with there above-the-law attitude, where will our country be if our government continues to spend money out of control? Doesn't matter what program you love, if the government cannot send you a check, because there is no funds, forget the program.
We must first keep America intacted, or our hope of a free country goes down the drain, and the revolution begins. The pride of America will not keep history from repeating itself.
We must make sure the economy follows simple principals of making and spending money. Just like any household that over spends its income, the agony of loss will start an emotional change in everyones life, and some do not survive?
We MUST get our fiscal house in order. We must start living within our means and get this country back to being the greatest nation on earth. We have to say that we are admantly opposed to raising the debt ceiling, because this will just signal to the inside the beltway politicians that they can do whatever the hell they want.
The so-called spending cut for the latest budget go-round was not only a SHAM, but we view it as one hugh slap across the face to America.
We must first keep America intacted, or our hope of a free country goes down the drain, and the revolution begins. The pride of America will not keep history from repeating itself.
We must make sure the economy follows simple principals of making and spending money. Just like any household that over spends its income, the agony of loss will start an emotional change in everyones life, and some do not survive?
We MUST get our fiscal house in order. We must start living within our means and get this country back to being the greatest nation on earth. We have to say that we are admantly opposed to raising the debt ceiling, because this will just signal to the inside the beltway politicians that they can do whatever the hell they want.
The so-called spending cut for the latest budget go-round was not only a SHAM, but we view it as one hugh slap across the face to America.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
AN OPEN MESSAGE TO: CARL MALYSZ
I did some research for you and it does appear that subcommittees are subject to the open door law and positing requirements. IC 5-14-1.5-3 states that "all meeting of the governing bodies of public agencies must be open at all times for the purpose of permitting members of the public to observe and record them." IC 5-14-1.5-2 Section 2 Definition: "Public agency" (a) (1) Any board, of the executive, administrative, or legislative power (6) "Governing body" means two (2) or more individuals (council members) 7 (c)"meeting" (1) receive information; Shane L. Gibson. Mr. Malysz you are in violation of the Indiana Open Door Law! Of Speech would like to say: BTW, please see the City Employees Manual, you are also in violation of blogging on taxpayers time. Upon the next violation you will be terminated by your employer; the citizens of the City of New Albany.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
TIF, EDIT, AND A $12 MILLION PARKING GARAGE...
Recently, there was an article in the paper with the suggestion of building a new Parking Garage near Scribner Place with an estimated cost of $12 million dollars. A statement was made that a new parking garage could be paid for with the PROFITS from the State Street Parking Garage. We think it is necessary that the council be informed about the financing and bonds for the State Street Parking Garage. The Garage Bonds were to be paid off with TIF Collections from the downtown area. If Downtown TIF Collections were not sufficient for those Bond payments. Then, bond payments were to be paid from EDIT Funds. In the agreement, the EDIT Funds used were to be paid back to EDIT Fund by downtown TIF money. At this time, the State Street Parking Garage owes the EDIT Fund $3,613,698.46 for Bond Payments made out of EDIT because downtown TIF did not produce sufficient money to make the Garage Bond payments. So why does Mr.Bobo think the citizens of New Albany will want to pay for a $12 million dollar Parking Garage when we couldn't afford the last Parking Garage. Why does he think we should do the bond, make the payments, and then hand this new parking garage over to him to make a profit. Something smells about this whole deal!
Thursday, April 07, 2011
FRIDAY'S DEADLINE.....
John Boehner must stand firm here. Obama and Reid are not used to having some one stand up for the people. That is why Obama, Reid and Pelosi hid behind closed doors to destroy the American dream of freedom for future generations. We're giving Congress a chance to make changes, and we are watching closely. You needs to keep the American People top priority. The people are now engaged. We are aware of the nation's debt and spending crisis which will lead to national bankruptcy. The Tea Party movement is unlike any other in recent American history and confirms the anxiety of the vast majority of the people as to the future. A shutdown will not result in Social Security checks or other vital services being curtailed only the temporary stoppage of non-essential services. There will be no fear of seniors starving to death, soldiers not being paid or airplanes falling from the sky. Unless, Doug England is an air traffic controller. Speaker Boehner we strongly suggest you gather your forces as the Democrats have done and marshal them behind one clear and succinct message. Get out in front of the cameras and reporters and tell the American people what is at stake. Call Democrats out for the liars and spenders they are. Don't be concerned about the left-wing press. Forget about the Democrat's claims of "hurting the poor, the children, the seniors and education." Ignore their false claims that cutting the budget is extreme and will kill jobs. So Speaker Boehner: wipe the tears, cowboy up, and shut this sucker down... There are millions of Democrats, Republicans and Independents who are true Americans depending on you! We The People are behind you. Shut'er down!!!!!
Monday, April 04, 2011
LOOK AT THEIR VOTING RECORD....
With the upcoming primary election right around the corner. We decided to look at each incumbents voting record over the next several weeks, issues that affect each of us. Next, we will look at Dan Coffey's Voting Record: 1.) Voted for: Full time City Attorney, Shane Gibson, and his $150,000 salary 2.) Voted for: Full time City Council Attorney, Matt Lorch, and his $40,000 salary. 3.) Voted for: Carl Malysz salary: $85,000 4.) Voted for: Healthcare for part-time Council Members 5.) Voted for: Increase Stormwater fees 6.) Supports a new LOIT Tax 7.) Voted for: raises for non union employees 8.) Voted for: Smoking Ban 9.) Voted for: to give Police $500,000 for new police cars and to hire more police officers 10.) Voted for: extending Sanitation contract that was not up until 2012 11.) Voted for $30,000 for ISI 12.) Voted for using EDIT for $2.7 Budget. If you want additional voting information go on line and check it out. Freedom Of Speech would like to say: We like many citizens are tired of the rhetoric, deal cutting, grandstanding, Conflict of Interest and mismanagement of our tax dollars. Incumbent or not, Democrat or Republican, does not matter. We will vote for candidates whose views on issues support our family first and our community second. Incumbents or candidates who blindly and cowardly simply follow their parties dictated direction deserve no one's vote and will not get ours. Our final thoughts: Councilman Dan Coffey supported using TIF as a means to clearing other funds for the budget. "See Mr. Coffey it's your way of thinking that has gotten our city in the mess we are in." You continue to use the same excuses: "You just don't understand!" If we had less TIF areas, less tax abatements, less uncollected sewer liens, uncollected parking tickets and less raises we might have revenue in our general fund. What's really sad is Councilman Coffey has been in England's pocket from the get-go! You Sir, are part of the problem and NOT the solution to New Albany's financial problems. Councilman Dan Coffey Voting Record ~ Grade: F-
Friday, April 01, 2011
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
OBAMA'S SPEECH...
When did the authority of NATO, United Nations, the Arab League, and the International Community, aka: New World Order, supersede our Congress and our Constitution? The UN authorized a humanitarian mission and establishment of a no-fly zone. The UN did not authorize support of rebels to over throw a government. How quickly this changed to armed engagement in civil war. What Obama said: 1.) "I made it clear that Gaddafi had lost the confidence of his people and the legitimacy to lead, and I said that he needed to step down from power." 2.) "broadening our military mission to include regime change would be a mistake." 3.) "We will deny the regime arms, cut off it's supply of cash, assist the opposition, and work with other nations to hasten the day when Gaddafi leaves power." What Obama really meant: He must step down. We are working to drive him from power. But we are not pursuing regime change. Present! So, how's that "hope and change" workin for ya!?!
Sunday, March 27, 2011
RIP GERALDINE FERRARO...
Geraldine Ferraro was a ground-breaking American who never forgot her working-class, Italian-immigrant roots. Geraldine will forever be remembered as a trailblazer who broke down barriers for woman, and Americans of all backgrounds and walks of life! Looking back on the 2008 election, Ms. Ferraro stated: "If Obama was a white man," he would not be in this position. And if he was a woman of color, he would not be in this position. He just happens to be very lucky to be who he is. "Boy, did she call that one right!" Ave vale, Geraldine Ferraro. You were one of America's best. What an unforgettable historic moment you gave us. For feminism, and for women's rights in the United States. May the day come that Americans will vote for a woman as bright and caring as you were to serve as the first woman president of the United States. Arrivederci, Geraldine, e bouna nottel!
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
VOTING 101....
We think this is one of the most important elections this city has ever had because of the debt we are in and the direction we are headed.
Voting is a responsibility that every citizen should take seriously. That's why it's important for citizens to vote in the May 3rd primary election.
Everyone wants their voice to be heard and their opinion to count. The only way to do this is to vote and vote smart!
1.) Don't vote for the party, vote for the person.
2.) Study each candidate running for office.
3.) Look at incumbents voting record. They can say anything they want to say, but their voting record shows if they are backing it up with their actions.
4.) Find a candidate worth voting for, not against.
5.) It IS perfectly acceptable to refuse to give your vote to any candidate if you believe NONE are acceptable.
6.) Don't vote merely for the sake of voting, or blindly mark your party, because an uninformed vote is worse than NOT voting.
The big picture. There is a common tendency to vote for the candidate we like the best or the one who will help you the most, or the smoothest talker.
Instead, think about all of the people that will be affected by the candidate that gets elected to this office.
Vote Jeff Gahan on May 3rd, he will clean house downtown!
Voting is a responsibility that every citizen should take seriously. That's why it's important for citizens to vote in the May 3rd primary election.
Everyone wants their voice to be heard and their opinion to count. The only way to do this is to vote and vote smart!
1.) Don't vote for the party, vote for the person.
2.) Study each candidate running for office.
