Indy mayor abuses authority with red alert

Gus Philpott
Woodstock Advocate
January 6, 2014

Today's Associated Press article about the polar vortex included a disclosure that Indianapolis (Ind.) Mayor Greg Ballard "upgraded the city's travel emergency level to 'red,' making it illegal for anyone to drive except for emergency personnel, emergency purposes or seeking shelter."

When I lived in Colorado, I objected to "officials" declaring public roads off-limits, and I object and protest to Mayor Ballard's taking on a role as Daddy and telling everyone to stay home. I urge Indiana residents to give him three blasts on your home and for everyone else to guard against similar actions by your own Big Brothers.

Baloney! If you are prepared for the weather, dress warmly, have your vehicle in good operating condition for severe weather, then go, if you want to go. Got a four-wheel drive vehicle? Go (assuming you know how to operate it responsibly). At this point roads are in good condition. Drive on them. You paid for them.

Conversely, if you aren't prepared, then stay in; but make it your own decision to stay in.

Of course, there are those who won't be prepared and who will go anyway. Let them suffer the consequences.

Having just written this, watch for two cars in the ditch on Route 47 near Route 176 (7:40AM). It's windy and slick out there.