Lipstick on a Pig

Deadlines in the Legislature last week and this week. Lots of bills are dieing and lots of hearts are being broken. Don't you love the government.

We have been lucky thus far, although I would like to think that luck had nothing to do with it and it was just hard work. (Most of the hard work done by other people). Several bills that we didn't like have died, and several bills that we like are still alive, although barely. Life is busy but not too bad in Legislature Land.

Now for the amusing part. The Governor has said "No New Taxes" and he appears to be serious about it, unlike others in the past. This has scared all of the Democrats into submission. I'm not sure why, but plenty of Republicans aren't falling into line. What we have is an upsidedown reality. Democrats are voting against bills that would raise taxes while Republicans are voting for increased fees and taxes. Rather boggles the mind.

Unintended Consequences.

This blog is going to have to change drastically. No longer am I being blown around the world by the trade winds. My wanderings have slowed for now. I seem to have taken root and am attempting to grow (which can be a challenge anywhere, but especially in the desert).

What should this blog become though? Do I have a concsious choice or will it evolve in its own way, moderately shaped by me, but in control of its own destiny. I suppose that is to be seen.

For now I thought it would be interesting to put some of my observations of the political system. I am deeply immersed in it as a lobbyist in the Nevada State Legislature. Anyone who knows me is aware of my love for government. My first job in high school was not the typical waitress position, instead I was campaign staff for a state campaign. I loved my government class in high school, I was drawn to DC by the allure of being closer to the seat of power in our country. Despite all I thought I knew, I am constantly discovering more. And rather than being discouraged by this exposure I have actually been inspired. Yes money talks and legislators listen to lobbyists and don't always follow what their constituents want. But I don't think that is the rule. From what little I have seen, the legislators are genuinely trying to make our state a better place. They want to do the right thing. I can see how difficult it is though because any decision that is made will have positive effects for one group but negative effects for another group. If you give money to education that is less money available to fix the roads. If money is given to hire more staff that is money that isn't going to help people with disabilities. They have a monumental task juggling all of those demands, and I don't envy them. But I do respect them.

Of course it is a bit concerning that the favorite phrase this session seems to be "Unintended Consequences." Good name for a band though.

I've registered for the MS Walk at Lake Tahoe on Saturday May 19 because I want to do something for the people who have been diagnosed - and because I want to do everything to prevent more people from learning what it means to live with this disease. Today, there is no cure for multiple sclerosis, and with a diagnosis occurring most frequently between the ages of 20 and 50, many individuals face a lifetime filled with unpredictability.

Having multiple sclerosis means that you may not be able to walk when you wake up. Or that you may suddenly have impaired vision. Or that your memory will fail you for no apparent reason. The symptoms of MS are different, and devastating, for everyone - the only certainty is that it will affect yet another person every hour of every day.

I have started a team for the walk named Filibustering Philanthropists. If you are going to be here (the Reno/Tahoe area) on May 19th I would love to have you join our team (only 3 short miles!). Please go here to sign up: Filibustering Philanthropists

If you can't make it to walk with us but still want to give some money to help with MS research you can go here. The money raised during the walk will not only support research for a cure tomorrow, but also to provide programs which address the needs of people living with MS today. Any amount you can give will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you!