3.) Look at incumbents voting record. They can say anything they want to say, but their voting record shows if they are backing it up with their actions.
4.) Find a candidate worth voting for, not against.
5.) It IS perfectly acceptable to refuse to give your vote to any candidate if you believe NONE are acceptable.
6.) Don't vote merely for the sake of voting, or blindly mark your party, because an uninformed vote is worse than NOT voting.
The big picture. There is a common tendency to vote for the candidate we like the best or the one who will help you the most, or the smoothest talker.
Instead, think about all of the people that will be affected by the candidate that gets elected to this office.
Vote Jeff Gahan on May 3rd, he will clean house downtown!
Sunday, March 20, 2011
DID YOU CATCH THIS IN TODAY'S TRIBUNE?
So who paid for that AD in the Tribune today (March 20, 2011) where Doug England congratulated some local college players - but used Stumler's campaign slogan..."Making It Happen?"
Freedom Of Speech would like to thank one fantastic reader for staying on top of England's free plug for Stumler!
Hey Irv, with all your big bucks can't you afford to buy some advertisment without having us taxpayers foot your AD too?
Freedom Of Speech would like to thank one fantastic reader for staying on top of England's free plug for Stumler!
Hey Irv, with all your big bucks can't you afford to buy some advertisment without having us taxpayers foot your AD too?
Friday, March 18, 2011
NO...NO...NO...
We are coming to the conclusion that Obama is not as smart as everyone has said. While he is good at campaigning and giving speeches (so long as the teleprompter is working) and he is good at inciting union protests (Wisconsin) he doesn't seem to be smart enough to actually perform the job he was hired to do.
Is the deficit lower since he took office? No! Is the country more secure since he took office? No! Are prices lower on just about everything since he took office? No! Are we more respected by the world community since he took office? No!
Really, can someone send him an email on his blackberry? Oh and someone might let him know we've been invaded by Mexico and there are as many Americans dying from the acts of illegals as in the war.
Come to think of it are there any criteria in which the country is better than when he took office?
Is this the record of a smart man?
Is the deficit lower since he took office? No! Is the country more secure since he took office? No! Are prices lower on just about everything since he took office? No! Are we more respected by the world community since he took office? No!
Really, can someone send him an email on his blackberry? Oh and someone might let him know we've been invaded by Mexico and there are as many Americans dying from the acts of illegals as in the war.
Come to think of it are there any criteria in which the country is better than when he took office?
Is this the record of a smart man?
Friday, March 04, 2011
WE APPLAUD GOV. SCOTT WALKER...
Democrats are acting as if Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker's demand that public sector employees give up collective bargaining would have George Washington rolling in his grave (a clear violations of Gravediggers Local 803 regulations concerning the rolling of the dead).
Government unions have nothing in common with private sector unions because they don't have hostile management on the other side of the bargaining table. To the contrary, the "bosses" of government employees are co-conspirators with them in bilking the taxpayers.
Far from being careful stewards of the taxpayers money, some politicians are on the same side of the bargaining table as government employees -- against the taxpayers who aren't allowed to be part of the negotiation.
Some politicians don't think of themselves as "management." they don't respond to union demands for more money by saying "Are you kidding me?"
They say, "Great -- get me a raise too!"
Some politicians, including local politicians buy the votes of government workers with generous pay packages and benefits -- paid for by taxpayers money -- and then expect a kickback from the unions in the form of hefty campaign donations, rent-a-mob and questionable union political activity when the run for re-election.
Sound familiar?
The unions must be desperately hoping that no one will notice...Wait a minute!
We're talking about government employees! This isn't the Discovery Channel's "Dirty Jobs" -- it's hey folks, we're broke and the taxpayers can't afford you anymore!
Sound familiar?
Today is black Friday for the 1,600 employees in Wisconsin.
We say, you did it to yourselves and we only wish we had Governor Scott Walker, as Mayor of New Albany!
Government unions have nothing in common with private sector unions because they don't have hostile management on the other side of the bargaining table. To the contrary, the "bosses" of government employees are co-conspirators with them in bilking the taxpayers.
Far from being careful stewards of the taxpayers money, some politicians are on the same side of the bargaining table as government employees -- against the taxpayers who aren't allowed to be part of the negotiation.
Some politicians don't think of themselves as "management." they don't respond to union demands for more money by saying "Are you kidding me?"
They say, "Great -- get me a raise too!"
Some politicians, including local politicians buy the votes of government workers with generous pay packages and benefits -- paid for by taxpayers money -- and then expect a kickback from the unions in the form of hefty campaign donations, rent-a-mob and questionable union political activity when the run for re-election.
Sound familiar?
The unions must be desperately hoping that no one will notice...Wait a minute!
We're talking about government employees! This isn't the Discovery Channel's "Dirty Jobs" -- it's hey folks, we're broke and the taxpayers can't afford you anymore!
Sound familiar?
Today is black Friday for the 1,600 employees in Wisconsin.
We say, you did it to yourselves and we only wish we had Governor Scott Walker, as Mayor of New Albany!
Monday, February 28, 2011
DRUM ROLL PLEASE....WHO HAS OUR ENDORSEMENT?
We spend our days, for better or worse, commenting on and studying the issues that affect and shape our country, state, and the City of New Albany.
We consider ourselves fairly informed observers, so why not tell our readers who we think is most qualified to tackle those issues?
And with so many voices out there now, from local blogs to Internet "news sites," we think it's only right for you to read it from people who care about the City of New Albany as much as you do and to weigh in on races that affect us all.
Deciding who to endorse isn't easy, either.
Sometimes, we wish there was another candidate running.
But, like you, we needed to make a decision, so, drum roll please... read who has our endorsement for the 2011 Primary:
Council At Large
* Shirley Baird (D)
District 1:
* Vicki Denhart (D)
District 2:
* Donny Blevins (D)
District 3:
* Steve Price (D)
District 4:
* No Endorsement
District 5:
* No Endorsement
District 6:
* No Endorsement
City Clerk:
* Vicki Glotzbach (D)
Mayor:
* Jeff Gahan (D)
Today, we offer our thoughts on the two candidates for Mayor:
So...Mr. Ethridge please tell our readers what you have done for the citizens of New Albany?
Would you like to explain to our readers Mr. Stumler why you went to the republicans to run as mayor then cut a deal with Doug England, then announce you are NOW a democrat candidate for Mayor?
Do you feel John Gonder, Bob Caesar, Dan Coffey, Kevin Zurschmiede, Diane Benedetti, and Pat McLaughlin deserve your vote after all the things they have done to the citizens in the City of New Albany?
This is also a list of unexceptional candidates of hopelessly damaged goods who have the ego to think they can go all the way and win:
We consider ourselves fairly informed observers, so why not tell our readers who we think is most qualified to tackle those issues?
And with so many voices out there now, from local blogs to Internet "news sites," we think it's only right for you to read it from people who care about the City of New Albany as much as you do and to weigh in on races that affect us all.
Deciding who to endorse isn't easy, either.
Sometimes, we wish there was another candidate running.
But, like you, we needed to make a decision, so, drum roll please... read who has our endorsement for the 2011 Primary:
Council At Large
* Shirley Baird (D)
District 1:
* Vicki Denhart (D)
District 2:
* Donny Blevins (D)
District 3:
* Steve Price (D)
District 4:
* No Endorsement
District 5:
* No Endorsement
District 6:
* No Endorsement
City Clerk:
* Vicki Glotzbach (D)
Mayor:
* Jeff Gahan (D)
Today, we offer our thoughts on the two candidates for Mayor:
So...Mr. Ethridge please tell our readers what you have done for the citizens of New Albany?
Would you like to explain to our readers Mr. Stumler why you went to the republicans to run as mayor then cut a deal with Doug England, then announce you are NOW a democrat candidate for Mayor?
Do you feel John Gonder, Bob Caesar, Dan Coffey, Kevin Zurschmiede, Diane Benedetti, and Pat McLaughlin deserve your vote after all the things they have done to the citizens in the City of New Albany?
This is also a list of unexceptional candidates of hopelessly damaged goods who have the ego to think they can go all the way and win:
* Douglas England
* Randy Smith
* Roger Baylor
It is what it is...
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
COULD THIS HAPPEN IN NEW ALBANY?
Welcome to the reckoning. We have met the fiscal apocalypse and it is smack dab in the middle of the heartland. As Wisconsin goes, so goes the nation.
Let us all pray it does not go the way of the decrepit welfare states of the European Union.
New GOP Gov. Scott Walker wants public unions to pony up a little more. He has proposed raising the public employee share on health insurance premiums from less than 5 percent to 12.4 percent. He is also pushing for state workers to cover half of their pension contributions.
To spare taxpayers the soaring cost of Byzantine union-negotiated work rules, he would rein in Big Labor's collective bargaining power to cover only wages unless approved at the ballot box.
Yes, the so-called progressives truly believe that bringing American union workers into the 21st century in line with the rest of the workforce is tantamount to dictatorship.
Yes, the so-called progressives truly believe that by walking off their jobs and out of their classrooms, they are "putting children first."
It is not so shocking that the union members are fight this.
However, the White House has NO business sending "his people down" is just proof positive that the POTUS has prostituted himself to the unions.
Like our local politicians they are only concerned with the power they have and will do anything to keep!
Yes, this could happen in New Albany!
Police and Fire take up eighty five cents of every dollar of our general fund.
Between both departments, salaries, health care and pensions, well over 13 million comes out of our general fund. That is only two departments out of 16.
