For a majority of Americans, the outcome of the election last Tuesday was a GREAT success! To quote the President, “America has spoken. And I am humbled by the trust and confidence of my fellow citizens. With that trust comes a duty: I will serve all Americans, so help me God. I am proud to lead such an amazing country—and I am proud to lead it forward.”

Besides popular and electoral majorities, Republicans gained seats in the Senate and the House of Representatives. There are judges to appoint and possibly even Supreme Justices to appoint, later on. Yes, Americans have spoken. They said that they want a President who is predictable. They put their trust in a man who can make decisions and stick to them, even in the face of opposition. Yes, Americans have spoken. They have said that faith matters and that character counts. Yes, Americans have spoken. They have said that they approve of the President’s approach to the War on Terror, and that they do not want road blocks to the appointment of judges. These things we can infer from who the voters of this Great Country have given us for leaders!

Now for the League: We’re planning a big year. Let’s double our membership each year for the next few years until innovative “taxing” schemes from the jurisdictions of the County stop materializing. Just think, if the League’s boundaries were a district for an elected official, he or she would have over 1.2 million people to represent—about twice the size of a congressional district. Now, that’s a lot of people and potentially a lot of “horsepower.” So, our membership drive starts NOW. Remember, to keep pace with attrition, we have to have about two new, or returning, members each month, anyway. Also keep in mind that we are looking for one person from each jurisdiction to follow their respective council, board, district, etc. meetings as they may advance tax issues that the League ought to be involved in. Think about you, or a group of you, in one jurisdiction covering the agenda and meetings for your jurisdiction. You could do it.

On a personal note, as you all may know, Joe Sullivan has been home taking care of his beloved wife, Kay, after her recent hospital visit. We are grateful for Joe’s help as he has assumed the role of the Leagues “new” treasurer, and we pray for Kay’s continued recovery. Additionally, on behalf of the League, let me also extend our prayers and support for the quick convalescence of Bruce Lee’s step-son who was attacked and brutally beaten a few weeks ago. I understand that he is “on the mend,” but will require lots of care and medical attention for some time in the future.

That’s all for this month. Let’s get to work.

Yours for a Less Taxing Community,

Ken Payne