Public gets chance to speak on politics

Local News

August 22, 2011

By Tim Mandell Register News Writer The Richmond Register Mon Aug 22, 2011, 12:00 PM EDT

RICHMOND — As state elections, including the governor’s race, begin to heat up, one local man wants to give the public a stage to voice their political opinions.

Michael Maggard is hosting the second annual Nothin’ Fancy Farm event from 2 to 8 p.m. Saturday at his home at 1854 Boonesborough Road. Nothin’ Fancy Farm is Maggard’s answer to the Fancy Farm picnic, which is the unofficial kickoff event for the fall campaigns.

Maggard conducted a similar event last year. At that event, most of the speaking was done by politicians representing Madison and Clark counties.

This year, he wants to hear from the people.

Even though Maggard supports the Tea Party movement, he said he wants people from all political backgrounds to feel comfortable attending the event and to be able to speak their minds.

“It’s non-partisan, everybody is welcome,” he said. “The focus is on allowing the people an opportunity to speak. It’s going to pretty much be open microphone. We’re going to take as long as it takes, until everybody needs to say what they want to say.”

Maggard said he started Nothin’ Fancy Farm as a reaction to his discontent with the current political climate.

“I’m frustrated with the political gridlock and want to start at the bottom and let people have their say and see what becomes of it,” he said. “This is not a Tea Party, it’s an event for everybody. Hopefully we can get people from all sides.”

About 120 people attended last year, Maggard said.

Those in attendance were given time to speak, but Maggard said only a handful of people took advantage of the opportunity.

“I think people were a little shy last year,” he said. “I’m expecting a lot more people will want to speak this time.”

In addition to giving the microphone to citizens, Maggard has invited local politicians to voice their opinions.

Rep. Donna Mayfield, R-Winchester, has agreed to speak, Maggard said.

Others have responded to requests to speak, but have not yet confirmed attendance, he said.

They include Rep. Rita Smart, D-Richmond, state auditor candidate John Kemper III, R-Lexington, and state treasurer candidate Ken Moellman, a Libertarian candidate from Pendleton County.

Candidates interested in speaking can call Maggard at 200-7068.

A potluck dinner will begin at 2 p.m. and local musicians will perform during the event.

Tim Mandell can be reached at tmandell@

richmondregister.com or 623-1669, Ext. 6696.

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