Lone Star Liberty Online

Lone Star Liberty, May 2009: LIBERTARIANS SAVE $37.5 BILLION (oops, million)

2009-05-09T13:50:06Z

Lone Star Liberty newsletter:
the monthly newsletter of the Libertarian Party of Texas, www.LPTexas.org

May 2009
Over 2600 subscribers

Please donate at http://lptexas.org/BecomeaMember.html

1. LIBERTARIANS SAVE $37.5 MILLION
2. LIBERTARIAN TEA PARTIES A ROUSING SUCCESS
3. LOCAL CAMPAIGNS IN MOTION
4. NATIONAL PARTY COMING TO TEXAS
5. LIBERTARIANS OPPOSE SOBRIETY CHECKPOINTS
6. DEMOCRAT HYPOCRISY ON VOTER'S RIGHTS
7. TAXPAYER DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE
8. CAN CNN BE SAVED?
9. TEXAS MEMBERSHIP SET TO ECLIPSE FLORIDA
10. ADAM KOKESH VISITS TEXAS
11. YOUNG AMERICANS FOR LIBERTY SCHOLARSHIP
12. NATIONAL BYLAWS SURVEY
13. BRITISH COLUMBIA ELECTION REFORM
14. STATE TOUR PLANS
15. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
16. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES

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1. LIBERTARIANS SAVE $37.5 MILLION

The Libertarian Party of Texas defeated House Bill 1892 which would have imposed a $37.5 billion (oops, we had an Obama moment, we mean million) tax bill on the people of Texas. It would have also threatened political parties from challenging Republicans and Democrats. This demonstrates the return on investment that your donation of time, talent, and treasure with the Libertarian Party has produced.

The press release on this victory is found at this lengthy URL:
http://campaign.constantcontact.com/render?v=001aqj1QInodGTCipaidHuwd6KNsRQH-eBxrXKpIRqUOGgvURLyI7tkBUDIhwkZglDDUtajceSJriahpnXE6avIiLwQCv4ZOGQDsbuCJD2meWbLXaXETaK0Kd3F9X_gwao2cBioV2cVOWJm01tCkTadJaUhKAIdolQaLHUbIYtuzs5vs9HHVlaq_aH-E5rMK-n_lPL0UEvkv3m2y59CsNJuOKeAm9T2EGjtFxSmU5yf4KBFqG9hkxOi3AaxVUIvCiaZz3m6LjcKuw5vXzLfPWPMGQ%3D%3D

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2. LIBERTARIAN TEA PARTIES A ROUSING SUCCESS

The April 15th tea parties, which originated with the Libertarian Party of Illinois, resulted in widespread support and promotion of policies that the Libertarian Party has always advocated. Representatives from the Libertarian Party of Texas participated in several of these events.

The Libertarian Party's role in the origin and promotion of the tea parties is found in this press release:
http://www.lp.org/news/press-releases/libertarians-cordially-invite-you-to-a-tea-party

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3. LOCAL CAMPAIGNS IN MOTION

Today is election day in many cities and school districts. Several liberty minded candidates and activists have been very busy in promoting the message of liberty in these campaigns. The Libertarian Party extends best wishes and congratulations for all liberty minded candidates who have helped promote our message.

Libertarians will gain at least one elected official today. Harold Doty is running unopposed for Quintana City Council in Brazoria County.

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4. NATIONAL PARTY COMING TO TEXAS

The weekend of Jan 29-31, 2010 in Austin will be the date and location for the annual meeting of the Libertarian State Leadership Alliance (LSLA, http://statechairsconference.org/about/) . This organization consists of all state leaders in the Libertarian Party. The meeting will also include the Libertarian Party's National Committee (LNC), Bylaws Committee, and Platform Committee.

Austin was considered as a site for the national convention but was not selected. This is an opportunity for Texas to show the world what they missed. Anyone is welcome to register and attend. More details will be forthcoming.

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5. LIBERTARIANS OPPOSE SOBRIETY CHECKPOINTS

The Libertarian Party of Texas came out in opposition to state Senate Bill 298 recently, which would have imposed sobriety checkpoints. It is noted that the FBI states that "Typically, sobriety checkpoints do not yield a large volume of DUI arrests". Reference to this FBI report is found in the press release at the lengthy URL below:
http://campaign.constantcontact.com/render?v=001aqj1QInodGQQJVZNFvGjJPdTziN82OnNRKxJuyz8BKpmk9mI4zzrEUeGitG4oTY74IUpWWKP2eqDacLVJbkmx0iETRYSRXo-XqsoxIxz0PAFsmmdVmbE1YMcLCUHpmy4pOH-zIbeEV485W5K938wZKsqAJSdI4h40BdkIZN7UR4KnI3j58ZuH_2JuyW-oO4t0y1qLssBA3_dXzv-gRS674jZN6W4wUYDbZmOY4gYEgSTPHwda1rWxVbZmnSldoe5WgXmNyJhtcduJTftAlrfzYTmZVaSqfh6DE9OC4zVi28OiHwPeHGNkxdQd1viUflJ

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6. DEMOCRAT HYPOCRISY ON VOTER'S RIGHTS

A recent effort by Andy Brown of the Travis County Democratic Party attempted to address legislation considered in the current state legislature. In his message he states:
"We need you to be there to help defend our fundamental right to vote by testifying and registering your opposition against this bill, which is part of a national Republican campaign to suppress the vote and keep failed leaders in office." "Please join us in opposing Voter Suppression legislation in Texas."

At the same time, efforts to give voters the power of choice are being opposed and ignored by both Democrats and Republicans.
- Democratic legislators have completely ignored efforts by the Libertarian Party to defend the voter's right of petition to have opposing party's candidates on the ballot. The Texas provision known as "Primary Screenout" will remain, no thanks to the Democratic Party. More detail can be found in our legislative agenda at http://lptexas.org/LegAgenda2009.pdf
- A broad coalition of the Libertarian, Green, Reform, Constitution parties, and many others to get HB 820 to a vote in the legislature is being opposed by Democrats and Republicans alike. This bill would reduce the number of petition signatures required for a new party to appear on the ballot. Texas has some of the most restrictive and prohibitive ballot access laws in the United States.

If Andy Brown was sincere in his concern about laws that "keep failed leaders in office" we would join us in our efforts.

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7. TAXPAYER DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

Libertarian activists in North Carolina have written a Taxpayer Declaration of Independence to be found at http://taxdoi.org/. They are requesting liberty minded individuals to sign their declaration.

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8. CAN CNN BE SAVED?

An effort is being made to reform CNN News. The site http://sites.google.com/site/savecnn/ has received some coverage by Reason at http://reason.com/blog/show/133136.html

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9. TEXAS MEMBERSHIP SET TO ECLIPSE FLORIDA

The most recent national membership information from Libertarian Party headquarters in Washington DC shows Florida in 2nd place with 1025 active members and Texas in 3rd place with 1016 active members. California is in first place with 2008 active national members.

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10. ADAM KOKESH VISITS TEXAS

Iraq war veteran and presumptive candidate for US Congress from New Mexico Adam Kokesh will make the following stops in Austin on May 16:

Austin: Residence of Lisa Mallory
5012 Lakeview Dr.
Austin, TX 78732 , TX
512-804-9339
11:00-Noon: Lunch and chatting with Adam one-on-one
Noon-12:30: Adam addresses the crowd and does a quick Q&A session
12:30-1:30: More chattin' with Adam and wrap up (and cleanup)
http://www.meetup.com/ronpaulaustin/calendar/10367826/

Houston: Pappa's BBQ
7007 S.W. Freeway @ Bellaire Blvd.
Houston, TX 77074
When: Saturday, May 16, 2009 from 7 PM to 11 PM
http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=80328253100

For more information about Adam Kokesh, the following videos provide an introduction:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ymd2KiP-PqY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbOp_9VfR6o
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hfgQvRFJA7M&feature=related

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11. YOUNG AMERICANS FOR LIBERTY SCHOLARSHIP

The Young Americans for Liberty (http://blog.yaliberty.org/) is offering scholarship opportunities for attending the regional conference in Seattle Mat 22-24. Interested participants can apply at:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=gRy3tkNazKonNHTzSZT_2bxA_3d_3d

For background on the conference, this video may provide insight:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1FSStLd8qU

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12. NATIONAL BYLAWS SURVEY

The Libertarian Party national bylaws committee has produced a report and is interested in your feedback. You can participate in the survey at http://www.lp.org/phpQ/fillsurvey.php?sid=4

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13. BRITISH COLUMBIA ELECTION REFORM

Libertarian Party national chairman Bill Redpath is very active and involved in electoral reform measures such as ballot access, voting methods such as Instant Runoff Voting (IRV), and proportional representation. Below is an update regarding significant reform being considered in Canada:

"Dear Colleagues: As you know, I think changing our electoral system is critically important to the future of the Libertarian Party of the United States. In British Columbia on Tuesday, May 12, there is a very important vote to change the election system for its parliament from First Past the Post (single member district, person with the most votes wins—like we have here in the US) to Single Transferable Vote, in which 85 legislators will be elected from 20 districts (they call them “ridings”) ranging from two-member to seven-member districts. Unfortunately, it must earn a 60% “Yes” vote to pass, but that might happen. If we had such a system here, there is no doubt in my mind that Libertarians would be in state legislatures and Congress. Here is a commentary from a politician turned talk show host in Vancouver. Thanks, Bill"

This video provides addition information about Single Transferable Vote (STV):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhccpzI4lbQ

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14. STATE TOUR PLANS

In 2007 Executive Director Wes Benedict and State Chair Pat Dixon conducted a tour of the state of Texas. "Wes and Pat's Excellent Adventure" tells the story:
http://patdixon.org/wesandpat.mov
http://patdixon.org/wesandpat_movie_man.mp4
http://patdixon.org/wesandpat_movie_man.avi

This year new Executive Director Robert Butler will join Pat in a repeat performance. This is expected to start in September and run through December. Those locations that can commit to at least 10 people in attendance will be included in the tour. You are encouraged to contact the state committee (SLECT) representative in your district (http://lptexas.org/Leadership.html) and let them know you would like to attend and which dates you are available.

If we don't get your commitment, you may get passed up. Don't let this happen! Contact your SLECT representative today.

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15. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

If I asked you to donate $100 to save $37.5 million, would you do it?

The first news item in this newsletter gives you an idea of what we can do with your support. We have staff and volunteers that can get organized to keep the message of liberty alive and defeat growing government intrusion into our lives and wallets. We are doing our best to continue this work, and we need your support.

The threat to liberty is real. Only 53% of Americans think capitalism is better than socialism (http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/general_politics/just_53_say_capitalism_better_than_socialism). The threat to individual liberty is every bit as dangerous as the threat to economic liberty.

Today several of you are on the ballot running for a city council, school board, or other local election. You are the leaders. You demonstrate the desire to effectively change policy in the direction of liberty.

I know my experience serving in local office has been challenging but rewarding. I recently was very involved in trying to defeat promotion of global warming policies and taxation of our tourism industry (see www.PatDixon.org). Although I was not successful when council voted on these matters, I believe public opinion has been positively influenced. I am now engaged in providing an ethics policy for the city and I believe I will be successful in that effort.

Whether at the local, state, or federal level, Libertarians are running for office and having a positive effect on promoting policies of liberty and getting the message out, especially to the next generation.

So, is the investment in the Libertarian Party worth it? I know my answer. I trust you to make your decision for yourself.

Yours in Liberty,

Pat Dixon
Chair, Libertarian Party of Texas

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Please donate at http://lptexas.org/BecomeaMember.html

16. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES:

May 9, 2009 - Municipal elections
Non partisan races for city councils, school boards, etc. Contact your local agencies for details on filing for these offices.

June 20, LP Texas state committee (SLECT) meeting
Noon to 5 PM
Natalita's Mexican Restaurant
17470 Northwest Fwy
Houston, TX

Sept through December, 2009 - "Robert and Pat's Excellent Adventure", state tour to meet with Libertarians, provide information and materials, and grow the party. Please contact your SLECT representative at http://lptexas.org/Leadership.html to confirm your attendance.

Jan 29-31, 2010 - Annual meeting of all state leaders of the Libertarian Party (LSLA, http://statechairsconference.org/about/) including the national committee of the Libertarian Party (http://www.lp.org/leadership) and national Bylaws and Platform committee. Location will be Austin, registration information to follow in future newsletters

March 2010 - Libertarian Party county conventions for nomination of candidates for 2010 election, as well as LP county officers. See your county chair (http://lptexas.org/CountyChairs.html) for more information

June 2010 - Libertarian party of Texas state convention, details pending

Subscribe to Lone Star Liberty Online via email by entering your email address below:

Lone Star Liberty Online Message - Tax Freedom Day, come join us!

2009-04-06T22:48:26Z

Lone Star Liberty newsletter:
the monthly newsletter of the Libertarian Party of Texas, www.LPTexas.org

April 2009
Over 2500 subscribers

Please donate at http://lptexas.org/BecomeaMember.html

1. TAX FREEDOM DAY
2. LOCAL CAMPAIGNS IN MOTION
3. NATIONAL PARTY COMING TO TEXAS
4. LIBERTARIANS OPPOSE REAL ID
5. SCHOOL CHOICE BILL
6. THE GOVERNMENT'S CAR CARE PLAN
7. BARACK W BUSH
8. US CITIZENS LESS CONCERNED ABOUT GLOBAL WARMING
9. STATE CHAIR SPEAKS ON GLOBAL WARMING
10. GINGRICH WARNS OF THIRD PARTY
11. LIBERTARIAN REMOVED FROM NEW YORK BALLOT
12. TEXAS STATE FAIR PLANS
13. STATE TOUR PLANS
14. A LIBERTARIAN RUNS A BANK ....
15. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
16. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES

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1. TAX FREEDOM DAY

Libertarians around the state will be having their own form of tax protest as April 15 approaches

In several cities Libertarians will be dining together to celebrate Tax Freedom Day. We will provide an excellent speaker to be announced, and talk about the history and the future of taxation in America. We will be alerting the media to our event, so a big crowd will definitely be noticed.

Every participant will receive a free copy of "Great Myths of the Great Depression" by Lawrence Reed.

We will be dining at Buca di Beppo's. Their famously over-sized four-course meal includes salad, pasta, an entree, dessert, and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages. Pasta choices include: spaghetti, cheese manicoti, penne arrabbiata, penne basilica, penne San Remo. Entree choices include: chicken parmigiana, eggplant parmigiana, chicken with lemon, salmon with pesto, or lasagna. Cash bar available.

These dinners will occur in Dallas-Forth Worth, Houston, and Austin. Speakers will include Penny Langford-Freeman
(Former Political Director of Congressman Ron Paul) and Peggy Venable (State Director, Americans for Prosperity).

Go to http://lptexas.org/TaxFreedomDayDinner.html for more details.

On the same day as the Houston Tax Freedom dinner, there is an opportunity to participate in a Tea party. This comes from Houston activist Marsha Browne:
"Is there someone from your organization that would contact: Houston-Tea-Party-list@meetup.com to see if there is any way to join the two groups together or be closer together somehow. The Houston Tea Party is holding a protest in front of the Houston Post Office downtown on the 15th of this month."

Meanwhile, on the Lago Vista city council our state chair Pat Dixon will be making a motion at the April 16th council meeting to repeal a tax on the tourism industry. See www.PatDixon.org for details.

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2. LOCAL CAMPAIGNS IN MOTION

Several defenders of liberty are running for local office this May:

John Jay Myers is running for city council in Dallas. His website is www.johnjaymyers.com

In McAllen, Charles W. Snelling is running for mayor. A story on this campaign appeared at http://www.themonitor.com/articles/mcallen_24122___article.html/challengers_face.html

In the Austin area there are several candidates running for local offices.

Lisa Mallory, for Leander ISD Trustee, Place 1
http://lisa4lisd.com
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkF9l5vkxng&feature=channel_page

Erica Grignon, for Pflugerville City Council, Place 5
http://erica4pflugerville.com
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FWBrg9jnIY&feature=channel_page

Nick Brumder, for Georgetown ISD Trustee
http://nickbrumder.com

Sam Osemene, for Austin City Council
http://osemenesam.com
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8q2waPDX8w&feature=channel_page

Gunnar Ristroph, for Round Rock ISD Trustee
http://ristroph.com
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=esPb52Z6otU&feature=channel_page

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3. NATIONAL PARTY COMING TO TEXAS

The weekend of Jan 29-31, 2010 in Austin will be the date and location for the annual meeting of the Libertarian State Leadership Alliance (LSLA, http://statechairsconference.org/conference-registration/) . This organization consists of all state leaders in the Libertarian Party. The meeting will also include the Libertarian Party's National Committee (LNC), Bylaws Committee, and Platform Committee.

Austin was considered as a site for the national convention but was not selected. This is an opportunity for Texas to show the world what they missed. Anyone is welcome to register and attend. More details will be forthcoming.

