Recall Walker petitioner removed from Hedberg library entrance
Reader poll
Photo 
Lars Prip
JANESVILLE — Officials at Hedberg Public Library on Tuesday had a Recall Walker petitioner removed from where he had set up shop in a covered parking area at the library.
City officials say the library was within its rights in asking the petitioner to leave, and a library official claims recall petitioners had been harassing library patrons in recent days.
Still, the petitioner says he doesn't understand why he was asked to leave.
Lars Prip of Afton on Tuesday set up a desk with petitions to recall Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker under the covered parking area on the north side of the library.
Prip, who said he represents the Democratic party-backed group United Wisconsin, indicated he was trying to get out of the rain and keep his petitions dry.
Prip was collecting signatures near an entrance when he said a library official told him he had to leave the area. Prip said the official didn't give a reason.
"They just said 'You have to leave,'" Prip said.
In an email to city staff last week, City Attorney Wald Klimczyk wrote that, under law, some public property is exempt from political free speech protections, and that public entities can lawfully prohibit political free speech inside public buildings.
"The Hedberg Public Library prohibits all political activity everywhere inside, including areas open to the public and the private staff and work areas," Klimczyk wrote. "The prohibition is uniformly applied to everyone, according to Library Director Bryan McCormick, so it is acceptable."
Janesville Police Sgt. Anne Brophy, one of two officers responding to the library Tuesday, said the city considers the covered parking area of the library to be part of the library building, and that allows library officials to bar recall petitioners from the area.
Brophy said recall petitioners can set up on adjacent sidewalks near the library or any public place as long as they aren't harassing anyone or blocking entrances, exits or rights of way.
Police Tuesday reviewed a list of Wisconsin state statutes Prip supplied which argue that he should be allowed to gather signatures on public property.
Police allowed Prip to stay near the library but made him move to a sidewalk on the north end of the property. Prip later went to a sidewalk next to the library's main entrance along Main Street and collected signatures there.
McCormick said Prip was asked to leave the covered parking area because of reports last weekend that recall petitioners were acting aggressively toward library patrons.
"We had some complaints of intimidation and harassment (of library) patrons. That's where we had some problems with some of the petitioners," McCormick said Tuesday in a voicemail message.
McCormick said the library was trying to ensure the comfort and well being of its patrons.
Brophy said she believes it was the first time police had to get involved since recall petition efforts began in Janesville. She said the petition efforts have been peaceful, and she was unaware of any complaints of petitioners acting aggressively.
Prip said he has been collecting recall signatures outside the library since last week, and he had about 130 signatures as of Tuesday. He denies harassing anyone at the library.
"I say 'Thank you,' that's as much of a conversation as I've had," he said. "When you think about it, the worst thing we could do is be aggressive to anyone. Why would you do that?"
WHAT ARE THE RULES?
Wisconsin does not have a clear law regulating whether citizens can circulate petitions on public property. The Wisconsin Government Accountability Board regulates elections and has compiled mountains of information about recall rules. In those mountains you won't find a clear list of places you can or cannot circulate petitions.
"We have searched for but not found any statute governing the appropriate or prohibited use of government buildings," GAB Director Kevin Kennedy wrote in March in an open letter about circulation of petitions.
The governmental body that owns the building would be responsible for those rules, and the rules would be subject to the First Amendment, Kennedy wrote.
The issue of restricting public activities on public property is "complex" and has been argued in many court cases, he wrote. The U.S. Supreme Court has determined that restrictions should be based on the use of the property.
-- Governments cannot universally prohibit public communication on streets or parks that have been recognized for public use or assembly "for time out of mind." For the state to enforce case-by-case prohibition of public use, the governmental body must show regulation is necessary. The state could enforce regulations on the time, place or manner of expression as long as the regulations allow alternative methods of communication and are specific and neutral.
-- A second category includes forums the state opened for public expression. The state is not compelled to keep the forum open, but as long as it does it is held to the same standards as traditional public forums.
-- The third category includes public property that's not been traditionally used for communication. "We have recognized the First Amendment does not guarantee access to property simply because it is owned or controlled by the government," the letter states.
The state can prohibit speech on such a property as long as the prohibition is reasonable and not simply because the public officials oppose the speaker's view.
As a side note, petitioners can circulate petitions within 100 feet of polling places as long as the petition is not about candidates or questions on a ballot.
To learn more, visit gab.wi.gov.
Nov 28, 2011 at 5:43 p.m.
Suggest removal
Your right but Lars at least seems to be a nice man, and proud of his service...I (peronally) find it disrespectful no matter what side of the isle your on, bringing service into the issue...Semper Fi...always faithful...God, Country...and Corps...those words still ring true to me down to my very sould...we need repect those lost...and not bring service into our personal convictions
Nov 26, 2011 at 2:33 p.m.
