Recently reported actions by an individual claiming to represent the Libertarian Party and the candidates of Centre County have stirred up some controversy. I would like to clarify the views of the Libertarian Party and apologize if the actions of any individual have mislead anyone regarding our intentions and beliefs.

The Libertarian Party does not believe in or support the demeaning of any racial or ethic group for any purpose. We advocate a free society and a limited government that upholds the Bill of Rights, a society where all citizens can be treated with dignity and have equal opportunity to better their lives.

We also do not advocate the breaking of existing laws to achieve social change.

Our mission is to achieve public policy change through getting people elected to office.

In his passion for justice and concern for civil rights, one individual has crossed the line in the use of extreme tactics to get publicity for an issue he deems worthy.

In my opinion such tactics are not only unnecessary, but counterproductive to the conduct of a political organization seeking support and concensus for its public policy initiatives.

Every citizen has the right to exercise his freedom of expression, and, of course, like any political party, not all Libertarian party members agree on all issues, tactics or strategies. However, when actions are taken on behalf of the Libertarian Party, it is my duty, as the chairperson of the party, to set the record straight.

We do not endorse these activities and do not wish to be associated with them.What do Libertarians believe? We do believe that government has grown too big, too expensive, too intrusive and too distant from us and the communities in which we live.

We want to allow local citizens, not distant government bureaucrats, to be in charge of their lives.

Libertarians seek to empower individuals and their families to be healthier, stronger, and more prosperous and more in control of their daily lives. We seek a society of peace, prosperity, and opportunity for all people.My focus as head of the Pennsylvania party has been to encourage Libertarians to seek appointments and positions in local government where they can help to effect change that is will benefit our communities.

We can make significant contributions in our communities and build a credible party without resorting to headline-grabbing tactics that will be offensive to most citizens regardless of any underlying good intentions.

We invite all citizens with similar concerns to join us and get involved in the political process in their communities.