The New Ohio Economy - Green

As the State of Ohio continues to lose its once great business and skilled manufacturing base, little has been proposed by our leading politicos about directing Ohio toward the future. I suggest that we address this future by taking a leadership role in “green” economic initiatives and manufacturing. This can be accomplished on a local and state level by calling upon and supporting existing Ohio businesses to engage in a coordinated establishment for the production of “green energy” components. These components can be utilized throughout the United States and exported for greater environmental stewardship.

It may be suggested that a business capable of fabricating vehicle parts and accessories may readily be re-tooled for the production of components for wind turbines, solar panel grids or harness wave energies. Equally, a manufacturer of wiring harness for vehicles or aeronautic use may well adapt to wiring harnesses for other efficient energy conversions. Certainly these tasks will take the efforts of many people who will require a level of skill and pay beyond that of minimum wage. The addition of skilled workers and infusion of long term capital will substantially advance our local or state economies.

Reference can be made to fundamental economic models that demonstrate when there is an increase in technology such as a more reliable and less expensive form of energy, the relative wealth of the effected community increases; wages increase and often there is an increase in employment. Try to think of Findlay, Ohio in the days of the natural gas boom around 1885. The discovery of natural gas deposits let to national marketing efforts advertising free gass with business leaders trying to "boom" the town. It may be noted that during such times overall business productivity increases causing either an increase in building capital and an increase of skilled workers into the community. This is a business model that we should welcome because the benefits are plentiful and the investment gives the prospect for a profitable return to our community.

I suggest that the State of Ohio can use funds collected from its businesses to create the future for business in our state, namely: the approximate 15 Billion Dollar residual Workers’ Compensation Fund. While made less by a lack of earnings on rare coins, off-shore hedge funds and disastrous economic failures of the present administration, significant funds remain that can be loaned to manufacturers to re-tool and build the factories where the components of green energy around the world can find their home in northwestern Ohio.

Many of our families, parents or grandparents work the ground to support and provide security for their families. We too can we begin to create the foundation for the next green economy. It is time that we begin to build the industrial and manufacturing base that will support the individuals, families, our communities and our state with the economic and political security necessary to preserve and continue the freedoms we enjoy. Now, if we could just find a few politicos with the vision and fortitude to open this path, I believe we can build our future from the ground up through adaptation and innovation. It is time to re-vitalize Ohio.

Efficient City and County Government

On the evening of September 24, 2008, George W. Bush stated the United States economy is in “a serious financial crisis.” To this he added “America could slip into a financial panic . . . More banks could fail, including some in your community. The stock market could drop even more . . . . And if you own a business or a farm, you would find it harder and more expensive to get credit. More businesses would close their doors, and millions of American could lose their jobs.” [President’s Address to Nation, 9:01 PM EST September 24, 2008].

On September 25, 2008, Washington Mutual (WaMu), the nation’s largest savings and loan was seized by federal regulators and brokered in an emergency sale to JPMorgan Chase. This is the biggest bank failure in the history of the world and a big wrench into the gears of free market economic theory.

So – on September 25, 2008, our visionary Commissioners found an infamous date to impose two “emergency” sales taxes on the citizens of Hancock County. County politicos cannot wait for new offices. And it must be stressed that a token part of the sales tax increase may go to flood mitigation. In what some may described as a “smart move” is revealed a – government first – mentality that places buildings before people. Those who question Commissioner vision are challenged to obtain and review audits. The pretense of an audit begs the question of actual leadership.

Perhaps it is time of for our county and city leaders to consider consolidating overlapping city and county departments to provide more cost effective and efficient services to the citizens of Findlay and Hancock County. It may be suggested that for far too long Ohio citizens have paid a tax premium to maintain an antiquated and redundant system of townships, villages, municipal corporations and county governments. It is possible to preserve the identity of political subdivisions without duplicating cost inefficiencies entailed in the preservation of overlapping departments and service providers.

The good people of our townships, villages, cities and county deserve an efficient delivery of services to preserve their roads, infrastructure and human service needs. It is possible to consolidate and save tax dollars while making consolidated departments more linear in service to citizens. The point is not that government should be run like a business. The point is that the way government is run is the business of people not the preservation of inefficient divisions that redundantly hinder the delivery of services to people.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC

The nature of our government established in The United States Constitution is always important and relevant. Of equal note is the fact that the form of government established by our Founders is and was truly remarkable.

I wish to suggest that our Constitution establishes a federal democratic republic. We enjoy an indivisible union of 50 sovereign states. We enjoy a democracy for the reason that people govern themselves. It is representative in that people choose elected officials by free and secret ballot. And of course, it is a republic because the government derives its power and legitimacy from the people governed, not a monarchy.

If we were to retrace the path of our founders, it might be discovered they understood the concept of “polis” or political things from the Greek city-state form of social organization. In the Platonic dialogues around 365 B.C. and Aristotle at about 322 B.C., Greek philosophers examined the conditions for people to take a rational and critical view of the relation between individual and collective society. Aristotle sought to inject “man” as a species of animal that possesses intelligence as found in collaborative groups to become a political animal. In the “polis” Aristotle insisted on political virtue and man-made laws that make up a constitution for the polis by using the word “politeia” which is the same word that Plato used in the title of his dialogue called the Republic.

In the course of that examination Aristotle and other philosophers noted that in the Greek city-states examined deliberations took place in face-to-face discussions among the people “demos.” Man-made laws “politeia” applied in city-states not ruled by monarchs. A republic, interchangeable with “politeia,” became a state where the people “demos” directly impact their government. Through man-made laws “politeia” the people “demos” ruled “kratos” themselves. Hence, people “demos” ruled “kratos” political organization “politeia” can be viewed as a demos + kratos (democratic) politeia (republic).