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4. LIBERTARIANS OPPOSE REAL ID

The Libertarian Party of Texas issued the following press release opposing Real ID:
http://lptexas.org/040609NewsRelease.html

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5. SCHOOL CHOICE BILL

Bob Schoolfield is a school choice advocate who is working on bills in the state legislature. The Libertarian Party has debated whether vouchers are the best means of providing choice, but below is Bob's request to support a voucher bill:

The Voucher Bill for Learning Disabled Students (SB 183) will have a hearing in the Texas Senate Education Committee on Tuesday, April 7th! Read the Bill. Take Action!

Action 1:
Pass this email on to your groups!
Subscribe if you received this email forwarded by a friend.

Action 2:
If you can come to Austin, please come tell the commitee your family story. Limit 3 minutes.
The meeting starts at 8:00 AM in room E1.028.
Go to the Capitol
Follow signs to Capitol Parking Garage.
That room is on the top floor of the underground Capitol Extension. Go to the open-air rotunda.
Walk around it to the right. Pass the stairs. It will be the first hearing room past the stairs on the right.
Wear your "I love school shopping" lapel sticker, find someone wearing one and ask for one!

Action 3:
If you cannot come to Austin, please call the senators on the Education Committee
Senator Florence Shapiro : 512-463-0108
Senator Kip Averitt : 512-463-0122
Senator Wendy Davis: 512-463-0110
Senator Mario Gallegos: 512-463-0106
Senator Steve Ogden: 512-463-0105
Senator Leticia Van de Putte: 512-463-0126
Senator Royce West: 512-463-0123
Senator Tommy Williams: 512-463-0104
Senator Dan Patrick: 512-463-0107

Mailing Address:
Austin CEO Foundation
6705 Hwy 290 W Suite 502
Attn: Connie Sadowski
Austin, TX 78735
US

Contact Name: Connie Sadowski
Bob Schoolfield
bob@ceoaustin.org

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6. THE GOVERNMENT'S CAR CARE PLAN

The clever folks at Reason want to explain your government's plan for taking car of your car:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fi9XCpSYJbY

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7. BARACK W BUSH

Those Reason folks don't stop there. They take a shot at George W Obama:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NdETP5aR2AQ

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8. US CITIZENS LESS CONCERNED ABOUT GLOBAL WARMING

People are become more skeptical about the claims of Al Gore and the global warming advocates:
http://blogs.spectrum.ieee.org/energywise/2009/03/23/us_citizenry_is_less_concerned.html

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9. STATE CHAIR SPEAKS ON GLOBAL WARMING

State chair Pat Dixon spoke on the issue of global warming (sort of) at the state senate's Natural Resource committee. The hearing was supposed to start at 1 PM but did not occur until after 8 PM. Dixon decided a better use of time was to leave this letter with them:

http://patdixon.org/sb126_letter.pdf

References in the letter:
http://lptexas.org/030909NewsRelease.html
http://www.dailytech.com/Temperature+Monitors+Report+Widescale+Global+Cooling/article10866.htm
http://wattsupwiththat.com/2008/02/19/january-2008-4-sources-say-globally-cooler-in-the-past-12-months/

Additional information at http://patdixon.org/globalwarming.html

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10. GINGRICH WARNS OF THIRD PARTY

Former speaker Newt Gingrich says a 3rd party will make gains in 2012:
http://www.newsmax.com/insidecover/gingrich_third_party/2009/04/03/199346.html

Of course, Libertarians are neither left nor right, neither liberal progressives nor conservatives:
http://www.theadvocates.org/quizp/index.html

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11. LIBERTARIAN REMOVED FROM NEW YORK BALLOT

Libertarian Eric Sundvall contested for the vacated US congressional seat in New York. He was removed from the ballot by the New York Board of Elections.
http://www.lp.org/news/press-releases/voters-get-no-choice-as-sundwall-removed-from-ballot-on-technicality

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12. TEXAS STATE FAIR PLANS

DFW area Libertarians are putting plans together for outreach at the Texas state fair. If you are interested in volunteering, you can contact the following:

Robert Butler, Executive Director, director@lptexas.com, 512-758-9134
John Spivey, Tarrant County Chair, johnhspivey@hotmail.com
Paul Osborn, paul@osborn.tv

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13. STATE TOUR PLANS

In 2007 Executive Director Wes Benedict and State Chair Pat Dixon conducted a tour of the state of Texas. "Wes and Pat's Excellent Adventure" tells the story:
http://patdixon.org/wesandpat.mov
http://patdixon.org/wesandpat_movie_man.mp4
http://patdixon.org/wesandpat_movie_man.avi

This year new Executive Director Robert Butler will join Pat in a repeat performance. This is expected to start in September and run through December. Those locations that can commit to at least 10 people in attendance will be included in the tour. You are encouraged to contact the state committee (SLECT) representative in your district (http://lptexas.org/Leadership.html) and let them know you would like to attend and which dates you are available.

If we don't get your commitment, you may get passed up. Don't let this happen! Contact your SLECT representative today.

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14. A LIBERTARIAN RUNS A BANK ....

With all the anger against bankers, it is interesting to contrast how a Libertarian runs a bank:
http://www.forbes.com/2009/04/03/banking-andy-beal-business-wall-street-beal.html?partner=popstories

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15. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

I am in Montreal on a work assignment. I like Montreal, but wish I was home. I have so much going on that time away from home means canceling some of my obligations.

Fortunately we have a great staff, volunteers, and donors like you that spread the work. In this way we have grown and made a greater contribution to the liberty movement.

There are many opportunities for you to participate as a team member with us. The Tax Freedom dinners are an excellent way to get involved and get to know us. I am sure you will enjoy being there.

We have some people running for local office in the May 9 elections. Helping campaigns at the local level is a good way to promote liberty in your neighborhood.

I would really ask that you consider helping with one of the most successful efforts Wes and I put together. In 2007 we decided instead of asking you to come to us, we came to you. Wes and I travelled all over the state and visited 25 cities to meet with you and help grow our party. This year Robert Butler and I want to do it even better. We need your commitment. We intend to only visit those locations with at least 10 people committed to show up. We are just asking for a few hours of your time on a Saturday or Sunday to be with us and help our efforts. I urge you to contact your representative on our state committee (SLECT) at http://lptexas.org/Leadership.html and let them know you want us to come to your town.

We appreciate your support of our party and look forward to your participation on our team.

Yours in Liberty,

Pat Dixon
Chair, Libertarian Party of Texas

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Please donate at http://lptexas.org/BecomeaMember.html

16. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES:

Aril 14, 2009 - Tax Freedom dinner, Dallas-Fort Worth
April 15, 2009 - Tax Freedom dinner, Houston
April 16, 2009 - Tax Freedom dinner, Austin
Details at http://lptexas.org/TaxFreedomDayDinner.html

May 9, 2009 - Municipal elections
Non partisan races for city councils, school boards, etc. Contact your local agencies for details on filing for these offices.

Sept through December, 2009 - "Robert and Pat's Excellent Adventure", state tour to meet with Libertarians, provide information and materials, and grow the party. Please contact your SLECT representative at http://lptexas.org/Leadership.html to confirm your attendance.

Jan 29-31, 2010 - Annual meeting of all state leaders of the Libertarian Party (LSLA, http://statechairsconference.org/conference-registration/) including the national committee of the Libertarian Party (http://www.lp.org/leadership) and national Bylaws and Platform committee. Location will be Austin, registration information to follow in future newsletters

March 2010 - Libertarian Party county conventions for nomination of candidates for 2010 election, as well as LP county officers. See your county chair (http://lptexas.org/CountyChairs.html) for more information

June 2010 - Libertarian party of Texas state convention, details pending

Subscribe to Lone Star Liberty Online via email by entering your email address below:

Lone Star Liberty - March 2009 - We Are All Socialists Now

2009-03-13T06:54:37Z

Lone Star Liberty newsletter:
the monthly newsletter of the Libertarian Party of Texas, www.LPTexas.org

March 2009
Over 2400 subscribers

Please donate at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml

1. WE ARE ALL SOCIALISTS NOW
2. LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITY HEATING UP
3. HB 820 FOR BALLOT ACCESS
4. SB 690
5. ARLINGTON HEARING ON STIMULUS
6. LOCAL CAMPAIGNS IN MOTION
7. NATIONAL PARTY COMING TO TEXAS
8. STOSSEL SPECIAL TONIGHT
9. NEW WEBSITE
10. TEXAS STATE FAIR PLANS
11. STATE TOUR PLANS
12. LP IN HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS
13. WHO IS A TERRORIST?
14. SEND A TISSUE
15. A BRITISH REVOLUTION
16. EARMARKS ARE BIPARTISAN
17. CAN HE REMEMBER THE QUESTION?
18. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
19. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES

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1. WE ARE ALL SOCIALISTS NOW

The Feb 16 edition of Newsweek magazine announced that we are all socialists now:
http://www.newsweek.com/id/183663

The Libertarian Party of Texas has a response:
http://lptexas.org/021609NewsRelease.html

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2. LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITY HEATING UP

The Libertarian Party of Texas has been outspoken on the state legislative session. Examples of recent press releases are:
"Legislature Gambles on Economy" : http://lptexas.org/020909NewsRelease.html
"Interior Design Act Threatens Small Business": http://lptexas.org/021809NewsRelease.html
"Libertarians Support Medical Marijuana": http://lptexas.org/022309NewsRelease.html
"Libertarians Declare Independence": http://lptexas.org/030209NewsRelease.html
"Libertarians Call for Repeal of Margins Tax": http://lptexas.org/020209NewsRelease.html
"Libertarians Vow to Fight Smoking Ban on Private Property": http://lptexas.org/012609NewsRelease.html

The party was featured in a story where we said "Go Back to France, Lance":
http://www.news8austin.com/content/your_news/default.asp?ArID=230482
http://www.caller.com/news/2009/jan/30/cancer-survivor-armstrong-urges-smoking-ban/

The party asks its members across the state to contact their state legislators (house and senate) to support the following positions:
Support HB 820: Lower ballot access requirements to 500 signatures to appear on the ballot
Support HCR 50: Resolution for federal government to respect the 10th amendment and states rights
Support HB 640: Allows patients and their doctors to choose the medicine of their choice
Support HB 135/SB 317: Eliminate straight party voting
Oppose HB 5/SB 544: Statewide smoking ban
Oppose HB 516: Green skills job training fund

There is also an effort to get a bill filed to oppose implementation of the Real ID act in Texas. Information is available at http://511campaign.org/

You legislator can be contacted with help from the following link:
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/Resources/FAQ.aspx#2

*************************************

3. HB 820 FOR BALLOT ACCESS

House Bill 820 needs more state legislators to put their names on this bill. This would lower the petition signature requirement to 500 signatures to retain ballot access. In 2004 the Libertarian Party had to turn in over 82,000 signatures at great expense. The Libertarian Party is working with other third parties and independent groups to support this important reform.

The bill can be tracked at http://www.legis.state.tx.us/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=81R&Bill=HB820

Some sites that have reported on the bill are:
http://www.texasinsider.org/?p=5327#more-5327
http://www.newswithviews.com/guest_opinion/guest139.htm
http://www.campaignforliberty.com/usa/TX/
http://www.campaignforliberty.com/blog.php?view=10622
http://www.cptexas.org/index.shtml
http://capitolannex.com/2009/01/29/bill-would-make-ballot-access-easier-for-independent-candidates/

*************************************

4. SB 690

Libertarian Mike Ford is working to oppose SB 690 introduced by state senator Jeff Wentworth:

Senate Bill 690 by Sen. Wentworth is an Assault on Citizen Participation in Local Government.

On February 5, Sen. Wentworth introduced SB 690 proposing to double the threshold percentage of signatures required for citizen initiated municipal charter amendments from 5% to 10% of registered voters. Wentworth has fast-tracked SB 690 to go into effect in 5 months --- September 1, 2009.

SB 690 does not fix any problem. The purpose of SB690 is to block citizens in 346 Texas cities from participation in their local government . SB 690 effectively shreds a right Texans have enjoyed for decades --- the right of citizens in home rule cities to propose to themselves amendments to their city's charter.

Currently existing signature requirements are so difficult that citizen petition drives are seldom attempted. If Sen. Wentworth had any respect for the citizens of Texas, he would be proposing to reduce the number of signatures required.

We are asking you to call AND to write to your own Senator, and Sen. Wentworth, and any committee members you know --- asking them to kill SB 690.

  Sen. Jeff Wentworth
  925 North Frost Center, 1250 N.E. Loop 410
  San Antonio, Texas 78209
  Voice - (210) 826-7800   <> (512) 463-0125
  FAX - (210) 826-0571    <> (512) 463-7794
  Jeff.Wentworth@senate.state.tx.us

The Senate Intergovernmental Relations Committee members are:
Chair: Sen. Royce West              <>   Royce.West@senate.state.tx.us (512) 463-0123 <> (214) 467-0123
Vice Chair: Sen. Robert Nichols   <> Robert.Nichols@senate.state.tx.us   (512) 463-0103 <> (936) 756-5168
Member: Sen. Mario Gallegos, Jr. <> Mario.Gallegos@senate.state.tx.us (512) 463-0106 <> (713) 678-8600
Member: Sen. Dan Patrick        <> Dan.Patrick@senate.state.tx.us      (512) 463-0107 <> (713) 464-0282
Member:Sen. Jeff Wentworth     <> Jeff.Wentworth@senate.state.tx.us (512) 463-0125 <> (210) 826-7800

Mike Ford
www.InitiativeforTexas.org
1750 Timber Ridge Road #116
Austin, TX 78741
512-447-2086
mikeford@quik.com

*************************************

5. ARLINGTON HEARING ON STIMULUS

State Party Executive Director Robert Butler recently sent out the following notice:

This Saturday in Arlington, the Texas House Select Committee on Federal Economic Stabilization Funding will hear public testimony related to Obama's stimulus bill.

The stimulus money is a key part of the state's budget process this session. It is extremely important that the Committee hears Libertarian voices -- our tax dollars and prosperity are at stake!

We need you to attend the hearing and consider giving testimony to the Committee. Details on the time and location are below:

10:30 a.m., Saturday, March 14
Location: University of Texas - Arlington campus
E.H. Hereford University Center, Rio Grande Room
300 W. First St., Arlington, TX

*** Please arriver about 30 minutes early (10 a.m.) to hold signs in protest of the historic spending and debt the federal government has burdened us with. Bring tea bags and wear RED to show your anger over the stimulus bill!

Gov. Rick Perry has already rejected taking any funds that come "with strings attached."   We need Dallas-Fort Worth Libertarians to come out and express their opinons directly!

This is a unique opportunity for those Libertarians who work during the week and can't otherwise drive to Austin for a heaing!
*************************************

6. LOCAL CAMPAIGNS IN MOTION

Several defenders of liberty are running for local office this May:

John Jay Myers is running for city council in Dallas. His website is www.johnjaymyers.com

In McAllen, Charles W. Snelling is running for mayor. A story on this campaign appeared at http://www.themonitor.com/articles/mcallen_24122___article.html/challengers_face.html

In the Austin area there are several candidates running for local offices. The following message is from Don Zimmerman:

http://www.meetup.com/AustinRonPaul/calendar/9912779/

Liberty Lovers! PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD!!
It's my favorite time of season -- time to join your fellow activists and liberty lovers to put Ron Paul candidates into office! Time to put freedom lovers in office to VOTE the Ron Paul agenda, in government positions, to defend liberty. Never underestimate the power of a small local office! On April 29th, a United States Supreme Court case (NW Austin MUD #1 vs. Holder) arising from my Utility District in northwest office will make national news:
http://otd.oyez.org/cases/2008/northwest-austin-municipal-utility-district-number-one-v-holder

Article on why the case is drawing national attention:
http://www.aei.org/publications/filter.all,pubID.28659/pub_detail.asp

BOTTOM LINE, local governments elected in non-partisan elections offer remarkable opportunities to promote constitutional liberty.
PLEASE JOIN you patriot friends and join this important fundraiser!!

Known candidates invited as of this date:
Lisa Mallory, Leander ISD
Erica Grignon, Pflugerville City Council
Sam Osemene, Austin City Council
Gunnar Ristroph, Round Rock ISD

********************************************

7. NATIONAL PARTY COMING TO TEXAS

The weekend of Jan 29-31, 2010 in Austin will be the date and location for the annual meeting of the Libertarian State Leadership Alliance (LSLA, http://statechairsconference.org/conference-registration/) . This organization consists of all state leaders in the Libertarian Party. The meeting will also include the Libertarian Party's National Committee (LNC), Bylaws Committee, and Platform Committee.

Austin was considered as a site for the national convention but was not selected. This is an opportunity for Texas to show the world what they missed. Anyone is welcome to register and attend. More details will be forthcoming.

********************************************

8. STOSSEL SPECIAL TONIGHT

On Friday, March 13, John Stossel and ABC News has a special, "Bailouts, Big Spending and Bull." As John put it in his announcement, this special is produced in partnership with Drew Carey and Reason Magazine. Indeed most of the segments are based on videos from Reason.TV.

As John describes the specials, it will look at: the conceit of the ruling class.

The huge bailout: President Obama has said, "Economists from across the spectrum have warned that if we don't act immediately ? our nation will sink into a crisis." But more than 300 economists say the stimulus spending does more harm than good. I interview some of them and confront Majority Leader Steny Hoyer about why the politicians believe they can spend $300 million of American's money better than we can.

