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Fact and Fiction
April 03, 2011 22 commentsWant to know a secret? Host Bill Sibbing and John Gootee explore the goings-on in the town of Brownsburg and Hendricks county. In the process they give their view of what is fact and what is fiction. Public input is welcome and will be addressed during the show.
Listen to Past Episodes
Did you miss a past episode? You can listen to one of the last four shows here. Just click on the play button below.
Fact and Fiction – Airdate 4-26-12
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Fact and Fiction – Airdate 5-03-12
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Fact and Fiction – Airdate 5-17-12
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Fact and Fiction – Airdate 5-10-12
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Posted by Shane Ray in Feature Show
22 Reponses to "Fact and Fiction"
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Bill and John,
You presented a great first show. I liked the format and the presentation. Keep it up.
I would like to sugest that you invite Joy Vrabic on and discuss the consolidation. It needs much more coverage and, so far, all we have is Bobby's version.
Jim
What is BS's resume other than 2 residents associations? Gootee is quite open about his background but BS never goes beyond the time spent here. What kind of career did he have? Education? Military service? Pets? Boxers or briefs?
Goatee says this is the fastest 1/2 hr. in radio,
thank goodness !
C'mon Bill S., ask your questions then get out of the way !
This is entertaining for those of us that follow local Govt. closely although sometimes there is a lot of fiction, not much fact...............
Yes John, you're right - I am listening. I'm surprised there has not been more "comments" left here...2 months of shows and only 3 comments here? B-Burg Week gets dozens of Letters-to-the-Editor ea. week.
Yes Bill, I have some work to do with BFT, and I have plans to address some issues there.
I am learning more and more, and you Guys comments I can actually use as "constructive criticism"....John's use of "insane" in regards to a recent column maybe a bit much, but John was also a bit "tired" in the 06/16 show and made a few "insane" mistakes in speaking himself.
John and Bill,
Enjoyed listening to some episodes of Fact or Fiction today. I wasnt aware that you were able to listen to recorded episodes on the Web Site.
I appreciate both of you and your passion for local and national political affairs. We may not agree on some issues, but we certainly share a passion for what is right.
I would however like the opportunity to set the record straight on some matters you mentioned during the June 16th show. Your opinions are yours but facts belong to us all... A friendly and public discussion on some of your accusations would give us both the opportunity to set it straight. I would enjoy the opportunity to be a guest on your show.
Thank you both, and you know how to get a hold of me.
We just finished listening to the June 16th and the June 23rd shows and they were as good as usual. We missed the show on the loss of the 12.7 million dollars on Green Street upgrade. How can we hear a copy of that??
I listen to Fact and Fiction every week with out fail. I really like the way Mr. Gootee expresses his ideas with enthusiasm. That Sibbing guy needs to get some "umph" in his voice. Keep up the good work on the Number One show on XRB RADIO!
Congratulations on your ratings no's success for WXRB and your program.
The Sept. 8th T/C Meeting included the 1st presentation of the new 9/11 Memorial Committee, for a permanent memorial with the "artifact" Beam from the Twin Towers. After the recent 10th Anniversary of 9/11 ceremonies, have we (the Town & BFT) waited too long to generate public enthusiasm for a memorial (funded by public donations)? After the initial interest of citizens to see the memorial, will our Town residents continue to be interested in, and vist a memorial to a NYC tragic event (I know it affected all of us and continues to). ?
Dear Mr. Kendall
I hesitated sending this email, but I just can’t stand hypocrites. I found your comments on the Brownsburg Fire Pac Blog very Ironic. Oh yes Mr. Kendall. I checked up on you when you were running your campaign. You were once part of radio in Brownsburg, Indiana (and were fired from it more than once). You are still a part of the medium, but as an owner of a radio station in North Carolina – not in front of the microphone. You were also making a living on another radio station in North Carolina called “The Big Talker” as the host of a political radio show. But that only lasted a couple of months as the people in that area didn’t think much of you either. Apparently they didn’t think you were using your radio show to better the community like you say Mr. Sibbing should be doing.
Now you are an elected official back in your hometown, criticizing a small town radio show that has the GALL to question your actions just as you used to do others. It is you, Mr. Kendall who seem to be using your current medium – which is your blog – to (in your own words) “belittle and degrade those aspiring to make our community better.” Is this your (in your own words) “attempt to settle personal grudges” with the radio community?
