[Lnc-business] An Open Letter from the Michigan Chair to LNC Chairman Nick Sarwark

[Brett Bittner]

Oh behalf of the Chair of Michigan, Bill Gelineau, I submit this open
letter to Chairman Sarwark:

Nick Sarwark
> Chairman, The Libertarian Party of the United States
> 1444 Duke Street
> Alexandria, VA 22314
> June 1, 2016
> Mr. Chairman,
> Having just enjoyed and endured one of the truly unique experiences of my
> life, I wanted to take time to discuss relevant matters which involve both
> our state and the national committee.
> First, I wish to offer earned respect for the manner in which the
> convention was managed. Your knowledge of rules, sense of fairness, and
> occasional wit combined to keep what is just shy of an unruly mob as
> focused better than I could have imagined.
> The experience itself was quite remarkable. Although I served once
> previously as Chair of the Libertarian Party of Michigan (2003), this was
> my first experience attending the National Convention. And what an
> experience it was!
> First, I hope you would note the prominence of the Michigan delegation. I
> have such great pride to see the positive impact that so many of our
> members provided to the overall experience. Foremost among these was Emily
> Salvette – who, in addition to the many roles she supports in her home
> state, was on the stage fully prepared and organized. Notable assisting
> with credentials was Larry Johnson and our Life Member Ben Bachrach – who,
> while living in Florida apparently found the North Dakota delegation fun!
> We are Libertarians. Along the way, I see James Fulner taking a prominent
> role with the Platform Committee. We even enjoyed Will White’s harmonica
> rendition of “Liberty” and “Swanee River”.
> These are just a few of the many Michigan members participating. I felt
> great pride that we were able to cast full delegation votes for all vote
> counts through Sunday night. In addition to our allotted 25, I believe we
> had at least 16 other members in attendance – a few were not even delegates
> or alternates.
> Our delegation was successful due to tremendous teamwork. My count team
> assisting myself….and Kim McCurry in my absence on Monday, included Bill
> Hall, Mary Buzuma, and John Jascob, and Bob Broda. Their diligence for
> accuracy and willingness to help the team set a great example.
> I recall a time when you asked about members attending multiple
> conventions. It was with great pride that I could recognize James Hudler –
> one of the founders of the LP of Michigan….and someone that attended the
> 1972 Denver Convention and continues his activism now. Just the sheer
> seriousness of our newest members – some as alternates and some as
> attendees – was uplifting.
> All that was wonderful warm-up for the big game ahead. As soon as our team
> was picked (Johnson-Weld), social and regular media grew and we scored on
> our first opportunity!! I know that with that one-two punch, we have a team
> that is sure to give us success.
> I do want to address the error made on the ensuing kick-off. A member from
> Michigan – someone that did not earn a spot on the roster, fumbled the ball
> and allowed our enemies to put points on the board. Inexplicably, he then
> proceeded to remove his jersey. The referee on stage clearly looked shocked
> – several cheerleaders had dry heaves (let’s face it, this player was not
> built like Jack LaLanne).
> In 1975, I had the good fortune to meet John Wooden and Bobby Knight at
> the same event. Two very successful people with – shall we say – very
> different attitudes. Both understood that there is no “I” in TEAM. As
> Libertarians, we need to learn to spell, apparently.
> Before the National Party takes any action in this matter, however, a few
> things that I would like you to consider.
> 1) The Party historically has tolerated some fairly unusual displays. I’m
> not sure that Michigan or other states could reasonably say where to draw
> that line.
> 2) Before another state adds delegates from another area in the future, it
> might make some sense for that state to check with the home delegation for
> temperament. And perhaps a reminder that the first charge of their motto is
> “Virtue”.
> 3) I would support changes that might require any candidate for Chair to
> receive the support of 5 State Chairs (tokens??). Let’s face it, if you
> don’t have 5 states supporting you, how would you win? Some will scream –
> but part of growing as a party is recognizing the right of the majority to
> function is important, too.
> Lastly, I believe that those of us that know this player best should
> determine the next step. We are a Party that believes in redemption – that
> one can come back from a serious error. Of course, some indication that he
> might want redemption is needed.
> It is not for me as Chair to decree some action. But, since this player
> hails from Michigan, I believe the Executive Committee of Michigan is best
> suited to take on this task.
> Lastly, it’s important to note that we’re only in the first few minutes of
> the first quarter of the game. All the good and bad things that occurred
> over the weekend will pale when compared to the rest of the game ahead. For
> me, I choose to focus on our assignments. You, me, and everyone else that
> wishes to be part of the TEAM.
> As many have said in the past – we must address the fierce urgency of now.
> It is now that we must do the needed work. It is now that we must seize the
> opportunity. And it is now that we pull together and face those that would
> destroy liberty.
> Best wishes and appreciation for you continued vigilance on behalf of our
> cause.
> For liberty now and in the future,
> Bill Gelineau
> Chairman
> Libertarian Party of Michigan
> 616-723-2776


Brett C. Bittner

brett at brettbittner.com
404.492.6524

"I would rather be exposed to the inconveniences attending too much liberty
than those attending too small a degree of it." -- Thomas Jefferson
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