MAN CLAIMS TO BE EMPEROR OF AMERICA

MAN CLAIMS TO BE EMPEROR OF AMERICA

LONG BEACH, Calif. (Wireless Flash) -- The name Don Lautenbach probably doesn't ring a bell but it should -- he's the Emperor of America. The 57-year-old Long Beach, California, man claims he was appointed emperor eight years ago but, so far, the endorsement hasn't received any media play. Once he officially takes power, Emperor Don says he will cut crime by basing the legal system on the Golden Rule. He also plans on abolishing income taxes. Lautenbach was planning to rule in a standard business suit, but he's working on a royal robe and other accessories because he thinks "...the public takes emperors more seriously when they wear crowns and carry a scepter."