Suggest removal
redder, thanks for the thoughtful comment. It seems to me that the issue isn't only between Marines and civilians (as you suggest to moderate1), but the larger issue is between Marines themselves. Just browse the comments in this article by the people who self-identify as a Marine. You'll find Marines calling into question other Marines service, often with vulgar language. Those comments are questioning service to the country and character and are not addressing political issues, although they are probably fueled by political convictions. The same thing is happening in the Occupy movement with veterans who support the movement having their service to our country and their character questioned -- not only by civilians but by other veterans.
Nov 26, 2011 at 2:09 p.m.
Suggest removal
Typing.
Nov 26, 2011 at 2:05 p.m.
Suggest removal
redder, I understand where you're coming from. But let's backtrack a moment. This article doesn't describe Prip as a Marine vet nor does Prip allude to his service in any way. Sure, he's wearing a civilian USMC baseball cap, but that doesn't prove anything. Anybody can wear a military baseball style cap. And, Lars was not at the library waving a USMC flag asking for signatures. This started because the piece of garbage going under the screen name of taxandspend attacked Lars personally for who he is and whatever he is simply by making up nasty falsehoods. themom1972, came to defend her father-in-law and explained who Lars is and included for the first time here that he is military vet. That Lars being a vet happens to be part of this discussion is something that simply became known to defend himself in these attacks. That would hardly pass for someone trying to fly their politics or his support for Walker's recall under the Marine Corps banner. I barely know Lars, but it should be obvious through his comments here that he is a dedicated Marine who does not wear his service with his politics or on his sleeve.
Nov 26, 2011 at 1:23 p.m.
Suggest removal
and sorry for dropping the s guys, Marine Corps didnt teach typeing...lmao
Nov 26, 2011 at 1:20 p.m.
Suggest removal
moderate..since you did not go through what training and service that the Marine Corp demands on those of us that did...i understand your ignorance, however in my service they taught us to not affiliate the Corp. with poilical idealogy, that means if you wish to choose a side then thats okay, but dont do it while flying the Marine Corp. colors, in other words take the hat off, or jacket or whatever, the Corp follows orders, and defends the likes of you that choose to chase frivolous endevours, however the colors are not to be flown while representing such endevours. Its respect to those who still serve and protect this nation, we as Marines dont choose sides we follow orders, and protect those on both sides of the isile...even if we choose not to agree with you we as Marines must protect you non the less, its our sworn oath, and that oath is for life, no such this as and ex Marine, only inactive, NOW...as a former active duty Marine you wish to debate this any further I open the debate, however you should at least understand the oath we take and the rights we gave up, as Marines, for your freedom. This is something most people can not put their arms around I understand, but as Marines we live it, active or inactive, and we support each other through thick or thin, and if this Lars needed help I would be there still to help him, as a Marine, politics, we have no place for in the Corp
Nov 26, 2011 at 11:52 a.m.
Suggest removal
ACT 10 defines a public sector corporation as one receiving more than 50% of its revenue from the state. So, the bus company is legally considered a public company. The CEO of a non-profit is restricted to a salary of about $150,000 / yr.
Nov 26, 2011 at 11:50 a.m.
Suggest removal
Walker trolls were hired as city of Milwaukee employees and paid to post on discussion boards. Once a cheater, always a cheater.
Nov 26, 2011 at 11:22 a.m.
Suggest removal
Maine2010, the tax-paying public belongs to one of two unions - either the Republican or Democrat party. Your union bosses work closely together to exact their dues from every one of your paychecks. They end up handing the majority of your dues over to the 1%. All the while keeping their members divided right down the middle over meaningless issues, assuring the continuation of their dominance over the 99%.
Nov 26, 2011 at 11:21 a.m.
Suggest removal
School bus drivers work for a bus company, right? It has nothing to do with tax money...It's a private sector job, right? I As long as their company can afford their salary, I don't care. Besides they're making average $25,000. Which driver makes $150,000?
Nov 26, 2011 at 10:49 a.m.
Suggest removal
Maine--Why didn't you take a job in the public sector?
Nov 26, 2011 at 9:13 a.m.
Suggest removal
Those who oppose the recall have a very easy weapon to use against petition circulators: complain that they are being harassed by them. I know Lars Prip well and work with him. He is a gentleman, a patriot, a veteran and is extremely congenial. I have also collected signatures at the library. All I did was stand with my clipboards and smile. Shoppers and patrons of public services are not being harassed. Passersby sometimes shout at us and use rude and vulgar language, but I haven't called the police and it hasn't made the newspaper, yet. But, who knows?
Nov 26, 2011 at 8:34 a.m.
Suggest removal
To: Janesvillean
The non-union taxpaying public is angered by learning of accounts, such as school bus drivers earning $150k just because they are members of a union that was able to extort that pay level from taxpayers, most of whom are earning only "global" wages. From their vantage point, union members belong to the 1% priviledged and protected group at the top. If union members could earn just as much in the private sector, as they always claim, why don't they prove it and switch to a job in the private sector?
Nov 26, 2011 at 7:27 a.m.
Nov 26, 2011 at 7:01 a.m.
Suggest removal
This might help you understand but I doubt!
