Blogservations-The Carmel-Clay Republican Blog

Helping Out In A Patriotic Way

2008-06-18T17:27:00.004-04:00

Calling all elected officials, members of the Carmel Clay Republican Club, individuals in charge of candidates campaigns, candidates up for election in the Fall and Friends of the Republican Party. The Carmel Clay Republican Club is again in charge of maning the Hamilton County Republican Tent at Carmelfest. We are looking for workers to help set the tent up and to help tear down.

Volunteers are needed Thursday, July 3rd to set-up from 10:00 am-2:00 pm, and to man the booth in three shifts - 4-6:00 pm, 6-8:00 pm, 8-11:00 pm. On the 4th, we need Republicans to fill the following shifts - noon-2:00 pm, 2-4:00 pm, 4-6:00 pm, 6-8:00 pm, and 8-11:00 pm.

We will need 2 workers per shift on Thursday and 3 per shift on Friday. All volunteers may park behind the Antique Emporium and the south building off Shoshone Place and walk over to the booth area. Instructions will be clear as to what to do and water and ice will be in abundance for the volunteers.

Your help is also needed at the County 4-H which is July 17th-21st with shifts July 17th-19th 10am-10pm and 20th-21-12pm-8pm. We have all time slots available. We should be very busy at both venues.

Please contact Peg Durrer Vice President of the Carmel Clay Republican Club at 846-3904 or by email pegd@gogop.org

Let's Celebrate Lincoln Day

2008-03-15T10:26:00.003-04:00

Carmel-Clay Precinct Committeeman...The Lincoln Day Dinner is a long standing tradition in the Republican Party. As I've been active in the party more years than I wish to remember, I have seen county chairman come and go but many have of these chairman have strongly suggested that precinct chairman and vice should make Lincoln Day a function they should attend.

As I do a lot of the precinct committeeman training, I am encouraging you to attend Lincoln Day on April 16th. You will meet committeeman from all over the county. Candidates running in the primary will gather in one place at the same time. This will be an excellent time to ask them what ever you would like. You will meet county party officials covering all areas of Party responsibility. Most of all, you will learn a lot, by your attendance, to help you in your duties as a committeeman.

Hope to see you at the Ritz Charles on April 16th.

Peg Durrer
Carmel Clay East Vice Chairman and Precinct Committeeman training coordinator

A Slam Dunk Decision

2007-10-16T17:07:00.000-04:00

The “bus” known as Carmel and Clay Township is at an intersection. We can either continue in the direction that the Republican leadership of Mayor Jim Brainard has taken us. Or, we can go in an unknown direction-driven by a Democrat or an Independent who not only have no road map, but have a bad sense of direction to boot. It's pretty simple really.

Jim Brainard is a visionary. Forget what you read in blogs. Forget the letters to the editor. For the most part, wizards who’d have you thinking we live in Oz write them. Just open your eyes and look around. Our city never looked so good. Our financial position has never been better. The leadership of our city is the best in the State. Carmel is the envy of every community in Indiana.

Carmel continues to have one of the lowest tax rates in the state. Our park system, almost non-existent fifteen years ago, is exceptional. Under Republican leadership, we have maintained our property values along with a high quality of life. Go south and have a look around. You'll see signs in front of homes saying, "For sale due to high property taxes". You won't see that in Carmel. Our older citizens don’t have to move because of doubled or tripled property taxes.

Jim Brainard has done more to improve Carmel than any mayor in Carmel's history and he deserves another term. Our whole Republican team needs to continue on the job and be rewarded for their success. Republican leadership and values are truly alive and well in Carmel, Indiana.

Telling It Like It Is

2007-08-12T13:12:00.000-04:00

Bill Ruthhart refers to Marnin Spigelman in an August 11, 2007 article published by the Indianapolis Star as, "a Republican running as an independent for mayor". To those relying on The Star for their information, Mr. Spigelman is NOT a Republican. Do not vote for him thinking that he is a Republican who was somehow shunned by his Party.

Mr. Spigleman is a Carpetbagger. As defined by Wikipedia, the Internet encyclopedia, the term Carpetbagger has been around since 1900. The term has been used to describe outsiders attempting to gain political office or economic advantage, especially in areas (thematically or geographically) to which they previously had no connection.

Mr. Spigelman apparently registered to vote in Carmel in 2007. He evidently voted in the 2007 primary election for Republican Party candidates. Might he have done this for the sole purpose of being able to say, "now I can call myself a Republican?" His stint as a Republican, however, didn't last long. A month or so after proclaiming himself a Republican, he dumped his newly acquired moniker for that of "Independent".

A search of the Indiana Campaign Finance Database at Secretary of State Todd Rokita's office shows that Mr. Spigelman has not supported a single Indiana Republican financially. Congressional Quarterly's Money Line does not recognize Spigelman as contributing to any Hoosier Republican. He doesn't show up in any Republican candidate's campaign finance report as a contributor. These reports are on file in the Hamilton County Clerk's office.

Marnin Spigelman, comes to town, votes in one primary, then days later flips off "his Party". He hasn't contributed financially to any Republican, he has not offered to work within the Carmel or Hamilton County Republican Party to help get Republicans elected. He is not a member of the Carmel-Clay GOP Club. The only "Republican" who's agenda has been furthered by Marnin Spigelman is his own.

To those who choose to support Republicans, we hope this helps clear the air. We actively seek and encourage qualified Republicans to run for office. Marnin Spigelman is not one of those. He is NOT a Republican. He is a Carpetbagger.

Your Nose Is Growing

2007-07-29T12:47:00.000-04:00

Desperate people are not good candidates for political office. When a desperate person runs, they make statements that are not quite truthful in order to purposefully fool voters. Such is the case with Sarann Warner, the Democrat running for City Council from District One. We were directed to Ms. Warner’s website and noticed what appears to be her sole issue for running: “Read about the ‘twin Ds:’ Debt + Density.”

Any clear thinking voter will recognize her intent right away. The website copy should state, “Read about the ‘twin Ds:’ Desperate + Democrat.” A smiling Warner wants you to accept fabrication as truth. Did she think no one would notice? If she’s willing to say untruths in order to get elected, what else is she willing to deceive us about? We have presented this Democrat’s issue point by point and include the truth that is lacking in her analysis:

"Carmel's excessive growth in recent years is starting to erode the quality of life that made us love Carmel in the first place!"

TRUTH: The number one measurement for quality of life is how many people wish to move into a city to be a part of the quality of life? Carmel’s net change in population is reflected in median value of owner-occupied housing units. Carmel has also measured quality of life issues in the past by the ability to maintain property values. Based on the year 2000, the median value of an owner occupied house is an incredible $205,400.00. By the way, the homeownership rate in 2000 was 79%. Not bad, no thanks to Warner who has no doubt benefitted from what she criticizes.

"With a density of over 4,500 people per square mile -- a density that has more than DOUBLED since 2000 -- Carmel is now more crowded than cities such as Minneapolis or St. Louis -- only fast growing Phoenix is more dense."

TRUTH: The last census in which we can compare all of the cities mentioned by the Democrat was 2000. According to the US Census Bureau, Carmel’s density was NOT 4,500 people but 2,096 people per square mile. Carmel is NOT more crowded than Minneapolis (6,956) or St. Louis (5,615). Don’t tell the other two, but the density of Phoenix, is actually 2,781. Assuming Carmel’s area (she doesn’t include the Township) was 4,500/sq mi, that would mean the City of Carmel would have a population of 81,000! Actually, our density today is somewhere around 1,400 per square mile. Pat Bauer must have taught Warner economics.

"Out-of-control growth threatens more than just traffic problems.
In time, it will means [sic] overburdened schools, where our kids will find overcrowded classrooms, and a loss in quality eduction [sic]."

TRUTH: No matter what growth is, evidently the Dem thinks she will have a hand in running the schools. Since Carmel’s inception as a city, Carmel-Clay Schools keep up with growth and manages it quite well. That is their duty. Has the system kept up with their charge? According to Carmel-Clay Schools website it has. “Carmel Clay School's assessed tax rate is among the very lowest in the state (279th of 293).” A loss in quality education? All Carmel Clay schools received the designation of Exemplary from the Indiana Department of Education, all eligible Carmel Clay schools received the designation of Four-Star School from the Indiana Department of Education, Carmel Clay Schools was named one of Indiana’s “outperforming” school districts by Standard & Poor’s School Evaluation Services; only 16 of Indiana’s 294 districts were recognized, etc, etc, etc. Our school system seems to be performing fine in spite of Sarann’s criticism. She’s run for Township Advisory Board and City Council. Perhaps School Board is her niche.

Although it is not our duty to give the Dems attention, it has been our pleasure to present Sarann ’s fabrications and ask that the voters in District One say NO to twin Ds and YES to twin Rs: “Re-elect Rick” Sharp. He does his homework and hasn’t learned a thing from Pat Bauer. And that's the TRUTH.

Can't We All Just Get Along?

2007-05-07T12:44:00.000-04:00

What seems like a life time ago, a Hamilton County Republican Chairman got the winners of one of the most contentious Republican primaries in Carmel's history in the same room. The purpose of that pow-wow was to try to unify the Party in Carmel. Feelings were bruised-egos trashed. In fact, some of the winners didn't bother to show up. Maybe the "no-shows" were afraid they'd be asked to donate blood to a fellow Republican.

That was sixteen years ago and nobody died as a result of the meeting. There was no Kumbaya singing either. Since no real opposition from other political parties exists in Hamilton County, hard feelings and elections go together in Carmel like love and marriage. Ronald Reagan said, "Never speak ill of a fellow Republican" because he never experienced a Carmel Republican caucus. If he had, the Reagan rule might never have been penned. Why can't we all just get along?

A recent article from The Christian Science Monitor might provide the most insight. The writer disagreed with another person's approach on a project they were working on together. He tried to get the other to see things his way. So the writer prayed hoping to hear God's direction more than his own opinion.

God's message, according to "The Monitor" was to stop being argumentative and combative – that there was something better to contribute. Focus on the things that this person and he agreed on. And to go forward in a positive way.

So, to those who's candidates lost in the primary, we are asking you to support your Party's nominees. We need you to remain a Republican. If a Republican decides to leave the Party and run as an Independent or Libertarian they will lose. The cost to them will be more than the dollars spent in a losing effort. Most of all, it's not going forward in a positive way. Perhaps we can't get along because we are unwilling to ease up on our argument and focus on the similarities.

Cleaning up our conversations, with others or with ourselves, isn't about just being nice. It contributes to changing our community and Party - and getting along.

Overcoming The "X" Word

2007-05-01T10:25:00.000-04:00

The "X" word. In politics, no word strikes with more impact than the word "taXes". More recently though, the X word has come to be defined as "eXcuses" - excuses for not voting. This election cycle, one side cites runaway spending as causing a rise in taxes while the other side counters with their facts showing taxes have gone down because of their prudent use of tax dollars. Each side claims the other is just plain wrong.

Whose right? That's up to the voter to decide. But too often voters on both sides are guilty of excuses. Fellow Republicans, we get the kind of government you deserve. It should be no surprise that registered voters are more interested in McDreamy or Bree Hodge than they are in a sample ballot. Or it's more important to wait in line for tickets to The Moody Blues than it is to cast a vote.

We are asking that the public use its influence to interest those registered to vote. How? By posting a comment promoting your choice for office and telling readers why. If you are a candidate, use this spot as a soapbox. If you are a citizen, we want your opinion. Our website gogop.org has resources that will let you know where you vote. The Carmel-Clay Republican Club held a very successful candidate forum. Now, the blog would like to do its part.

18% of the registered voters should not determine who governs Carmel for four years. So let us know who to vote for on May 8th. There's no eXcuse.

The Age Of Foolishness

2007-04-24T14:45:00.000-04:00

"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness..." - Charles Dickens, A Tale Of Two Cities.

Isn't it wonderful how a thought published almost a century and a half ago can so aptly describe the age in which we live? Yesterday, it was reported that the Department of Veterans Affairs must recognize religious diversity by allowing a Wiccan symbol on the memorial marker of a soldier who died in Afghanistan. Evidently the Americans United for Separation of Church and State made an impression on some government official. The five pointed Wiccan pentacle, a black magic symbol, is now an appropriate decoration for ground which has been hallowed with the blood of patriots. However, this entry is about license plates and the Indiana branch of the ACLU.

For those who have been on another planet, State Representative, Woody Burton, R-Greenwood, led the effort in 2006 that created the popular In God We Trust license plate. The Bureau of Motor Vehicles does not promote the "IGWT" plate, which generally is available only through license branches. It is so popular that over half a million of these plates have been issued since the beginning of the year. In fact, it is the number one plate in the state. It seems it is popular with just about everyone but the ACLU.

"In God We Trust" is the current national motto of the United States. It was declared as such by an act of Congress in 1956. One possible origin of the national motto is the final stanza of "The Star-Spangled Banner." Written in 1814, the song contains one of the earliest references to a variation of the phrase: "...And this be our motto: "In God is our trust." Don't think that Indiana is so innovative as to adopt our national motto for state use. "In God We Trust" is also the official state motto of Florida, and is found on the flag of Georgia as well. The ACLU stated, that they were not complaining about the message. "This isn't about religion." Yeah, right.

So if it's not about religion and the plate is so popular, why not make the In God We Trust license plate the standard issue for Indiana. That way, we can honor our national motto as a state, and for those who, since this isn't about religion, don't feel very patriotic, make available (for a nominal fee of course) another tag. Perhaps one with a five pointed Wiccan pentacle.

What Were They Afraid Of?

2007-04-12T16:54:00.000-04:00

There are drawbacks of living in a predominately one party community. Officeholders sometimes take their constituents for granted. This was apparently the case at the Carmel-Clay Republican Club’s annual candidate forum. Three sitting Carmel city council members were noticeably absent from the meeting. Brian Mayo, Kevin Kirby and Joe Griffiths, all elected as Republicans, skipped the forum. That might be excusable, normally, but they are the candidates!

One attendee assumed that they had something better to do. Their decision to stay away may have backfired. It not only is troublesome for the three AWOL candidates, but it reflects badly on the Mayor. One observer who calls himself a Jim Brainard supporter stated, “I’m disappointed because these Republicans are on the Mayor's team. How can you just not show up?” It also reflects badly on the Republican Party.

The Township’s Republican leadership has come to grips with the fact that Messrs. Mayo, Kirby and Griffiths don't seem to care about either the Party or the GOP Club. The Club has survived quite nicely without them but it would be good to have the participation of these three at Carmel Republican functions.

You have to wonder what they are afraid of. The fact that these candidates are not willing to submit themselves to the review process should be a huge red flag for voters. Public officials need to be accountable and accessible. Shunning the only opportunity to face the public in a forum setting seems to indicate it’s worth the political risk not to attend. It also sends the message that it’s perfectly fine to duck the scrutiny of the voter.

Republican Clerk-Treasurer Diana Cordray could not attend. She, however, showed the respect and dignity of dropping Club President Paul Ayers a note of apology ahead of time explaining her absence, and arranging for a proxy (Carl Mills) to stand in for her. That’s being responsible. The letter of invitation to appear states, “If a candidate is unable to attend, a proxy may stand in as their representative.” The letter continues, “…please email CCRC President Paul Ayers the reason for the candidate’s absence…” One of the three did respond that he couldn't, then he could, then he couldn't attend, but no excuse was given. The other two flat out didn't answer. We had hoped to write about the success of the forum. Instead, the talk that night centered on denying Republicans the only opportunity to hear the incumbent's opinions on issues facing Carmel voters.

Mike Pence For Minority Leader

2006-11-09T14:01:00.000-05:00

The following is an editorial opinion by Human Events posted on November 8th. We concur.

When the now-defeated Republican majority in the House of Representative was led astray on key issues by President Bush, House Speaker Dennis Hastert and former Majority Leader Tom DeLay, it was Rep. Mike Pence of Indiana who rallied backbenchers to fight back in defense of conservative principles.

That is why Pence should be elected minority leader for the next Congress. Under Pence’s leadership over the next two years, we believe, House Republicans can put themselves in position to retake the majority in 2008. More importantly, they can be counted on to fight for what’s right—even when that means defying a president of their own party.

Speaker Hastert did the right thing today by stepping aside. But if Republicans in the House simply elevate the other members currently in the leadership—go back to business as usual—the party may find itself mired in the minority for years to come. Conservative activists need to speak out now to make certain this doesn’t happen. They need to say: No to the old leaders. No to business as usual. Yes to Mike Pence.

When President Bush pushed through the No Child Left Behind education law in his first year in office, Mike Pence opposed it. Rep. John Boehner of Ohio, the current House majority leader, not only supported No Child Left Behind, he became its principal congressional advocate—along with liberal Democratic Sen. Teddy Kennedy of Massachusetts.

In 2003, when Bush pushed through his $8-trillion Medicare prescription drug entitlement, creating a new welfare program for the middle class, Boehner supported Bush again. Pence led a gang of House conservatives who valiantly opposed it. When the leadership brought the drug plan up on the House floor in the wee hours, Hastert and DeLay tried to bully conservatives to switch their votes. Some did. Not Mike Pence. Boehner voted for the drug entitlement.

Last year, when President Bush, stung by criticism of his response to Hurricane Katrina, started tossing out federal tax dollars like a carnival king tossing out Mardi Gras favors, Pence led the conservatives in the House Republican Study Committee, which he chaired, in demanding spending cuts to offset Bush’s proposed spending. Eventually, Pence and Company forced reluctant Republican leaders to accept at least some cuts—even in entitlement spending.

Pence is not a big government conservative. He is a Ronald Reagan conservative. Like Reagan, he recognizes that government is often not the solution, but the problem.

He is a supply-sider who has always favored lower taxes on income, savings and investments--as well as lower federal spending. He believes in a strong military and a strong national defense. He is committed to defending the right to life and traditional marriage.

Pence is also like Reagan in that he is a former broadcaster and excellent communicator. Unlike Speaker Dennis Hastert, who was never a compelling presence in the mass media, Pence will be able to make persuasive arguments for the conservative cause on national television and radio programs.

Conservatives should call House members now and urge them to support Mike Pence for minority leader. You can contact your member by phone at (202) 224-3121 or e-mail.

Why People Line Their Canary Cages With Newspaper

2006-10-19T11:08:00.000-04:00

A close race does not always bring out the best in candidates. These words should have been the opening sentence for The Indianapolis Star’s endorsement of Kathryn Densborn not David Orentlicher. Any one who professes to be an ethicist and not only allows but applies the worst kind of campaign tactics and lies, shows some insight into the man whom they’ve endorsed. The Star’s reasoning for backing the Democrat just doesn't make sense. Orentlicher hardly represents the best interests of the District. He is a man who has disenfranched his constituents by missing crucial votes.

This professor and religious schoolteacher stymied the legislative process last year by walking out of the General Assembly. Talk about paying attention to vital issues. He has spent a lifetime in a classroom and is simply out of touch with the real world. Evidently The Star is impressed with the "expertise" he seems to have. Maybe they are intimidated by it or the trail of letters after his name. What is needed at the Statehouse is someone who has led a varied life not someone who lacks the day-to-day experience needed to solve the issues in the diverse 86th District. Has The Star Editorial Staff gone mad? Let's send The Star a message. Elect Kathryn Densborn.

Just A Theory

2006-03-16T10:50:00.000-05:00

Start with a cage containing five monkeys. Inside the cage, hang a banana on a string and place a set of stairs under it. Before long, a monkey will go to the stairs and start to climb towards the banana. As soon as he touches the stairs, spray all of the other monkeys with cold water. After a while, another monkey makes an attempt with the same result, all the other monkeys are sprayed with cold water. Pretty soon, when another monkey tries to climb the stairs, the other monkeys will try to prevent it. Now, put away the cold water. Remove one monkey from the cage and replace it with a new one.

The new monkey sees the banana and wants to climb the stairs. To his surprise and horror, all of the other monkeys attack him. After another attempt and attack, he knows that if he tries to climb the stairs, he will be assaulted.

Next, remove another of the original five monkeys and replace it with a new one. The newcomer goes to the stairs and is attacked. The previous newcomer takes part in the punishment with enthusiasm! Likewise, replace a third original monkey with a new one, then a fourth, then the fifth.

Every time the newest monkey takes to the stairs, he is attacked. Most of the monkeys that are beating him have no idea why they were not permitted to climb the stairs or why they are participating in the beating of the newest monkey.

After replacing all the original monkeys, none of the remaining monkeys have ever been sprayed with cold water. Nevertheless, no monkey ever again approaches the stairs to try for the banana. Why not? Because as far as they know that's the way it's always been done around here.

And for those of you who have ever wondered, that, my friends, is the Democrat leadership theory in the Indiana General Assembly.

The Conviction Of Conscience

2006-02-14T11:48:00.000-05:00

Those of us who attended Sunday school as children were taught the lesson of David and Goliath. This account in the First Book of Samuel details how for forty days, in both the morning and evening, Goliath issued a challenge to the Israelites. Of course we know the ending. David, having the conviction of his conscience, did not back down but stood up to the Philistine giant and was victorious. David's victory taught us that in life, if we stand up for what we believe in, we have the capacity to slay any of our giants.

You might think that somewhere along the line, Rep. David Orentlicher, D-Indianapolis, might have learned something from the story of the giant slayer. Orentlicher, an ethicist, a professor and a religious schoolteacher, evidently ran from his Goliath on Monday. According to the Indianapolis Star, Orentlicher's leader, B. Patrick Bauer, D-South Bend announced, "It's time to bring our prayer from the back of the room to the front of the room," Bauer was referring to U.S. District Judge David Hamilton's November ruling halting the 189-year-old practice of official prayers before legislative business begins.

The Indiana House sent a message Monday to the federal court judge by voting 83-0 to oppose the decision. Even though the resolution lacks the force of law, when the time came to "swing the sling" as it were, Orentlicher did not answer the bell. Perhaps he was with a certain basketball coach throwing up - refusing to deal with the job they were chosen to do. The Star reported that Orentlicher "stayed away on Monday to protest the resolution."

We believe that someone who professes ethics and teaches this Bible lesson might want to face his giant. One could say that an 83-1 message is a greater protest than not showing up. What about those constituents of Orentlicher's that were disenfranchised by his lack of courage? And imagine this Book of Samuel being re-written telling of a David chosen to face the Philistine behemoth but then stays away in protest!

Obviously comparing the Indianapolis Democrat to the Hebrew shepherd or dumping him in with a coach is a stretch. Running from issues is not. If Orentlicher is willing to hide from this matter, what else is he ready to cheat his constituency out of? The question to consider now: Is this the person we want representing us?

Solid Republican Leadership

2006-01-14T11:09:00.000-05:00

Those Carmelites who still have a memory will no doubt recall the lean years of Republican state leadership. Oh how we wished someone would end the drought and embarrassment of missed opportunities and Republican spin doctors. Our prayers were answered with Jim Kittle. Kittle had the same frustrations as we. He came in on the first day, punched his time card and went to work. The Carmel resident did what we hoped he would: have a strategy to win elections; make the Party fiscally healthy; elect a Republican governor; and send a message of, "We can win" to the committeemen. Again, he did this without the benefit of a sitting Republican governor.

Now, Jim Kittle is handing the office keys to Murray Clark. Murray represented a portion of Carmel and Clay Township while the State Senator for District 29. Clark is as talented and capable a person as you can find. He's a visionary who represented our interests at the State House with dignity and concern. Murray could be counted on to support Carmel. He's right for this job. He will fight for, defend, and support our Party.

Murray's number one goal is to re-elect Mitch Daniels governor which is good. We'd like to see our current General Assembly contingent from Hamilton County supported also. They do a worthy job and have been good for the Party too. To those who say after Kittle it can only go down hill, we say the G.O.P. under Murray Clark's leadership will thrive.

Thank You Teacher

2006-01-05T15:01:00.000-05:00

The remarks attributed to David Orentlichter (D-Indianapolis) on January 5th show what a true hypocrite we have representing the southern portion of Clay Township. The ethics professor was weighing in to the Indianapolis Star about House Speaker Brian Bosma’s legislative agenda. According to The Star, Orentlichter stated, “the speaker should be paying more attention to vital issues such as health care and tax policy and less to the prayer controversy.” It would be interesting to know if the Indianapolis Democrat was wagging his index finger at the reporter at the time.

Orentlichter should be ashamed of himself. He is an ethicist, a professor and a religious schoolteacher. He and his party stymied the legislative process last year by walking out of the General Assembly. Talk about paying more attention to vital issues! He’s got a lot of nerve to criticize the Speaker. The "prayer controversy" that Orentlichter spoke of was a tiny portion of the days events. Again, did he forget the public relations and ethics nightmare that the Democrats brought upon themselves a year ago? He then criticized Bosma for trying to create "religious conflict" while telling The Star reporter that he had no problem with private prayers. Which one is it sir? Make up your mind.

Representative Orentlichter, before you go around trying to educate people on how the world should be run, do us all a favor and quit being so two-faced. Maybe you can get away with that in Indianapolis, but in Clay Township, we’d prefer you’d learn first then teach.

Using Our Influence

2006-01-02T12:35:00.000-05:00

Now that 2005 has been rung out, it’s time to look ahead to the New Year. Carmel Republicans can play an important role in influencing the outcomes of political races if we stick together.

We now have a pair of Carmel residents representing us in the General Assembly in Jerry Torr and Mike Delph. Jerry has served Carmel as a State Representative well. Senator Mike Delph will be a rising star. Both of these men need to remain in office and as Carmel Republicans, we need to support them. We also need to support Cindy Noe. Cindy has represented our interests much the same as if she lived in Carmel. The State Rep from the far north side of Indianapolis is in Carmel often and takes her role as our Representative very seriously.

Clay Township is the third most populated area in the State, and one of the most Republican in the country. One could make a case that we play a significant role in the GOP balance of power at the State House. Candidates state-wide know that we are prime ground for not only votes but money also. The days are over when a candidate would sweep in, hold a fundraiser and sweep out never to be heard from again. Candidates have learned that with a Carmel vote and a Carmel dollar, comes a responsibility to a Carmel voter.

We have a lot to be grateful for. We live in a land of freedom and prosperity. Our state seems to be on the right track morally and financially, and we have top notch Republicans representing our interests. Moreover, our local Republican Party leadership is all about Carmel. If we stick together in 2006, we will play a major role in keeping our taxes down, our property values up, our legislature Republican, and our City a great place in which to live. Happy New Year.

The Tent Just Keeps Getting Smaller

2005-12-21T11:04:00.000-05:00

The swearing in today of Mike Delph as state senator in District 29 gave those Hamiltonians who attended pause. The "dignitaries" who were AWOL stood out more than those who filled the Senate chamber. Congressman Dan Burton showed his class by coming from Washington, D.C. to support his colleague. Mike Murphy, Marion County Republican Chairman, State Representative, and one who helped put together "the deal" didn't make it from down the street. Senator Jeff Drozda was on hand, but Luke Kenley, Teresa Lubbers, and Beverly Gard, Republicans who represent Hamilton County, were no where to be seen. It just seems that those members of the General Assembly could have shown support for Mike by showing up. By the way, also on the MIA list was former senator Murray Clark, whose seat Mike won. The tent just keeps getting smaller.

It would have been nice to see Ike Randolph and Dan Gammon in attendance. It certainly would have shown Party support, but maybe their wounds are still healing. We suppose the swearing in of a senator from the most Republican county in the state is too insignificant for Governor Daniels to attend. Evidently Senate President Bob Garten didn't think so - he was there. Congressman Burton showed his class again by stopping in Daniel's office after the ceremony. Maybe he too, wondered, if the Guv was in town since RV-1 was nowhere in sight. Jim Kittle? He's not only state Republican Chairman, but also lives in District 29. He, too, was a no-show. Must have had floor duty at the store.

We take President Ronald Reagan's 11th Commandment: "Thou shalt not speak ill of a fellow Republican" seriously. And we do no ill by pointing out our observations. But the Party needs to take a lesson from the Carmel-Clay and Hamilton County Republican leadership who did show up. Namely, do what you have to do: Wear your Republican pride on your sleeve. Work to get Republicans elected, and pitch-in to do what it takes to make that tent bigger.

Give Credit Where Credit's Due

2005-12-12T12:49:00.000-05:00

We read The Indianapolis Star's commentary regarding Republican Mike Delph's recent political victory. Delph won the race to fill the vacancy in Senate District 29. Matthew Tully's previous article in The Star hardly mentioned Delph or Hamilton County. It appears even Tully was caught off guard. Were the caucus voters from Clay Township surprised too? Hardly.

Marion County and Matthew Tully got a good hard lesson in politics. Mike Delph won that caucus for reasons not mentioned in the article. Mike is a master in campaign management, a hard worker, and he knows how to count. Charlie White is politically savvy too. In addition, he's our County Chairman. Past Chairmen would have thrown in with Marion County from the start. Not Charlie White. He understands that Hamilton County is a major reason for the success of our Party statewide. The precinct committeemen in Carmel and Clay-Township understand their roles and take them very seriously. In a three-man race, Mike would have won and had Marion County gone with its original plan of supporting just Isaac Randolph, Delph still would have been the winner.

The snow had little to do with it. The caucus was slated for 7:00pm and got underway well after eight. We'd say that was enough time for even Santa Claus to make it from the North Pole!

All of the candidates seemed qualified and were courteous to each other. No one sang Kumbaya but no fists were thrown either. The most surprised by the vote was Ike Randolph. His mentors let him down. He saw his dream of becoming a state senator turn as frosty as the December night air. Which brings up the last political lesson. When you make a deal with Devil, expect consequences. Don't allow yourself to be vulnerable politically if you have hopes of public office.

Mike Delph is a terrific man, a good father, and an outstanding citizen. He will make a worthy senator. We Hamiltonians didn't just fall off the turnip truck. Give credit where credit's due for a change.

Senate District 29 And The G.O.P. Need Mike Delph

2005-11-17T16:39:00.000-05:00

It came as a shock when news circulated Wednesday announcing the imminent resignation of Murray Clark from the Indiana Senate. Murray worked District 29 hard and served his constituency with dignity. Although the great majority of the area lies within Marion County, Senator Clark was no stranger to Carmel and Clay Township. He came to our township often and was genuinely concerned about the issues facing us. Murray is a loyal, grass roots Republican who started his political career on the Nora Community Council and the Washington Township Advisory Board. The fact that Clark continues to serve as a precinct Committeeman in Marion County shows the importance he places on politics at a local level.

District 29 deserves a State Senator who knows the price of success. District 29 deserves Mike Delph. Mike grew up in Clay Township and graduated from Carmel High School. He and Beth are raising their family in Carmel. Mike was district director for U.S. Rep. Dan Burton (R-Ind.). He was a candidate for Secretary of State and was picked to direct Chris Chocola's successful Second District race for Congress. That campaign drew national attention under Delph's direction. Mike has served for many years as a Clay Township precinct committeeman and is central region director of government affairs for Comcast. No offence to the man who has already filed his candidacy, but less than two years on the Indianapolis City-County Council is a short political resume.

Mike's understanding of the workings of the Legislature is well known. He is considered to be not only knowledgeable about partisan politics, he's well versed about the issues also. It is our belief that Mike Delph will continue to take a leadership position, as did Senator Clark, regarding economic development in Indiana, family values and governmental affairs.

Mike Delph's experience is needed in the Indiana State Senate. It is incumbent on all Republicans to contact the committeemen who represent the precincts in District 29 and urge them to vote for Mike Delph.

The State of Indiana's loss is Baker & Daniels gain. Murray Clark won our hearts. Mike Delph will too.

Carmel-Clay GOP Club To Present Chilling November Program

2005-10-26T16:47:00.000-05:00

On Wednesday, November 9th, the Carmel-Clay Republican Club will present a most compelling speaker. Brandon Robinson was convicted of three counts of Operating While Intoxicated Causing Death, and two counts of Operating While Intoxicated Causing Serious Bodily Injury stemming from a June 12, 1998 wreck in Kosciusko County. Robinson used false identification to purchase beer for friends and himself. He is serving a 28 year sentence in the Hamilton County Jail. Sheriff Doug Carter has said,"I believe that you, and anyone who hears him, will have everlasting thoughts." Robinson has stated, ""I will spend the rest of my life honoring the memories and lives of those I killed".

This is a rare opportunity to witness what could be a life changing event. Thanks to our GOP club and Sheriff Carter for arranging this program. It will take place at 7:00pm at the John W. Hensel Government Center, 10701 N. College Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46280. For more information, email club president Dixie Packard, dixiep@claygop.org.

Bring your teen aged kids - and tissues.

GOP Slips Into Party Mode

2005-10-22T10:20:00.000-05:00

This past Thursday, County Chairman Charlie White and 500 of his closest friends slipped into business casual attire and kicked up their heels at the Hamilton County GOP Fall Dinner-Dance. The affair had a great mix of political people, party donors, legislators and plain old citizens who let their hair down one more time before the primary campagn season begins.

Everyone pitched in to make this a successful event. The Carmel-Clay GOP club manned the check-in table and sold raffle tickets. And the inclusiveness showed in the fun feeling throughout the room. It's nice to feel a part of a successful function.

Charlie, Laurie, David, Lori, and Laura are to be commended and thanked for their hard work in making this one great time.

Leno Hits A New Low

2005-10-05T15:10:00.000-05:00

The late night comics always take shots at our Presidents. And many times their remarks are funny-depending on whose ox is being gored. However, Jay Leno has hit a new low by trying to get laughs from a foible of President Bush's.

"The National Enquirer" writers JENNIFER LUCE and DON GENTILE wrote an article entitled "BUSH'S BOOZE CRISIS". It states President Bush, "has hit the bottle again."

Whether or not The Enquirer's facts are true, getting laughs over Mr. Bush's problem with alcohol is no laughing matter. Millions of Americans and their families suffer because of alcoholism. To make sport of ANYONE by implying that they have gone back to drinking is not only "unfunny" - it's irresponsible.

Might we suggest boycotting Mr. Leno? Send a message to NBC that is also "unfunny"-we, as Republicans and Americans, are not going to stand for his sick brand of comedy. A note to NBC might certainly be helpful. You may direct email by following this link: http://www2.rresults.com/1809998/index.cfm?S=10

We are not being prudish. We just believe that making light of a person's alcohol problem is neither funny nor appropriate.

Hamilton County Republican Women's Club

2005-09-26T16:02:00.000-05:00

Connie Pearson and the Hamilton County Republican Women's Club are organizing the annual Ham & Bean Dinner at the Sheridan Community Center, 300 E. 6th Street, Sheridan on Thursday, September 29, 2005, 6:30 p.m.

Cost is $10/person, pay at the door (cash or check; checks should be made payable to HCFRW).

RSVP by email at hcrp@hamiltoncountygop.org by Wednesday, September 28. Members of the Republican Women's Club are asked to bring a dessert--please let us know if you are bringing a dessert when you RSVP.

Carmel-Clay GOP Welcomes Candidate Website Submissions-Cream The Dems!

2005-09-15T15:12:00.000-05:00

Any Republican candidate considering running in Carmel-Clay in the May 2006 primary, may have a free listing on the "candidate" page of www.gogop.org. Please email your information and picture to: webmaster@gogop.org. If you have any questions, please call Alan at 253-3233. If for some strange reason the Democrats field a candidate to run in the General election, your listing will remain online.

If you are a Republican candidate and would like an estimation on the cost of a website, call Alan.

Support Judge John G. Roberts Jr

2005-09-14T13:30:00.000-05:00

Judge Roberts was nominated by President Bush to serve on the Supreme Court and in the capacity of Chief Justice. Please go to our home page, http://gogop.org and click on the link that will allow you to add your name to a petition asking Democrat Senator Evan Bayh to vote for the nomination of Judge Roberts.

Let's all do our part to support our President and our Country.

Grover Waitt

2005-09-13T13:46:00.000-05:00

Hamilton County lost not only a good and loving friend, but a true Republican on Sunday in Grover Waitt. Grover was the longest serving Republican committeeman in Hamilton County. He took great pride in leading, for so many years, the Pledge Of Allegience at the Republican Women's Bean Dinner held each year in Sheridan. He influenced many office holders in the County. People would always seek Grover out wanting his support. We can only offer Teresa our deepest sympathy. Grover's integrity, friendly smile and memory will always remain in our hearts. Services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, September 14, 2005 in First United Methodist Church, Sheridan, Indiana, with calling there from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, September 13, 2005. Grover will be laid to rest in Crown View Cemetery, Sheridan.