War on the middle class: President Obama says, "Middle-class families are struggling." But don't believe the doom and gloom, wages and living standards have been on the rise for all Americans since the 1950s.

Universal Pre-K: President Obama says, "We need to enroll more children, and we need to start at an even earlier age." That Obama campaign promise sounded wonderful: Let's help sweet little preschoolers get a strong start in school. But should that be the job of our government?

Our border control: Will a giant wall across part of the Mexican border really secure our country? So far, the bad guys just go around the wall or climb over it or cut holes in it.

Private highways: Traffic on your morning commute is only going to get worse. Private highways may be the answer, but some people don't like them.

Medical Marijuana: Thirteen states legalized medical marijuana, but the federal government wants to put the owner of a California dispensary in jail for 100 years.

It is going to be a great show, be sure to watch it.

Adrian Moore
Vice President, Reason Foundation

(20/20 airs at 9 p.m. or 10 p.m. in most markets, please check your local listings)

********************************************

9. NEW WEBSITE

The state party has a new website. It is at the same address (www.LPTexas.org) but with a new look and feel. It also includes a new online forum (http://lptexas.invisionzone.com/).

********************************************

10. TEXAS STATE FAIR PLANS

DFW area Libertarians are putting plans together for outreach at the Texas state fair. If you are interested in volunteering, you can contact the following:

Robert Butler, Executive Director, director@lptexas.com, 512-758-9134
John Spivey, Tarrant County Chair, johnhspivey@hotmail.com
Paul Osborn, paul@osborn.tv

********************************************

11. STATE TOUR PLANS

In 2007 Executive Director Wes Benedict and State Chair Pat Dixon conducted a tour of the state of Texas. "Wes and Pat's Excellent Adventure" tells the story:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=531240252429247725

This year new Executive Director Robert Butler will join Pat in a repeat performance. This is expected to start in September and run through December. Those locations that can commit to at least 10 people in attendance will be included in the tour. You are encouraged to contact the state committee (SLECT) representative in your district (http://lptexas.org/Leadership.html) and let them know you would like to attend and which dates you are available

********************************************

12. LP IN HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS

The latest edition of Houston Business Connections newspaper includes a video of state chair Pat Dixon at the state capital. Visit http://www.houston-businessconnections.com/ and view the video above the story "Highlights from Aubrey's Austin Texas Trip"

********************************************

13. WHO IS A TERRORIST?

According to the following report, the state of Missouri now regards Ron Paul, Bob Barr, Chuck Baldwin, and Libertarians as terrorists.
http://www.dailypaul.com/node/85833

********************************************

14. SEND A TISSUE

Paper industry consultant Jim Thompson has a unique idea. See the article "Soft Toilet Paper is Ruining the Planet - Huh?"
http: HREF="mailto://www.nipimpressions.org/mod/emarket/view.php?msg_id=134&email=archives@archives">//www.nipimpressions.org/mod/emarket/view.php?msg_id=134&email=archives@archives

********************************************

15. A BRITISH REVOLUTION

A revolution to restore liberty is happening in the mother country of England:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKdBxpKqUvs

********************************************

16. EARMARKS ARE BIPARTISAN

The federal leaders in wasteful spending are well represented by both Republicans and Democrats:
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2009/03/10/raw-data-earmarking-senators-billion-spending/

********************************************

17. CAN HE REMEMBER THE QUESTION?

You be the judge:
http://blogs.wsj.com/environmentalcapital/2009/03/09/bjorn-lomborg-challenges-gore-on-environmental-spending/

********************************************

18. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

This is the largest issue of Lone Star Liberty since I began publishing it. That is why it is so late. With the state legislature in session, a new executive director actively engaged, the May local elections looming, and many of you getting very active, there is a lot going on.

If this is the first Lone Star Liberty newsletter you are reading, welcome! We are very happy you have found us and we want to work with you to promote liberty in the state of Texas.

You may be asking how you can help. There are many ways to support us. Your donations are extremely important to continue our growth (http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml).

But right now with Republicans and Democrats in our state legislature trying to create new ways to control our lives and property, it is time for you to contact your state senator and representative and tell them where you stand. They are supposed to represent you. Do they?

The bills listed in this newsletter are ones we urge you to contact the legislature about. There are others that further threaten liberty and we ask you to visit http://www.legis.state.tx.us/Resources/FAQ.aspx#2, contact your legislator, and let them know where you stand.

These critters only get together every 2 years for 140 days. There is not a better time to be active in opposing Democrat and Republican intrusion into your wallets, bedrooms, and lives.

Yours in Liberty,

Pat Dixon
Chair, Libertarian Party of Texas

********************************************

19. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES:

May 9, 2009 - Municipal elections
Non partisan races for city councils, school boards, etc. Contact your local agencies for details on filing for these offices.

Sept through December, 2009 - "Robert and Pat's Excellent Adventure", state tour to meet with Libertarians, provide information and materials, and grow the party

Jan 29-31, 2010 - Annual meeting of all state leaders of the Libertarian Party (LSLA, http://statechairsconference.org/conference-registration/) including the national committee of the Libertarian Party (http://www.lp.org/leadership) and national Bylaws and Platform committee. Location will be Austin, registration information to follow in future newsletters

March 2010 - Libertarian Party county conventions for nomination of candidates for 2010 election, as well as LP county officers. See your county chair (http://lptexas.org/CountyChairs.html) for more information

June 2010 - Libertarian party of Texas state convention, details pending

Subscribe to Lone Star Liberty Online via email by entering your email address below:

Lone Star Liberty Online Message: STATE LEGISLATIVE AGENDA SET TO GO

2009-01-28T23:28:08Z

Lone Star Liberty newsletter:
the monthly newsletter of the Libertarian Party of Texas, www.LPTexas.org

February 2009
Over 2390 subscribers

Please donate at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml

1. STATE LEGISLATIVE AGENDA
2. OPPOSE STATE SMOKING BAN
3. INDEPENDENT INSTITUTE 2ND AMENDMENT BOOK BOMB
4. INDEPENDENT INSTITUTE TESTIFIES ON ERIC HOLDER
5. DFW LIBERTARIANS PARTY UP/DOWN
6. RON PAUL'S TEXAS LIBERTY CONVENTION
7. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
8. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES

*************************************

1. STATE LEGISLATIVE AGENDA

The Libertarian Party of Texas has posted its 2009 state legislative agenda at http://lptexas.org/docs/LegAgenda2009.pdf. State Chair Pat Dixon will be involved in working to defend liberty in this upcoming state legislative session. Volunteers will be encouraged to contact their state representatives and state senators in support of this effort.

*************************************

2. OPPOSE STATE SMOKING BAN

On January 10 the State Committee of the Libertarian Party of Texas (SLECT) approved two resolutions stating their opposition to a statewide smoking ban in Texas. The resolutions read:
"The Libertarian Party of Texas supports the rights of all property owners and only those owners to determine whether or not to allow smoking on their property."
"The Libertarian Party of Texas opposes proposed legislation for a statewide smoking ban on private property."

The bills filed to impose a statewide smoking ban in Texas in the current legislative session are:
House Bill 5, authored by Representative Myra Crownover, Republican-Denton
Senate Bill 544, authored by Senator Rodney Ellis, Democrat-Houston

A rally will be held at the state capital on Thursday Jan 29 beginning at 11:00 at the offices of Americans for Prosperity at 807 Brazos Street, Ste. 210 in Austin. Additional details at located at:
http://www.meetup.com/ronpaulaustin/calendar/9622499/
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=47209463806&ref=mf

The state party issued the following press release:

Libertarians Vow to Fight Smoking Ban on Private Property

Ban Violates Property Rights, Hurts Job Opportunities

AUSTIN - January 26, 2009 - The Libertarian Party of Texas has unveiled its legislative agenda for the 2009 session. Part of that agenda includes a vow to fight the smoking ban on private property.

"Only the Libertarian Party truly understands the concept of private property rights," explained LPT Chair Patrick Dixon, "Public property is owned by the federal, state, or local government. Private property is owned by an individual or business."

"Many people confuse the term public place with public property," notes LPT Executive Director Robert Butler. "A shopping mall or a restaurant are privately owned businesses, and the owner should decide what legal activities may be performed on his own property."

Libertarians do not contest the possible health effects of exposure to cigarette smoke. Many restaurants and bars have already banned smoking at the request of their customers.

"I take my children to restaurants like McDonald's who have voluntarily banned smoking for the well-being of their customers and employees," stated Butler. "Customers can vote with their feet when they don't like a business. Smart business owners will make the right decision about banning smoke on their property."

According to Radley Balko of the Cato Institute, a libertarian think tank, "Smoking bans mean fewer tips, lower wages and fewer jobs for workers. Given the choice between enduring secondhand smoke on the job and having no job at all, many cooks, bartenders and waitresses would prefer the former."

LPT Chair Patrick Dixon will be working with legislators to stop the ban. "Let's allow businesses to satisfy the demands of their customers without government interference. We're confident that they know what's best."

*************************************

3. INDEPENDENT INSTITUTE 2ND AMENDMENT BOOK BOMB

State Chair Pat Dixon was recently contacted by the founder of the Independent Institute regarding a new book on the Second Amendment:

Dear Pat,

I greatly enjoyed speaking with you just now. We greatly appreciate your kind offer to send out an email note to the Austin and LPT email lists encouraging people to participate in the Second Amendment Book Bomb.

With the New Year, the upcoming Obama inauguration (and nomination of Eric Holder for AG), and the post-Christmas lull in sales volume at Amazon.com, we have launched a New Year surge for the Second Amendment Book Bomb.
http://www.secondamendmentbook.com/

Many gun rights, libertarian, conservative and other groups are sending out notices to their email lists encouraging people to participate now to drive Stephen Halbrook’s book, The Founders’ Second Amendment, to #1 at Amazon and make Second Amendment rights history by sending a very clear message to the mainstream that abridging the right to bear arms will not be tolerated.

For your convenience I am adding below an updated notice that you could use. As you well know, the key is to have such notices go out in concert to create the volume needed to drive the surge. At present, we have 1,718 pledges.

Please advise me with any questions.

Thank you again for your marvelous support for liberty!

Best regards,

David
--
David J. Theroux
Founder and President
The Independent Institute
100 Swan Way
Oakland, CA 94621

*************************************

4. INDEPENDENT INSTITUTE TESTIFIES ON ERIC HOLDER

A subsequent call from founder David Theroux of the Independent Institute to state chair Pat Dixon requested concerned Texans to contact their US Senators John Cornyn and Kay Bailey Hutchinson regarding the nomination of Barack Obama's selection for attorney general Eric Holder:

Dear Pat,

For your review, here is the C-SPAN video of our Research Fellow Stephen P. Halbrook on January 16th before the Senate Judiciary Committee, testifying against the confirmation of Eric Holder, Jr., for Attorney General of the U.S.
http://www.independent.org/blog/?p=994

Dr. Halbrook’s full written testimony is also available at the following link, and since his presentation, the confirmation vote on the Holder nomination in the Senate has been delayed, unlike any of Barack Obama's other Cabinet nominees.
http://www.independent.org/issues/article.asp?id=2411

Incredibly enough, in reporting on the hearings in his January 21st article, “Clinton Is Approved, but Vote on Holder Is Delayed,” David Stout of the New York Times not only fails to mention Dr. Halbrook’s testimony but actually makes the flatly erroneous claim that “No one has questioned Mr. Holder’s qualifications.”

*************************************

5. DFW LIBERTARIANS PARTY UP/DOWN

At a recent meetup in the DFW area, Libertarians demonstrate their ability to party up, party down, and party in other dimensions:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUSvmrDtmNc

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6. RON PAUL'S TEXAS LIBERTY CONVENTION

Congressman Dr Ron Paul's Campaign for Liberty has planned a Texas state convention in Austin for Feb 28. At recent district conventions for this organization, representatives from the Libertarian Party were elected as delegates to this convention. Guests are welcome to attend. Further information is available at:
http://www.campaignforliberty.com/usa/TX/
http://convention.ocati.org/

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7. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

Ron Paul has been saying it. Dr Milton Friedman said it. The Libertarian Party has been saying it. Our opponents can only repeat the same old message and label it "Change".

We said that this economic disaster was coming. We said the federal government has no business being in the mortgage lending business. We said that government is spending too much and going too deep in debt. We said that government needs to get out of the way and allow small businesses to compete with big businesses.

Their response is that the free market failed. Barney Frank goes from defending Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to putting all the blame on the free market. George Bush says he has to abandon free market principles to save the free market. These 2 parties can only go in the direction of bigger government and nationalization of the economy.

We know Washington needs an overhaul. We also know our state government has policies that will imperil us if we don't pay attention. That is why we have put together our legislative agenda which you can find at www.LPTexas.org. During this legislative session we intend to grow our influence on policy in state government. We need your help. Your calls, emails, and letter to state representatives and state senators in your districts help promote our influence on policy. We can kill the bad bills and promote the good ones.

During the state legislative session we will be putting out press releases and be engaged in appearances at the state capital. We will be participating in rallies and working with other groups on areas of common interest. We will try to keep you informed through this newsletter and through email lists of upcoming efforts. You can always go to http://lptexas.org/officialreleases.shtml for our latest press releases on legislative issues.

How many of you are skeptical? Are you asking "if the Libertarian Party has been saying these things for years, why haven't our policies already been adopted?"

Consider "The Paradox of Choice" (http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=6127548813950043200). It may challenge your thinking. The interesting part for us starts at 58 minutes into the video. Have you ever heard of "Libertarian Paternalism"? I think it says something about the growing popularity of the term "Libertarian" when public policy advocates adopt that term to promote their agenda.

Our larger presence on the ballot and in the election results puts us in a stronger position to promote socially tolerant and fiscally conservative policy in the state legislature. Your voice makes a difference when you contact your representative and tell them you support the Libertarian Party's agenda. Please take a look at http://lptexas.org/docs/LegAgenda2009.pdf and help us defend liberty in Texas.

Our opponents can keep repeating their old message and call it "Change". We will continue to grow the number of voices asking for real change that we believe which we call "Libertarian" and make it heard throughout our state capital.

Donate at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml or contact Robert at Director@LPTexas.org or 512-4704-7065

Pat Dixon
Chair, Libertarian Party of Texas

********************************************

8. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES:

May 9, 2009 - Municipal elections
Non partisan races for city councils, school boards, etc. Contact your local agencies for details on filing for these offices.

Subscribe to Lone Star Liberty Online via email by entering your email address below:

Lone Star Liberty Online Message: THANKS FOR A GREAT 2008

2008-12-24T23:56:12Z

Lone Star Liberty newsletter:
the monthly newsletter of the Libertarian Party of Texas, www.LPTexas.org

January 2009
Over 2360 subscribers

Please donate at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml

1. THANK YOU FOR A GREAT YEAR
2. ROBERT BUTLER SELECTED AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
3. WES BENEDICT ASKS FOR YOUR HELP
4. STATE COMMITTEE (SLECT) MEETING JAN 10
5. COLLIN COUNTY TO SELECT NEW CHAIR
6. SEAN ANDERSON PROVIDES VIDEOS
7. WEBSITE HACKED
8. WORK BEGINS ON LEGISLATIVE SESSION
9. SEEKING TEXAS REPRESENTATIVE TO NATIONAL PLATFORM COMMITTEE
10. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
11. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES

*************************************

1. THANK YOU FOR A GREAT YEAR

From the Libertarian Party of Texas, we want to wish you the best this Christmas and a happy New Year. It was a great 2008 and we thank you for your support. We showed strong results, placed a record number of candidates on the ballot, had the best result ever for US Senate, received over a million votes for a candidate for the first time ever in Texas, automatically qualified for the 2010 ballot, and played kingmaker in several races.

Please donate at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml

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2. ROBERT BUTLER SELECTED AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The Libertarian Party of Texas received 9 applications for the position of executive director to replace Wes Benedict. Applicants consisted of 2 from Washington DC, 1 from Nebraska, 1 from Louisiana, and 5 from Texas.

A search committee was selected by the state committee (SLECT) on Oct 11 in Austin. The committee consisted of John Shuey from Denton County, Guy McLendon from Harris County, and Pat Dixon from Travis County. On Dec 19 the search committee's recommendation of Robert Butler was approved by a conference call of SLECT.

Robert served as the executive director of the Libertarian Party of Ohio from 2004 to 2006 and is presently a political consultant in Washington DC. He will be on the job shortly after the start of the year.

We welcome Robert to this assignment and wish him success to continue the great work that Wes Benedict has done.

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3. WES BENEDICT ASKS FOR YOUR HELP

Executive Director Wes Benedict mailed letters to the Libertarian Party of Texas membership stating that he is offering to forego his December pay and donate his time in December and part time in January because October and November donations were very low. During this time he intends to help with the transition of a new executive director. Wes is resigning on Dec 31 to seek opportunities in the private sector. Wes states that we need to raise $10,000 to cover the bills and is asking for donations of $250.

With over 2300 subscribers to this newsletter, the goal will be met if every subscriber contributes at least $5.