-
It. You wanted to end that sentence with "it." It sounds stupid, otherwise. Don't give them ammunition. They love that.
Nov 26, 2011 at 6:57 a.m.
Suggest removal
"Robot, you're not from here, are you? Let me guess. Some southern state? Still angry about losing the Civil War? You might as well get used to losing, because it's headed your way again. :)"
-
That's funny.
Nov 26, 2011 at 6:33 a.m.
Suggest removal
Yall a bunch of redlegs.
Nov 26, 2011 at 3:57 a.m.
Suggest removal
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P8mt0DPQlTI/Tr...
Nov 25, 2011 at 9:51 p.m.
Suggest removal
My journey on this thread has come to an end but I have a message for you trolls and you know who you are! The next time I hear from rolled down vehicle windows screams of “get a job you deadbeat”, the throwing of the disrespectable social fingers and clenched fists. That you loose control of your phone; drop your coffee in your lap and crash into a light pole. The darn thing about this scenario is that I would come to your aid. I would not be to fast because I would have to pick up my RECALL WALKER PETITIONS and store them safely because that’s my calling right now
A for you wannabe Marines, you haven’t got a clue! This might help you understand but I doubt!
http://www.talkingproud.us/PhotoGallery/...
Nov 25, 2011 at 6:43 p.m.
Suggest removal
Good piont, NV. That's the only thing that would make sense.
Nov 25, 2011 at 5:49 p.m.
Suggest removal
This Robot character has to be a liberal attempting to discredit conservatives by posing as an off the charts tea bagger . Nobody, even from the far right, is that crazy.
Nov 25, 2011 at 5:07 p.m.
Suggest removal
Robot, you're not from here, are you? Let me guess. Some southern state? Still angry about losing the Civil War? You might as well get used to losing, because it's headed your way again. :)
Nov 25, 2011 at 3:51 p.m.
Suggest removal
RECALL REAGAN!!! Mooks.
Nov 25, 2011 at 3:49 p.m.
Suggest removal
Abraham Lincoln. Worst president ever. Even Carter was better.
Nov 25, 2011 at 3:32 p.m.
Nov 25, 2011 at 3:23 p.m.
Suggest removal
RECALL WALKER!
Nov 25, 2011 at 3:20 p.m.
Suggest removal
SUPPORT GOV. WALKER
I love that title also. What a great pleasure and joy it will be to see him win AGAIN in 2012 along with a major GOP landslide across the board in all the states. Anarchism never wins.
Nov 25, 2011 at 3:05 p.m.
Suggest removal
"Any one understand what a oxymoron is????
-
Yep. Anyone is one word. You are the oxyMORON.
Nov 25, 2011 at 3:04 p.m.
Suggest removal
Nice. Not. Must be afraid of what's coming. Loser.
Nov 25, 2011 at 3:01 p.m.
Nov 25, 2011 at 2:56 p.m.
Suggest removal
It's Corps, by the way, facker. Lars and I know that.
Nov 25, 2011 at 2:49 p.m.
Suggest removal
"Mr. Pripp...get a grip and I am ashamed you fly the Marine Corp. colors devil dog under the recall Walker crap...you should be ashamed, that is not what the Corp taught me, you remember what always faithful means right...GOD, COUNTRY, and CORP...how is this remaining faithful"
-
Tenth Ammendment. Smedley Butler knew, so does Lars.
Nov 25, 2011 at 2:47 p.m.
Suggest removal
"I respect everyone's service to their country. I do not respect people who demonstrate little self-respect by making vulgar comments about others."
-
That is a lie. You are the smallest part of a complexity, poobah, and you know it.
Nov 25, 2011 at 1:52 p.m.
Suggest removal
It's off topic but I agree with unclesmoothie's comment. IF members of Congress made millions with inside information on the stock market, they are obviously not alone. Wall Street is a tool for the rich built by the Masters of the Universe to scam trillions from the masses. If it weren't corrupt - it would not exist. Any politician who takes part in this corruption and then screams corruption knows it first hand. IF we are a smart society we should demand justice and reform, we must not turn a blind eye to their claims just because others thinks they're hypocrites.
Nov 25, 2011 at 1:52 p.m.
Suggest removal
RECALL WALKER!
Nov 25, 2011 at 1:50 p.m.
Suggest removal
Mr. Pripp...get a grip and I am ashamed you fly the Marine Corp. colors devil dog under the recall Walker crap...you should be ashamed, that is not what the Corp taught me, you remember what always faithful means right...GOD, COUNTRY, and CORP...how is this remaining faithful
Nov 25, 2011 at 12:38 p.m.
Suggest removal
We need to cut the state plans to be fair.
.
I love the mentality "I'll drag everyone down with me rather than standing up to fight for myself."
Nov 25, 2011 at 11:54 a.m.
Suggest removal
SUPPORT GOV. WALKER!
Nov 25, 2011 at 11:24 a.m.