They soon will be asking for 17 new police cars in hopes of getting at least 10 new cars.
The General Fund supports the following departments:
*Mayor's Office
* Controller
* City Clerk
* City Council
* City Attorney
* Board of Public Works and Safety
* Animal Shelter
* Weights and Measures
* Plan Commission
* Building Commission
* Police Department
* Police Merit Commission
* Fire Department
* Communications Department
* Fair View Cemetery
* West Haven Cemetery
The largest, non-salary, expense for the City of New Albany is insurance. Several months ago, City Attorney Shane Gibson and others came up with a bogus plan:
Health Savings Account (HSA) which they claim they can save $450,000 in 2011 and approximately $800,000 in 2012.
But the catcher of this bogus plan is we the taxpayers would pay $1,000 per employee and they had until Jan. 31, 2011 to decided.
Guess the results were not what they expected still NO word on whether the city employees agreed to this bogus plan or not.
Could what is happening in Wisconsin happen in New Albany?
Absolutely!
It's going to take a new Mayor like Jeff Gahan, to say, take these cuts and save your job, or break the bank and be laid off because there in NO more MONEY.
Everyone is hurting and cutting back in New Albany, why should these 16 departments be any different.
Let us all pray it does not go the way of the decrepit welfare states of the European Union.
New GOP Gov. Scott Walker wants public unions to pony up a little more. He has proposed raising the public employee share on health insurance premiums from less than 5 percent to 12.4 percent. He is also pushing for state workers to cover half of their pension contributions.
To spare taxpayers the soaring cost of Byzantine union-negotiated work rules, he would rein in Big Labor's collective bargaining power to cover only wages unless approved at the ballot box.
Yes, the so-called progressives truly believe that bringing American union workers into the 21st century in line with the rest of the workforce is tantamount to dictatorship.
Yes, the so-called progressives truly believe that by walking off their jobs and out of their classrooms, they are "putting children first."
It is not so shocking that the union members are fight this.
However, the White House has NO business sending "his people down" is just proof positive that the POTUS has prostituted himself to the unions.
Like our local politicians they are only concerned with the power they have and will do anything to keep!
Yes, this could happen in New Albany!
Police and Fire take up eighty five cents of every dollar of our general fund.
Between both departments, salaries, health care and pensions, well over 13 million comes out of our general fund. That is only two departments out of 16.
They soon will be asking for 17 new police cars in hopes of getting at least 10 new cars.
The General Fund supports the following departments:
*Mayor's Office
* Controller
* City Clerk
* City Council
* City Attorney
* Board of Public Works and Safety
* Animal Shelter
* Weights and Measures
* Plan Commission
* Building Commission
* Police Department
* Police Merit Commission
* Fire Department
* Communications Department
* Fair View Cemetery
* West Haven Cemetery
The largest, non-salary, expense for the City of New Albany is insurance. Several months ago, City Attorney Shane Gibson and others came up with a bogus plan:
Health Savings Account (HSA) which they claim they can save $450,000 in 2011 and approximately $800,000 in 2012.
But the catcher of this bogus plan is we the taxpayers would pay $1,000 per employee and they had until Jan. 31, 2011 to decided.
Guess the results were not what they expected still NO word on whether the city employees agreed to this bogus plan or not.
Could what is happening in Wisconsin happen in New Albany?
Absolutely!
It's going to take a new Mayor like Jeff Gahan, to say, take these cuts and save your job, or break the bank and be laid off because there in NO more MONEY.
Everyone is hurting and cutting back in New Albany, why should these 16 departments be any different.
Monday, February 21, 2011
CLERE 2 - GIBSON 0...
The Common Council of New Albany, Indiana, will be having a special meeting to vote on R-11-05, a Resolution Opposing HB 1507 and The Establishment Of A Floyd County Parks District. Said meeting will be held February 23, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. at the City County building, in the third floor conference room. Pursuant to the request of Councilmen Pat McLaughlin, Steve Price, Bob Caesar, John Gonder and Jeff Gahan. Should you have any questions regarding this meeting, please see the City Clerk in Room 332.
Marcey Wisman, City Clerk
Freedom Of Speech has several questions:
1.) If Gibson had NO knowledge of this issue (Floyd County Parks District) how could he respond to Attorney Rick Fox with a three page letter?
Fact: A. He claims he doesn't receive or read the local Tribune...remember? B. Gibson read Clere recent article at the hearing he attended and claimed NO one had knowledge of this bill until then.
2.) Why is Doug England denying NO knowledge of a discussion with Rep. Ed Clere over HB 1507?
Fact: To make our State Rep. look bad and attack his creditability.
3.) Did State Rep. Clere email Carl Malysz the information with the entire bill?
Fact: Yes, and he has a copy of that email.
4.) Did State Rep. Clere have a phone conversation with Carl and England?
Fact: Yes, Mr. Clere did have that discussion with them both.
5.) Did all Council members discuss and vote on a request for Marcey Wisman to represent them at the State House hearing?
Fact: NO. If the answer was YES, then this special meeting would NOT have to be called.
The 2010 election is over. It has now became personal. You lost Mr. Gibson don't we have more important issues to deal with like: why are you being paid $50,000 plus billable hours and commission on bonding?
What another sweetheart deal you got, thanks to Mayor England!
One final thought, Mr. Gibson, in about ten months you will be back in the public sector practicing law. Do you NOT realize your income will be based on the amount of clients you have? Some friendly advice, when you burn the bridges you have, and rode the City of New Albany's gravy train for the last seven years you are in for a rude awakening!
Accept the fact, it was the democrats who reelected Mr. Clere as our State Rep. get over it and move on....
Clere 2 - Gibson 0.
Marcey Wisman, City Clerk
Freedom Of Speech has several questions:
1.) If Gibson had NO knowledge of this issue (Floyd County Parks District) how could he respond to Attorney Rick Fox with a three page letter?
Fact: A. He claims he doesn't receive or read the local Tribune...remember? B. Gibson read Clere recent article at the hearing he attended and claimed NO one had knowledge of this bill until then.
2.) Why is Doug England denying NO knowledge of a discussion with Rep. Ed Clere over HB 1507?
Fact: To make our State Rep. look bad and attack his creditability.
3.) Did State Rep. Clere email Carl Malysz the information with the entire bill?
Fact: Yes, and he has a copy of that email.
4.) Did State Rep. Clere have a phone conversation with Carl and England?
Fact: Yes, Mr. Clere did have that discussion with them both.
5.) Did all Council members discuss and vote on a request for Marcey Wisman to represent them at the State House hearing?
Fact: NO. If the answer was YES, then this special meeting would NOT have to be called.
The 2010 election is over. It has now became personal. You lost Mr. Gibson don't we have more important issues to deal with like: why are you being paid $50,000 plus billable hours and commission on bonding?
What another sweetheart deal you got, thanks to Mayor England!
One final thought, Mr. Gibson, in about ten months you will be back in the public sector practicing law. Do you NOT realize your income will be based on the amount of clients you have? Some friendly advice, when you burn the bridges you have, and rode the City of New Albany's gravy train for the last seven years you are in for a rude awakening!
Accept the fact, it was the democrats who reelected Mr. Clere as our State Rep. get over it and move on....
Clere 2 - Gibson 0.
Monday, February 14, 2011
THE SCAM OF ALL SCAMS ~ UNCOVERED...
The New Albany Police F.O.P. is trying to convert the holiday pay to the base pay.
The purpose of this would increase the certified wage so retirement would be more appealing to the officers with higher seniority. Under the current methods officers take more than a 50% cut in pay when they retire with added cost the retirees pay toward health insurance, and because holiday pay is not figured into CW. The results is the increased number of officers with high amounts of seniority.
So what is CW and how does it work?
* Certified Wage (CW) - The figure used to calculate all police officer retirement in PERF. CW - Base pay with 20 years longevity. To calculate what the certified wages is for a New Albany Police officer it is (base pay X 1.2).
The CW is legislated by Indiana Law and states Holiday Pay is not part of the base pay. Since it is not part of the base pay it cannot be calculated into retirement.
So what is considered base pay?
* The base pay of a first class police officer that has completed their probationary period.
If Holiday Pay was converted to base pay it would not be new money the officers would be receiving it would just be a different way of paying it to them. Since they already receive Holiday Pay in a lump sum twice a year the city already budgets for the money. The change would be officers would receive the pay during their biweekly pay checks and would not receive the two lump sum payments twice in the year.
So how is Holiday Pay calculated?
* Holiday Pay is a contractual benefit to New Albany Police Officers for having to work holidays. The current holiday pay is approximately 1% of annual salary per holiday.
There are only a few ways the retirement wage can be increased. The city can give a pay raise. The city could give additional % on longevity which would increase the (CW) Certified Wage. The City could agree to convert money already being paid into base pay, such as Holiday Pay.
Not bad for our NAPD, they received two out of the three above in 2010:
* pay raise
* additional longevity
So let us show you how the New Albany Police Department's Retirement is calculated?
The formula for figuring the % of the (CW) Certified Wage the officer would receive upon retirement. At 20 years of service the officer receives 50% of the CW. It increases by 1% every six months after to a maximum of 74% at 32 years.
Freedom Of Speech would like to say:
This is nothing but the scam of all scams. What this will actually do is jack up their pensions and none of them will retire. The longer they stay with those big salaries the more they will make on their pensions.
It's bad enough that eighty five cents of every dollar in our general fund goes to police and fire.
It's time to renegotiate the police department contract.