Please donate at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml or contact Wes at 512-442-4910 or Director@LPTexas.org

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4. STATE COMMITTEE (SLECT) MEETING JAN 10

The next meeting of the State Libertarian (P)arty Executive Committee of Texas (SLECT) will be held on Saturday January 10. Items on the agenda will include election of a Texas representative to the national platform committee and adoption of an annual budget. In addition, the meeting will begin with the appointment of a new chair for the Collin County Libertarian Party

Date: Saturday 1/10/09
Time: 1:00-5:00
Location: Casa Milagro (Directions listed below) in Richardson, TX (NE suburb of Dallas).

The following url will take you to a map of the location of our Jan SLECT meeting:
http://tinyurl.com/5fpjey
There is also a website for the location: http://www.casamilagrorestaurant.com/

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5. COLLIN COUNTY TO SELECT NEW CHAIR

Beginning at 12 noon prior to the Jan 10 SLECT meeting, Collin County members of the Libertarian Party will select a new county chair. Candidates Jim Prindle, Cory Waddingham, and Rick Nuedorff have indicated their interest in serving in this position.

In accordance with Texas LP bylaws the state chair will be appointing the chair, but having the sentiment from people in Collin County would help. This will follow all the same rules as a county convention but would only have the election of the chair on the agenda.

Collin county supporters are encouraged to attend at 12 noon on Jan 10 at Casa Milagro.

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6. SEAN ANDERSON PROVIDES VIDEOS

DFW area supporter Sean Anderson has provided videos from the 2008 Libertarian Party of Texas state convention and the election night party in Tarrant County. These can be viewed at http://www.seananderson.tv/downloads

We thank Sean for providing this.

*************************************

7. WEBSITE HACKED

The www.LPTexas.org website was recently hacked and caused access problems for some people. We believe most of the problems have been found and fixed. The Forums section still has problems that are being worked on.

*************************************

8. WORK BEGINS ON LEGISLATIVE SESSION

As the legislative session is set to begin, the Libertarian Party of Texas is preparing to influence policy. Megan Gray was elected by SLECT as the chair of a committee to draft the legislative agenda. Members of the sub-committee include Guy McLendon, Matt Finkel, Rock Howard, and Dave Mason.

*************************************

9. SEEKING TEXAS REPRESENTATIVE TO NATIONAL PLATFORM COMMITTEE

The Libertarian Party of Texas has the ability to appoint a member to the national platform committee of the Libertarian Party. The state committee (SLECT) will select the representative at its meeting on Jan 10. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact members of SLECT and provide a description of their qualifications and 3 sample platform planks. Contact information for SLECT members is found at www.LPTexas.org/leadership.shtml.

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10. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

It has been a great year for us. Take a look at the attention we have received at http://lptexas.org/news.shtml. Take a look at our results. Our annual reports posted at www.LPTexas.org demonstrate the goal-oriented approach we have adopted and the measurable achievement we can accomplished.

Wes Benedict was hired 4 years ago and was the best decision I ever made to produce these results. Robert Butler will step into his shoes and we know it will be a challenge to match the results that Wes achieved.

Art DiBianca has been a vital resource as our assistant director. We will retain him to continue to provide his expertise and institutional knowledge as we work to recruit candidates for the 2010 election.

This success would not be possible without you. You are the ones that support us with your donations. You are the ones that put your name on the ballot as candidates. You are the ones that put out yard signs and door hangers. Without you we cannot pay an executive director.

I hate the fact that Wes is having to forego his December pay and work part time in January without pay to help the transition to a new executive director. Our donations fell off in the last 2 months and it comes at a difficult time. Wes really deserves to be rewarded for his work.

We really need your help now. Wes sent out a letter recently asking for donations of $250. If every subscriber to this newsletter would just donate $5 we would meet out goal.

Please consider supporting Wes as your Christmas gift.

Donate at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml or contact Wes at Director@LPTexas.org or 512-442-4910

Pat Dixon
Chair, Libertarian Party of Texas

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11. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES:

Saturday Jan 10,
noon - 1 PM: Collin County selection of new Libertarian Party chair
1 PM - 5 PM: SLECT Meeting
Location: Casa Milagro (Directions listed below) in Richardson, TX (NE suburb of Dallas).
The following url will take you to a map of the location of our Jan SLECT meeting:
http://tinyurl.com/5fpjey
There is also a website for the location: http://www.casamilagrorestaurant.com/

Subscribe to Lone Star Liberty Online via email by entering your email address below:

Lone Star Liberty Online Message: GREAT RESULTS, HELP WES

2008-12-14T12:08:33Z

Lone Star Liberty newsletter:
the monthly newsletter of the Libertarian Party of Texas, www.LPTexas.org

December 2008
Over 2300 subscribers

Please donate at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml

1. GREAT RESULTS
2. WES BENEDICT ASKS FOR YOUR HELP
3. STATE COMMITTEE (SLECT) MEETING JAN 10
4. COLLIN COUNTY TO SELECT NEW CHAIR
5. NEW CHAIRS IN HOOD, COMAL
6. LP TEXAS SEARCH FOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
7. GUY MCLENDON SAYS "END THE FED"
8. LP OF TEXAS SIGNS ON TO NATIONAL TAXPAYER UNION LETTER
9. WORK BEGINS ON LEGISLATIVE SESSION
10. SEEKING TEXAS REPRESENTATIVE TO NATIONAL PLATFORM COMMITTEE
11. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
12. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES

*************************************

1. GREAT RESULTS

On November 6 the Libertarian Party of Texas issued the following press release:

TEXAS LIBERTARIANS BREAK RECORDS AGAIN

AUSTIN - November 6, 2008 - The Libertarian Party of Texas (LPT) showed strong results in the 2008 general election. The party broke several of its own records, and played "kingmaker" in several key races.

The party had 173 candidates on the ballot, its highest count ever.

By getting more than 5 percent in at least one statewide race, the LPT is automatically qualified for ballot access in 2010.

William B. Strange, the Libertarian candidate for Court of Criminal Appeals Place 9, received more than one million votes. That is the first time any Libertarian in Texas has crossed the million-vote threshold. According to ballot access expert Richard Winger, Strange is one of only two minor-party candidates to cross the million-vote threshold since 1970.

Yvonne Schick, the Libertarian candidate for U.S. Senator, received over 184,000 votes, or 2.34 percent. That is the highest vote count, and the highest percentage, ever received by a Texas Libertarian for that office.

Libertarian candidates played "kingmaker" in several legislative races. In State Senate District 10, State House District 11, State House District 52, State House District 105, it appears that candidates will win with less than 50 percent of the vote. The Libertarian presence may have been crucial in those races.

Earlier this year, current and former Republican officeholders had contacted several Libertarian candidates asking them to drop out of the election.

In Travis County, two Libertarian candidates played "kingmaker", holding the winners under 50 percent, and possibly costing two Republican incumbents their seats.

Wes Benedict, LPT Executive Director, commented, "I'm glad to see that we might throw the election to the Democrat in District 105. If Republicans lose control of the Texas House, that could be a good thing for taxpayers. Government generally grows much faster when the same party controls both the legislative and executive branches. Divided government might be healthy for Texas."

Please donate at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml

*************************************

2. WES BENEDICT ASKS FOR YOUR HELP

Executive Director Wes Benedict mailed letters to the Libertarian Party of Texas membership stating that he is offering to forego his December pay and donate his time in December and part time in January because October and November donations were very low. During this time he intends to help with the transition of a new executive director. Wes is resigning on Dec 31 and a new executive director will be brought in if there are sufficient funds. Wes states that we need to raise $10,000 to cover the bills and is asking for donations of $250.

With over 2300 subscribers to this newsletter, the goal will be met if every subscriber contributes at least $5.

Please donate at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml or contact Wes at 512-442-4910 or Director@LPTexas.org

*************************************

3. STATE COMMITTEE (SLECT) MEETING JAN 10

This newsletter was delayed to provide full details on the next meeting of the State Libertarian (P)arty Executive Committee of Texas (SLECT). The meeting will be held on Saturday January 10.

Date: Saturday 1/10/09
Time: 12:00-5:00
Location: Casa Milagro (Directions listed below) in Richardson, TX (NE suburb of Dallas).

The following url will take you to a map of the location of our Jan SLECT meeting:
http://tinyurl.com/5fpjey
There is also a website for the location: http://www.casamilagrorestaurant.com/

Items on the agenda will include election of a Texas representative to the national platform committee and adoption of an annual budget. In addition, the meeting will begin with the appointment of a new chair for the Collin County Libertarian Party

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4. COLLIN COUNTY TO SELECT NEW CHAIR

Beginning at 12 noon prior to the Jan 10 SLECT meeting, Collin County members of the Libertarian Party will select a new county chair. Candidates Jim Prindle, Cory Waddingham, and Rick Nuedorff have indicated their interest in serving in this position.

In accordance with Texas LP bylaws the state chair will be appointing the chair, but having the sentiment from people in Collin County would help. This will follow all the same rules as a county convention but would only have the election of the chair on the agenda.

Collin county supporters are encouraged to attend at 12 noon on Jan 10 at Casa Milagro.

*************************************

5. NEW CHAIRS IN HOOD, COMAL

On November 18 state chair Pat Dixon appointed Mitchell Gray as the chair of the Libertarian Party in Hood County and Michael Devers as the new chair of the Libertarian Party in Comal County.

There are 49 current county chairs serving for the Libertarian Party of Texas. They are listed at www.LPTexas.org/County_chairs.shtml

*************************************

6. LP TEXAS SEARCH FOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The State Libertarian Party Executive Committee of Texas (SLECT) formed a search committee for a new executive director and will be presenting its recommendation shortly to SLECT for approval.

*************************************

7. GUY MCLENDON SAYS "END THE FED"

Harris County LP chair Guy McLendon appeared at the "End the Fed" rally and gave a presentation that appears approximately 33 minutes into the following video:

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-3216575561212474481

*************************************

8. LP OF TEXAS SIGNS ON TO NATIONAL TAXPAYER UNION LETTER

On Oct 3 the Libertarian Party of Texas issued a press release opposing the federal bailout plans. Unfortunately the Republicans and Democrats in Congress approved these bailouts plans.

Recently the National Taxpayers Union asked for organizations to join them in a letter asking for greater transparency with the money approved for the bailout. It asks for information to be made public regarding how the $700 billion committed to the Treasury and $800 billion spent by the Federal Reserve is being spent.

State Chair Pat Dixon signed on to this letter joining 78 other concerned organizations.

The letter can be found at:
http://www.ntu.org/main/letters_detail.php?letter_id=644.

NTU's press release can be found here:
http://www.ntu.org/main/press_release.php?PressID=1078&org_name=NTU

*************************************

9. WORK BEGINS ON LEGISLATIVE SESSION

As the legislative session is set to begin, the Libertarian Party of Texas is preparing to influence policy. Megan Gray was elected by SLECT as the chair of a committee to draft the legislative agenda. Members of the sub-committee include Guy McLendon, Matt Finkel, Rock Howard, and Dave Mason.

*************************************

10. SEEKING TEXAS REPRESENTATIVE TO NATIONAL PLATFORM COMMITTEE

The Libertarian Party of Texas has the ability to appoint a member to the national platform committee of the Libertarian Party. The state committee (SLECT) will select the representative at its meeting on Jan 10. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact members of SLECT and provide a description of their qualifications and 3 sample platform planks. Contact information for SLECT members is found at www.LPTexas.org/leadership.shtml.

********************************************

11. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

I want to begin by thanking every candidates that appeared on the ballot for us this year. You people are great!

But we could go backwards if we don't keep at it. Wes Benedict has served for 4 years as our executive director and is the single person most responsible for our success. I can tell you that both Republicans and Democrats know we are hear and realize our impact.

We intend to transition to a new executive director in January and really need your help. We expended funds for our staff of Wes and Art and provided materials (signs, door hangers, bumper stickers) for the election. If we don't raise significant cash right now we may not be able to bring on an executive director. I can assure you that our progress will stop and reverse if this occurs. Wes is willing to forego his December pay and work part time in January without pay to help this transition.

We really need your help now. Wes sent out a letter this week asking for donations of $250. If every subscriber to this newsletter would just donate $5 we would meet out goal.

Please consider supporting Wes as your Christmas gift.

Donate at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml
Volunteer at Director@LPTexas.org or 512-442-4910

Pat Dixon
Chair, Libertarian Party of Texas

********************************************

12. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES:

Tues Dec 16: Bexar County Libertarian Party
http://www.geocities.com/c2777/lpb/lpbexar.html

Sat Jan 10, noon - 5 PM: SLECT Meeting
Location: Casa Milagro (Directions listed below) in Richardson, TX (NE suburb of Dallas).
The following url will take you to a map of the location of our Jan SLECT meeting:
http://tinyurl.com/5fpjey
There is also a website for the location: http://www.casamilagrorestaurant.com/

Subscribe to Lone Star Liberty Online via email by entering your email address below:

Lone Star Liberty Online Message: 2 YEARS OF WORK, 9 DAYS LEFT!

2008-10-26T18:13:12Z

Lone Star Liberty newsletter:
the monthly newsletter of the Libertarian Party of Texas, www.LPTexas.org

November 2008
Over 2130 subscribers

Please donate at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml

1. 2 YEARS OF WORK, 9 DAYS LEFT
2. LIBERTARIANS REMOVED FROM BALLOTS
3. HOW LEGISLATORS VOTE
4. LP TEXAS SEARCHING FOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
5. YVONNE SCHICK DEBATE
6. LIBERTARIANS TAKEN TO SCHOOL
7. LIBERTARIANS LISTED IN HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS
8. TARRANT ELECTION NIGHT PARTY
9. TRAVIS ELECTION NIGHT PARTY
10. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
11. RADIO ADVERTISING
12. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
13. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES

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1. 2 YEARS OF WORK, 9 DAYS LEFT

For the past 2 years the Libertarian Party of Texas has worked very hard to exceed the record performance of the 2006 elections. The party has travelled the state recruiting candidates, distributing outreach materials, and responding to media requests. In 9 days all of that work will come to its conclusion. The party will ship yard signs, bumper stickers, and door hangers to volunteers that want to help.

Please donate at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml
Volunteer at Director@LPTexas.org or 512-442-4910

*************************************

2. LIBERTARIANS REMOVED FROM BALLOTS

In September we informed you of a lawsuit filed by the Libertarian Party of Texas and the Bob Barr for President campaign regarding the failure of the Democratic and Republican parties to file required notifications to place Barack Obama and John McCain on the ballot by the deadline mandated by state law. The Texas Supreme court rejected the case without comment.

It is noted that Bob Barr has been removed from the ballot in Louisiana due to hurricane Gustav closing the state offices where the forms were to be filed. The Libertarian Party of Louisiana was unable to file the papers until the offices reopened, which was past their deadline.:
http://www.ballot-access.org/2008/09/27/louisiana-libertarian-party-submits-powerful-brief-to-us-supreme-court-to-get-barr-back-on-the-ballot/
http://www.ballot-access.org/2008/09/29/us-supreme-court-asks-louisiana-to-respond-to-barr-appeal/

The Libertarian Party was removed from the ballot in Connecticut by having almost half of its petition signatures thrown out:
http://www.ballot-access.org/2008/10/23/barr-loses-connecticut-ballot-access-case/
http://www.ballot-access.org/2008/10/22/barr-gets-court-hearing-in-connecticut/

The Libertarian president ticket will appear on 45 state ballots. The ballots in which they will not appear are Washington DC, West Virginia, Oklahoma, Maine, Connecticut, and Louisiana.

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3. HOW LEGISLATORS VOTE

For a little background on how your state legislators in Texas regard the importance of a fair process for voting, take a look at the following report:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-uorcf6Uzs

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4. LP TEXAS SEARCHING FOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The State Libertarian Party Executive Committee of Texas (SLECT) approved an offer for a new executive director when current executive director Wes Benedict returns to the private sector. The position has been posted at the following websites:
http://www.libertyguide.com/jobs/id.1518/job_detail.asp
http://www.americasfuture.org/jobboard/archives/023033.php

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5. YVONNE SCHICK DEBATE

Libertarian Party candidate for US Senate Yvonne Schick participated in the first televised debate with John Cornyn and Rick Noriega on Oct 9. She was excluded from the second debate on Oct 16. The debate can be viewed on her website http://yvonneforsenate.com/. Additionally a YouTube video from Schick is found at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqNPkUW7QhY.

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6. LIBERTARIANS TAKEN TO SCHOOL

The Libertarian Party of Texas was recently represented in several high school and college events:

###

Libertarian candidate for US Congress district 23 Lani Conolly (http://www.laniconnolly.com/) participated in a presentation at Brandies High School in San Antonio. The presentation was well received:

"Ms. Connolly,

Thank you so much for your time yesterday. All of the feedback
pertaining to you has been glowingly positive. The students felt that
you answered every question in a very to-the-point manner. Students
have specifically said that your responses were informative and that
they felt that you did not seem like a "normal" politician because
you answered the question and did not attack any one else's responses.

We wish you the best of luck in your campaign.