Suggest removal
unclesmoothie,
What do securities investments made by members of Congress based on privileged information (apparently in your world Democrats were the only one taking part in this activity) have to do with Scott Walker's tendency to govern in bad faith here in WI? He's not the target of a recall because of other politicians' shady investments.
Nov 25, 2011 at 11:18 a.m.
Suggest removal
RECALL WALKER!
Nov 25, 2011 at 11:07 a.m.
Suggest removal
I find it amusing that people accuse fraud on one side then turn a blind eye while people like Nancy Pelosi, Al Gore, and John Kerry make MILLIONS with inside information on the stock market. The very same stock market they point at a scream corruption. Hypocrisy at it's very finest.
Nov 25, 2011 at 10:43 a.m.
Suggest removal
Walter, I sure hope the turkey sitting on the table was much more tender than the one you just described who was sitting at the table.
Nov 25, 2011 at 10:21 a.m.
Suggest removal
I come from a very conservative and politially active family. I know for a fact that a conservative tactic against this recall effort is to constantly call the police to complain that the petitioners are causing a problem. "Call the police and keep calling; almost to the point of actual harassment. Use words like 'intimidation' and 'fear'. I don't care if it's a sweet little old lady. Call the police on her anyway." Those are the words I heard from someone who claimed to be a Walker supporter and counter-recall effort organizer. Needless to say it was a very contentious holiday.
Nov 25, 2011 at 10:17 a.m.
Suggest removal
Walker committed fraud but we don't have the right to undo that fraud? If Walker was a company, we could sue for his lies but as a politician, he gets to get away with it? Nice going Republicans.
Nov 25, 2011 at 10:14 a.m.
Suggest removal
Right taxandspend... we need to cut the state and union benefits and wages to be fair... That is what is keeping private wage where it is. Once union wage lowers, you think yours will stay the same.. all this "fair" talk, kind of socialist, isn't it? LOL
Nov 25, 2011 at 10:13 a.m.
Suggest removal
So, now the DA and police think the Constitution is just a technicality.
Nov 25, 2011 at 9:55 a.m.
Suggest removal
Still don't understand this recall...Anyone who doesn't agree with Walker's agenda who was too lazy or too stupid to vote against him last November should not have a second chance at it.
Nov 25, 2011 at 9:48 a.m.
Suggest removal
Saxcat that "disabled Marine" is the reason you get to spew your nonsense here on this blog! He is an American hero! And by the way we Democrats DO read, we just don't watch Faux News like yourself and the Gazette Editor.
Nov 25, 2011 at 8:41 a.m.
Suggest removal
hey tax, I think it's time we stop giving this DISABLED mARINE the time of day.
Nov 25, 2011 at 8:28 a.m.
Suggest removal
Maine2010, you've swallowed propaganda and lies. The only reason there "isn't enough money" is because the money is being distributed throughout our economy less and less fairly. The gross domestic product of the US has steadily risen since World War II with only slight blips, but since 1980 the wage-earners for which you have sympathy have seen no effective increase. Instead, the gains from that increase in GDP have gone more and more to a smaller and smaller select group of people who have done very little to earn it. One of the largest factors in this redistribution of wealth that has been happening is tax cuts on the wealthy, who no longer pay their share. That has forced the burden of supporting the same public services as before onto those who can afford it less. This has had the predictable effect of making taxpayers resent the professionals they employ, but it isn't because of unions. It's because of the wealthy wielding political power to no longer pay their fair share of running America.
Nov 25, 2011 at 8:24 a.m.
Suggest removal
Totellthetruth: Don't spew any more lies. Lars never harrassed anybody. Nope, not ever!
Nov 25, 2011 at 8:03 a.m.
Suggest removal
All the public union bashing about huge wages when the reality is the non-union "administrators and "managers" are making much more then the union person. Take a look at how many "chiefs" and how many "indians" there really are. There wages are paid through taxes also--where's the outrage?
Nov 25, 2011 at 7:44 a.m.
Suggest removal
Unions were once useful in this country many decades ago, but they have evolved into a vehicle for extortion for the benefit of only a few. Only a tiny proportion of the population benefits from extravagant union incomes and benefits, while the remaining huge proportion has been subjected to cuts due to the forces of globalization. In the area of public sector unions, the huge proportion earning lower "global" wages is forced to pay exorbitant property taxes to support the few with excessive public union incomes. Many people are losing their homes to foreclosure because they cannot afford these exorbitant property taxes. Unions are intermediaries that cost a lot of money to support financially, and when the budget shrinks, the intermediaries have to go. Like it or not, there is no more money to support unions.
Nov 25, 2011 at 5:47 a.m.
Suggest removal
It would be a waste to save them; they are prominent, correct, and require thought.
Nov 25, 2011 at 4:42 a.m.
Suggest removal
Yeah like voting for who they want...
'
Simple as just vote again and save your snarky comments to yourself.
Nov 25, 2011 at 4:07 a.m.
Suggest removal
"It sure is funny how some just can't stand it when others exercise their rights."
-
Yeah like voting for who they want...