What has happen is that our municipal and safety employees have lost the goodwill of the people they serve and protect.
footnote: maybe in the future they can stop following and harrassing private citizens who stand up and fight for the citizens and expose them for the lazy, greedy cops many of them are.
Oh, that's right, they do have a boss and his name is Douglas B. England.
The purpose of this would increase the certified wage so retirement would be more appealing to the officers with higher seniority. Under the current methods officers take more than a 50% cut in pay when they retire with added cost the retirees pay toward health insurance, and because holiday pay is not figured into CW. The results is the increased number of officers with high amounts of seniority.
So what is CW and how does it work?
* Certified Wage (CW) - The figure used to calculate all police officer retirement in PERF. CW - Base pay with 20 years longevity. To calculate what the certified wages is for a New Albany Police officer it is (base pay X 1.2).
The CW is legislated by Indiana Law and states Holiday Pay is not part of the base pay. Since it is not part of the base pay it cannot be calculated into retirement.
So what is considered base pay?
* The base pay of a first class police officer that has completed their probationary period.
If Holiday Pay was converted to base pay it would not be new money the officers would be receiving it would just be a different way of paying it to them. Since they already receive Holiday Pay in a lump sum twice a year the city already budgets for the money. The change would be officers would receive the pay during their biweekly pay checks and would not receive the two lump sum payments twice in the year.
So how is Holiday Pay calculated?
* Holiday Pay is a contractual benefit to New Albany Police Officers for having to work holidays. The current holiday pay is approximately 1% of annual salary per holiday.
There are only a few ways the retirement wage can be increased. The city can give a pay raise. The city could give additional % on longevity which would increase the (CW) Certified Wage. The City could agree to convert money already being paid into base pay, such as Holiday Pay.
Not bad for our NAPD, they received two out of the three above in 2010:
* pay raise
* additional longevity
So let us show you how the New Albany Police Department's Retirement is calculated?
The formula for figuring the % of the (CW) Certified Wage the officer would receive upon retirement. At 20 years of service the officer receives 50% of the CW. It increases by 1% every six months after to a maximum of 74% at 32 years.
Freedom Of Speech would like to say:
This is nothing but the scam of all scams. What this will actually do is jack up their pensions and none of them will retire. The longer they stay with those big salaries the more they will make on their pensions.
It's bad enough that eighty five cents of every dollar in our general fund goes to police and fire.
It's time to renegotiate the police department contract.
What has happen is that our municipal and safety employees have lost the goodwill of the people they serve and protect.
footnote: maybe in the future they can stop following and harrassing private citizens who stand up and fight for the citizens and expose them for the lazy, greedy cops many of them are.
Oh, that's right, they do have a boss and his name is Douglas B. England.
Friday, February 11, 2011
CONFLICT OF INTEREST...
It's been a very interesting few weeks in the City of New Albany.
Let's review:
1.) We find out the Mayor wants taxpayers to pay $18 million for a new parking garage and pay for a 600 feet hole and gates for the wall.
2.) No one bothered to put $419,600 matching funds for the Greenway Project in the 2011 Budget.
3.) Sewer increase nearly led New Albany utility out of the red last year
4.) New bill to ban public employees from certain government boards
5.) Bankruptcy bill could mean "tough love" for cities, towns
6.) State: 2011 money would be used to cover 2010 New Albany budget
Should Councilman John Gonder have voted on the Redistricting Plan, when, at one time he was a plaintiff involved in this lawsuit?
Again, another Conflict of Interest.
Should Council member Diane Benedetti be voting on her brother Gary McCartin projects and healthcare for part-time council members?
Again, another Conflict of Interest.
Should Councilman Robert Caesar owner of Endris Jewelers downtown, be voting on any bonds or appropriations for downtown when he would have any type of financial gain for money going to help the downtown area or as a member of 1SI or voted for healthcare for part-time council members?
Again, another Conflict of Interest.
Should City Attorney Shane Gibson refrain from pleading the city's case over any and all bonds if he is to collect commission on these bonds?
Again, another Conflict of Interest.
What about the Mayor's wife. She sits on certain boards collects a check and pushes her husbands agenda.
Again, another Conflict of Interest.
You as elected officials and city employees should not be gaining in anyway, shape or form receiving commission checks or as a political favors.
We hope that one day the City of New Albany will have a Mayor who can stand up and say:
"I will lead by example and put accountability back in local government."
Several city employees and Council members have forget it's our money, not theirs!
We could go and add several other infractions of Conflict of Interest on many others employed by our city.
Nuff...said, for now!
Let's review:
1.) We find out the Mayor wants taxpayers to pay $18 million for a new parking garage and pay for a 600 feet hole and gates for the wall.
2.) No one bothered to put $419,600 matching funds for the Greenway Project in the 2011 Budget.
3.) Sewer increase nearly led New Albany utility out of the red last year
4.) New bill to ban public employees from certain government boards
5.) Bankruptcy bill could mean "tough love" for cities, towns
6.) State: 2011 money would be used to cover 2010 New Albany budget
There seems to be discussions everywhere and we have to put our two cents worth in.
On NAC we read: "Cops and fireman as second-class citizens. Can they still vote Ed?"
Since half the time Roger has NO clue on the issues. How can he defend the police and fire when we feel anyone who works in New Albany that makes $50,000 - $100,000 year be called second - class citizens?
My God Roger, eighty five cents of every dollar of our general fund goes to police and fire. How can we pay the other departments and city employees the other fifteen cents of each dollars?
Are you really that ignorant?
We feel if the police and fire gets eighty five per cent of our General Fund then they should do eight five per cent of the work.
Voice of the People: Bill 1022.
We agree with Shirley and some of her posters in principal. There is a big difference between Conflict of Interest and Double Dipping.
First of all, one of our major problems facing our city is the Conflict of Interest issue.
Should Councilman Jack Messer who is a NAPD employee abstain from voting on appropriation, raises, new police cars and of tax dollars for our Police Department.
Isn't that a conflict of Interest?
For the record: documents show that Messer has only abstained 1 time on issues concerning the NAPD in seven years.Should Councilman John Gonder have voted on the Redistricting Plan, when, at one time he was a plaintiff involved in this lawsuit?
Again, another Conflict of Interest.
Should Council member Diane Benedetti be voting on her brother Gary McCartin projects and healthcare for part-time council members?
Again, another Conflict of Interest.
Should Councilman Robert Caesar owner of Endris Jewelers downtown, be voting on any bonds or appropriations for downtown when he would have any type of financial gain for money going to help the downtown area or as a member of 1SI or voted for healthcare for part-time council members?
Again, another Conflict of Interest.
Should City Attorney Shane Gibson refrain from pleading the city's case over any and all bonds if he is to collect commission on these bonds?
Again, another Conflict of Interest.
What about the Mayor's wife. She sits on certain boards collects a check and pushes her husbands agenda.
Again, another Conflict of Interest.
You as elected officials and city employees should not be gaining in anyway, shape or form receiving commission checks or as a political favors.
We hope that one day the City of New Albany will have a Mayor who can stand up and say:
"I will lead by example and put accountability back in local government."
Several city employees and Council members have forget it's our money, not theirs!
We could go and add several other infractions of Conflict of Interest on many others employed by our city.
Nuff...said, for now!
Monday, January 31, 2011
HOLY CRAP: THIS WILL REALLY MAKE YOU MAD....
When Mayor England tells you he has to raise your sewer rate again and he cries, we ain't got "NO MONEY" for sewer repairs, now you know why:
Master File Sewer Lien Records
UNPAID SEWER BILLS:
Sprigler Family Limited.........................$85,924.80
University Woods...........$47,503.10
Silver Street
Property LLC.................$17,295.13
Cedar Ridge Apts..............................$13,658.10
Jacque Hunter...............$10,111.00
Four Coin Laundry........$9,293.75
Windsor Resturant........$9,189.01
State of Indiana.............$6,089.16
Main Source
Bank (NACC)................$4,888.76
St. Charles Partners......$4,832.78
RJ Hunter....................$4,775.80
Donald & Sharon Hill...$4,361.30
Mockingbird................$3,957.33
Ann Snider.................$3,565.00
ABR Properties...........$3,171.18
John Mattingly...........$3,422.00
Gwendolyn Alkhoury.$2,686.17
Doug & Dana Mansfield.$2,604.18
Margret Calvert.........$2,285.84
William Logsdom......$2,201.26
Manzanita
Tribe #276...............$1,996.05
Annella Barker........$1,939.08
Lonnie Yarbough....$1,785.81
Ronald Joshua
McCool...................$1,776.86
Jaybill Properties...$1,772.30
Mendal Properties.$1,760.62
Source: Sewer Billing Department @ 812-948-5399.
Freedom Of Speech would like to say:
We don't know what the City of New Albany is doing that they would let people skip their sewer payments like that. Unless these people got the hookups with city officials or political favors from the mayor.
Our final thoughts:
Why are we paying City Attorney Shane Gibson $150,000 if he is NOT going to do the job and go after these unpaid bills? Whose best interest is he looking out for?
Maybe if Gibson and England spent more effort taking care of the real issues in New Albany and less time attacking and plotting their next move against State Rep. Ed Clere maybe we would not be on the verge of bankruptcy as a city.
Why don't you get off your ass and do your job...Shane!
How do you ratepayers feel, now that you know who a few of the deadbeats are?