Thank you again,

Jennifer Bishop
Social Studies Coordinator
Louis D. Brandeis High School
13011 Kyle Seale Pkwy
San Antonio, Tx 78249"

###

Libertarians in Tarrant County under the leadership of county chair John Spivey participated in an event at Alvaredo High School. State chair Pat Dixon received the following feedback from the school:

"Patrick, It was absolutely fantastic! I'm going to be uploading pictures and clips from the kids' and the adults' speeches to our website, but check out the article about the event currently on our district site.
http://alvaradohigh.tx.aih.schoolinsites.com/?PageName=LatestNews&Section=LatestNews&ItemID=47361&ISrc=School&Itype=News

Lark Johnston
speech/debate teacher in Alvarado High School"

###

Judge Ben Neece spoke to South Texas College in McAllen on Oct 14. The Libertarian Party was invited by Alexander Burton, an instructor in the Department of Government

###

Libertarians Mike Ford and Gary Johnson participated in interviews by student at Del Valle High School near Austin.

###

US Congress candidate district 15 Gricha Rather (http://www.gricharaether.com/) and state chair Pat Dixon participated in a political party forum at McNeil High School in Austin on Oct 6 and 7. Feedback from the school was positive:

"Thank you all very much for either speaking at McNeil or providing speakers from your party. Over the course of the two days approximately 800 students were able to attend. The sessions provoked much classroom discussion and piqued the interest of many students (both voters and future voters).

Again, thank you all for your help, and please pass on my gratitude to any speaker from your party who did not make the email list.

Sincerely,
Craig Studer
AP US History
McNeil High School"

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7. LIBERTARIANS LISTED IN HOUSTON BUSINESS CONNECTIONS

The latest edition of the Houston Business Connections newsletter includes candidates from the Libertarian Party and can be viewed at http://houston-businessconnections.com/

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8. TARRANT ELECTION NIGHT PARTY

The Tarrant County Libertarian Party (http://www.tarrantlp.org/) will host an election night party in Grapevine. See the message below:

I wanted to let you know that we're having a BLOWOUT of an Election Night Returns Watching Party in Grapevine (by DFW Airport) at the most appropriately named venue I could find - "Love and War in Texas". So, on Tuesday, November 4th starting at 6:30 we'll have the run of the venue and the use of their stage, lights, theater sized screen and projector, PA system, multiple flat screen TVs - (they're set up for nice sized country music concerts). We would be honored for you to attend!

For $20, each attendee will get some great food at the 'Fajita and Tex-Mex Buffet', be eligible for some incredible donated doorprizes and will enjoy great music, videos, live news feeds, awards (!) - and I would like to try to get a hookup (via internet video chat - most likely) between Bob Barr's campaign party - AND Yvonne Schick's, if she doesn't come here!!! Yvonne - I may have to chat with you you to set things up - all you need is a video camera, laptop and a high speed internet hook up.

Of course, we'll have candidate speeches too - mostly acceptance speeches :) - as well as cheers and boos and friendship in liberty all around.

The name of the party is "You Can't Stop Freedom!" - and you can get more information here. http://libertarian.meetup.com/388/calendar/8654306/

I just put it on the meetup about a day ago and we're getting a lot of RSVP 'Yes' replies. We'll have the ability to purchase tickets online very soon - but in the mean time, you can purchase/reserve tickets by calling 817-416-6897!!! If you know of folks in the area that are in surrounding counties (I'm going to be clobbering Dallas, Denton, Collin - and of course, Tarrant) that may like to attend please pass them the word!!!

Lastly, I needed to let Wes and Art know that the new Tarrant LP website is up and going!! It's really incredible so far and is the result of a few really talented folks in the Tarrant LP! http://www.tarrantlp.org. ; If you could change references on the TXLP website to link to this, I would really appreciate it!

Thank you in advance for passing this along to interested party-goers and for changing the info on the Texas LP website!

John Spivey
Chair, Tarrant County LP

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9. TRAVIS ELECTION NIGHT PARTY

Austin area Libertarians, please come out on election night to party with us. This is open to anyone that would like to come by. Don't be shy, we really want a nice turnout and hope you can come and feel free to bring friends and family.

Join the Libertarian Party of State Chair, Pat Dixon, Executive Director, Wes Benedict, plus many Libertarian Party candidates to watch the election returns on the big screen TV's

Travis County Libertarian Party election night party, Tues Nov 4 starting at 7 PM, Paradise Cafe (http://paradiseonsixth.com/), free parking under the I-35 bridge, $5 parking one block away, no charge to attend, food and drink can be purchased from the menu, appetizers provided.

Meetup listing for event at http://libertarian.meetup.com/342/calendar/8985536/

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10. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Libertarians had the following letters to the editor printed:

###

Oct 19, Dallas News,
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/opinion/letters/stories/DN-3p_rodtod_1019edi.ART.State.Edition1.4a59a14.html

Both opinions are wrong

Rod Dreher and Tod Robberson are both wrong. Mr. Dreher is wrong because not voting is indistinguishable from silent assent to the winner and the winner's policies and actions, and Mr. Robberson because the lesser of two evils can still be significantly evil.

Their positions are especially wrong-headed in light of an abundance of third-party choices on our ballots. No, a vote for a third party is not a wasted vote.

There are 173 Libertarians on the ballot in Texas this year, from presidential candidate Bob Barr down through many local offices, and a vote for any or all of them is a message to the "major" parties that smaller government and personal freedom are ideas that still resonate with many Texans.

John Shuey, Carrollton

###

Oct 18, Abilene Reporter,
http://www.reporternews.com/news/2008/oct/18/republicans-should-consider-libertarian/

Republicans should consider Libertarian

Republicans should repent and listen to their conscience, the Libertarian Party. We left you because you were becoming a socialist organization, competing with the Democratic Party for most of the same votes and disregarding good principles.

The more intelligent ones among you have realized that John McCain will lose this presidential election to Barack Obama. Obama's brand of socialism, level of taxation and policy is preferable to more Americans. He will defeat McCain in much the same way as he defeated Clinton in his party's primary process.

Consider our presidential candidate, Bob Barr. His principles include securing our national borders, limiting government and taxes to the minimum necessary, honoring constitutional rights, such as to keep and bear arms, protecting life and liberty, a strong and sensible national defense and opposing government bailouts. Barr was largely responsible for Ronald Reagan's presidential election while Reagan disowned McCain for dishonorable conduct. Barr is the only legitimate presidential candidate on the Texas ballot since he filed timely while McCain and Obama filed past the deadline set by Texas state law.

On Nov. 4, the McCain/Palin campaign will crash and end just like the five aircraft McCain crashed during his active military career. Palin will fly back to Alaska and the Alaskan Independence Party. Bob Barr is a real American patriot who represents our values and deserves our vote. You can vote for Bob Barr and be proud of it!

Fred Jones, Abilene

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11. RADIO ADVERTISING

The state party often receives solicitations for advertising. For those candidates that would like to advertise on radio, the following information is provided:

As you know, there is less than two weeks left to present each candidates Name and Message to the Hearts and Minds of the Voters.

KTAE has over 50,000 Loyal Listener who live in Austin, Temple and Waco and in all of the communities around them.

KTAE can provide you with an economical way to get Your Message to Voters at RATES You CANNOT Beat Anywhere:

One (30 second) Radio Spot per Hour, 18 times per day (6 am to 12 midnight) for 7 days = 126 spots at $6.00 per spot = $756 total
Two (30 second) Radio Spot per Hour, 36 times per day (6 am to 12 midnight) for 7 days = 252 spots at $5.00 per spot = $1,260 total
Three (30 second) Radio Spot per Hour, 54 times per day (6 am to 12 midnight) for 7 days = 378 spots at $4.50 per spot = $1,701 total

Doug Bell
Sales Director - KTAE Radio 1330 AM
Telephone: (512) 789-2374
Email: KTAE-1330AM@TogetherWorks.com

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12. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

Greed. It's all about greed. Greed is the cause of all suffering and pain. That's the problem with the free market. The free market has failed because of greed. We can't have the free market any more. The solution is more government. We haven't had enough government, so we need more government to protect us from the free market and greed.

That summarizes everything I have heard from McBama and Congress since the bailout.

Perhaps you would consider this 2 minute opinion about greed from another notable individual:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RWsx1X8PV_A

Those that do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it. We hear revisionist history about the great depression proving that the free market doesn't work. The work of the aforementioned notable individual proved that it was the policies of the federal government, not the free market, to reduce the supply of money by 1/3 that caused a transient market adjustment to turn into a prolonged depression. The true history that we should have learned is to place more trust in the free market than in the greed of Republicans and Democrats.

Today, here we are again with politicians absolving themselves of blame and putting it all at the feet at the free market. Just give them more power and trust them to eliminate greed.

I am not an economist and most of you aren't either. That is why I carefully consider the opinion of economists like these:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122351051370717359.html
http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/09/29/miron.bailout/
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/10/15/AR2008101503166.html

It is interesting to note that only Libertarians have been warning about this impending disaster and taking it seriously. We knew these policies would lead to ruin. Those of you that read chapter 6 of Ron Paul's "A Revolution" know that long before the bailout he explained how current policies would lead the economic hardship we are experiencing.

Some of you may already be suffering from this hardship. The hardship will hit the Libertarian Party as well. The funding we need may diminish. As we search for a new executive director it may be difficult to raise revenue.

We need your support. I am sure some of you have planned well and have secured your financial well being and can help support us at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml

For those whose financial condition is more precarious, you can still help us. This week I planted about 50 campaign signs around Austin. Yesterday I spent a few hours outside on a beautiful day putting door hangers on about 200 houses. We have signs and door hangers we can ship to you and only 9 days left to get our message out there. Our staff is ready for you to contact them at Director@LPTexas.org or 512-442-4910.

It's all about greed. When will voters get tired of the greed of politicians? When will they recognize that politicians are to blame for crushing the free market spirit? When will they reject the greed that leads politicians to take more control of your lives and property? There are only 9 days left and we won't have this opportunity again for another 2 years. Let's fight the greed of McBama and Congress and defend the free market before we completely lose it.

Donate at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml
Volunteer at Director@LPTexas.org or 512-442-4910

Pat Dixon
Chair, Libertarian Party of Texas

********************************************

13. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES:

Tuesday November 4: General election date, get out and vote!
Tarrant County Election night party, http://libertarian.meetup.com/388/calendar/8654306/
Travis County election night party, 7 PM, Paradise Cafe downtown on 6th St (http://paradiseonsixth.com/), http://libertarian.meetup.com/342/calendar/8985536/

Subscribe to Lone Star Liberty Online via email by entering your email address below:

Lone Star Liberty Online Message: Libertarians Oppose Bailout

2008-10-05T09:16:45Z

Lone Star Liberty newsletter:
the monthly newsletter of the Libertarian Party of Texas, www.LPTexas.org

October 2008
Almost 2000 subscribers

Please donate at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml

1. LIBERTARIANS OPPOSE BAILOUT
2. STATE IGNORES ELECTION LAW
3. LIBERTARIAN CANDIDATES IN THE NEWS
4. LIBERTARIANS DRAW DEMOCRATIC VOTERS
5. PLANO BALLOON FESTIVAL GROWS LIBERTARIAN SUPPORT
6. JEFF DAIELL FOR GOVERNOR CAMPAIGN
7. SLECT MEETING OCT 11
8. YVONNE SCHICK IN DEBATE
9. TARRANT ELECTION NIGHT PARTY
10. TRAVIS ELECTION NIGHT PARTY
11. ANNUAL REPORT
12. PAT DIXON INTERVIEW OCT 5
12. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
13. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES

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1. LIBERTARIANS OPPOSE BAILOUT

The Libertarian Party of Texas formally issued the following press releases, which are posted at http://lptexas.org/officialreleases.shtml

####

AUSTIN - October 1, 2008 - Wes Benedict, Executive Director of the Libertarian Party of Texas (LPT), made the following statement today.

"Texas Libertarians oppose this horrible bailout plan. Now the Senate is apparently planning to add some tax breaks and other items to buy off some Republicans. That does not change the heart of the matter, which is the purchase of $700 billion of bad debt with taxpayers' money. The senators from Texas should vote against this bad bill.

"What part of 'No' can't Congress understand? It's like the night of the living dead up there. The bailout gets killed, only to rise from the grave days later.

"If Senator John Cornyn votes for this bill, then fiscal conservatives in Texas should punish him by voting for Libertarian Yvonne Adams Schick this November.

"From a legal point of view, this bailout is totally unconstitutional. From a practical point of view, it will create tremendous moral hazard, and it will attempt to relieve short-term economic pain at the cost of serious negative long-term consequences.

"Bad companies should be allowed to fail. That's how the free market is supposed to work."

####

AUSTIN - October 3, 2008 - Many Texas Libertarian candidates for Congress have confirmed their opposition to the massive bailout bill that was passed in the U.S. House this morning.

Libertarian U.S. Senate candidate Yvonne Adams Schick has stated her opposition to the bailout bill. Both her Republican opponent, John Cornyn, and Republican Kay Bailey Hutchison voted for the bill.

District 8 candidate Brian Stevens said, "I oppose the bailout as proposed because it does not assign responsibility to the culpable parties nor does it remedy the root causes of the problem." (District 8 congressman Kevin Brady voted for the bill.)

District 15 candidate Gricha Raether commented, "This is absolutely ridiculous." (District 15 congressman Ruben Hinojosa voted for the bill.)

District 17 candidate Gardner C. Osborner confirmed his opposition. (District 17 congressman Chet Edwards voted for the bill.)

District 21 candidate James Arthur Strohm said, "I condemn [Lamar Smith's] vote FOR this bill on its first round in the House, as I condemn the vote of any Congressman who thought it was a good enough idea to vote for." (District 21 congressman Lamar Smith voted for the bill.)

District 27 candidate Robert E. Powell confirmed his opposition. (District 27 congressman Solomon P. Ortiz voted for the bill.)

District 28 candidate Ross Lynn Leone said, "This is the beginning, make that the middle, of the path to socialism, and the fact both parties backed this scheme shows there is no real difference in the Dems and Reps." (District 28 congressman Henry Cuellar voted for the bill.)

Libertarian candidates for Congress in districts 3, 5, 22, 23, 24, and 25 also confirmed their opposition to the bill.

District 11 candidate John R. Strohm said, "I have no formal comment until I've had time to read the actual bill." (District 11 congressman Michael Conaway voted for the bill.)

Other Libertarian congressional candidates have not been reached for comment.

The Libertarian Party of Texas (LPT) has nominated candidates for U.S. Senator, and for 29 of the 32 congressional districts in Texas.

####

Libertarian candidate for Congress district 3 Chris Claytor (http://www.claytorforcongress.org/) was quoted on the bailout plan in the Plano Courier Star:
“It’s absolutely ridiculous that we would be doing this,” Chris Claytor, Libertarian candidate for U.S. Representative said. “This isn’t what the Constitution says the government should do.” (http://www.planostar.com/articles/2008/09/25/plano_star-courier/news/78.txt)

MySanAntonio News contained the following excerpt from Libertarian congressional candidate Lani Connolly (http://www.laniconnolly.com/): Libertarian Lani Connolly, also seeking the 23rd Congressional District, said she is opposed to the “government bailing out private industry. Our government is dangerously close to essentially nationalizing a large sector of our economy.” (http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/state/29779504.html)

All news postings are found at http://lptexas.org/news.shtml

State chair Pat Dixon posted background information about the bailout on his city council website WWW.PATDIXON.ORG

Please donate at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml

*************************************

2. STATE IGNORES ELECTION LAW

Last month we informed you of a lawsuit filed by the Libertarian Party of Texas and the Bob Barr for President campaign regarding the failure of the Democratic and Republican parties to file required notifications to place Barack Obama and John McCain on the ballot by the deadline mandated by state law. The Texas Supreme court rejected the case without comment.

It is noted that Bob Barr has been removed from the ballot in Louisiana due to hurricane Gustav closing the state offices where the forms were to be filed. The Libertarian Party of Louisiana was unable to file the papers until the offices reopened, which was past their deadline.:
http://www.ballot-access.org/2008/09/27/louisiana-libertarian-party-submits-powerful-brief-to-us-supreme-court-to-get-barr-back-on-the-ballot/
http://www.ballot-access.org/2008/09/29/us-supreme-court-asks-louisiana-to-respond-to-barr-appeal/

The state party issued a press release following the rejection of the case. State chair Pat Dixon stated:
"Unfortunately, rather than answer questions, the Supreme Court's action raises new questions. To what extent are parties bound by the Texas Election Code? Is there now a grace period for deadlines? How long is the grace period? Does it apply to the Libertarian Party as well as the Republicans and Democrats? Which deadlines should the Libertarian Party ignore? Does the Secretary of State have the power to enforce the law against people she doesn't like, and waive the law for people she does like? Unfortunately, these questions will have to be tested in the future."