Our founders enjoyed the great virtue of classical studies that included Greek, Latin, Machiavelli’s The Prince, Grotius’ Law of War and Peace, Hobbes Leviathan, Locke’s Of Civil Government and some - The Bible. It is unfortunate that our Founders did not have the benefit of The Battle Hymn of the Republic (Julia Ward Howe 1861) or the Pledge of Allegiance (Francis Bellamy 1892) as their guide in 1787. Still, I have great faith that they realized what they were doing. Quod Erat Demonstrandum.

We the People - Tax Time Again

Our founders chose the words “We the People . . .” to establish the foundation of our democratic republic. The word “we” refers equally to all people. Our founders believed that all government begins and remains with the people.

“We the People” are the foundation of government. Without this, those we elected would hold some power above us as the people governed. American Independence was declared and the American Revolution was fought to forever end the subjugation of people to the government. When any part of our government presumes a voice superior to the people governed, “we the people” have the obligation to raise our voices. This is called – Democracy.

It is proper to question the decisions of our elected few to use a sales tax increase to fund prospective budget shortfalls and buildings when the Labor Department reports 605,000 jobs lost in 2008 with serious losses in manufacturing, housing, finance and other economic sectors. At this time of record foreclosures, consumers may not be buying much when challenged to cope with increased costs for housing, food and gasoline. This is particularly true for many families, farmers and our seniors on fixed incomes. Yet our county government must be immune.

At a time of declining sales, a sales tax increase for buildings is unlikely to inspire a counter-cyclical increase in spending. More it is a distraction from focusing on the essentials necessary to serve the people of Findlay, Hancock County and those who live within the Blanchard River watershed. A tax cannot be accepted as a substitute for long term leadership.

Flood mitigation is a priority for the people of our community. The preservation of services is also essential. There are no easy solutions. There are responsible steps we can take as a community. I believe we must use these challenges to become a better, more unified community where we use our very best attributes to invite increased sales and revenues in Hancock County, Ohio.

I believe that we – the Findlay/Hancock County community - must so assemble and present our resources – including the lowest sales tax rates in Ohio – to make the City of Findlay and the wonderful villages in our County as the place where the people of our state come to shop - for less. Why not? This will increase sales tax revenues while keeping our taxes low. It depends on where “We the People” fit into the plan of democracy as viewed by our local politicos.

Ohio Deserves Better From Candidates

It is time we held political campaigns to principles consistent with our interests as the voting public. That is what we should expect of ourselves, but

Now, we know better. Through tactics xeroxed out of Karl Rove’s playbook, we have reminded ourselves that real politics is played upon the fears, prejudices, and the latent bigotry that shadows our past and threatens to condemn our future. On March 4, 2008, far too many Ohio votes were based on a politic of fear at 3 am; jobs lost through NAFTA and the fiction of executive leadership. We somehow mistake the direction of our fears and faults as the direction of leadership. In this, we are uncomfortably reminded that what is necessary to succeed politically is to call upon the perverse propensities of a negative campaign. In the aftermath, voters are left used rather than energized and renewed in a unity of patriotic vision. Of course, candidates move on.

There remains a part of our voting consciousness that derives pleasure in the toxic spew of politicos who may carelessly poison the great wellspring of a new generation inspired after years of irresponsible divisiveness. It is all too apparent that some politicians will do nearly anything to win a nomination even if an attack made now may be redirected more destructively in the fall. Ohio voters are challenged to find one meaningfully addressed issue in the wake of the all the appearances, speeches and challenges for substance that filled primary campaigns in the state. We lost the great ideals and optimism many once found in the 2008 Presidential campaigns. Once again, we have stripped away the thin veil of innocence held at the forefront of campaigns to revealed the truth that we are no more than what we may aspire to be and while we do, we can be made less by words. We are made less when reminded that we are at times the people we would wish not to be.

Is it not fair to ask who may have lost in the divisive attacks that so repulse parts of the electorate that they chose to vote against rather than for a candidate. We are promised that each and every one of us must now plan to be exposed to a “fuller vetting process.” Perhaps we in the electorate have been vetted enough and it is time to separate leadership from division, direction rather than destruction and vision from vetting. Must we now expect candidates to follow principles of attack as a substitute for political leadership. Politics without a continuous focus on solving issues becomes distorted into a stark reminder that dividing voters means victory. The politicos move on, promises are made and left without substance, and the voting electorate is left divided. We learn that politicos promise much, attack what is promised and solve nothing.

Perhaps we will have leadership again, the kind of leadership that seeks more actual jobs in Ohio not words that remind us of jobs lost; control of utility rate increases rather than the mere recognition of increased costs; support for our teachers and better education for our children; proposals for meaningful legislation to address the mounting tragedy of home foreclosures or programs that establish additional grants of funds to assure warmth for those who face ever harsher winter weather without heat. Is it possible to remember now whether these issues were addressed? Perhaps fear adds a level of warmth to a child of unemployed parents shivering without heat in a home subject to foreclosure. Perhaps we again need a leadership that can direct a unified political party and assist the legislature to focus on serving the people of this state rather than use them for the prurient purposes of political pandering. Perhaps we now need leaders less smeared by the remnants of divisive words silently endorsed with a healing brought by reaching out to others with open hands focused on service.

We must rise above the words and divisive manipulation of political candidates. We must rise above the threat of our own fears to live meaningful lives in service to our families, our communities and our country. It is shameful that we have to endure the message of our politicians and it is us who must now rise above it. Perhaps there is a thought that we will all just forget and consider politics as usual as – politics as usual. I chose to hope for a light in each of us that calls us to a higher aspiration. Would we not all be better people for it?