Nov 24, 2011 at 10:34 p.m.
Suggest removal
Good night folks this has been fun but I need to collect a ton of RECALL WALKER SIGNATURES tomorrow.
Nov 24, 2011 at 10:32 p.m.
Suggest removal
totellthetruth, sorry but I should have asked you this up front but are you a Dago or PI Marine? Your not a BAM are you?
Nov 24, 2011 at 10:03 p.m.
Suggest removal
A few little points I need a clarification on ‘totellthetruth’! The term Marine is ALWAYS spelled with a capital letter. I went to the Ball this year, did you? What’s your MOS?
Nov 24, 2011 at 9:38 p.m.
Suggest removal
By the way ‘totellthetruth’ Major General Butler USMC also exposed ‘The Plot to Sieze the White House’ and you should enjoy reading this!
http://www.eclectica.org/v1n1/reviews/wh...
Nov 24, 2011 at 9:36 p.m.
Suggest removal
By the way ‘totellthetruth’ Major General Butler also exposed ‘The Plot to Sieze the White House’ and you should enjoy reading this!
http://www.eclectica.org/v1n1/reviews/wh...
Nov 24, 2011 at 9:25 p.m.
Suggest removal
Well ‘totellthetruth’ you are very short on Marine Corps history so I shall refresh your memory by introducing you to Major General Smedley Butler USMC!
Throughout the years various men of military service have spoken up and spoken out against the actions of the American military. Some men speak up about atrocities that have gone covered up, about discrimination, about deceptions that have been used against the American public, and about actions that have been taken that are contrary to what they view as American principles. Major General Smedley Butler is one of the most outspoken military service men who opposed the actions of the military that he served in. Marine Smedley Darling Butler is one of the most highly decorated military men from the pre-World War II era. He served from 1898 to 1931 and saw action all over the world ...
http://rationalrevolution.net/war/major_...
Nov 24, 2011 at 9:06 p.m.
Suggest removal
I know Lars and his wife. They are both very nice people so I'm pretty sure he wasn't bothering anybody!
Nov 24, 2011 at 8:49 p.m.
Suggest removal
Lars is a true patriot in more ways than one. Thanks for your service to our country. Please continue to exercise your rights. Lars is making a difference as are all the other petitioners.
It sure is funny how some just can't stand it when others exercise their rights.
Nov 24, 2011 at 6:30 p.m.
Suggest removal
Janesvillean: Thank you for the valuable information it certainly is appreciated!
We shall be out in force Friday, Saturday and Sunday so look for us and our RECALL WALKER PETITIONS and if not that then Janesville UAW HALL 95 (adjacent to Pick and Save) will be open!
Nov 24, 2011 at 3:35 p.m.
Suggest removal
Funny hearing how states powers reign supreme while states powers are derived from the U.S. Constitution.
Nov 24, 2011 at 2:48 p.m.
Suggest removal
taxandspend, you overlook the Supremacy Clause (Article VI). The US Constitution is the supreme law of the land, guaranteeing its protections even in state law. Additionally, the Fourteenth Amendment also requires that states may not pass or enforce laws which contravene the US Constitution.
Nov 24, 2011 at 12:51 p.m.
Suggest removal
taxandspend you say, "I love the mention of the US Constitution." and then ask, "Does anyone really understand our American Republic." You then go on to say, "Everything happening in Wisconsin is covered under the alien sedition act of 1786 of the US Constitution."
-
For someone who professes to love the mention of the Constitution and questions others understanding of our Republic, you sure do have a substantial amount of learning to do.
-
Let me correct a couple rather glaring mistakes you just made. First, the four acts are collectively known as The Alien and Sedition Acts and not "the alien sedition act" as you stated. Not one of the four acts are singularly titled "the alien sedition act." Secondly, the acts are not part of the Constitution as you stated.
Nov 24, 2011 at 12:18 p.m.
Suggest removal
I agree with you taxandspend. The Gazette should not delete any comments unless they contain really bad language. Your comments however are nothing more than usual dirty-legged canker-mouthed lies that you regularly spew here and because your ignorant statements are representaive of Scott Walker, I think people need to see the hate and dirt his brainwashed disciples will stoop to. But the Gazette protects that image. I have to hand it to you though, you have no shame coming back here without an apology to Lars.
Nov 24, 2011 at 11:23 a.m.
Suggest removal
RAF = troll
Nov 24, 2011 at 10:52 a.m.
Suggest removal
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGEVCytC4...
Nov 24, 2011 at 10:47 a.m.
Suggest removal
Recently I was thinking of joining the Friends of the Library. Now, no way!
Nov 24, 2011 at 10:33 a.m.
Suggest removal
Mr. Prip is a true patriot fighting for peoples' rights. Thank God for people like him.
Nov 24, 2011 at 10:15 a.m.
Suggest removal
Lars is spot on. When it comes to allegiance to country, the U.S. Constitution has no superior. Lars, next time try to get a picture of these slimeballs, I know of a local blog that would be more than happy to put their mugshots up. Oh, and Lars. The impostor RLOT has a major malfunction. Be careful. Best wishes and Happy Thanksgiving!!
Nov 24, 2011 at 10:12 a.m.
Suggest removal
The relevant law here is a series of Supreme Court rulings on what is known as public forum doctrine. In a 1982 case ("Perry"), the court determined that there are three types of public spaces for the purposes of free speech. Traditional public forums include obviously public spaces such as sidewalks and parks; here the state (or any government) should be extremely cautious of restricting free speech. Limited public forums include spaces such as libraries and municipal assembly halls. Here the state has some powers to restrict broad types of activities with respect to public order and other needs, but should still exercise caution. The third is non-public spaces such as government offices or other facilities. Here the state can strongly limit types of free speech activities.
.
In a 1992 decision (Kreimer) the court specifically held that libraries are of the second type. This gives Hedberg some leeway to restrict the activities on its premises as a matter of policy. Obviously being a voting location is a public activity that is not actually political (belonging to a single party). Opening the meeting rooms to community organizations, including political groups, on a fair basis such as first-come first-served is also appropriate.
.
The dicey part is whether the exterior of the building is something the library controls with the same license. I actually think that Hedberg is on shaky ground here, even if you consider the location in the parking structure. I couldn't find case law about library exteriors, but I would imagine they would be viewed by the courts as more similar to the first type of location (tradition public forum) than the second (limited), if only to make the distinction clear that libraries have limited license to restrict activities inside their walls. If the activity does not interfere with patrons' access or otherwise cross the lines of civility, I would be surprised to see a court uphold this rule.
http://www.freedomforum.org/packages/fir...
.
Lars, I would urge you to contact the First Amendment Center, the non-partisan foundation that has a column in the Gazette every so often. They may be able to find an attorney in the appropriate specialty who will look into your case pro bono.
http://www.firstamendmentcenter.org/
Nov 24, 2011 at 9:52 a.m.
Suggest removal
Robot_Lord said, "Lars, don't be fooled by this mook. It puts conditions on it's respect. It doesn't respect all veterans, like I do, or like you do."
-
I respect everyone's service to their country. I do not respect people who demonstrate little self-respect by making vulgar comments about others.
Nov 24, 2011 at 8:45 a.m.
Suggest removal
"I just wish we'd get better gear than what the lowest bidder provides..."
-
Tell that to my ancestors, who did not have body armor.
-
The worst part of Desert Storm was having to wear a flak jacket all the time. They don't stop bullets. And the same thing in Afghanistan. All the time, helmet and body armor. Why?? If you are going to get hit, the body armor is not going to save you. It stops you from getting to safety faster than you could without it. Our fathers did quite well without it, and won wars. It's the gd mothers that expect their offspring to be in some sort of bullet-proof caccoon that inspire the sort of thing we see now. The stuff I have been issued the last couple of years makes me sick. War is a racket.
Nov 24, 2011 at 8:39 a.m.
Suggest removal
Lars - Thank you so much for your work defending our freedom - both as a Marine and now as you fight for your basic civil rights. If I hadn't already signed a petition, I'd look for you to sign for you!
Nov 24, 2011 at 8:38 a.m.
Suggest removal
"Lars, I don't know you or your family, but I want to let you know that the majority of people posting on this site, including myself, appreciate your service to our country and your motivation to express the rights given to you by the Constitution that you served to defend"
-
Lars, don't be fooled by this mook. It puts conditions on it's respect. If you don't think like IT thinks, then you are a disrespectful American veteran. It has conditions. Don't be fooled. It doesn't respect all veterans, like I do, or like you do.
-
It does not know what the constitution is.
-
I also thank you for your service, my brother.
Nov 24, 2011 at 8:17 a.m.
Suggest removal
"RLOT: A helluva lot of Americans have sold their souls to the 'devil' if your analogy has any truth to it."
-
Yep. War is a racket. Get used to it.
-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3_EXqJ8f...
Nov 24, 2011 at 8:10 a.m.
Suggest removal
Thanks folks! I could no longer keep silent and I know who this online troll is! He was at the library hanging around and I couldn’t at the time figure out why. He was asking small questions, calling people on the phone and he most likely set me up with the library staff, cops and the press. I am guilty of one thing here folks I went out alone and walked right into his trap. He was interviewed in length by the press and was very friendly with the cops. I have requested that Neil Johnson supply me with his name so stay tuned!
I must state that I know my fellow petition canvassers, we all took the same training and can not image any of them harassing and intimidation library patrons (it would be counter productive). I know I did no such thing and in fact I had a sign announcing my Recall Walker intend and I can remember using the words ‘thanks and Wisconsin thanks you’ a lot. If we can not do political recall canvassing at Janesville PUBLIC Library then why does the library permit Democrat & Republican meetings and why is it a voting precinct? Those types of events are political are they not?
Thank you for your support and have a great bird day!
Robot_Lord_of_Tokyo thank you for your service and I can only classify myself as a General Smedley Darlington Butler Marine. His book War is a Racket should be mandatory school reading.
T&S Mark Twain once said ‘Let us be thankful for the fools; but for them the rest of us could not succeed’.
Nov 24, 2011 at 8:10 a.m.
Suggest removal
"IT is to the people of the United States of America...to insist on fealty to ones state before nation is the same flawed logic that brought this nation to civil war 150 years ago."
-
How little people learn from history when your world revolves around you. This nation was founded as a nation of STATES. The power of the people begins with the state, and the county, and the township, NOT the nation unless the nation itself, as a whole is threatened. The federal government has too much power. THAT is why it is screwed up. If you don't like the laws of Wisconsin, move somewhere else. That is why luggage was invented. You want to be a Mormon, move to Utah. You want to be a mountain man, move to Montana. If you want to make a beggar state out of Wisconsin, join a union. You'll just bark at different masters then.
-
The Civil War was fought for the same reason that the Soviet Union of old fights against Chechnya. Power. A lot of Americans died because Abraham Lincoln and his cronies wanted to keep power. That's it. In the end, he killed the 10th Ammendment, and suspended Habeas Corpus illegally. No one seems to have a problem with that. If it was Bush that did that, I think public opinion would be a bit different.
-
Spoken like a veteran. War is a racket. Those of us that bear the scars know.
-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3_EXqJ8f...
Nov 24, 2011 at 6:35 a.m.
Suggest removal
"I have chosen to participate in the Walker Recall because in 1967 I took an oath to defend the US Constitution against all enemies ‘foreign or domestic’ and there is no statue of limitations on that oath and I take it very seriously."
-
You sold your soul to the devil with that oath, my brother from another mother. Your first responsibility is to your state, and of course your family. Look up the 10th ammendment, Lars. That is where your loyalties should ultimately lie. Your state comes first. I respect your service. I'm a Marine first, but I serve in the Army now. 24 years total so far. 10 more to go, I think.
-
I like the tag. I often post clips of Smedley Butler's speech. Most mooks on here don't get it. You do. War IS a racket.
Nov 24, 2011 at 6:16 a.m.
Suggest removal
Thanks for your service and please keep exercising your Rights.
Nov 24, 2011 at 2:57 a.m.
Suggest removal
After his first post in this topic, the fact T&S is even allowed to even access this site anymore is a complete joke.
Nov 24, 2011 at 1:38 a.m.
Suggest removal
Lars, I don't know you or your family, but I want to let you know that the majority of people posting on this site, including myself, appreciate your service to our country and your motivation to express the rights given to you by the Constitution that you served to defend. I also want you to know that I deplore, and place absolutely no credibility in, the unprovoked personal attacks made by taxandspend on your character. I also want you and others to completely understand that the comment that Robot_Lord_Of_Tokyo quoted and asked me to respond to was NOT made by myself, but was made by taxandspend. Thank you.
Nov 24, 2011 at 1:25 a.m.
Suggest removal
TokyoRose said, '"Lars needs to stay home with his mother, and enjoy his welfare check that he feels we owe him."
-
Poobah, you are the unaskedfor and unadulterated champion of veterans. Say something.'
-
Address your question to taxandspend. He made the comment quoted above, not I.
Nov 24, 2011 at 1:25 a.m.
Suggest removal
My name is Lars Prip, I am a naturalized American Citizen, a disabled US Marine Corps Veteran of the War in Vietnam and a member of Veterans for Peace. I am married for 40 years, my wife and I have raised two kids and we have 6 grand children ranging in the ages from 9 to 23. I am a Mechanical Engineer by trade and since my layoff from Beloit Corp and Gilman Engineering my wife and I have been running a small home based business. My wife and I have worked since the age of 14 years old and are now collecting Social Security because we have been paying into that system for all of our working life.
I have chosen to participate in the Walker Recall because in 1967 I took an oath to defend the US Constitution against all enemies ‘foreign or domestic’ and there is no statue of limitations on that oath and I take it very seriously.
The First Amendment (Amendment I) to the United States Constitution is part of the Bill of Rights. The amendment prohibits the making of any law respecting an establishment of religion, impeding the free exercise of religion, abridging the freedom of speech, infringing on the freedom of the press, interfering with the right to peaceably assemble or prohibiting the petitioning for a governmental redress of grievances.
And to add The Wisconsin State Statues:
Article XIII, §12
Recall of elective officers. Section 12. [As created Nov. 1926 and amended April 1981] The qualified electors of the state, of any congressional, judicial or legislative district or of any county may petition for the recall of any incumbent elective officer after the first year of the term for which the incumbent was elected, by filing a petition with the filing officer with whom the nomination petition to the office in the primary is filed, demanding the recall of the incumbent.
Article I, §3
Free speech; libel. Section 3. Every person may freely speak, write and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right, and no laws shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech or of the press.
Article I, §4
Right to assemble and petition. Section 4. The right of the people peaceably to assemble, to consult for the common good, and to petition the government, or any department thereof, shall never be abridged.
These laws give me the right to canvass at the Janesville Public Library because it is public (as the name implies) supported by taxpayer dollars. It is downright ridiculous to assume that Janesville City law supersedes WI State Statues and Constitutional rights.
Now if you care to sign a petition for the recall of Governor Walker and the Lt. Governor this weekend you can do that at UAW Hall 95 in Janesville (adjacent to Pick & Save) or we shall be out in force and just look for us with our clipboards.
Nov 24, 2011 at 12:41 a.m.
Suggest removal
Anyone who knows better knows that T&S has been booted from these blogs at least 4 times under different names, and CONSTANTLY lies not only about who it is , what it does for a living, and a litany of other things.
To demean a man who has served this country excersising his free speech rights, is sickening. Especially if you obviously are interested in slandering him with falsehoods and lies. We all know who he is because he has the courage of his convictions to step forward and make a difference.
T&S why dont you post your name and where you hail from if you are such a brave soul? Otherwise I suggest you shat ap, and the Gazette should remove you AGAIN as a poster, so you can come back under a new alias.
Nov 24, 2011 at 12:17 a.m.
Suggest removal
Ditto...really??? How about you provide your name so we can ccap you??? Somehow I will find a way to pray for peoplee like you who are filled with such hatred!
Nov 24, 2011 at 12:12 a.m.
Suggest removal
Idiots coming out of the woodwork, Some people on this site I would REALLY like to meet in person.
Nov 23, 2011 at 11:37 p.m.
Suggest removal
How about we stick to the topic and omit the personal attacks. You don't give up your right to free speech because of where you live or whether you are employed or not or a veteran. What most people want to know is where is it legal to collect signatures to Recall Walker.
Nov 23, 2011 at 10:08 p.m.
Suggest removal
Keep up the good fight, Lars. Your patriotism and hard work are not going unnoticed in Janesville. You rock!!
Nov 23, 2011 at 9:42 p.m.
Suggest removal
"Lars needs to stay home with his mother, and enjoy his welfare check that he feels we owe him."
-
Poobah, you are the unaskedfor and unadulterated champion of veterans. Say something.
Nov 23, 2011 at 9:40 p.m.
Nov 23, 2011 at 8:54 p.m.
Suggest removal
Lars Prip is my Father-in-law he lives with his wife. He supports himself and his wife. He has never been on welfare of any kind. He does not have a bad back. Unless you know him your comments are not appericated. He is also a Vet that fought for our rights in this Country.
Nov 23, 2011 at 7:55 p.m.
Suggest removal
aaaah, the bad back. Now it all makes sense.
Nov 23, 2011 at 7:52 p.m.
Suggest removal
gwendt, if you are refering to me, I am not a republican, I am an american. While I might agree with our governor on some issues, I also disagree with him on others. My "democrats don't read" comment was perhaps inappropriate, but was meant tongue in cheek to ruffle feathers for fun.
Nov 23, 2011 at 7:45 p.m.
Suggest removal
aaarrrrh
Nov 23, 2011 at 7:44 p.m.
Suggest removal
Not even close............ .05 our of 10
Nov 23, 2011 at 7:35 p.m.
Suggest removal
Bartender even though I don't have any lips, do you think I will be accepted into the tea party ?
Nov 23, 2011 at 7:22 p.m.
Suggest removal
This chicken comes up to the bar and says.........
Nov 23, 2011 at 6:50 p.m.
Suggest removal
Yeah........I remember now. You call it communism.
Nov 23, 2011 at 6:49 p.m.
Suggest removal
"Then one of them, an 80 year old lady, started calling my friend names. Typical radical right wing extremists."
-
Now THAT is the kettle calling the pot black. Oh, can I still say that???? You left-wing fanatics call it something else now, don't you?
Nov 23, 2011 at 6:36 p.m.
Suggest removal
Perhaps its time for these patriots to start wearing a lapel camera or even an mp3 audio recording device. Keep up the good work Lars.
Nov 23, 2011 at 6:18 p.m.
Suggest removal
typical Repuiblican answers from people who consider themselves "above" Democrats !! Sure was funny on the news this morning that Republican lawyers who wrote a bill are the SAME lawyers that are writing a bill against their original bill. no sarcasm needed .
Nov 23, 2011 at 5:37 p.m.
Suggest removal
as opposed to any type of extremist. while I respect Mr. prips desire to follow through with his beliefs, I don't think the Library is a proper place to be doing this. Democrats don't read anyways do they? Guess they're there to get out of the cold. LOL just kidding!!!!!!
Nov 23, 2011 at 5:10 p.m.
Suggest removal
Those people filed false complaints with the library. They were the ones that were harassing people down there. They were literally screaming at Prip when a friend of mine went over and interrupted. Then one of them, an 80 year old lady, started calling my friend names. Typical radical right wing extremists.
Before you post a comment, consider this:
Note: GazetteXtra.com does not condone or review every comment. Read more in our User Policy AgreementPost Comment
Commenting requires registration.