I don’t even want to get into how you haven’t mentioned “The Brownsburg Week”. From what I can tell Mr. Gootee, Mr. Sibbing, and Mr. Wilson are all 6 pounds of manure in a 5 pound bag at different times. The paper and the radio show are similar in purpose, but from different points of view. But as I recall, “The Brownsburg Week” tried hard to sink your election campaign with lies and (once again in your own words) “belittle and degrade” you. My how things have changed. AND YOU’RE NOT EVEN IN OFFICE YET! At least the Fact & Fiction show invited you back to explain your actions. But you chose not to do that. You aired your dirty laundry in blog.
(To once again use your own words) I would hope you, newly elected Rob Kendall, would use your blog to “shed light on the processes of local government.” You are “in a great position to provide a service to” your “community”. That is what you were actually ELECTED to do. The voters don’t care what you think of a radio show anymore than they want your opinion of the new CBS Fall Lineup.
I could go on, but I will wrap this up by saying I emailed Mr. Shane Ray and asked him what he thought of your blog. His only response was “Some who were in radio find themselves in politics”. I would like to borrow that and for one last time, use your own words. You say “In politics, those who cannot, head into the media.” My response is: Those who could not in radio head into politics. Just like Al Franken, Martha Zoller, and John Curly. I guess now we can add the name Rob Kendall to that list. You say “The voters believed he failed miserably. This is why he now finds himself on the radio.” I say “The listeners believe you failed miserably. This is why you find yourself in politics”. - Ann
I read with interest Robbie’s posting for September 21, 2011. I believe we owe our Town Council Member-Elect a few minutes of analysis in the hopes that it might spur some self-examination.
Robbie wrote: “In politics, those who cannot, head into the media. The political press is riddled with those who were rejected by voters at the ballot box.” On first read this might appear to be true. However I’d submit that in America’s free press, ideas and commentators who are grossly unpopular don’t survive. If they have truly been rejected at the ballot box they have no following, and thus command no market share of a free media. No one willingly pays any attention to ideas that have no merit and they will therefore fade away because no one pays them any attention. Conversely, if Robbie thinks only has-beens populate the media then how does he justify his podcasts? The reader must ponder this logical contradiction.
Robbie continues: “They offer “insight” and “analysis,” judging how well the winners are doing. In the case of Brownsburg media, the “could not” is Bill Sibbing. Each week he hosts a radio program with John Gootee called “Fact and Fiction.” Robbie at least has his radio schedule correct, as in fact John and I do host a weekly program entitled “Fact and Fiction.” I would submit that it is the duty of every citizen to become informed and then offer their educated opinion on the job performed by our elected officials. Does Robbie not agree? Does he only wish to hear opinions that echo his own? Would he suppress those who might not agree with him? Where is his tolerance for the very public input he says he wishes more people would provide?
Robbie states: “I had hoped that former Councilman Sibbing would use his show as an opportunity to shed light on the processes of local government.” Indeed, that is a primary stated objective of “Fact and Fiction” and has been from the very first broadcast.
Robbie: “He was in a great position to provide a service to his community as an educator to those wishing to know more about how Town Hall functions.” I believe that after having served a full term in office I am more uniquely positioned to do that than Robbie, who as of this time has yet to cast a single vote or discharge any official duty of his position-elect. However, I will not make an issue of Robbie’s youth and inexperience in this matter (echoing the great sentiments of the late Ronald Reagan).
Robbie: “Instead he has used the program as an attempt to settle personal grudges, both with the residents of our community that resoundingly voted him out of office, and current public servants.” I am forced to take issue with Robbie on this statement, particularly that I am “settling personal grudges.” I have no animosity with residents of this community OR with any past or current public servants. I may not agree with the professional actions of some appointed or elected officials, but I have no personal “grudges” with any of them. Robbie is lowering himself and this discussion by portraying my professional disagreements as being on the personal level.