Stephen Kostyo - Obama Campaign Work

Senator Barack Obama first inspired me, like many others, through his genuine charisma and great vision for the future of our country. This motivated me to study his policies and plans for our future. I enthusiastically saw the vision of what we can do for our country through his leadership. I then volunteered to help with his campaign in South Carolina over my winter break from college. While in South Carolina, other Obama volunteers, who included people of every nationality, creed and economic background, welcomed me and we became a great team.

At the Charleston Obama office, people volunteered themselves creating an energetic force of unity and purpose. The office included a very religious woman making phone calls from the front; a man who had flown in from Germany sealing envelopes for mailings; a young black man telling others about what brought him to volunteer; an old white man who came in at first to make a financial contribution; and a young French woman who spoke very little English was making posters. All as a blend of unity asking others to join in supporting Barack Obama’s Campaign.

While walking through Charleston handing out Obama campaign literature, I encountered a group of four older men on a rather run down street corner who stopped me and made sure they signed supporter cards. At the same time, they shared with me the stories of their family roots. On the other end of the scale, was a wealthy family with a long history of military service to our country and who took in volunteers like me with warm hospitality. All to support their friend, Barack Obama.

Now at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, I am part of the next chapter of the Obama Campaign. We have registered record numbers of students to vote in the primary on March 4, many have already voted. I am a witness to the fact that Barack Obama’s Presidential Campaign is more than “just words.” For me and many, many others, it is a new and strong awakening of our American Spirit. I invite you to join me on March 4 to restore our American values by voting for Barack Obama. Yes We Can!

Democratic Visions

In a grotesque display of political pandering, Cliff Hite used the December 7 Republican luncheon to reveal the pretense of his purpose as our State Representative, raising money. The question each voter must ask themselves is how this perversion of our democratic vision results in representing people living in Alger, Dunkirk, Findlay, Kenton, New Knoxville, Ada, Fostoria, Forest and the many towns and villages between. It does not.

On the very same page that touted Hite’s rantings, The Courier reported that Ohio leads the nation in home foreclosures. Perhaps Mr. Hite believes it is appropriate to celebrate politics and fund raising while the Republican legislature buries its collective head from the results of its leadership.

Perhaps Mr. Hite could responsibly propose a plan where funds held for investment by the Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation and other Ohio state agencies – money from Ohio for Ohioans – is re-invested to support Ohio home ownership. If Ohio is to return to long term economic stability, that stability must start at the kitchen table for all Ohio citizens.

Perhaps Mr. Hite could evidence his leadership in efforts to reduce our taxes by proposing a reduction in state taxes added to each gallon of gasoline and diesel fuel. This may help families and fixed income seniors who save every penny to make ends meet to better make ends meet. It may also help family farmers, family farms and those engaged in trucking. In this way Mr. Hite could pay more attention to reducing taxes for living people rather than bantering about eliminating “the death tax.” It seems those living may appreciate the reduction more.

Through the vast reaches of his insightful leadership, perhaps Mr. Hite could team with U.S. Representative Jordan to spearhead a comprehensive plan spanning Wyandot, Hancock and Putnam Counties to control flooding of the Blanchard River. This would preserve the prospective investment of $90,000,000 in a new Findlay business sector. It might also spare the presently existing business district and those living in the flood zone from many more millions in property losses from another flood. Then again, it might be helpful if both representatives invested greater effort in pursuing funds to help people still trying to recover from the August flood and government red tape.

The fact there are so many possibilities that Mr. Hite cannot envision makes his pandering for money all the more disconcerting. Perhaps if he found a way to serve the needs of people living in the 76th District, his service alone would merit the financial reward he demands. For some, it may come down to money; for others, it matters more what can be done for people first.

Global Warming - with Stephen J. Kostyo

The fact the citizens of planet earth are emitting carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere at an alarming rate are now beyond valid dispute. The Noble Prize awarded Al Gore and a group of highly respected scientists is considerate recognition that global warming is a planetary emergency that demands our attention and action. The continued burning of coal and natural gases contributes to global warming, depletes our natural recourses and results in the dependence of the United States on other nations for scarce energy resources. Carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases make breathing harmful in big cities and will jeopardize our living environments to an even greater extent unless we immediately change our current energy dependent lifestyles.

The issues of reducing greenhouse gases and global climate change were the primary focus of The Kyoto Protocol. This is a treaty negotiated in Kyoto, Japan in December 1997. In form, it is an agreement made under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change where countries that ratify the protocol commit to reduce their emissions of carbon dioxide and five other greenhouse gases or engage in emissions trading if they maintain or increase emission of the gases. The treaty expires in 2012. Talks have begun on a future treaty to succeed it. Unfortunately, the United States has not ratified this treaty.

The primary reason the United States has failed to ratify the Kyoto Protocol must be attributed to the well funded realm of junk science. Critically deficient pseudo-scientific garbage concocted by scientists for sale, the term “junk science” is used to describe the use of these sophistic “studies” that claim to challenge or obfuscate the facts and causes of global warming. It is well established that energy companies have invested millions of dollars in such studies with the singular purpose of confusing the general public. In ultimate terms, this investment sacrifices truth for short term gains recognized in reduced oversight and regulation. In other words, the public good is sacrificed for private gain.

The Kyoto Protocol accomplished the goal of pinpointing the threat of chlorofluorocarbon emissions around the world. It showed that when a global problem arises we can take care of it. Unfortunately, neoconservative political influences in the United States have prevented ratification and compliance with Kyoto’s caps on carbon dioxide emissions. Fortunately, many cities and states have implemented Kyoto’s standards and we are beginning to see uniform collaboration to address this crisis. An effective way to stop the increase of greenhouse gasses is to hold companies who emit the greenhouse gasses accountable. There are large public companies that have established policies to cutting emissions, lower waste and recycle materials while saving money in the process. Progressive energy saving and recycling plans as those employed in many states set the example for other states and companies to follow.

Some people may not conserve energy in small amounts because they do not believe their efforts are worthwhile. It must be recognized that every action makes a difference and there are plenty of opportunities. For example, I recently noticed there were no recycling containers in McDonalds’ restaurants, so I simply carried my recyclable trash back to my dorm where it could be recycled. Energy conservation is as easy as adjusting the thermostat up or down two degrees depending on the season. If this is done consistently, these small measures would save vast amounts of resources and energy. The great result about conserving resources is that nearly all the time simple conservations save money. In fact, almost every family could save money if they knew how to operate their homes more energy efficiently.

By purchasing slightly more expensive energy efficient light bulbs home owners may save money in the long run and reduce their harmful emissions. Stereotypically, we believe that big coal burning industries are the main contributors to global warming, when actually fluorescent light bulbs in homes combine to produce as many greenhouse gasses as factories. Imagine all the phone books, junk mail, credit reports, and other items that can accessed electronically without actually using paper and eliminated. As a public, we need to inform ourselves about these measures among others that they can implement in everyday life to make a significant difference. Conservation can be found in simple things like not letting the water facet run while brushing your teeth saving water now essential to parts of our country that never before had such concerns. It is a matter of recognition and effort.

The effects of global warming are more far reaching than extreme storms, loss of land, and loss of wildlife; the main concern is for our fellow human beings. Thomas Jefferson wrote in the Declaration of Independence that “all people are created equal.” As a nation we must also evolve as a people who work to advance this concept. Conservation allows more people to enjoy the earth’s resources equally.
It is time we make the concerted effort. The world will not end in our lifetime even if we do not change the course of past actions. At the same time, we should take the responsibility to promote a better quality of life for one another. We cannot continue to ignore caring about the environment. There is too much progress that can be made and every little bit does count. We can start a new era where global warming refers to our hearts instead of our environment.

This week, try to organize more people to make small concerted efforts to improve the environment and conserve our resources. It may simply be taking a responsible role in recycling. It starts with your decision to save the essential resources for living so everyone will have the chance to live in a healthier world climate. The world is what you do.

SCHIP - Caring for Others

The saying goes: “Be nice to your children because they will choose your rest home.” I suggest we should pay greater attention to the health care of our children because as a generation, our care will pass to them. Our care for others is not some postulated political equation. With parents caring for children, as with parents caring for parents, there is a deep and abiding moral value found in our consideration and care for others. I believe this is an American value.

When our care for others, particularly low-income children living in the United States without health coverage, is combined with the highly charged realm of political hyperbole we all too often end up focusing on the jargon. Of course, this refers to the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). Possibly, rather than continue its bantered politico jousting, Congress may find that by changing the underlying funding mechanism for the program, SCHIP may continue to serve its original purpose covering the health care costs for low-income children while addressing the vast increase in the number and needs of low-income children. Much to their detriment, low-income children have not learned the socio-philosophical economic restraints to government referenced health care. These children just need medical care.

In its original 1997 form, SCHIP was enacted as a block grant program with a fixed annual funding level. The purpose of SCHIP was to help states pay for health coverage for uninsured children in families whose income is above levels that would allow them to be eligible for the state’s Medicaid programs as of March 31, 1997.

SCHIP has been a success; however, as a block grant program, it fails by design to address the escalating costs and needs of eligible low-income children. Congress did not anticipate the dramatic increase in health care costs and children in need over the last decade. At some point, SCHIP must be considered in the larger answer that our country must find to address our health care systems.

Common sense might suggest that if we responsibly address the health needs of low-income children now, these children may become healthier adults costing our health care systems less. Then they may contribute to our economic system; and, pay the taxes necessary to fund the Bush Administration’s adventure in Iraq and immense increase in our debt to China.

National Security at Home

Our “national security” is a critical part of our daily concerns. The words “national security” must be more than political jargon to solicit our patriotic consent to foreign military actions rather than address the actual security of American citizens living in the United States. It is simple foolishness to believe the security of our nation is singularly dependent on evasively defined military missions in Middle East countries. Our “national security” is compromised by the failure of Congress and the Administration to responsibly identify and address threats to our individual security within the United States or effectively enforce our immigration laws.

The question we must ask is whether our “security” focused leaders have taken sufficient steps to prevent 19 more terrorists from entering our country and engaging in another attack. The 19 al Qaeda operatives had passports, visas and at least two were traceable from State Department INS TIPOFF watch lists. Each of the 19 operatives violated immigration laws while in the United States. None of these 19 operatives were stopped.

Each day thousands of illegal aliens enter the United States from Mexico or Canada without passports or visas. An estimated 12 million or more illegal aliens now living and work in the United States. In this number there is a subtle source for terror. “Terror” as in the execution of three Newark college students, forced to kneel against a wall and shot at close range by Jose Carranza, an illegal alien from Peru. The three students were victimized by the failure of state and federal tracking even after Carranza was indicted twice this year on 31 counts surrounding the sexual assault of a child and a bar fight. In New Jersey local authorities are not required to check immigration status of upon criminal arrests. What happened to national security for these three students?

Within the past week, the United States opened its borders to allow Mexican-domiciled trucks full access to our national highways. We must wonder where the priority of our national security is found in this action. Is this simply a policy choice of cheap goods and labor over the security of United States citizens? With millions of illegal aliens violating our borders each year from Mexico, allowing Mexican-domiciled trucks within our borders will merely provide the prospective for more comfortable travel accommodations.

Without control of our borders, the concept of national security is a political illusion. Without strong and comprehensive programs to secure our national borders, engagements in Iraq, Afghanistan or Pakistan will serve only as a distraction. It is unfortunate that our attention spans do not permit us to pay attention to illegal aliens within our country as potential terrorists.

We the People . . .

With the prospect that the I-35 bridge collapse in Minneapolis will result in months of investigation and controversy, we are uncomfortably reminded that we live in a democratic republic. This means that there is an even more uncomfortable answer to the responsibility of possible design, inspection and repair failures in our aging national infrastructure of which the I-35 Bridge is a catastrophic example. The answer is not found in an individual politician or political party; worse, the answer is in the starting point of our democracy – “We the People."

In the Preamble of the United States Constitution are the words “We the People of the United States . . .” Through these simple words the purpose and parameters of our government are established in the Constitution. It is “We the People” who form our government, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare and secure the Blessings of Liberty. While politicos bask in the clouded realms of verbal sophistry, legislative tweaking and analytic obfuscation overshadowed by hours of commentary, pseudo-expert explanations, theorizations, debate and the morass of fault finding, “We the People” suffer the final consequence of representative failures. When any part of our representative government fails us, we fail ourselves. “We the People” are responsible for our democracy.

It is unfortunate that events as the I-35 bridge collapse blur among the many other concerns and failures to address critical issues such as the health care, education, economic and security interests of Americans. In a democratic republic, we trust that our values are invested to serve the needs of the people; however, when there is a failure to address the formative basis of our government, the failure is our own if we are to accept responsibility in our democracy. We must accept the responsible to preserve our democracy by engagement in the democratic process.

Our elected representatives are responsible to “We the People.” If the democracy we share does not match the democracy that serves us, we can only look to ourselves for the answer. “We the People” must come first in the thought of democratic government. For far too long our politics have been given priority over our interests, but then we are responsible for that as well.

A Proper Dialogue

With election year 2008 ahead, it must be suggested politicos seek a level of dialogue based on verifiable facts and simple courtesy. On this basis we may be spared from irrationally flawed comparisons as drawn between political parties and heinous historic regimes. I believe it is appropriate to advance the concept that such speech no longer belongs in our language as Americans. The fact that such words appear at all is disconcerting unless noted for the viscerally prejudicial level of ignorance and bigotry entailed in their comparative use.

I fully believe in the highest level of political discourse and debate. It is in this manner only that our democratic republic is possible. I acknowledge that some historic events may be subject to question; however, there are fundamental differences between democratic beliefs and the totalitarian regime of Adolf Hitler. By “totalitarian regime” is referenced a national population mobilized to support state sponsored ideologies intolerant of opinions not directed toward state goals. It may be noted that such regimes were sustained by single party control, control of business, repression of labor unions, restrictions on education, religious beliefs, religious practices, free discussion and abusive privacy violations by state sponsored surveillance.

I suggest totalitarianism is inherently abhorrent to our beliefs as Americans. I am proud that Democratic ideals include recognizing the innate dignity of each person, efforts to care for the poor and sick, a respectful tolerance of considered opinions, support of business, labor unions, education for all, religious freedoms and the protection of individual privacy.

The use of abjectly prejudicial terms that entail disdainful historic references reveals a level of bigotry that should be as much a source for concern as Islamic terrorists. Perhaps the most important part of our dialogue as Americans is to begin with the very strongest presumption that each citizen of our country is a vital part of our society. We must be compelled to seek and reach the highest level of debate critical to our celebration of the freedoms we hold dear. We must start with the belief that each person, regardless of political party affiliation, if any, holds their individual freedoms and love of country at the very heart of their patriotic beliefs. On this basis, we can invite our American dialogue to begin again.

John F. Kostyo, Proud American and Democrat

Not Politically Correct - Damn

Thank God, with my apologies to the Almighty, that we have become “politically correct.” The term “politically correct” is defined as language or behavior intended to minimize offense while conforming to considerations of civility in debate on public policy and issues.

A day does not go by without a friend providing me with some statement, cartoon or story about political correctness. My Christmas and other holidays are enriched by emails about the use of acceptable terms when expressing seasonal greetings. I actually enjoy this whimsical consideration of my friends.

I have problems with political correctness. At home and elsewhere, rather than suggesting a news story is “pure unadulterated bull $#*!,” I am forced to suggest it merely “challenges credible truth.” Rather than state that brain matter has been substituted with other substances in the course of neurological surgery, I am forced to allow comments as an “alternate opinion.” Political correctness requires the diminution of other references to the extent that comments of sub-literate representatives are allowed to pass as credible sources for factual reference without review of actual facts.

At times, with particular reference to certain elected officials or issues, this ordeal reaches a crescendo of explicative statements with words deleted to such an extent that the result is all but unintelligible gibberish. Of course, my family and friends are spared from a barrage of words and the considerable risk that the Almighty may wish to end my comments with an independent intervening lightening bolt.

What is lost in political correctness is a tolerance that allows for factual inaccuracy and the absence of logical rigor. In exchange we are exposed to a level of sophistry that would challenge Socrates, Plato and Aristotle. When news sources are not held to account, political correctness allows editorialists and reporters to use questionable facts and assertions that blur news with opinion in a quagmire akin to animal waste storage ponds.

We should demand more. The question is whether our news sources could actually rise to that aspiration and whether we could decipher the difference. Perhaps political correctness does have a purpose other than civility.

Historic References for the War Funding Debate

With April 2007 as one of the deadliest months for US Forces in Iraq after declaration that “Major combat operations in Iraq have ended.” (White House Press Release, May 1, 2003), perhaps it is time to get some concepts straight. Informed debate calls for some understanding about the roles of the President and Congress. I respectfully suggest that a view offered without understanding of our constitutional process is little more than gibberish.

First, I suggest full reading of The Spirit of Laws (Montesquieu, 1748); James Madison’s Essays No. 47 and 51 and Alexander Hamilton’s Essay No. 69 in The Federalist, and at last The United States Constitution (Debates at Convention are optional.) To address the balance of Executive and Legislative power without historic reference is disingenuous.

As a matter of substantive constitutional law, the President may not wage war without congressional approval. This has been the case since the very outset of our nation. Article 1, Section 8 (11) gives Congress the power to declare war. Mr. Chief Justice Marshall wrote in 1801: “The whole powers of war being, by the Constitution of the United States, vested in Congress. . .” Talbot v. Seeman, 1 Cr. 1 (1801), cited as authority in Holtzman v. Schlesinger, 414 U.S. 1304 (1973). In 1973, Mr. Justice Thurgood Marshall wrote in Talbot “In my judgment, nothing in the 172 years since those words were written alter[s] that fundamental constitutional postulate. . .”

In summary: The Civil War ended by Presidential Proclamation. WW I ended by Joint Declaration of Congress. WW II ended by German Instrument of Surrender, May 7, 1945/July 5, 1945 and The U.S. – Japan Peace Treaty of 1951, ratified by the U.S. Senate. The Korean war “ended” by armistice on July 27, 1953, with no peace treaty. Gerald Ford declared an end to the Vietnam War and termination of all U.S. aid on April 23, 1975. In each event, Congress was intricately involved in the “politics” to terminate the legal state of war. The United States Supreme Court stated that termination of a state of war “is a political act” in Ludecke v. Watkins, 335 U.S. 160 (1948).

Article I, section 9 of our Constitutional vests authority in Congress to provide for “the common defense and general welfare.” It is constitutionally appropriate for Congress determine how to fund a war. The President as Commander-in Chief directs the military while funding comes from Congress. Even George Washington understood this balance during the American Revolution. The conflict is inherent and necessary to preserve our constitutional balance. See Hamilton, Federalist No. 69.

Perhaps when we first seek to understand and respect the constitutional balance established by the Founders, the term “patriotism” undertakes a deeper meaning than sophistic posturing. Perhaps adding some historic and constitutional intelligence will result in a more considered view. Perhaps, not.

The Importance of Being Imus

The words spoken by Don Imus in reference to the Rutgers University Women's Basketball Team were wrong. The words, the concepts communicated of women through the words are reprehensible. The words spoken by Imus have no place in the course of human speech. In a choice of words, each person who heard or hears words as these is violated. The words violate us - each of us as people. The violation is to our human identity, to who we are and who we must wish to be as living beings. In Don Imus's choice to say or use these words, we are violated and made less for the experience. In the repetition by news sources and others, we must make sure that reporting and over-reporting does not allow any acknowledgment of legitimacy. Perhaps even the culture of Rap Music that uses similar references may find some way to evolve beyond the use of such words.

In the wake of Don Imus's statements, each of us has a choice to say - never again. It is not a matter of forgiveness, that Don Imus can say "I'm sorry." We can say we are or were sorry. There is a permanence in what was said even if we forget exactly what was said. In this, we may not be able to purge the words that were said from our consciousness because words that violate cannot be purged. We can seek to raise ourselves above what was said, heal ourselves and seek healing of each person we meet within that space in which we live our lives. We can and must make a commitment to force words and concepts out or our vocabulary and life experience. There are words and concepts that are deserving of extinction - we must add these.

With great regret, perhaps we have some need for words and events like Don Imus that make it necessary for each of us to stop - in shock, in a sense of anger and astonishment, take a step closer to that creature we seek to become and who we may wish to recognize as a human being. If Imus has any importance, it must be as a reminder - it is not what was done or said, but what we chose to do now that will make the difference.

Post Election - Thanks and Appreciation

The words "Thank You" are all too brief to express the deep gratitude that I express to my family and all who helped in this campaign. We worked hard and found great success in our focus on issues. I am proud of our efforts and those who joined in the effort. We took many big steps toward building an orginazition. Many friendships were made and will continue. In a few words -

To all who helped - my thanks
To all who believed - my thanks
To all who encouraged - my thanks
To all who contributed - my thanks
To all who cared - we cared together
To all the needs realized - we share the realization
To all who worked - we worked together
To all who spoke up - we joined voices
We each grew and are better people for the journey
We take each moment - we begin again

2008 started yesterday - time to get started - all best - jfk

Kostyo Awarded "Friend of Agriculture" by OFBF

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 28, 2006

John Kostyo Gains OFBF “Friend of Agriculture” Designation

(Columbus, Ohio) The Ohio Farm Bureau Federation (OFBF), the state’s largest farm organization, today announced that John Kostyo, Democratic Candidate for the 76th Ohio House District, has gained the coveted “Friend of Agriculture” award for supporting agriculture and agribusiness.

“I am humbled and overwhelmed to receive this honor,” Kostyo said. “With deep family ties in farming, I know that agriculture is Ohio’s primary industry, and understand the critical responsibility that lawmakers must accept to protect and strengthen agribusiness in our state.”

“One in seven jobs in Ohio is related to agriculture” said Jack Fisher, OFBF executive vice president. “When lawmakers support agriculture, they are supporting an $80 billion per year industry. They are helping provide jobs, economic development and affordable food for Ohioans.”

Fisher explained that about 80 of 99 Ohio House members and 12 of 17 campaigning Senate members received the “Friend of Agriculture” designation this year. He said that legislators were rated on overall support of agriculture, specific votes on bills such as eminent domain and ethanol, as well as support of local Farm Bureau activities.

John Kostyo’s experience with agriculture varies with all those matters that are faced by a lawyer who represents an extended farm family. He has assisted in groundhog “removal” and obtained recoveries on grain certificates; engaged in negotiations and acquisitions involving farm properties; addressed and resolved issues dealing with animal waste; building and equipment rentals; aggressive efforts to acquire farm property for private commercial development; resolved EPA concerns involving herbicide spills and fuel spills; dealt with various farm insurance claims and estate planning considerations. As a result of these experiences, John Kostyo understands the many pressing issues facing family farms.

“I hope to represent the interests of farmers, agri-business and agbiosciences in the 76th Ohio House District,” said Kostyo. Before we can have a second or third frontier, we must make sure that our first – agriculture – is on solid footing.”

“In each of the villages and communities that are in our district, we enjoy affordable home-grown foods that nourish us and are vital to Ohio. We need to focus on policies that protect and promote agriculture. This is a jobs issue. Agriculture is a way of life for many Ohioans and an industry indispensable to our daily lives.”

CPA Questions and Answers

Recently, The Ohio Society of Certified Public Accountants provided questions on topics of importance to CPAs and the business community, the following are my responses:

1. In legislation pertinent to the working papers of private CPA firms performing audits of publicly funded entities subject to open records laws, I would support legislation requiring retention of working papers for a reasonable period of time. This is a step under full disclosure at all times as has been proposed. In the event a claim arises that specifically requires reference to the working papers, memoranda and related documents, I suggest these should be subject to in camera review and inspection by an appropriate judge or magistrate before other use. I believe there should be a balance that favors disclosure while maintaining the professional integrity of the CPA firm conducting the audit. Further, this will allow the audit to be conducted in a cost effective manner while preserving potential evidence in the case of alleged illegal activity within the publicly funded entity.

2. I would not support expanding the Ohio sales tax to include professional accounting, tax audit and consulting services.

3. I would support creating a CPA/client testimonial privilege to ensure the CPA, unless fraud is involved, could not be forced by subpoena to reveal verbal discussions (and notes regarding those conversations but no other written documents) with clients.

4. Do you support the new broad based, low rate Commercial Activity Tax?

No. I support a fair and balanced tax on commercial activity. I believe that the basic premise of a low rate Commercial Activity Tax is a good idea that needs to find enactment in good legislation. The critical balance to the CAT direction must be found in responsible and controlled state spending. The phasing out of franchise, personal income and tangible personal property taxes creates a more inviting framework of business tax laws for the state of Ohio. In the balance, the state must exercise monetary restraint to take advantage of these business tax changes. If manufacturing is to return to the State of Ohio, the state must act with fiscal responsibility.

It is now well recognized that the CAT does not apply equally to all business. It is particularly harsh on general contractors and merchants who have high commercial activities in contracts or sales with a high cost of goods, labor or materials involved in the activity. Moreover, if a business suffers a loss, it is administratively difficult or fails to account for lost business income.

I do not favor caving out industry exceptions or tax credits to the CAT, but believe some of the internal statutory language may be modified to allow enforcement of a business tax that is perceived as fair for all impacted business without complex credits or exceptions.

5. State Spending: If you could cut state spending, where would you begin and why?

I believe the first way to cut state spending would be to require all contractors who seek to perform services for the state or its agencies bid competitively on the work. I have practiced law in firms that performed work for the Ohio Attorney General. The work was preformed by associates who charged the state substantially more than may be charged by other firms. I believe that allowing competitive bidding by qualified firms would save our taxpayers millions of dollars each year. I suggest that those firms that seek state contract work deserve to make a reasonable profit while serving the public. At the same time, the public served should not be exploited by non-competitive fees.

The next area in which I believe state spending may be cut is by making our administrative agencies more efficient in procedures, requiring their conversion to acceptance of electronic documents as now done with some federal agencies and a reduction in the number of non-substantive filings and hearings. This would save the agencies time and expense while allowing those who deal with them to engage in more substantive matters.

As an elected representative, I would seek to find means to simplify administrative demands and procedures while maintaining a respect for substantive rights. I believe that we
can seek higher levels of efficiencies from our business and social agencies while allowing better service to the citizens of our state.

6. Do you support the new statutory cap on state spending that resets the spending cap every fourth year at 3.5 percent of the prior ceiling (Senate Bill 321)?

I do not support tax and expenditure limitations in our state. I believe these measures are traps cloaked in political gimmickry. I believe self control is always better than legal or legislated control. As a result, I strongly favor self-imposed aggressive tax and expenditure restraints. I am also concerned that the rapid substitution of legislation for what appeared to be an ill advised and badly worded TEL amendment to the Ohio Constitution will result in lengthy litigation about applications, definitions and unresolved but necessary interpretations. I question whether such legislation will truly serve the citizens of our state and a desire for new business and economic progress.

7. What are the main priorities you will focus on as a member of the 127th Ohio General Assembly?

The main priority that I will focus on as a member of the 127th Ohio General Assembly is to restore investment in business and job growth in our state. Without continued investment in new business and jobs, Ohio will continue to suffer the exodus of it citizens to more promising states. I have proposed a plan called “Ohio First” that requires the funds held by our state agencies to be re-invested in business in our state. Ohio First is a plan to invest Ohio resources in business that invests in Ohio.

Second, I have stated that education is essential for the future of our state. This state must make the funding of education a priority. So often we say that our children are our future; however, it only appears that our children do not see their own futures in the State of Ohio. I believe that in education we find the singular key to open the door to Ohio’s future. I also believe that we must create an environment of cooperation between business and education that allows a promise of good jobs and prospects that gives each successive generation a reason to invest their lives and futures in our state. I believe that we must seek to educate each child from pre-school to the highest level of education each can achieve. In our state, we need the talents of many diverse people with as much respect given for good working people as those who excel at math and science. With this said, if we make educational funding a singular priority, we make every thing else fall in line.

8. In your opinion, what separates you from your opponent(s) (i.e. philosophical and/or background)? Why should Ohio CPS’s support your candidacy?

The primary difference that separates me from my opponent is experience. I have engaged in civil law practice representing business interests for nearly 25 years. I have taught college classes in Contracts and Negotiable Instruments for over 15 years at The University of Findlay. My legal practice has required experience in regulatory work; statutory and case law
interpretation; litigation; contracts and dispute resolution. I am pleased to have successfully argued several landmark cases before the Ohio Supreme Court and Ohio Courts of Appeal. I have successfully litigated hundreds of cases, prepared the documentation necessary to complete and closed real estate, business, commercial loan and multi-million dollar merger transactions. Much of this work has required the successful coordination of applicable law with accounting professionals. This is particularly important in preparing and advising in business formation, audits, merger and acquisition work. I have experience in business with businesses. My opponent has no noted business or legal experience.

Second, I believe my focus and understanding of economic issues critical to the 76th Ohio House District and the State of Ohio separate me from my opponent. I have proposed “Ohio First” as a plan for the investment of Ohio funds into Ohio business. In borrowing from a supply side economic model, my first effort is to allow investment in business and job growth. Growth will allow the good working people in a working state to get to work. Business and Job growth will invite workers to our state and serve as an incentive for our children to invest their futures in Ohio. The growth appreciated will bring more funds into commercial activity and wages that will, in cycle, allow responsible tax money paid to the state. This money can be used to restore education, service and balance to our state budget.

Third, my philosophy of government separates me from my opponent. I believe in a government dedicated to the recognition and preservation of unalienable rights is the purpose for government. The purpose for government is to protect individual rights and serve people. This view places a focus on individuals and service to individual needs that includes support for business owners and those who work for them. When I combine my skills from years of law practice, experience and desire to serve the interests of the citizens in the 76th Ohio House District, I believe that through my representation, people my District will feel they have a strong, balanced and fair voice in Columbus

AARP Candidate Questionnaire - Kostyo Answers

LONG TIME CARE:

I strongly support redirecting funding from nursing homes to home and community based services.

I learned valued lessons about the importance of personal independence years ago in the course of my mother’s care for her mother, and later while caring for my mother. I understand that “home” has a significant and critical meaning of security for our aging parents and seniors. The ability of an individual to remain in their home serves as a continued guarantee of independence for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. These are the unalienable rights central to our Declaration of Independence and continue in meaning when not forfeited as we age by removal to nursing home care.

I support every effort to provide home and community base services like PASSPORT funded by Medicaid. These programs save invaluable individual independence and personal dignity that cannot be found in the very best nursing home facilities. Moreover, I believe PASSPORT and similar programs are a valid stewardship that save tax dollars in Ohio.

PRESCRIPTION DRUG AFFORDABILITY:

I strongly support establishing evidence based research to compare drug effectiveness.

To restore “health care” as our “care for health,” we must fully restore the dynamic of patient-doctor relationships. We must fully empower doctors to actively address and follow the care of their patients. All too often, patients’ services and prescription drugs are directed, if not dictated, by health insurance providers. Often, this means that prescriptions are issued for newer and usually far more expensive drugs.

I support empowering our state to take every competitive approach available that will allow doctors to prescribe the correct drug that can be obtained at the most competitive price. Our states must pool every resource to exercise strong purchasing power for bulk purchases of prescription drugs.

I believe we should eliminate every border or barrier, international or otherwise, that allows for the purchase of prescription drugs at the most competitive price available from drug manufacturers.

When we save on the cost for prescription drugs, we reduce the state cost for Medicaid. I see this as my duty when elected as a steward of our public trust.

HEALTH CARE:

I strongly support empowering state government to play an active role to insure that every Ohioan has access to adequate and affordable health care.

I believe we must direct and empower individuals to take active responsibility for their personal health. Common sense directs that healthy people at each age will require less medical attention and less medical cost from our health care system. As a responsible first step in a transition from our present “health care” system to a prospective or “care for health” system, we must direct and reward physicians and health care providers to practice preventive medicine. I strongly support requiring health care providers to reimburse for preventive medical expenses.

Whether by a system as recently adopted in Massachusetts or as proposed by United States Senator John Kerry, we must see that every American citizen and every citizen of this state has coverage for their health and care.

Endorsements - With Great Thanks

It is a pleasure for me to share the great news of receiving endorsements and the considerate thoughtfulness of those who have taken the time and effort to engage in the process.

First, I must thank the National Association of Social Workers, Ohio Chapter, and the political action committee (PACE) for their endorsement. Social workers are critical to the many services and family supports on which our communities rely. More, social workers are daily involved in the recognition and protection of the most basic civil rights promised by our laws and Constitution. I am pleased to welcome the support and involvement of NASW Ohio members in my campaign and as experts on a range of social policy issues.

I am equally pleased to accept the endorsement of the Ohio Association of Public School Employees (OAPSE/AFSCME Local 4/AFL-CIO). OAPSE is more than 38,000 working men and women who daily perform services of our schools, Head Start programs, MMRD's and libraries in Ohio.

With equal enthusiasm I am pleased to accept the endorsement of the Ohio State Building and Construction Trades Counsel for their endorsement of my candidacy as State Representative for the 76th District. These trades are fundamental to a vision of rebuilding Ohio from within with living wage jobs and skilled workers whose labor is the pillar on which our communities are based.

Once again, my thanks. I look forward to the insights and assistance that I have received. I look forward to serving the great people of my District and this State.