The full press release is found at http://lptexas.org/release-20080923.shtml

Please donate at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml

*************************************

3. LIBERTARIAN CANDIDATES IN THE NEWS

Several Libertarian candidates, in addition to presidential candidate Bob Barr (www.BobBarr2008.com) received coverage from the media recently. These media mentions as well as others are posted to http://lptexas.org/news.shtml:

US Congress district 27 candidate Robert Powell was featured in the following article:
http://www.recordstar.com/articles/2008/10/02/local_news/local05.txt

Candidate Richard Cross participated in the State Senate district 10 debate:
http://www.star-telegram.com/804/story/944348.html

Libertarian candidate for US Congress district 15 Gricha Raether (http://www.gricharaether.com/) has been featured in interviews on the Spanish speaking television network Univision. These interviews have been posted on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KI50HxHwVf8&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ud6LW9ayVA

Matt Finkle's campaign for US Congress district 10 got the attention of the Austin Chroncicle:
http://www.austinchronicle.com/gyrobase/Issue/story?oid=oid:681362

Libertarian candidate for state representative district 45 Tom Gleinser was included in this article:
http://www.statesman.com/news/content/region/legislature/stories/09/30/0930hd45.html

State representative district district 52 candidate Lillian Simmons was included in this article:
http://www.statesman.com/news/content/region/legislature/stories/09/29/0929hd52.html

State representative district 50 candidate Jerry Chandler was included in this article:
http://www.statesman.com/news/content/region/legislature/stories/10/02/1002hd50.html

Williamson County commisioner's court candidate James Atwell Andrews was included in this article:
http://www.statesman.com/news/content/news/stories/local/10/02/1002willco.html

*************************************

4. LIBERTARIANS DRAW DEMOCRATIC VOTERS

Recent polling suggests the Libertarian Party attracts as many Democratic as Republican voters. The poll conducted by Public Policy Polling states:
"The bottom line? It looks the Libertarians are taking roughly equal numbers of voters from Republicans and Democrats, and if there is any lean toward them taking from Republicans it's a small one."

The article can be found at http://publicpolicypolling.blogspot.com/2008/10/challenging-cw-on-libertarian-votes.html
The Public Policy Polling website is http://www.publicpolicypolling.com/

*************************************

5. PLANO BALLOON FESTIVAL GROWS LIBERTARIAN SUPPORT

Volunteers from the DFW conducted political outreach at the Plano Balloon Festival Sept 19-22. The popular World's Smallest Political Quiz was used. They had 66 individuals provide contact information for more information about the Libertarian Party.

Candidate Chris Claytor reported:
"Briefly, we gave the World's Smallest Political quiz to about 450 folks and we have contact information for 65 individuals that want to learn how to get involved in the LP. Thousands walked past the booth (and stopped for pizza right across from us), and at a minimum saw our signs... Bob Barr for President, Yvonne Schick for Senate, and Christopher Claytor for Congress. It was a great success and many, many thanks to everyone who made it out to work the booth!"

*************************************

6. JEFF DAIELL FOR GOVERNOR CAMPAIGN

The campaign of Jeff Daiell (http://www.jeffdaiell.com/) for the 2010 Texas governor's race visited the DFW area recently. The visit was mentioned in an article in the Ellis County Press (http://www.elliscountypress.com/news/132/ARTICLE/2537/2008-09-23.html)

*************************************

7. SLECT MEETING OCT 11

The Sept 13 meeting of the State Libertarian party Executive Committee of Texas (SLECT) was cancelled due to hurricane Ike.

The meeting will held Saturday Oct 11 starting at 12 noon in Austin. Some items on the agenda will be:
- A discussion of an offer for replacement of the executive director
- A discussion of National Party's bylaws related to selection of a Vice Presidential nominee
- Organizing for the 2009 state legislative session
- Adoption of the annual goals for the state party

The meeting is open to the public and will be held at the following location:

Pok-e-Jo'S
4109 S Capital of TX Hwy
Austin, TX 78704
512-440-0447
http://www.pokejos.com/4960299_38938.htm

*************************************

8. YVONNE SCHICK IN DEBATE

Libertarian Party of Texas US Senate candidate Yvonne Schick will be included in a televised debate with John Cornyn and Rick Noriega on Thursday Oct 9 in Houston. You are encouraged to contact your local public television station to request they broadcast this debate.

*************************************

9. TARRANT ELECTION NIGHT PARTY

The Tarrant County Libertarian Party (http://www.tarrantlp.org/) will host an election night party in Grapevine. See the message below:

I wanted to let you know that we're having a BLOWOUT of an Election Night Returns Watching Party in Grapevine (by DFW Airport) at the most appropriately named venue I could find - "Love and War in Texas". So, on Tuesday, November 4th starting at 6:30 we'll have the run of the venue and the use of their stage, lights, theater sized screen and projector, PA system, multiple flat screen TVs - (they're set up for nice sized country music concerts). We would be honored for you to attend!

For $20, each attendee will get some great food at the 'Fajita and Tex-Mex Buffet', be eligible for some incredible donated doorprizes and will enjoy great music, videos, live news feeds, awards (!) - and I would like to try to get a hookup (via internet video chat - most likely) between Bob Barr's campaign party - AND Yvonne Schick's, if she doesn't come here!!! Yvonne - I may have to chat with you you to set things up - all you need is a video camera, laptop and a high speed internet hook up.

Of course, we'll have candidate speeches too - mostly acceptance speeches :) - as well as cheers and boos and friendship in liberty all around.

The name of the party is "You Can't Stop Freedom!" - and you can get more information here. http://libertarian.meetup.com/388/calendar/8654306/

I just put it on the meetup about a day ago and we're getting a lot of RSVP 'Yes' replies. We'll have the ability to purchase tickets online very soon - but in the mean time, you can purchase/reserve tickets by calling 817-416-6897!!! If you know of folks in the area that are in surrounding counties (I'm going to be clobbering Dallas, Denton, Collin - and of course, Tarrant) that may like to attend please pass them the word!!!

Lastly, I needed to let Wes and Art know that the new Tarrant LP website is up and going!! It's really incredible so far and is the result of a few really talented folks in the Tarrant LP! http://www.tarrantlp.org. ; If you could change references on the TXLP website to link to this, I would really appreciate it!

Thank you in advance for passing this along to interested party-goers and for changing the info on the Texas LP website!

John Spivey
Chair, Tarrant County LP

*************************************

10. TRAVIS ELECTION NIGHT PARTY

The Travis County Libertarian Party (TCLP) had selected The Third Base as its location for the election night party, but then recently received a call from The Third Base stating that they had booked another party for 1,000 people on that same evening. The TCLP will meet Tuesday Oct 7, 7 PM at the Old Quarry library to determine a new location. Pat Dixon and Wes Benedict visited Paradise Cafe on 6th St (http://paradiseonsixth.com/) to see if it would be acceptable. Stay tuned for an announcement after the TCLP meeting.

********************************************

11. ANNUAL REPORT

The Libertarian Party of Texas Annual Report has been posted to www.LPTexas.org.

********************************************

12. PAT DIXON INTERVIEW OCT 5

Libertarian Party of Texas state chair will be interviewed on KLGO radio on Oct 5 at 4 PM. Below is a description of the show:

Do you believe that the U.S. Congress is operating outside the boundaries of our Constitution? Should the federal government be involved in everything from healthcare to teacher pay and business subsidies?

There are a number of fundamental reforms that have been proposed to restore the balance of power in our Nation's Capitol. Which reforms do you think are the most important? Register your opinion on our poll, and join the show this Sunday at 4 pm.

Bryan Malatesta is the Director of Development for the Constitution Party of Texas. Pat Dixon is the State Chairman for the Libertarian Party of Texas. Pat & Bryan are our guests for October 5, 2008. They have both worked hard in their respective third party groups for several years, and will help us address the Role of Federal Government, possible Federal Reforms and the Presidential Race.

You can join us live on air or by internet every Sunday at 4pm. You can hear us on The Word 98.5 & 99.3 KLGO FM Radio in Austin, or listen on-line ... http://www.theword993.com/

We need your calls. Pick up the phone and join the discussion every Sunday at 4pm. The call in numbers are ... (512) 637-9673 (WORD) - or - (888) 860-9673

Past interviews with Executive Director Wes Benedict and Libertarian State Representative district 48 candidate Ben Easton are archived at:
http://www.americablessgod.tv/main/video_gallery.htm

********************************************

12. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

We are nearing the last days before the election. In recent years we have demonstrated that our hard work and your support has resulted in higher numbers on election day. It is hard to predict what our numbers will be on Nov 4.

We have candidates all over the state doing good work and representing themselves and our party favorably. Our staff is fielding lots of inquiries.

What can the rest of us do?

We have been well prepared for the past 2 years to supply you with outreach material. Yard signs, bumper stickers, and door hangers are available for anyone that wants them. I can personally attest to the value of going door to door. The door hangers are a great way to get the message out there. I recommend getting a few people together and covering a few neighborhoods over the next few weekends. It can be fun and gets you out of the house. If you are like me living in a small town, you can still be a one-person army marching down the street putting door hangers on front doors.

Consider that the vast majority of people disapprove of being made responsible by Democrats and Republicans for the bad loans that have put our economy at risk . They don't like their taxes being used to bailout the ones responsible. It is also obvious that Republicans and Democrats don't accept any responsibility for creating this condition. They blame greed and lack of more government bureacracy and regulation. They attack the free market instead of recognizing the the creation of Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and the Community Reinvestment Act have promoted bad lending practices. This is a repeat of attacks on the free market after the Great Depression, despite Dr Milton Friedman proving that the shrinkage of the money supply by the federal government created the depression. Voters have been outraged by this development and want to know what they can do.

When they see a door hanger from the Libertarian Party with the World's Smallest Political Quiz, they have the answer. If they don't get informed about the Libertarian Party, they may stay home on election day.

Though we are well prepared to provide yard signs, door hangers, and bumper stickers, we do not have an endless supply. We can only supply what we can afford. Your donations can ensure that our volunteers have what they need to get our message out.

In these last few days, let's get that message out there while voters are wondering who they can turn to.

We need your support as we get closer to Nov 4. We want to get you the yard signs, bumper stickers, door hangers, and other materials to help you get record results on election day. Please consider making a donation at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml.

Pat Dixon
Chair, Libertarian Party of Texas

********************************************

13. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES:

Thursday Oct 9 US Senate debate with Yvonne Schick, John Cornyn, Rick Noriega

Sat Oct 11, starting at 12 noon: Texas LP State Committeee (SLECT) meeting:
Pok-e-Jo'S
4109 S Capital of TX Hwy
Austin, TX 78704
512-440-0447
http://www.pokejos.com/4960299_38938.htm

Tuesday November 4: General election date, get out and vote!
Tarrant County Election night party, http://libertarian.meetup.com/388/calendar/8654306/
Travis County election night party, 7 PM, Location to be determined

Subscribe to Lone Star Liberty Online via email by entering your email address below:

Lone Star Liberty Online Message: McBama Misses Texas Ballot Deadline!

2008-09-13T20:28:52Z

Lone Star Liberty newsletter:
the monthly newsletter of the Libertarian Party of Texas, www.LPTexas.org

September 2008
Over 1800 subscribers

Please donate at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml

1. MCBAMA MISSES TEXAS BALLOT DEADLINE
2. SLECT MEETING CANCELLED
3. YVONNE SCHICK IN DEBATE
4. COMMON GROUND - US CONSTITUTION
5. DR LARK COMING TO AUSTIN
6. RON PAUL ENDORSEMENTS
7. TARRANT ELECTION NIGHT PARTY
8. TRAVIS ELECTION NIGHT PARTY
9. REAL ID IN TEXAS
10. GRICHA RAETHER ON UNIVISION
11. IMMIGRATION DEBATE ON YOUTUBE
12. WES AND HIS $46 UNDERWEAR
13. PAT DIXON FIGHTS EMINENT DOMAIN
14. RESTORING THE HEART OF AMERICA
15. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
16. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES

*************************************
1. MCBAMA MISSES TEXAS BALLOT DEADLINE

This newsletter was intentionally delayed to bring you the latest update on this.

The Libertarian Party has suffered from unreasonable ballot access laws throughout its history. Sometimes we are excluded from the ballot for exacting interpretations of state laws.

Texas has a deadline of Aug 26 to file candidates for the 2008 presidential ballot. The Libertarian Party had its paperwork filed well in advance. Barack Obama and John McCain missed this deadline. The secretary of state has indicated that they will ignore the law and place Obama and McCain on the Texas ballot.

On Monday a lawsuit will be filed against the secretary of state for ignoring Texas law. We do not stand for disenfranchisement, but laws need to be applied equally regardless of party.

The staff of the Texas LP has been working long hours on this and would appreciate your support. Because of their work they have not had as much time to work on fund raising and we need your support to keep them working. Please consider a contribution by visiting http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml.

We also want to thank members of the Green Party Debbie Russell and Kat Swift for their assistance, as well as Linda Curtis of Independent Texans. There are many outside the party who want the secretary of state to follow the law.

Additional information can be found here:
http://campaign.blog.bobbarr2008.com/2008/09/04/in-texas-the-evidence-is-clear/

Below is a letter to the editor that the Vice-chair of the Taylor County LP Fred Jones had published in the Abilene newspaper, including a comment from the editor. We believe the comments of the editor are inconsistent with Texas law:

Fred Jones, Vice-Chair, Taylor county

Bob Barr's name is on the ballot

Since the Republican Party and Democratic Party have missed the Aug 26 deadline to file to have their presidential candidates on the Texas ballot in this November's general election, Bob Barr will be the only name on it for us to vote for.
Of course, this geartens us Libertarians who have fought so hard for ballot access and for easier ballot access for all others, but we are continually beaten in this effort by the Republican Party of Texas' efforts. The Democratic Party of Texas has been much kinder to us all.
We have earned this place on the Texas ballot by our honest and legal filings and observance of Texas state law. Further shenanigans by the Republicans cncerning this situation will be met with legal challenges and revelation of their tactics. The state law concerning this filing for the November ballot is clear.
I'm proud to be a supporter of Bob Barr for president - the only real conservative candidate.

Editor's note: The Republican and Democratic presidential nominees will be on the ballot. The state party chairs filed paperwork before the deadline and will file amended papers after each of the respective conventions, according to the Texas Secretary of State's office

*************************************

2. SLECT MEETING CANCELLED

The Sept 13 meeting of the State Libertarian party Executive Committee of Texas (SLECT) was cancelled due to hurricane Ike. The meeting will be rescheduled at a later time and will be mentioned in next month's newsletter.

*************************************

3. YVONNE SCHICK IN DEBATE

Libertarian Party of Texas US Senate candidate Yvonne Schick will be included in a televised debate with John Cornyn and Rick Noriega on Oct 9 in Houston. You are encouraged to contact your local public television station to request they broadcast this debate.

*************************************

4. COMMON GROUND - US CONSTITUTION

On Saturday Sept 20 at 6 PM the Harris County Libertarian Party will host an anniversary celebration of the US Constitution. This will be the fourth annual Common Ground meeting which was created by Harris County LP chair Guy McLendon. Speakers include - Paul Jacob (http://www.FreePaulJacob.com/) who was charged with a felony for collecting ballot petition signatures in Oklahoma for the Libertarian Party
- Linda Curtis, founder of Independent Texans (http://www.indytexans.org/)

Event details can be found at
http://libertarian.meetup.com/276/calendar/8216539/

*************************************

5. DR LARK COMING TO AUSTIN

On Sept 22 former Libertarian Party national chair Jim Lark will be making a presentation at the University of Texas in Austin. The presentation will be at 7 PM in the ETC building and is hosted by the student group Libertarian Longhorns. For more information, contact Norman Horn at normanh@mail.utexas.edu or check the following websites:
http://libertarianlonghorns.blogspot.com/
http://utexas.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2202805240

*************************************

6. RON PAUL ENDORSEMENTS

Congressman Ron Paul has formally endorsed several Libertarians running for office this year. His office has announced that he will not endorse anyone running against an incumbent Republican "as of now".

*************************************

7. TARRANT ELECTION NIGHT PARTY

The Tarrant County Libertarian Party (http://www.tarrantlp.org/) will host an election night party in Grapevine. See the message below:

I wanted to let you know that we're having a BLOWOUT of an Election Night Returns Watching Party in Grapevine (by DFW Airport) at the most appropriately named venue I could find - "Love and War in Texas". So, on Tuesday, November 4th starting at 6:30 we'll have the run of the venue and the use of their stage, lights, theater sized screen and projector, PA system, multiple flat screen TVs - (they're set up for nice sized country music concerts). We would be honored for you to attend!

For $20, each attendee will get some great food at the 'Fajita and Tex-Mex Buffet', be eligible for some incredible donated doorprizes and will enjoy great music, videos, live news feeds, awards (!) - and I would like to try to get a hookup (via internet video chat - most likely) between Bob Barr's campaign party - AND Yvonne Schick's, if she doesn't come here!!! Yvonne - I may have to chat with you you to set things up - all you need is a video camera, laptop and a high speed internet hook up.

Of course, we'll have candidate speeches too - mostly acceptance speeches :)   - as well as cheers and boos and friendship in liberty all around.

The name of the party is "You Can't Stop Freedom!" - and you can get more information here. http://libertarian.meetup.com/388/calendar/8654306/

I just put it on the meetup about a day ago and we're getting a lot of RSVP 'Yes' replies. We'll have the ability to purchase tickets online very soon - but in the mean time, you can purchase/reserve tickets by calling 817-416-6897!!! If you know of folks in the area that are in surrounding counties (I'm going to be clobbering Dallas, Denton, Collin - and of course, Tarrant) that may like to attend please pass them the word!!!