Robbie then states: ““Fact and Fiction” is a microcosm of why Mr. Sibbing received a meager 31 percent of the vote in 2010: A total disconnect with the community at large, and an inability to grasp how to interact with his coworkers and constituents.” In response, I will only say that America is a great country because people are free to believe whatever they like, whether it is based in reality or not. Robbie has chosen to mix some factual statistics with his own opinions, and then attempts to present them as unarguable truth. The facts he has chosen to omit deal with the nature of the 2010 campaign and interactions which preceded that, and he ignores the efforts I expended during my term in office to connect with residents whom Robbie seemingly isn’t concerned about.
Robbie: “Week after week, he and Mr. Gootee use their half hour to belittle and degrade those aspiring to make our community better. They have run the gauntlet during their smear campaign, attacking everyone from business owners that pay the taxes that keep our town functioning, to our police chief that has done great work to revive a once demoralized department. The program has become a weekly reminder to the residents of Brownsburg that they made the correct decision last year.” Once more echoing Ronald Reagan: “There you go again…” Robbie is resorting to unsubstantiated innuendo and unsupported inferences. I publicly challenge him to produce a single instance of where I have attacked tax-paying business owners. I refute the allegation that the Brownsburg Police Department has ever been “demoralized”, or that the action of its current chief to obtain a raise for himself (that is twice that allowed for his men on the street) serves to improve departmental attitudes. Furthermore, I’d observe that the problems brought to light on “Fact and Fiction” are the very things most damaging to tax-paying businesses and the take-home pay of our men in blue. Is it not better to openly discuss such problems? Or would Robbie rather sweep them under the rug of politically-convenient silence?
Robbie: ““Fact and Fiction” contains another aspect to it which is highly questionable. The program has been funded by Councilman Gary Hood. I have a great deal of respect for Gary, which is why I find it so alarming that he would put his financial and vocal support behind a show that paints our town in such a terrible light.” While it is true that Hendricks County Aviation sponsors our show, John and I hope they will continue to do so. “Fact and Fiction” continues to air due to the support of private citizens who appreciate an alternative viewpoint to that published by our favorite former gas station operator. Gary Hood is not now, nor has he ever been, responsible for any of our content on “Fact and Fiction”.
Robbie: “May of 2010 was a historic moment in our town. Brownsburg residents threw an entrenched government figure out for someone completely new to the political scene. As Bill Sibbing hosts his show, he would be wise to remember this. For as he continues his verbal assault on those working hard to better our town, he should keep in mind that he had four years to produce. The voters believed he failed miserably. This is why he now finds himself on the radio.” I was unaware that Robbie was even living in Brownsburg, much less involved in the 2010 election campaign. He has chosen to ignore the fact that in 2006 I unseated a Council Member who had been in that position for 20 years, so I could hardly be considered “entrenched”. Certainly Robbie wasn’t available for consultation during the bulk of my term in office, so we must conclude that his “knowledge” of my performance comes from rumor and hearsay. If finding oneself on the radio is an indicator of failure then Robbie must have elected to forgo any time in office to get there. To the best of anyone’s knowledge, 100% of Robbie’s experience and wisdom comes purely from being on the radio.
Like it or not, Robbie, America is great because of the First Amendment, which guarantees the right of citizens to express their opinions. As a professed supporter of Ron Paul, I would think that basic tenet would be indelibly registered with you. Or it is possible you are just another of those whom only wants to hear what supports you, and you’d as soon squelch dissenting opinions? Are you so insecure in your beliefs that you don’t wish to hear differing viewpoints?
I am publicly extending an invitation to Robbie to appear on “Fact and Fiction”, where we can discuss these issues in a business-like manner and he can explain the basis for his misperceptions and the apparent disconnects in his logic.
Please read my response to Bill Sibbing and John Gootee on the Brownsburg Fire PAC Blog. http://brownsburgfirepac.blogspot.com/2011/12/fact-fiction-and-assumptions.html
I just listened to your broadcast of rob kendalls speech. boy he was tough. sounds goods. He spoke better than I thought he would. He talks very strong, sounds like he maybe running for bigger government,but we will see in the next few months,the old men will let us know. they are watching. Haha. By the way, tell the old men thanks for letting us know about the cost of the tahoes. I was beginning to wonder if we were ever going to find out.Haha - Ann
Shane - I just listened to tonights fact & fiction show. You did a real good job at putting that show together. funny,funny,funny...........I Was not gonna listen to all of it but couldn't leave once it got started. They are funny but they also have several good points.....I also liked that new money market show you did. Sounds like it’s gonna be good. Now I’ve got to go to Lowes. I’ll be listening later
John & Bill,
Look at what the cat dragged in! Looks like Brownsburg's loss is Avon's gain.
http://www.avongov.org/egov/docs/1327065803214.htm
As I have said several times (responding to your on air invitations, which you have apparently forgot you made), I will be more than happy to come in and answer your questions related to "meat and potatoes." I have yet to receive a date and time.
If and when you reply to our e-mails, we will then consider, to have you as a guest on Fact and Fiction.
Until then, have a great day. - Bill Sibbing
Bill,
Since you and I are friends and I know you and John strive for the truth, I know you will take this email in the informative manner that is intended. Speaking as a Brownsburg Chamber of Commerce Board member, but not necessarily representing the Board, I wanted to address your concerns about Councilman Kendall's performance as the Council liaison to the Chamber.
In your February 9th show, you asked if Mr. Kendall had read the Chamber By-Laws, Financials and Budget. I can say with confidence that not only has he asked for these items, he has read and discussed them with the Board and myself. He has even pointed out some mistakes that may have been overlooked in past meetings as well as asked questions that pertain to the By-Laws. Rest assured that I and several others on the board see Mr. Kendall as an asset to the Chamber Board as well as to the town.
Thank You - Teresa Ray
Bill and John
I just finished listning to your 2/9/12 show, and it was informative as always. Thank you for getting the facts right concerning the park. And for pointing out where other people arn't as carefull
Jim
When is the 3/8/12 show going to be posted? Cant wait!
On your 4-26 show, you said that no one on the council was thinking about or looking out for the taxpayers regarding our presentation of budget priorities presented by Grant. I felt you should be aware that I did bring up the issue of a property tax rebate that would be sent directly to our taxpayers, which would be offset by spending cuts. Grant said he believes that it is something that is feasible and will pursue specifics. This item is very important to me and one I have informed Grant to make a priority (as can be heard on the video cast).
I realize that since you are unable to attend the meetings you are often relying on information provided to you, but I would appreciate it if you would try to ensure those statements are accurate. Thank you for covering the Town of Brownsburg.
Rob Kendall
You two amaze me. You talk the talk about how the town should stop spending money and I wholeheartedly agree with you. Out of the same mouth you talk about how the town let the residents down by not purchasing St. Malachy. Just how much debt do you think the taxpayers of Brownsburg can handle? Our children's children will be paying for the stupid decision of the Town Hall for years to come. Furthermore, there is no line of people waiting to buy St. Malachy. Maybe the price is too high BUT, no matter what the price, stop spending money on things like this. For once, I applaud the town's decision to let this pass by. The Town wasn't sure what they were going to do with it anyway. It was just a "shiny object" that they thought about buying. You two amaze me. Make up your mind. Do you REALLY want the town to stop spending money or just stop spending money on the things you don't agree with? Signed - A Pissed Off Property Tax Payer.
Hi John and Bill
On your 5-3 show you responded to my call for property tax rebates by saying they were insufficient, and that I needed to “change the system” to eliminate waste. Yet on your 5-10 show you expressed disappointment at the fact that the town council elected not to purchase the St. Malachy property at an unreasonable price. I received a similar response from you both in January when I proposed a tightening of the parks budget to help off-set a tax rebate to homeowners.
This is concerning, because in some areas you are willing to join me in pushing for limited, more efficient government, and others not. You are picking and choosing which departments you wish to be more efficient and limited. This is the reason the system is flawed at all levels of government. People want government to be cut as long as it is not the government they favor.
In its current form, the long term result of the St. Malachy property purchase would have been one of the largest tax increases in the town’s history. I know you surely could not support that given your year and a half excoriation of all things big government. The previous town manager shared many of my concerns, which is why he advised against moving forward.
I remain willing at any time to come on and discuss St. Malachy, property tax rebates, or any other issue you desire to talk about. But whether I am invited to join you on air or not, I ask that if you are serious about helping me revamp the cost of government in this community, then please remain committed to doing it in all departments.
I again thank you for taking the time to cover the Town of Brownsburg.
Rob Kendall