Master File Sewer Lien Records
UNPAID SEWER BILLS:
Sprigler Family Limited.........................$85,924.80
University Woods...........$47,503.10
Silver Street
Property LLC.................$17,295.13
Cedar Ridge Apts..............................$13,658.10
Jacque Hunter...............$10,111.00
Four Coin Laundry........$9,293.75
Windsor Resturant........$9,189.01
State of Indiana.............$6,089.16
Main Source
Bank (NACC)................$4,888.76
St. Charles Partners......$4,832.78
RJ Hunter....................$4,775.80
Donald & Sharon Hill...$4,361.30
Mockingbird................$3,957.33
Ann Snider.................$3,565.00
ABR Properties...........$3,171.18
John Mattingly...........$3,422.00
Gwendolyn Alkhoury.$2,686.17
Doug & Dana Mansfield.$2,604.18
Margret Calvert.........$2,285.84
William Logsdom......$2,201.26
Manzanita
Tribe #276...............$1,996.05
Annella Barker........$1,939.08
Lonnie Yarbough....$1,785.81
Ronald Joshua
McCool...................$1,776.86
Jaybill Properties...$1,772.30
Mendal Properties.$1,760.62
Source: Sewer Billing Department @ 812-948-5399.
Freedom Of Speech would like to say:
We don't know what the City of New Albany is doing that they would let people skip their sewer payments like that. Unless these people got the hookups with city officials or political favors from the mayor.
Our final thoughts:
Why are we paying City Attorney Shane Gibson $150,000 if he is NOT going to do the job and go after these unpaid bills? Whose best interest is he looking out for?
Maybe if Gibson and England spent more effort taking care of the real issues in New Albany and less time attacking and plotting their next move against State Rep. Ed Clere maybe we would not be on the verge of bankruptcy as a city.
Why don't you get off your ass and do your job...Shane!
How do you ratepayers feel, now that you know who a few of the deadbeats are?
Thursday, January 27, 2011
WANT BETTER SCHOOLS AND WELL EDUCATED STUDENTS?
It's simple: get the government and the unions out of the classroom. Allow teachers to teach; support the concept that students must study and not just prepare for government mandated tests.
To young to remember when an honest grade allowed parents to judge how their children were actually doing in school? Well we need to get back to honest grading, supported by strict and honest parenting and stop "educators" from indoctrinating our children with the latest fad in social engineering and political correctness.
Not everyone needs a college degree or be deemed a failure. A good mechanic, plumber or electrician is just as important to society as any politician or a lawyer.
The cost of such a fix?
A huge refund of taxpayer dollars resulting with proud, industrious and well educated students.
How about classes on common sense.
To young to remember when an honest grade allowed parents to judge how their children were actually doing in school? Well we need to get back to honest grading, supported by strict and honest parenting and stop "educators" from indoctrinating our children with the latest fad in social engineering and political correctness.
Not everyone needs a college degree or be deemed a failure. A good mechanic, plumber or electrician is just as important to society as any politician or a lawyer.
The cost of such a fix?
A huge refund of taxpayer dollars resulting with proud, industrious and well educated students.
How about classes on common sense.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
THEY JUST DON'T GET IT...
The voters in November told the government what we want, but here they go, both parties, acting like things are back to normal-that being the people are stupid and we in Washington. DC must continue spending what we don't have to maintain our big, bigger government.
Unfortunately, Obama just does not get it.
With Obamacare, health insurance cost increased...big surprise!
In just 2 years Obama has run the debt up from 10 trillion to nearly 14 trillion. Unemployment is at a 50 year high. Jobs and job growth is at a 50 year low.
We must first renegotiate NAFTA's agreement bringing back a percentage greater than 50% of industry.
You can fix social security by not giving anyone a dime who hasn't paid in. No social security for greedy congressmen and women unless they put in their 40 quarters, like the rest of us, and reach an age of 62 or greater.
No social security for illegals or non citizens.
We should talk about how and who chased American business off shore and across the globe with regulations, taxes, and free trade.
As individuals, be we rich, poor, or the government elite, must begin to practice personal responsibility. We spend what we earn, not what we want to earn. We buy houses we know we can afford over 30 years, not ones we think we can turn over and make a profit on. We save, we spend less. We are thankful we have indoor plumbing, heat and fresh water.
And for that, we expect our government to respect that hard earned money we send them. We expect them to protect us from attacks. We expect them to demand compliance with the law. We look to them to help us in times of catastrophe. We expect them to help the truly incompetent. We don't expect them to pay our retirement or unemployment. We don't expect them to hire us or teach our children. We don't expect them to care for our children.
We become what we once were. A nation of people that want the freedom to earn the satisfaction of self reliance.
Unfortunately, Obama just does not get it.
With Obamacare, health insurance cost increased...big surprise!
In just 2 years Obama has run the debt up from 10 trillion to nearly 14 trillion. Unemployment is at a 50 year high. Jobs and job growth is at a 50 year low.
We must first renegotiate NAFTA's agreement bringing back a percentage greater than 50% of industry.
You can fix social security by not giving anyone a dime who hasn't paid in. No social security for greedy congressmen and women unless they put in their 40 quarters, like the rest of us, and reach an age of 62 or greater.
No social security for illegals or non citizens.
We should talk about how and who chased American business off shore and across the globe with regulations, taxes, and free trade.
As individuals, be we rich, poor, or the government elite, must begin to practice personal responsibility. We spend what we earn, not what we want to earn. We buy houses we know we can afford over 30 years, not ones we think we can turn over and make a profit on. We save, we spend less. We are thankful we have indoor plumbing, heat and fresh water.
And for that, we expect our government to respect that hard earned money we send them. We expect them to protect us from attacks. We expect them to demand compliance with the law. We look to them to help us in times of catastrophe. We expect them to help the truly incompetent. We don't expect them to pay our retirement or unemployment. We don't expect them to hire us or teach our children. We don't expect them to care for our children.
We become what we once were. A nation of people that want the freedom to earn the satisfaction of self reliance.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
WE TOLD YOU SO...
We've been attacked by several asking for proof.
So, let's just check out what has been printed recently in our local newspaper, shall we?
1.) FOS statement: Has our proud Democrat Party really come to this?
"Floyd County Democratic Party Chairman John Wilcox on hand sporting a Stumler sticker."
1/19/2011, courier-journal
2.) Is the England-Stumler Team going to keep Gibson, Malysz, and Rosenbarger as part of their deal?
"Stumler added he's not decided on an administrative staff elected, but that he would be interested in employing people with prior experience."
1/19/2011, Tribune
3.) Why would Stumler, with NO governmental experience, step into this city that has over $3.8 million in debt?
"Stumler, 75, is a native of of Starlight, Ind. who has never ran for public office."
1/19/2011, courier-journal
Fact is: Stumler agreed to run for Mayor on the Republican ticket.
"But the path to England's endorsement was not a straight one from Stumler, who having talked with local GOP leaders about running for mayor as a Republican."
1/19/2011, courier-journal
Per an email we received 1/20/2011, Republican Chairman Matthews stated, "Mr. Stumler came to us we did not approach him." Irv decided to run for Mayor as a Republican. One week ago he met with Doug England and changed his mind
Freedom Of Speech would like to say, this is the kind of politics that has gotten our city in the mess were in.
Did or was Irv Stumler bought and paid for by Douglas B. England?
Absolutely!
Our final thought: If you had just announced you were running for Mayor of New Albany and had to face a potentially difficult primary race within three months, would you...1.) begin in earnest to go out and meet the people you would serve? or...2.) would you hop on a plane for a get away in Florida?
We hope that Mr. & Mrs. Irv Stumler brings us back some sunshine to help melt all this snow!
So, let's just check out what has been printed recently in our local newspaper, shall we?
1.) FOS statement: Has our proud Democrat Party really come to this?
"Floyd County Democratic Party Chairman John Wilcox on hand sporting a Stumler sticker."
1/19/2011, courier-journal
2.) Is the England-Stumler Team going to keep Gibson, Malysz, and Rosenbarger as part of their deal?
"Stumler added he's not decided on an administrative staff elected, but that he would be interested in employing people with prior experience."
1/19/2011, Tribune
3.) Why would Stumler, with NO governmental experience, step into this city that has over $3.8 million in debt?
"Stumler, 75, is a native of of Starlight, Ind. who has never ran for public office."
1/19/2011, courier-journal
Fact is: Stumler agreed to run for Mayor on the Republican ticket.
"But the path to England's endorsement was not a straight one from Stumler, who having talked with local GOP leaders about running for mayor as a Republican."
1/19/2011, courier-journal
Per an email we received 1/20/2011, Republican Chairman Matthews stated, "Mr. Stumler came to us we did not approach him." Irv decided to run for Mayor as a Republican. One week ago he met with Doug England and changed his mind
Freedom Of Speech would like to say, this is the kind of politics that has gotten our city in the mess were in.
Did or was Irv Stumler bought and paid for by Douglas B. England?
Absolutely!
Our final thought: If you had just announced you were running for Mayor of New Albany and had to face a potentially difficult primary race within three months, would you...1.) begin in earnest to go out and meet the people you would serve? or...2.) would you hop on a plane for a get away in Florida?
We hope that Mr. & Mrs. Irv Stumler brings us back some sunshine to help melt all this snow!
Monday, January 17, 2011
ARE THE DEMOCRATS SMARTER....THAN A FIRST GRADER?
Has our proud Democrat Party really come to this?
We are wondering how on earth any local "Democrat" could seek and obtain signed authority from Republican Chair Dave Matthews to run for local office and then, in an act that is as signing allegiance to the devil (England), make a deal and switch back to the Democrat Party.
We, at Freedom Of Speech, are shaking our heads with incredulity and asking the following questions:
1.) Will Stumler BE a stand IN and let England run the city?2.) Is the England-Stumler Team going to keep Gibson, Malysz, and Rosenbarger as part of their deal?
3.) Why would Stumler, with NO governmental experience, step into this city mess that has over $3.8 million in debt?
Facts is: Stumler agreed to run for Mayor on the Republican ticket.
Is this jumping the fence action what we can expect from Stumler in the future?
So, are the Democrats really smarter than a first grader?
Guess we will all know come Wednesday when the announcement is made!
Sunday, January 09, 2011
A TRAGEDY IN ARIZONA....
By now, most of you know of the horrendous occurrence in Tucson, Arizona.
What bothers us is when Arizona state representative Linda Lopez (democrat) turned this assassination attempt on Congresswoman Gabrielle "Gabby" Giffords and the murder of 6 bystanders yesterday with scores more injured, into a partisan political attack by Democrats on the "Tea Party" movement.
Has our country turned into the advice of Rahm Emanuel to "never let a good crisis go to waste" and politicizing a tragedy into an assault on opponents.
This is about people getting killed and injured by a psychopath, that should be the focus and praying for them to recover or for the families and friends of the fallen.
Without having a single piece of information, Lopez took to the airwaves condemning the Tea Party and conservatives for the murder spree!
BTW, Gifford is Jewish, and took her Oath of Office on a Torah. Should we be blaming the Muslim world for her being shot because of the constant demonetization of Jews that goes on there?
As reported Jared Lee Loughner, the would be assassin, is a confirmed Leftist Democrat upset with Congresswoman Giffords for being a conservative Democrat who was not leftist enough for his taste.
Sadly, the shooter Jared Lee Loughner was, as Arizona authorities are referring to him, a severely disturbed man. Among other things, his YouTube videos feature him burning an American flag, hardly a sentiment one would associate with the Tea Party!
The minions of the Left using his violence for their own ends have no such mitigating circumstances. They're fully aware of what they're doing and reveling in it....
For God's sake people Wake Up!
Proud Members of Southern Indiana Tea Party Association
Freedom Of Speech Staff
What bothers us is when Arizona state representative Linda Lopez (democrat) turned this assassination attempt on Congresswoman Gabrielle "Gabby" Giffords and the murder of 6 bystanders yesterday with scores more injured, into a partisan political attack by Democrats on the "Tea Party" movement.
Has our country turned into the advice of Rahm Emanuel to "never let a good crisis go to waste" and politicizing a tragedy into an assault on opponents.
This is about people getting killed and injured by a psychopath, that should be the focus and praying for them to recover or for the families and friends of the fallen.
Without having a single piece of information, Lopez took to the airwaves condemning the Tea Party and conservatives for the murder spree!
BTW, Gifford is Jewish, and took her Oath of Office on a Torah. Should we be blaming the Muslim world for her being shot because of the constant demonetization of Jews that goes on there?
As reported Jared Lee Loughner, the would be assassin, is a confirmed Leftist Democrat upset with Congresswoman Giffords for being a conservative Democrat who was not leftist enough for his taste.
Sadly, the shooter Jared Lee Loughner was, as Arizona authorities are referring to him, a severely disturbed man. Among other things, his YouTube videos feature him burning an American flag, hardly a sentiment one would associate with the Tea Party!
The minions of the Left using his violence for their own ends have no such mitigating circumstances. They're fully aware of what they're doing and reveling in it....
For God's sake people Wake Up!
Proud Members of Southern Indiana Tea Party Association
Freedom Of Speech Staff
Friday, January 07, 2011
NEW ALBANY PAYS $400,000...
We have questions:
1.) Where did the $900,000 originally go?
2.) If those three attorneys were owed for legal fees why were they never paid until December 29, 2010?
3.) Why was the City of New Albany forced to forgive $450,000 in exchange for a State Revolving Loan?
"Despite the setback, Gibson said the sewer utility is in "greater financial shape than what they were last year and clearly is moving in the right direction."
4.) If the Boat Fund, Rainy Day Fund and EDIT Fund has over $7 million in 2010, can someone explain why we had a sewer rate increase?
5.) Would City Attorney Gibson like to correct the above statement: being in greater shape?
Freedom Of Speech would like to know when the City of New Albany plans to repay the $5.3 million borrowed and the additional $2 million still owed to sewers.
We guess if we didn't pay our bills either "we all might be in greater financial" shape too!
So, Mr. Gibson, we taxpayers are paying you $150,000 to save us $12,000 for those three other attorneys?
So, is that really something for you to brag about when you continue to 1.) sell out us rate payers and 2.) have our local newspaper buy your crap, hook line and sinker!
To our many readers, ask yourself this one question: would you want City Attorney Gibson to negotiate a settlement for you?
1.) Where did the $900,000 originally go?
2.) If those three attorneys were owed for legal fees why were they never paid until December 29, 2010?
3.) Why was the City of New Albany forced to forgive $450,000 in exchange for a State Revolving Loan?
"Despite the setback, Gibson said the sewer utility is in "greater financial shape than what they were last year and clearly is moving in the right direction."
4.) If the Boat Fund, Rainy Day Fund and EDIT Fund has over $7 million in 2010, can someone explain why we had a sewer rate increase?
5.) Would City Attorney Gibson like to correct the above statement: being in greater shape?
Freedom Of Speech would like to know when the City of New Albany plans to repay the $5.3 million borrowed and the additional $2 million still owed to sewers.
We guess if we didn't pay our bills either "we all might be in greater financial" shape too!
So, Mr. Gibson, we taxpayers are paying you $150,000 to save us $12,000 for those three other attorneys?
So, is that really something for you to brag about when you continue to 1.) sell out us rate payers and 2.) have our local newspaper buy your crap, hook line and sinker!
To our many readers, ask yourself this one question: would you want City Attorney Gibson to negotiate a settlement for you?
Tuesday, January 04, 2011
CONGRATULATIONS...
The City Council has voted its selection for new Council President.
Freedom Of Speech would like to Congratulate Jeff Gahan on his new position as Council President.
Jeff, we hope you plan to look at every dollar spent this year to ensure that our money is being spent properly and that our tax dollars are not wasted or mismanaged.
We as citizens live in a time of financial challenge from the federal level down.
You need to ensure us that the City Council will demonstrate that sacrifices can be made to hold the line on spending.
The taxpayers of New Albany are NOT a bottomless pit to be mined as needed.
Freedom Of Speech would like to Congratulate Jeff Gahan on his new position as Council President.
Jeff, we hope you plan to look at every dollar spent this year to ensure that our money is being spent properly and that our tax dollars are not wasted or mismanaged.
We as citizens live in a time of financial challenge from the federal level down.
You need to ensure us that the City Council will demonstrate that sacrifices can be made to hold the line on spending.
The taxpayers of New Albany are NOT a bottomless pit to be mined as needed.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
AN OPEN LETTER TO OUR READERS AND STEVE KOZAROVICH...
Dear Executive Editor,
First, we support Freedom of the Press and Freedom Of Speech.
But...
First, we forget that you actually pay Roger Baylor to write this crap.
"BAYLOR: Beware, yuletide oupistophober. I'm watching."
Noneless, it is when good men sit back and do nothing that people like him get this kind of opportunity.
Secondly, we was told by Kozarovich a long time ago that if enough people wrote in to say they don't like his column, they'd get rid of it!
So what we want our readers to do is this:
If you're tired of reading crap like this, write to the Tribune to let them know that you want Roger Baylor's columns to stop running. They are giving him free space to write destructive nonsense that is unhelpful.
Here's the link to the story: BAYLOR: Beware, yuletide oupistidophbes. I'm watching. @ newsandtribune.com. Then decide if this is the garbage and crap you want to read in our local Tribune newspaper.
Third, He can have his blog, but it is truly a problem that the Tribune is PAYING Baylor to put crap in there like that.
We, believe in freedom of the press, and freedom of speech, but the paper chooses NOT to put in a lot of things that need to be in there. It's high time they choose not to include this.
It's really offensive and is NOT the kind of thing that ought to be included in a decent newspaper.
But to attack Christianity and Christmas is just too much.
At the very least, the Tribune needs to know they're paying for this crap.
If you agree with us, Contact:
Tribune Publisher & Executive Editor Steve.Kozarovich@newsandtribune. com or contact him by phone: 812-206-2148 or drop him a note: 303 Scribner Drive, New Albany, IN 47150.
Tell him Roger Baylor has got to go...
First, we support Freedom of the Press and Freedom Of Speech.
But...
First, we forget that you actually pay Roger Baylor to write this crap.
"BAYLOR: Beware, yuletide oupistophober. I'm watching."
Noneless, it is when good men sit back and do nothing that people like him get this kind of opportunity.
Secondly, we was told by Kozarovich a long time ago that if enough people wrote in to say they don't like his column, they'd get rid of it!
So what we want our readers to do is this:
If you're tired of reading crap like this, write to the Tribune to let them know that you want Roger Baylor's columns to stop running. They are giving him free space to write destructive nonsense that is unhelpful.
Here's the link to the story: BAYLOR: Beware, yuletide oupistidophbes. I'm watching. @ newsandtribune.com. Then decide if this is the garbage and crap you want to read in our local Tribune newspaper.
Third, He can have his blog, but it is truly a problem that the Tribune is PAYING Baylor to put crap in there like that.
We, believe in freedom of the press, and freedom of speech, but the paper chooses NOT to put in a lot of things that need to be in there. It's high time they choose not to include this.
It's really offensive and is NOT the kind of thing that ought to be included in a decent newspaper.
But to attack Christianity and Christmas is just too much.
At the very least, the Tribune needs to know they're paying for this crap.
If you agree with us, Contact:
Tribune Publisher & Executive Editor Steve.Kozarovich@newsandtribune. com or contact him by phone: 812-206-2148 or drop him a note: 303 Scribner Drive, New Albany, IN 47150.
Tell him Roger Baylor has got to go...
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
REINDEER SPOTTED AT THE BANK STREET BREWHOUSE...
Yesterday evening, at the Bank Street Brewhouse, a reindeer walked in the door, bellied up to the bar and ordered a pint. Without batting an eye, the bartender poured him a TafelBier, set it in front of the reindeer, and accepted the twenty-dollar bill from the reindeer's hoof.
As he handed the reindeer some coins in change, he said, You know, I think you're the first reindeer I've ever seen in here."
The reindeer looked hard at the hoofful of change and said, "Hmmmpf. Let me tell you something, buddy.
At these prices, I'm the last reindeer you'll see in here!"
I'm outta here... I'm going to PASTIME Bar & Grill for a real beer.
"Good choice Rudolph, I'm coming with you!"
As he handed the reindeer some coins in change, he said, You know, I think you're the first reindeer I've ever seen in here."
The reindeer looked hard at the hoofful of change and said, "Hmmmpf. Let me tell you something, buddy.
At these prices, I'm the last reindeer you'll see in here!"
I'm outta here... I'm going to PASTIME Bar & Grill for a real beer.
"Good choice Rudolph, I'm coming with you!"
Source: Merry Christmas from a
Loyal Reader
Tuesday, December 07, 2010
ONE QUESTION OR TWO ~ MR. MAYOR...
1. Why were two Sellersburg police officers directing traffic on Grantline and Daisy Lane yesterday?
2. Who will pay the loss sewer revenue once the city annex's the Charlestown Road area?
Let's just make it three questions.
3. If we do not have the employees to cover our city's needs, how can you Mr. Mayor, cover the new annexed area and how do you plan to pay for all of this....?
Hell will freeze over before you get the votes for a LOIT TAX!
2. Who will pay the loss sewer revenue once the city annex's the Charlestown Road area?
Let's just make it three questions.
3. If we do not have the employees to cover our city's needs, how can you Mr. Mayor, cover the new annexed area and how do you plan to pay for all of this....?
Hell will freeze over before you get the votes for a LOIT TAX!
Friday, December 03, 2010
AIRPORT SECURITY...
An engineer (ex-NASA project director) has what we think is the near perfect solution for airport security!
Here's a solution to all the controversy over pat downs and full body scanners at the airports.
Have a booth that you must step into that will not X-ray you, but will detonate any explosive device you may have on you.
It would be a win-win for everyone, and there would be none of this crap about racial profiling and this method would eliminate a long and expensive trial.
Justice would be quick and swift.
Case Closed!
Here's a solution to all the controversy over pat downs and full body scanners at the airports.
Have a booth that you must step into that will not X-ray you, but will detonate any explosive device you may have on you.
It would be a win-win for everyone, and there would be none of this crap about racial profiling and this method would eliminate a long and expensive trial.
Justice would be quick and swift.
Case Closed!
Sunday, November 28, 2010
WHO ELBOWED OBAMA?
U K News reported, it was a five-on-five contest involving family and friends, including Hillary Clinton, Obama's Secretary of State.
The White House's internal sports trainer, Reggie Handles, told UK News:
Hillary had him over a barrel. She was dribbling; cutting and faking like a bat out of hell.
During the second quarter Hillary broke the penetration zone with a match-up zone defense. Obama came in from the short corner, ball side, and tried to overload the zone.
That's when Hillary "bitch slapped" Barack with her bony elbow. He went down like a sack of potatoes!"
As he laid there on the court with blood flowing everywhere and his Secret Service guys laughing.
Hillary stated: Barack, this one's for the 2008 election!
Freedom Of Speech would like to say:
Hillary, you only have 17,999,999 left and please make the next one for us...
The British have a talent for caustic satire and painful put downs and that's a fact.
The White House's internal sports trainer, Reggie Handles, told UK News:
Hillary had him over a barrel. She was dribbling; cutting and faking like a bat out of hell.
During the second quarter Hillary broke the penetration zone with a match-up zone defense. Obama came in from the short corner, ball side, and tried to overload the zone.
That's when Hillary "bitch slapped" Barack with her bony elbow. He went down like a sack of potatoes!"
As he laid there on the court with blood flowing everywhere and his Secret Service guys laughing.
Hillary stated: Barack, this one's for the 2008 election!
Freedom Of Speech would like to say:
Hillary, you only have 17,999,999 left and please make the next one for us...
The British have a talent for caustic satire and painful put downs and that's a fact.
Monday, November 22, 2010
ROBBING PETER TO PAY PAUL...
Although legend has it that this expression alludes to appropriating the estates of St. Peters Church, in Westminster, London, to pay for the repairs of St. Paul's Cathedral in the 1800s, the saying first appeared in a work by John Wycliffe about 1382.
End of our history lesson for today.
Robbing Peter to pay Paul, means to take from one to give to another, shift resources.
Did you read the Nov. 21st Tribune article:
TIF may be answer for New Albany budget deficit. England proposing $2.1 million in TIF be transferred to balance spending.
"According to Mayor Doug England, $600,000 of TIF funds can be moved to offset general fund spending without approval from the New Albany City Council. Another $1.5 million can be shifted to the Economic Development Income Tax fund if the council votes to amend some of the TIF districts, England said."
Someone once told us: If you want to know what's really going on, follow the money.
End of our history lesson for today.
Robbing Peter to pay Paul, means to take from one to give to another, shift resources.
Did you read the Nov. 21st Tribune article:
TIF may be answer for New Albany budget deficit. England proposing $2.1 million in TIF be transferred to balance spending.
"According to Mayor Doug England, $600,000 of TIF funds can be moved to offset general fund spending without approval from the New Albany City Council. Another $1.5 million can be shifted to the Economic Development Income Tax fund if the council votes to amend some of the TIF districts, England said."
Someone once told us: If you want to know what's really going on, follow the money.
In a recent article we posted: Basic Theory of TIF, Freedom Of Speech repeats: when the TIF Bond cost are paid off, the TIF area is discontinued (rescinded) so that the tax money can help the General Fund!
When they talk about amending, that means they are planning to extend the TIF area.
Watch and see if we are right!
This is another boondoggle of England's.
What he is planning on doing is "bailing out" the Police and Fire Department with the $1.8 million instead of making the hard decisions.
As we continue to say: TIF's are killing our General Fund. They want more TIF's and less revenue.
Freedom Of Speech feels that $300,000 of EDIT should be used to rebuild Camille Wright Pool!
It's our money and we should have a right to say what it should be used for.
Reality simply doesn't matter. England will say or do anything and lie to your face, even when the facts are sitting bald and naked right in front of everybody.
It is our opinion, the only difference between Bernie Madoff and Douglas B. England is Bernie got caught and England continues to Rob Peter to Pay Paul.
It's just a matter of time...Mr. England. You just don't get it!
Saturday, November 20, 2010
H.E.L.P. BILL...
State Representative Jeff Thompson will author a H.E.L.P. bill during the upcoming General Assembly session.
H.E.L.P. is an approach that first, second and third grade teachers use to measure how well a community provides "Mature Homework Partners" to help students effectively complete meaningful homework every school day. A Mature Homework Partner can be a parent, guardian, relative, neighbor, or anyone at least 14 years of age.
The H.E.L.P. Rate is the percent of students that submit homework satisfactorily completed under the supervision of a Mature Homework Partner everyday the students attended school during the week.
Elementary school principals would be the only school officials allowed to reveal the names of Grade 1, 2, and 3 students to prospective Mature Homework Partners.
School-level efforts to provide information on effective homework supervision and coordinate the provision of Mature Homework Partners would be paid for by an annual state grant of four dollars for every Grade 1, 2, and 3 students.
Additional information about Homework Enhances Learning Potential can be found at http.//finplaneducation.net
H.E.L.P. is an approach that first, second and third grade teachers use to measure how well a community provides "Mature Homework Partners" to help students effectively complete meaningful homework every school day. A Mature Homework Partner can be a parent, guardian, relative, neighbor, or anyone at least 14 years of age.
The H.E.L.P. Rate is the percent of students that submit homework satisfactorily completed under the supervision of a Mature Homework Partner everyday the students attended school during the week.
Elementary school principals would be the only school officials allowed to reveal the names of Grade 1, 2, and 3 students to prospective Mature Homework Partners.
School-level efforts to provide information on effective homework supervision and coordinate the provision of Mature Homework Partners would be paid for by an annual state grant of four dollars for every Grade 1, 2, and 3 students.
Additional information about Homework Enhances Learning Potential can be found at http.//finplaneducation.net
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
HOME FORECLOSURE & JOBS....
Obama was warned in his first week in office that the housing and job issues had to be addressed prior to anything else. He and Congress chose to go after the democrats pet project of 20 years, health care.
Over a year working on nothing but that bill producing a piece of trash legislation that has already gone past the trillion dollar cap by 4 trillion and climbing as the bits and pieces emerge from the bill.
You elected a person [not us] who has no leadership abilities and let the Congress dictate priorities.
Millions out of work and Pelosi grants millions to a mouse, turtle walks and shuts down farms in California for a fish, killing even more jobs.
The Obama White House made lots of claims about stimulus, including up to 3.6 million private sector jobs. So far they are 3.5 million jobs short.
Of some one out there soon can't figure out how to manufacture, sell and buy US goods this country is screwed no matter what happens.
Nothing this administration has done for the public has any teeth in it or a real direction out of the recession.
Home modification loans are a farse, the banks will not lend they will make it because they lose money if they for close and write it off they get more back from our tax dollars.
So, how's that "hope and change" workin for ya?
Over a year working on nothing but that bill producing a piece of trash legislation that has already gone past the trillion dollar cap by 4 trillion and climbing as the bits and pieces emerge from the bill.
You elected a person [not us] who has no leadership abilities and let the Congress dictate priorities.
Millions out of work and Pelosi grants millions to a mouse, turtle walks and shuts down farms in California for a fish, killing even more jobs.
The Obama White House made lots of claims about stimulus, including up to 3.6 million private sector jobs. So far they are 3.5 million jobs short.
Of some one out there soon can't figure out how to manufacture, sell and buy US goods this country is screwed no matter what happens.
Nothing this administration has done for the public has any teeth in it or a real direction out of the recession.
Home modification loans are a farse, the banks will not lend they will make it because they lose money if they for close and write it off they get more back from our tax dollars.
So, how's that "hope and change" workin for ya?
Friday, November 12, 2010
HOUSING MARKET....
In case you've been living in a cave, there's a painful credit crunch underway. The culprit is the subprime mortgage a species of risky home loans to buyers with dubious credit and income.
Instead of letting lenders and subprime mortgage holders suffer the consequences of their actions, politicians and grievance mongers are riding to the supposed rescue. In a supreme irony, the very same champions of the needy who complain constantly about the lack of "affordable housing" are now fighting tooth and nail to keep housing prices high...
Let's boil this down to fundamentals: Why should the rest of us have to shoulder the burden because some buyers made poor choices, overextended themselves and bought more house than they could afford? And why are falling home prices such a catastrophe to be "fixed" in the first place?
Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke has proposed that government-sponsored mortgage enterprises Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac be allowed to raise their loan limits and have their debt explicitly guaranteed by the public dole.
Who'll bail us out from this perversion of the American Dream?
Instead of letting lenders and subprime mortgage holders suffer the consequences of their actions, politicians and grievance mongers are riding to the supposed rescue. In a supreme irony, the very same champions of the needy who complain constantly about the lack of "affordable housing" are now fighting tooth and nail to keep housing prices high...
Let's boil this down to fundamentals: Why should the rest of us have to shoulder the burden because some buyers made poor choices, overextended themselves and bought more house than they could afford? And why are falling home prices such a catastrophe to be "fixed" in the first place?
Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke has proposed that government-sponsored mortgage enterprises Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac be allowed to raise their loan limits and have their debt explicitly guaranteed by the public dole.
Who'll bail us out from this perversion of the American Dream?
Sunday, November 07, 2010
VALLA ANN 6 - ENGLAND 2.....
It took six years for Valla Ann Bolovschak to make history with the Main Street Quiet Zone and it only took two years of waiting for Mayor Douglas B. England to TRY and STEAL her credit!
What do we mean?
Read this and you will be outraged:
"Train Quiet Zone Enforced In New Albany"
After a two-year process, New Albany residents have a new quiet zone for train horns along the historic East Main Street corridor following an agreement city leaders were able to reach with Norfolk Southern Railroad.
The quiet zone officially began at 12:01 a.m. Friday.
The areas affected include the crossings at East 6th, East 10th and West 14th streets.
Mayor Doug England said the city first filed notice to apply for a quiet zone April 15, 2008.
Norfolk Southern Railroad administrators said the crossings needed upgrades to let engineers know if the crossing gates and lights are properly working.
After months of negotiations, city and railroad leaders reached an agreement to install those upgrades on Nov. 17, 2009.
The work was finished last May.
The city then re-filed notice of the quiet zone last month, which was approved by the railroad and began Friday, "England said."
By Andy Alcock/ WLKY
One of the great things about blogging is the ability to present all the facts when others don't and won't.
We're talking about the Mayor and local Tribune.
However, there are somethings totally left out of the press conference and in the interview with Mayor England by WLKY.
While attending a victory celebration party for Ed Clere, there just happen to be two TVs on and what should appear, an interview and press conference with Mayor England over the new Quiet Zone.
("Talk about tooting your own horn!")
While watching this interview everyone was taken back that England was taking credit (or trying too) for all of Valla Ann's hard work. If you haven't seen the interview/press conference we suggest that you Google WLKY.com and type in the words: New Albany Quiet Zone.
What all this boils down to is this: The-All-About-Me-Mayor England, is a LIAR.
Yes, this time we are not going to let England slide and think he can get away with this lie.
Since Mayor England claims he done all the work on the quiet zone and he feels he deserves all the credit, we have a few questions for him to answer:
* How many pages was the Notice of Establishment you negotiated?
* What date did you received full funding approval and what was the amount?
* How was the funding obtained and from whom?
What do we mean?
Read this and you will be outraged:
"Train Quiet Zone Enforced In New Albany"
After a two-year process, New Albany residents have a new quiet zone for train horns along the historic East Main Street corridor following an agreement city leaders were able to reach with Norfolk Southern Railroad.
The quiet zone officially began at 12:01 a.m. Friday.
The areas affected include the crossings at East 6th, East 10th and West 14th streets.
Mayor Doug England said the city first filed notice to apply for a quiet zone April 15, 2008.
Norfolk Southern Railroad administrators said the crossings needed upgrades to let engineers know if the crossing gates and lights are properly working.
After months of negotiations, city and railroad leaders reached an agreement to install those upgrades on Nov. 17, 2009.
The work was finished last May.
The city then re-filed notice of the quiet zone last month, which was approved by the railroad and began Friday, "England said."
By Andy Alcock/ WLKY
One of the great things about blogging is the ability to present all the facts when others don't and won't.
We're talking about the Mayor and local Tribune.
However, there are somethings totally left out of the press conference and in the interview with Mayor England by WLKY.
While attending a victory celebration party for Ed Clere, there just happen to be two TVs on and what should appear, an interview and press conference with Mayor England over the new Quiet Zone.
("Talk about tooting your own horn!")
While watching this interview everyone was taken back that England was taking credit (or trying too) for all of Valla Ann's hard work. If you haven't seen the interview/press conference we suggest that you Google WLKY.com and type in the words: New Albany Quiet Zone.
What all this boils down to is this: The-All-About-Me-Mayor England, is a LIAR.
Yes, this time we are not going to let England slide and think he can get away with this lie.
Since Mayor England claims he done all the work on the quiet zone and he feels he deserves all the credit, we have a few questions for him to answer:
* How many pages was the Notice of Establishment you negotiated?
* What date did you received full funding approval and what was the amount?
* How was the funding obtained and from whom?
* How many gates and lights were installed?
* Why would you call a press conference and not include Valla Ann Bolovschak?
Mayor Doug England stated on tape: the city first filed notice to apply for a quiet zone April 15, 2008.
Would you like to retract your statement before we expose you for the "liar" that you are?
At least Mayor England if you are going to try and take credit for the quiet zone you ought to have done your homework before you tooted your own horn!
Now, here are the facts and they are documented:
Valla Ann received full funding approval from INDOT and Norfolk Southern, in the amount of $160,000 and $323,000 from Norfolk Southern.
In the history of Norfolk Southern they had never invested this amount of money ever in a quiet zone, but with Valla Ann's ability to negotiate she achieved the funding (no grants) and the City of New Albany received the check for $483,000.
Freedom Of Speech obtained documents dating August of 2004 reflecting acknowledgement of the financial commitments and agreement with INDOT and Norfolk Southern.
We guess England forgot he didn't take office as Mayor until 2008.
Was that "another gotcha Doug moment?"
Absolutely!
Valla Ann presented to the England administration a 30 page Notice of Establishment. Which was already drawn up, Norfolk Southern required it to be put on City of New Albany letterhead and signed and that was it.
Matt Dennison unwilling to take educated guidance procrastinated and another glitch popped up to delay the Main Street Quiet Zone.
The only reason city had to get involved is because rules changed and power outage indicators had to be installed.
The cost was estimated about $5,000 and the final bill ended up being $15,000. Our understanding the city paid way over what power outage indicators normally cost.
After six years Valla Ann and the Citizens of New Albany finally have a quiet zone!
Freedom Of Speech believes in giving credit where credit is due.
You can expect a jealous neighbor to not say a simple "thank you", but for Doug England not to give Valla Ann the credit she deserves tells you the character and class of our mayor.
This is about principals, folks!
The sad part about all of this, on Friday evening at 12:33 am it was Valla Ann alone standing there to thank the engineers and NO one else bothered to showed up.
To Mayor England, you are always the first to want the credit, and nevcr do the work.
Have you NO shame?
Freedom Of Speech believes in giving credit where the credit is due, you never gave up, you never gave in, and your the one Valla Ann that made it happen!
Thank You,
Freedom Of Speech Staff
Tuesday, November 02, 2010
CONGRATULATIONS TO REP. ED CLERE...
They tried to trash his image and attack his character, it did not work!
The democrat and republican voters saw right through all the mudslinging and nasty mailers.
They respect Ed Clere and what he stands for.
Freedom Of Speech is proud to have supported the best candidate. Ed Clere will again represent us all in Indianapolis.
Freedom Of Speech Staff
The democrat and republican voters saw right through all the mudslinging and nasty mailers.
They respect Ed Clere and what he stands for.
Freedom Of Speech is proud to have supported the best candidate. Ed Clere will again represent us all in Indianapolis.
Freedom Of Speech Staff
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