Lastly, I needed to let Wes and Art know that the new Tarrant LP website is up and going!! It's really incredible so far and is the result of a few really talented folks in the Tarrant LP! http://www.tarrantlp.org. ; If you could change references on the TXLP website to link to this, I would really appreciate it!

Thank you in advance for passing this along to interested party-goers and for changing the info on the Texas LP website!

John Spivey
Chair, Tarrant County LP

*************************************

8. TRAVIS ELECTION NIGHT PARTY

The Travis County Libertarian Party will hold its election night party at Third Base located at 1717 West 6th St, just east of the Mopac ramp on West 6th St. It will begin at around 7 PM on Tuesday Nov 4. Free admission, just show up and party with us. Their website is http://thirdbaseaustin.com/.

*************************************

9. REAL ID IN TEXAS

The following letter is from the 5-11 campaign to oppose Real ID in Texas. Their website is http://511campaign.org/:

Dear Libertarians of Texas,

In the upcoming legislative session, the 5-11 Campaign will be introducing a bill to drive Real ID's to a grinding halt. We need your political backing to stop the progress of Real ID's during the session.

With your help the 5-11 Campaign will advocate with the Libertarian Party of Texas on Real IDs by adding our issue to the November election debates.

Now is the most important time to create a discussion of how we can advance our goals to quit this disservice to the American people's privacy and identity security and to know where we stand on this issue.

Libertarian's Bob Barr, Jim Stutsman and Yvonne Schick are now volleying for a complete stop to a future with a de facto National ID and the privacy and identity abuses which are continually cropping up with increased demands on our citizenship.

According to Yvonne Schick, Texas Libertarian candidate for Senate, "We won't lose our civil liberties in one fell swoop. They will be whittled away in small increments; baby steps toward a total loss of freedom. Real ID is one more step toward a totalitarian police state. It is imperative we draw the line and where better to draw it than Texas. We won't stand alone. The Governor of Montana and representatives in other states are taking a stand. This is an issue where Libertarian candidates can distinguish our campaigns in candidate forums and interviews. The Libertarian Platform takes a position against national ID or Real ID cards and the major parties do not. I support the 5-11 Campaign, I will include this issue in my campaign, and I urge others to do so as well."

In fairness, you should know where we stand on Real IDs and what we are asking of governing leaders.

We, representing a broad and diverse coalition of national organizations, urge the upcoming and current Administration to oppose the attempts of state motor vehicle officials to create a national identification system (national ID) through the bureaucratic back door of state drivers' licenses. We are also working with transportation unions to stop the commercial driver and maritime worker from losing their jobs due to refusal to submit applications or identity documents for Enhanced Driver's Licenses, Smart Cards and the TWIC program. Most of the business of Real ID serves the interests of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative or WHTI.   WHTI will create stiff movement limitations on where we go on the basis of proof of citizenship.

WHTI, The Patriot Act and The Real ID Act are being used to retain the identities of anyone crossing our borders for up to 75 years in an identity database system. Such a system is now being built by AAMVA to create an national ID system for the U.S. citizen.

One reaction to the terrible events of September 11 was renewed discussion about instituting a national ID card as a counter-terrorism measure. The creation of a national ID card or system is a misplaced, superficial "quick fix" to the terrorist threat. A national ID system would not effectively deter terrorists and, instead, would pose serious threats to the rights of freedom and equality of everyone in the United States.

Although national ID proposals received fierce debate in the fall, the Administration and Congress wisely rejected them. Direct passage of a national ID card, however, is only one possible path to such a system. A national ID would more likely evolve bureaucratically through existing forms of ID, such as state drivers' licenses.
The American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) is now building a database hub with funding from the federal government to standardize state drivers' licenses.

This plan would establish a national ID and an unparalleled system of personal information sharing.

We urge you to reject this proposal because:

A national ID would not prevent terrorism. An identity card is only as good as the information that establishes identity in the first place. Terrorists and criminals will continue to be able to obtain -- by legal and illegal means -- the documents needed to get a government ID, such as birth certificates and social security numbers. A national ID would create a false sense of security because it would enable individuals with an ID -- who may in fact be terrorists -- to avoid heightened security measures.

A national ID would depend on a massive bureaucracy that would limit our basic freedoms. A national ID system would depend on both the issuance of an ID card and the integration of huge amounts of personal information included in state and federal government databases. One employee mistake, an underlying database error rate, or common fraud could take away an individual's ability to move freely from place to place or even make them unemployable until the government fixed their "file." Anyone who has attempted to fix errors in their credit report can imagine the difficulty of causing an overextended government agency such as the department of motor vehicles to correct a mistake that precludes a person from getting a valid ID.
A national ID would be expensive and direct resources away from other more effective counterterrorism measures. The costs of a national ID system have been estimated at as much as $9 billion. Even more troubling, a national ID system mandated through state agencies would burden states who may have more effective ways to fight terrorism and strengthen ID systems.

A national ID would both contribute to identity fraud and make it more difficult to remedy. Americans have consistently rejected the idea of a national ID and limited the uses of data collected by the government. In the 1970s, both the Nixon and Carter Administrations rejected the use of social security numbers as a uniform identifier because of privacy concerns. A national ID would be "one stop shopping" for perpetrators of identity theft who usually use social security numbers and birth certificates for false IDs (not drivers' licenses). Even with a biometric identifier, such as a fingerprint, on every ID, there is no guarantee that individuals won't be identified, or misidentified in error. The accuracy of biometric technology varies depending on the type and implementation. And, it would be even more difficult to remedy identity fraud when a thief has a National ID card with your name on it, but his biometric identifier.

A national ID could require all Americans to carry an internal passport at all times, compromising our privacy, limiting our freedom, and exposing us to unfair discrimination based on national origin or religion. Once government databases are integrated through a uniform ID, access to and uses of sensitive personal information would inevitably expand. Law enforcement, tax collectors, and other government agencies would want use of the data. Employers, landlords, insurers, credit agencies, mortgage brokers, direct mailers, private investigators, civil litigants, and a long list of other private parties would also begin using the ID and even the database, further eroding the privacy that Americans rightly expect in their personal lives. It would take us even further toward a surveillance society that would significantly diminish the freedom and privacy of law-abiding people in the United States. A national ID would foster new forms of discrimination and harassment. The ID could
be used to stop, question, or challenge anyone perceived as looking or sounding "foreign" or individuals of a certain religious affiliation.

The Fiscal Year 2002 House Transportation Appropriations' report encourages the Department to study and define "the types of encoded data that should be placed on drivers' licenses for security purposes, and to work in concert with the states toward early implementation of such measures." These guidelines would be the first step toward federal involvement in the standardization of state drivers' licenses and the implementation of a national ID. We urge you to make recommendations that would provide the states with a series of security options rather than one uniform standard that could lead to a national ID.
Please note that both biometrics and RFID consumer technologies have performed poorly for the purposes of identity.

We urge the leaders to reject national ID systems in any form. Elected officials should not take any steps to implement such a system or fund any proposals that would result in a national ID, including the study or development of standardized state drivers' licenses.
There are more effective methods to prevent terrorism that would not impact the liberty interests of Texans and all Americans.

We urge you to add your voice to ours, to be available to inform constituents of your position on Real IDs and get behind our bill.

For Texas,

The 5-11 Campaign

*************************************

10. GRICHA RAETHER ON UNIVISION

Libertarian candidate for US Congress district 15 Gricha Raether (http://www.gricharaether.com/) has been featured in interviews on the Spanish speaking television network Univision. These interviews have been posted on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KI50HxHwVf8&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ud6LW9ayVA

*************************************

11. IMMIGRATION DEBATE ON YOUTUBE

Wes Benedict and Pat Dixon role play in an immigration debate on the weekly show Live and Let Live hosted by the Travis County Libertarian Party:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=2996356572811535416

*************************************

12. WES AND HIS $46 UNDERWEAR

Here's a YouTube video of Wes Benedict's recent testimony before the Austin City  Council regarding Prop 2, Stop Domain Subsidies.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nvDBWneJhdg
http://www.stopdomainsubsidies.com/

*************************************

13. PAT DIXON FIGHTS EMINENT DOMAIN

State Chair and Lago Vista city council member Pat Dixon has been fighting against eminent domain abuse. The headline story in the local newspaper tells part of the story, see www.PatDixon.org for details.

*************************************

14. RESTORING THE HEART OF AMERICA

The following organization contacted the Libertarian Party of Texas regarding their new initiative:

My name is Tim Shaw and I am working for a non-profit organization called Restoring the Heart of America. Our mission is to educate Americans about the original vision of the U.S. Constitution and the rights, liberties, and responsibilities it secures for them. We feel this education should be available to everyone, and it is my pleasure to offer to your members and supporters Restoring the Heart of America's free weekly newsletter on the U.S. Constitution and its relevance today. Your members and supporters will also receive a free PDF of the U.S. Constitution, Declaration of Independence, and one chapter of the book "Restoring the Heart of America – A return to government by the people" by Clyde Cleveland and Edward Noyes.
www.restoringtheheartofamerica.com

********************************************

15. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

I have never considered myself a political expert. I have worked on several campaigns, been elected, been unelected, then reelected. That doesn't make me a Karl Rove or James Carville.

We often second guess what a candidate should or should not do. Recently Ron Paul held a press conference asking voters to support candidates other than McCain and Obama. He invited Ralph Nader, Bob Barr, Chuck Baldwin, and Cynthia McKinney. Bob Barr declined the invitation and held a press conference later inviting Ron Paul to be his running mate.

There has been much discussion of whether this was a wise move by the Barr campaign.

It should be noted that Bob Barr also worked on a resolution last year passed by the Libertarian Party national committee inviting Ron Paul to seek the party's presidential nomination.

As we get closer to election day, interest in the campaigns grows and the debate over tactics intensifies. This can tend to divide us.

While the carefully choreographed conventions of our opponents do not display division, it is there. The RNC had a competing convention in the same town with Ron Paul that was well attended. Surveys say that 20% of Clinton supporters will not support Obama. Remember the riots of the 1968 DNC convention or the polarization of the Goldwater/Rockefeller convention of 1964. You can go all the way back to George Washington having to deal with Jefferson, Madison, and Adams in his cabinet. As you know, politics is emotional and infighting occurs.

My policy has always been that our party recruits and nominates our candidates and we do not micro-manage their campaigns. I deeply respect those that work for liberty and place their names on the ballot next to "LIBERTARIAN". Only time will tell how the decisions made in these campaigns will lead to the results on Nov 4.

We need your support as we get closer to Nov 4. We want to get you the yard signs, bumper stickers, door hangers, and other materials to help you get record results on election day. Please consider making a donation at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml

********************************************

16. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES:

Sept 20 US Consititution 221 anniversary - Common Ground
http://libertarian.meetup.com/276/calendar/8216539/

Texas LP State Committeee (SLECT) meeting: To be determined

Oct 9 US Senate debate with Yvonne Schick, John Cornyn, Rick Noriega

Tuesday November 4: General election date, get out and vote!
Tarrant County Election night party, http://libertarian.meetup.com/388/calendar/8654306/
Travis County election night party, 7 PM, www.ThirdBaseAustin.com

Subscribe to Lone Star Liberty Online via email by entering your email address below:

Lone Star Liberty - Aug 2008 - Libertarians as Kingmakers

2008-08-03T23:08:33Z

Lone Star Liberty newsletter:
the monthly newsletter of the Libertarian Party of Texas, www.LPTexas.org

August 2008
Over 1730 subscribers

1. LIBERTARIANS AS KINGMAKERS
2. UPDATES ON STATE WEBSITE
3. FAIRTAX DEBATE FROM STATE CONVENTION
4. FIRST FULL MEETING OF NEW STATE COMMITTEE
5. GREAT ARGUMENT FOR SCHOOL CHOICE
6. BOB BARR APPEARANCES IN TEXAS
7. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
8. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES

*************************************
1. LIBERTARIANS AS KINGMAKERS

The Libertarian Party of Texas is now being recognized as a major player in the 2008 election. Several recent headlines have addressed this:

http://www.statesman.com/news/content/region/legislature/stories/07/28/0728libertarians.html
http://www.statesman.com/news/content/news/stories/local/08/03/0803libertarians.html

The latter story was the result of a press release from the state party (http://www.lptexas.org/release-20080801.shtml)

In response to pleas to have Libertarian candidates withdraw from the ballot, state chair Pat Dixon sent to following message to the slate of candidates:

Libertarian Party candidates and state committee members,

Some great things are happening for the Libertarian Party of Texas and I urge all of our candidates to REMAIN ON THE BALLOT!

I do not know the entire history of our results in Texas, but my understanding is that in the past we would have a small number of candidates on the ballot and get the usual small percentages and sometimes get more votes than the margin of victory in one state legislature race. In 2004 we had a candidate that ran for the state legislature and was credited for knocking out incumbent Jack Stick. The following legislative session we wrote a bill that got signed by 4 legislators. Last election cycle we were kingmakers in 6 races for the state legislature, which is more than ever before. Even though several of the legislators that had signed our bill had retired before the election, we had 5 new legislators sign a bill for the 2007 session (http://www.lptexas.org/release-20070403.shtml). Now we are prepared for historical success and in a powerful negotiating position for the next legislative session.

That is why we are getting the attention of people (http://www.statesman.com/news/content/region/legislature/stories/07/28/0728libertarians.html).

That is also why some of you candidates are getting called by people asking you to withdraw (see press release below). The incumbents fear our presence on the ballot and do not want voters to have a choice.

There are times when our members choose not to oppose someone that is on our side. Typically our conventions choose not to oppose Ron Paul. One of the authors of our bill last session, Dan Branch, has kept in contact with us and our supporters in the Dallas area thought it best not to challenge him.

However, now is not the time for people that would not talk to us last year to now beg us to support them. They are not worthy of our trust and support. There is nobody in the legislature anywhere near Ron Paul in terms of Libertarian principle. To compromise now is to throw away our best hand.

Wes and I are getting these calls as well. I received an unsolicited call this week from the office of the chief of staff to speaker Tom Craddick, and Wes and I will meet them on Monday. I am happy to talk to people, but not willing to give away the farm. We know we are making a difference when we get calls like this, and this is the position we want to be in!

There is also a perception that we only hurt Republicans. People do not understand that we are not only for economic liberty, but also social tolerance and individual liberty. In 2006 the Republican beat the Democrat by fewer votes than our candidate Gene Freeman received in district 106. Some of you are running against incumbent Democrats. We can knock them out of office as well.

Please understand that I am not asking anything more of you than you have already done. I am really the figurehead. You are the players. Even if you do not have an active campaign, a "paper candidate", you are doing everything we could ask for. Between our candidates and our excellent staff of Wes and Art, we have a great team.

If you get bothered by people calling, feel free to tell them to talk to us if you don't want to be bothered. The only thing I ask is that you remain a candidate for the Libertarian Party in 2008. It would take a sizable and trustworthy offer for us to even consider anything else. At the moment there is so much to gain, and the only way we can lose it is to give it up.

Thank you so much for your great sacrifice, your efforts, and your support.

Yours in Liberty,

Patrick J Dixon
Chair, Libertarian Party of Texas
www.LPTexas.org

*************************************
2. UPDATES ON STATE WEBSITE

Several updates have been placed on our state website, www.LPTexas.org. Please take a look.

*************************************
3. FAIRTAX DEBATE FROM STATE CONVENTION

A summary of the FairTax debate at our state convention has been placed at http://seananderson.blip.tv/#1079998. Speaking in favor of the FairTax is Ken Hoagland, national communications director for Americans for Fair Taxation. Opposing the FairTax is state party executive director Wes Benedict. Thanks to Sean Anderson for recording this video and posting it. Additional sessions were also recorded and we will inform you when they are available.

*************************************
4. FIRST FULL MEETING OF NEW STATE COMMITTEE

At the state convention a new state executive committee (SELCT) was elected. Although a short preliminary meeting was held at the convention, the first full meeting will be held on September 13 from 11:00 AM to 4 PM at Pok-e-Jo's BBQ in Austin. The meeting is open to the public. We do ask that those in attendance patronize the restaurant. Topics to be discussed are the establishment of annual goals and hiring of an executive director upon the departure of Wes Benedict.

Saturday September 13th, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m
Pok-e-Jo'S BBQ
4109 S Capital of TX Hwy
Austin, TX 78704
512-440-0447
http://www.pokejos.com/4960299_38938.htm

*************************************
5. GREAT ARGUMENT FOR SCHOOL CHOICE

Below is a very persuasive argument for choice and diversity in education:
http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/ken_robinson_says_schools_kill_creativity.html

*************************************
6. BOB BARR APPEARANCES IN TEXAS

Libertarian Party presidential candidate Bob Barr made several appearances in Texas in July. Below are some reports from his visits:

6a. Article of the visit in Houston : http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/front/5898431.html
Additional comments from county chair Guy McLendon:

"During Barr’s event at the Hilton @ University of Houston on July 20th, about 100 people attended. Media coverage included the Houston Chronicle, and a very nice article appeared in the print & online copy. Fox local affiliate Channel 26 came out, and got footage. I’m uncertain when/if that footage was aired."

http://libertarian.meetup.com/276/calendar/8267723/

"Yvonne Schick was the opening speaker."
"Qty = 4 Ron Paul Meetup groups posted this event … including the largest Ron Paul Meetup.com group in Houston … #24."
"Guy"

6b. From the visit in Dallas from Tarrant County chair John Spivey:

"Hello North Texas Liberation Front,"

"Many of you who were at attendance last night at the "Burgers for Bob" event walked away with a real treat! This was a memorable night where many of us were able to have a comfortable, easy going - and very interesting - conversation with LP Presidential Candidate, Congressman Bob Barr. I've seen Mr. Barr speak on several occasions and have seen him on cable news programs and C-Span dozens of times, but I must say I was very happy to find out that what a completely down-to-earth, engaging, friendly and funny person he is. But most importantly, he is the only candidate with a national platform advancing a message of rolling back government's scope, power and costs."

"Of course, we were able to have this great experience by the graciousness of our hosts, John Shuey, his lovely wife Patricia Winning, and son John (and two friendly greyhounds). I think we each owe John and his family, a big 'THANK YOU' for spearheading this event and allowing us to use their beautiful home. We had success in raising some money for Mr. Barr, getting to do a little 'cross team collaboration' with the other connected county LPs and of course, learning more about Bob Barr's vision of America. It's a good one, by the way."

"If you have any pictures of the event, feel free to either post them on the meetup website - or send them to me (if my email account will accept them - it's being a little finicky) and let's share our memories of the evening. Again, great job to John and Patricia for making us feel welcome and their generosity!"

"Sincerley,
John Spivey"

"PS - Is it just me - or does this election cycle seem a little different for us LPers? I have to admit, I'm kind of getting 'psyched'! I think this may be the cycle that changes things permanently. Let's make some noise out here!!!""

6c. Report of the visit in Austin from state chair Pat Dixon:

"This evening we had an opportunity to meet with Bob Barr, who recently showed at 6% in the Zogby national poll. People got to ask him questions, get shirts and hats, and get their picture taken with him."

"Bob shows tremendous stamina. He had a very busy travel day and was able to conduct several media interviews prior to his 2 presentations at the hotel. He was on his feet almost the whole evening. At the evening reception we was on his feet for over an hour and went until 9 PM personally meeting people and having his picture taken. He had not had any dinner. He could not have been more engaging. People were asking him challenging questions and he handled it remarkably well."

"I mentioned that in 2004 we had to collect 82,000 signatures in 75 days to remain on the ballot in Texas. We received $45,000 from the national party to fund this effort. Now those same people in states that supported our effort need our help. West Virginia has an urgent ballot access drive. The Barr campaign is helping in West Virginia, Connecticut, and Maine. They also filed a lawsuit against the unreasonable ballot access laws in Oklahoma. We have approximately 17 more states that need our support to be on the ballot. Both the Barr campaign and the national party are working hard as these deadlines approach. We have Libertarian candidates in these states that are counting on us. It is not only the presidential ticket, but all Libertarian candidates in these states that need help. We got help in 2004, and I hope Texas can show that we appreciate it and return the favor."

6d. Another report of the Austin event from new member Stephen Alexander:

"Friends/ Family/ Peers-"

"As you know, I am one of those "disenfranchised" Republicans, who think that the Republican Party left me (not that I left the Republican party). The GOP no longer is the party of smaller government and lower taxes. It no longer is the party of "live and let live" as you see fit. It no longer is the party of personal accountability and responsibility. This year, I am taking the bold step of supporting the Libertarian Party in the Presidential Election."

"My wife and I had the fantastic opportunity last Saturday to sit down with Bob Barr, Libertarian candidate for President."

"Most of you remember Bob as the conservative U.S. Congressman from Georgia (he lives in Atlanta), but much like me, Bob felt that the Republican Party left him. During our visit (we attended a town hall-like reception with about 50 others), we had the opportunity to ask questions, and to have open dialogue with Mr. Barr. Let me say that the evening was nothing less than spectacular, and inspirational. The inspiration was simply that Erin and I finally felt like there was still hope for our nation's political future, and that there are still a few folks out there that run for office because they want to make the country better, not simply for personal gain, or for personal agenda hopes and desires."

"Mr. Barr was very clear and concise on EXACTLY where he stood on the issues. There was no vague double speak, and there was no making excuses for votes he had cast in the past that he felt were mistakes. He stepped up to the plate, and took on the questions head-on."

"A little over a month ago, we attended a luncheon where the guest speaker was Wayne Allyn Root. Wayne is now the VP candidate on the ticket with Bob Barr. Mr. Root is the poster child for the self employed, self-reliant, do-it-yourself mind set person. He was a thrill to listen to and later visit with."

"I am throwing my full support behind the Barr/ Root ticket for President this year. Many of you that I have spoken with have cautioned me against voting for a 3rd party candidate, saying that a 3rd party cannot win, and that a vote for Barr/ Root is a vote against McCain. I can no longer (especially with my 9-month old daughter depending on me) in good conscience cast another vote for the "lesser of two evils". For me and my family, the line is drawn here in 2008. The change has to start somewhere of getting our nation and our society back to where it came from: self reliance, self accountability, and a limited government."

"PLEASE take 5 minutes (5:06 to be exact) and watch this video on YouTube. It speaks for itself. Please take some additional time when you have a moment and read up on Mr. Barr. Those of us that share similar values DO have a candidate that represents our beliefs. I hope and pray that you will watch, listen, and later read with an open mind and more importantly, an open heart. Here's the link: http://www.youtube.com/user/bobbarr2008?ob=4";

"Feel free to send this email on to others, if you think it appropriate."  "Also, PLEASE contact me with any questions, thoughts, etc."
"God bless, Stephen Alexander"
"P.S. I am now a card-carrying member of the national and state Libertarian Parties. Liberty for America! Bob Barr 2008!"

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7. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

In 1861, Czar Alexander II of Russia emancipated serfs. In 1964 he established local self government. He brought several other liberal reforms to a country that was historically authoritarian and conservative, such as abolishing the death penalty, adopting Western judicial procedures, relaxation of censorship, and drafting plans for an elected parliament. In 1881 he was assassinated. He was not killed by the ruling regime. He was not killed by the conservatives or authoritarians. He was killed by liberals that did not think he was liberal and radical enough. The result was a return to more authoritarian regimes and the Communist takeover 36 years later.

The Libertarian Party will always have debate about how best to remain true to our principles while persuading people to support us. It is healthy to have these discussions as long as they are respectful. The enemy is not us. We need to work together despite our differences.

A great example of this is from one of my favorite Libertarians, Steve Kubby. Steve has endured a lot in his fight for life and liberty. His campaign for the Libertarian presidential nomination was a great display of what is means to be a Libertarian. After the nomination, he gave us a great demonstration of how to unify our party (http://thirdpartywatch.com/2008/05/27/kubby-urges-support-for-barrroot-ticket/)

As we go forward to the November election, let us remember the lesson of Alexander II. We have 173 candidates that will have different opinions and different ways of growing our support. Some may be active, some may only occupy a place on the ballot to offer a choice. We have an opportunity to advance the cause of liberty. Let's not assassinate our friends.

Yours in Liberty,
Pat Dixon

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8. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES:

Saturday September 13th, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m
Pok-e-Jo'S
4109 S Capital of TX Hwy
Austin, TX 78704
512-440-0447
http://www.pokejos.com/4960299_38938.htm

Tuesday November 4: General election date, get out and vote!

Subscribe to Lone Star Liberty Online via email by entering your email address below:

Lone Star Liberty- July 2008 (Barr in Texas, State Convention results, and more ....)

2008-07-06T21:41:45Z

Lone Star Liberty newsletter:
the monthly newsletter of the Libertarian Party of Texas, www.LPTexas.org

July 2008
Over 1610 subscribers

1.BOB BARR COMING TO TEXAS
2. STATE CONVENTION WRAP UP
3. INDEPENDENCE DAY ACTIVITIES
4. VAN'S WARPED TOUR
5. MONEY BOMB RESULT
6. WES AND PAT"S EXCELLENT ADVENTURE
7. RON PAUL CANDIDATES
8. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
9. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES

*************************************
1. BOB BARR COMING TO TEXAS

Libertarian Party presidential candidate Bob Barr (http://www.youtube.com/bobbarr2008) will be making 2 appearances in Texas in July.

He will first make the keynote address at the "Defending the American Dream - Texas Summit" in Austin on Saturday July 19 at 5 PM. This will take place at the Renaissance Hotel, 9721 Arboretum Blvd., in Austin. The event is sponsored by Americans for Prosperity. Information can be found at http://www.defendingthedream.com/TX/

The next appearance will be at the Freedom21 National Conference in Dallas (Addison) on Thursday July 24 at 1 PM. The location is the Crowne Plaza Dallas, near the Galleria. Information can be found at http://www.freedom21.org/

For more information about the schedule of events for the Barr/Root campaign, visit www.BobBarr2008.com

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2. STATE CONVENTION WRAP UP

The Libertarian Party of Texas had a very successful state convention the weekend of June 13-15 in Fort Worth. Approximately 175 attended which is more than have attended the past 4 conventions. By all accounts it was enjoyed by all.

The new state platform was adopted and is posted to www.LPTexas.org. There were some updates to the party's bylaws and these will be posted to the state website shortly.

All uncontested candidates for statewide office were formally nominated to represent the Libertarian Party this November. In a 3 way contested nomination,
Yvonne Schick (http://yvonneforsenate.com/) was nominated as our candidate for US Senate.

Press coverage of the convention can be found at http://www.lptexas.org/news.shtml and www.PatDixon.org

Some videos from the convention can be found at http://seananderson.blip.tv/#1038783 and http://youtube.com/user/clermontflorida. We want to thank Sean Anderson for these recordings, and he will be placing more videos from the convention as they become available.

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3. INDEPENDENCE DAY ACTIVITIES

Libertarians were busy promoting Liberty on Independence Day. Donors helped produce 10,000 copies of the Declaration of Independence to be handed out at events across the state. Below are some reports:

From Evan Fisher in Dallas:

We had a great response at the parade and gave out every single Declaration of Independence and every bead necklace and every piece of candy. The response to Declarations was phenomenal and the John Birch Society (with a float right behind ours), seemed like they wanted to get in on our action. At least they said they were supporting Bob Barr - and pleased to know that we had local candidates as well!

From Paul Osborn (LP candidate for State Senate, District 16) in Dallas:

As Evan reported, we distributed all 1,000 copies at the Park Cities 4th of July parade in Dallas. What worked out well for us is that we scrolled the Declarations with the Declaration title visible and then sealed them with a sticker that pointed to the new LPDC web-site. It was much easier physically to hand them out when scrolled while walking the parade route and recipients seemed to view them more as a novelty rather than just a flyer.

We'll order even more next year! We ran out about 2/3 of the way through the parade.

More details and photos posted at http://www.lpdallas.org/node/36

From Wes Benedict (LP candidate for Travis County Commissioner) in Austin:

Pat Dixon, Art DiBianca, and I handed out 1,500 in Austin between 7:00 and 8:30 PM at the Auditorium Shores park where people gathered for the fireworks show. Most people we handed these to were sitting on chairs or blankets waiting for the fireworks to start and in general seemed quite eager to take a copy. I believe we have about 2,500 of these left over in Austin which people can use next year.

From Jim Stutsman (LP candidate for US Rep, District 25) in central Texas:

I handed out 150+ at San Marcos Plaza Park, by walking the grounds waiting for the fireworks to start. I asked if I could give them a 4th of July gift and only one person said no. By having the privilege of presenting the Declaration I also made two contacts to come and speak to their group.

From Leonard Nelson in Corpus Christi:

Wes- It rained in Corpus Christi all morning and into the afternoon, but I handed out several hundred later at the Ferry line in Port Aransas. It was a good venue, with people at a dead stop and nothing better to do than read.

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4. VAN'S WARPED TOUR

For the second year the Libertarian Party of Texas participated in outreach at the Van's Warped tour (www.warpedtour.com). The outreach booths events in San Antonio on July 5 and Houston on July 6 were covered by Patrick Barton.

Patrick reported a very good response in both locations. About 150 took the World's Smallest political quiz 100 were added to the contact list. It was a popular booth at both locations. In Houston the Obama campaign booth was adjacent and they commented on how impressed they were with the activity at the Libertarian Party booth

*************************************

5. MONEY BOMB RESULT

The Libertarian Party of Texas announced a money bomb for March 15 with a goal of $50,000. The result was over $28,000 donated. The date was extended to June 15 at the conclusion of the state convention. At this point the amount pledged or received is approximately $35,000.

These funds are needed to meet our annual budget and keep our staff working. With a record number of candidates, increased media attention, and Ron Paul supporters looking for a home, we need your support.

Please consider helping us by joining at one our membership levels prior to the state convention. We would like to give you a membership card indicating your membership level (silver, gold, platinum, etc).

Donations and memberships can be made securely online at http://lptexas.org/membership.shtml

Thank you to those who support our party. We truly appreciate you!

********************************************

6. WES AND PAT"S EXCELLENT ADVENTURE

Last year, Wes Benedict and Pat Dixon travelled to 25 Texas cities recruiting candidates and growing the party. This adventure is captured in a 12 minute video.

The low resolution version has been placed on Google Video:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=531240252429247725&q=&hl=en

The high resolution version is location here. This link is also featured on the home page of www.LPTexas.org:
http://patdixon.org/wesandpat.mov

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7. RON PAUL CANDIDATES

There is a website of candidates that represent the Constitutional principles of Ron Paul. We encourage candidates to submit their contact information and photos to PaulCongress.com

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8. MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

Fellow friends of Liberty,

Now that all of the conventions are over, it is the time to get busy and promote the Libertarian Party to those in your community.

We have yard signs, bumper stickers, door hangers, and all kinds of good stuff to help support our candidates that have volunteered to campaign and put themselves on the ballot this November. Check out http://www.lptexas.org/campaignmat.shtml and get your fill of materials.

I enjoyed Independence Day by riding in the Lago Vista July 4 parade. Being elected to city council has its perks and having your name and title on a vehicle and being driven down the street as you toss candy to the kids is pretty cool. It is really cool when everyone knows you as the Libertarian on city council. Getting elected to local office in small Texas towns is an ideal opportunity for good candidates. If you want to try for a city council or school board position next May, you need to start your campaign now. If you want to see what it is like being on city council in Lago Vista, you can check my website at www.PatDixon.org.

For us to take advantage of our opportunities in the next 121 days until Nov 4, we need to be able to respond to the people that want to know more about the Libertarian Party. That is why we have full time staff ready to help our candidates and respond to new people interested in or party. This is the best investment we can make to maximize our effect over the next 121 days. That is why at our state convention I became a platinum member, the highest level of recognition for our donors. I ask you to join me and find a level of donation that you are comfortable with. Our state party receives no funds from the national party, we must rely on our members in Texas to support us. You can make a secure contribution at https://co.clickandpledge.com/sp/d2/default.aspx?wid=18109

We appreciate all of our volunteers, candidates, officeholders, state and county committee members, and donors. I am honored to serve with you in this great cause of Liberty.

Patrick Dixon
Chair, Libertarian Party of Texas

********************************************

9. SCHEDULE OF IMPORTANT DATES:

Friday July 11, 6 PM: Williamson County Libertarian Party social night (http://www.txwclp.org/)

Saturday July 12, 4 PM: Harris County Libertarian Party meeting (http://www.lptexas.org/harris/index.html)

Tuesday July 15, 7 PM: Bexar County Libertarian Party meeting (http://www.geocities.com/c2777/lpb/lpbexar.html)

Saturday July 19, 1 PM: Tarrant County Libertarian Party meetup, South Prairie Oyster House (http://www.lptarrant.org/index.php?option=com_eventlist&Itemid=10008)

Saturday July 19, 5 PM: Bob Barr keynote address "Defending the American Dream - Texas Summit". Renaissance Hotel, 9721 Arboretum Blvd., Austin. Sponsored by Americans for Prosperity.
http://www.defendingthedream.com/TX/

Monday July 21, 12:00 noon: Book signing, Grover Norquist (President- Americans for Tax Reform, Author-"Leave Us Alone: Getting the Government’s Hands Off Our Money, Our Guns, Our Lives" )
Bel-Air Room, InterContinental Hotel
15201 Dallas Parkway Addison, Texas 75001
$35 per person (Includes lunch and book)
RSVP: Betty Medlock (972) 874-5139 or bmedlock@ipi.org

Thursday July 24, 1 PM: Bob Barr
Freedom21 National Conference
http://www.freedom21.org/

Tuesday August 5, 7 PM: Travis County Libertarian Party meeting (http://austinliberty.org/~austinli/index.php?module=pagemaster&PAGE_user_op=view_page&PAGE_id=19&MMN_position=9:9)

Tuesday November 4: General election date, get out and vote!

Subscribe to Lone Star Liberty Online via email by entering your email address below: