A wealth of knowledge

As another campaign season comes to conclusion, the spotlight is on the candidates who were successful in yesterday's election. Congratulations go out to Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite for her re-election and to our new freshman state representative for district 44, Robert Schenck. Both of these candidates had clear, concise campaign messages that resonated positively with the citizens. Newly elected David Russell will bring a wealth of knowledge to the county commission to complement the talents of fellow, sitting Commissioner Jeff Stabins. A special thank you needs to be expressed to Commissioner Nancy Robinson and school board member, John Druzbick for their 26 years of combined, dedicated experience leading our county into the 21st century. We all owe Nancy and John a debt of gratitude for their selfless dedication to public service and they will be sorely missed by their many supporters.

**Congratulations to Lara Bradburn for her win as new Brooksville City Council member. Lara's energy and enthusiasm will certainly be an asset for the city!

Good luck to all

On this evening before the November 7th election, a round of applause goes out to all the candidates that competed in this year's election season. Each candidate is a winner in the eyes of our community for their hard work and determination to positively influence our future here in Hernando County. Good Luck to all!

Substance is what counts

“I am woman, hear me roar” is a campaign message being used by a judicial candidate. Every election season we are bombarded by cute jingles and slogans with little or no meaning in their content. One jingle being promoted by the democrats is “Let’s take care of tomorrow by making a change today.” What does that mean? Does it mean that if we vote for democrats we should believe the misleading campaign ads being promoted by the local Democratic Executive Committee in the Hernando Times? The question everyone should be asking themselves is, “Where are all the democratic candidates hiding? If they are absent from scrutiny before the election, it only stands to reason they will be unavailable after the November 7th. Jaime Wrye is running on a campaign of comic relief while Glenn Claytor is boasting his age gives him superior wisdom. Rose Rocco was a little more open in her approach by stating that Ad Valorem reduction was not warranted during this year’s budget negotiations. Sandy Hawkins is trying to appeal to the sympathy vote running as a single mother. Are any of these a reason for you to cast your ballot? Or is consistent Ad Valorem reduction more appealing to you? How about leadership in growth management? Or would a strong economy appeal to your senses? If so, look no further than Robert Schenck, David Russell and Nancy Robinson for their proven track records in public service. Cute jingles and fancy slogans will be placed on the shelf to collect dust tomorrow but just remember, substance is what counts on Election Day.

Rather odd amendment

The ad says, Vote Yes November 7th for these City of Brooksville Charter Amendments. This ad was paid for by the city of Brooksville taxpayer dollars and should send up red flags. Why is the city using tax funds to promote charter amendments by telling the voter how to cast their ballots? One amendment that will appear on the ballot tomorrow is amendment #2 which would allow a former elected official to work for the city. This seems rather innocent, or is it? Rumors have it that this amendment was written specifically for outgoing Mayor Joe Johnston who is term limited as a council member. It seems that the city's health insurance policy is the driving force behind this rather odd amendment. If Mr. Johnston leaves the city, so goes his insurance. Does the city really need to be making charter amendments designed for one individual? The Florida Supreme Court ruled a similar one person law unconstitutional with Terry's law, didn't they?

Thank you, Mr. Schenck...

I would like to commend Robert Schenck, candidate for the Florida House, for his statements in yesterday's Hernando Times concerning the disparaging remarks by the Hogans in reference to Muslins. Mr. Schenck emphatically stated, " The Hogan's views do not represent Republicans in this county. Obviously, they have a First Amendment right to free speech and we certainly have a right to disagree with them." Thank you, Mr. Schenck, for expressing the viewpoint that many of us have been at a loss for words to express.

Very interesting film

Did anyone watch "Hacking Democracy" on HBO last night? If you looked beyond the liberal-leaning tendencies of the author, Bev Harris, this was a very interesting film on voter security. Even though HBO refers to "Hacking Democracy" as a documentary it does not provide a balanced look at voter security. Bev Harris is a writer from Seattle, Washington who became interested in voter security after her area began using touch screen voting machines in 2002. The program went into great detail about Diebold voting equipment. At the conclusion of the program, a trial mini-election was conducted by Leon County Supervisor of Elections, Ion Voltaire Sancho, to test his scantron equipment in Tallahassee Florida. A test was conducted to see if the votes could be hacked without detection on their Accu-Vote machines and it was proved that the ballot box could be stuffed by entering votes on the computer's memory card. Hacking Democracy was an intriguing program since Hernando County currently uses the Accu-Vote scan machines to register votes. If you missed the program last night, a synopsis can be accessed at this link:

http://www.hbo.com/docs/programs/hackingdemocracy/synopsis.html

Debates

Last night, I watched debates for the senate, CFO and attorney general races. I missed the earlier debate for governor. Katherine Harris did a superb job debating the points of her campaign for senate. Mrs. Harris had to debate Tim Russet, the moderator, more than her opponent but it gave her the opportunity to make all her points. During this heated debate, Mrs. Harris did a superb job presenting her platform, as well as pointing out the voting record of her opponent. Her opponent was on the defensive throughout the hour, trying to defend his poor voting record. In the CFO race, neither candidate was extremely strong in their presentations but Tom Lee was able to expose the misrepresentations of his candidate's advertising campaign saying she had never voted to raise taxes. Mr. Lee was able to show that his opponent had voted to increase telephone taxes on a committee which she served on in Hillsborough County. Bill McCollum's presentation was very professional, unlike that of his opponent who became flustered during the debate. Mr. McCollum proved to the citizens that he has the ability to be our next attorney general. In my opinion, the only reason outside moderators, like Tim Russet and Chris Mathews, were invited to the state of Florida was to sway public opinion. These two national commentators badgered republican candidates while tossing softball questions to their democratic opponents. I missed the gubernatorial debate because I switched the channel when Chris Matthews became so belligerent with Charlie Crist. Tim Russet was just as aggressive with his attempted intimidation techniques with Katherine Harris last night. I hope everyone is ready to cast their ballot on November 7th. Just imagine how quiet television and radio will be for a few weeks without campaign commercials...

Vengeance Trail 2006

The Hernando Sportsman Club will host a SASS championship shooting match this weekend. The match starts at 9 a.m. on Saturday, November 4th, and continues through Sunday, November 5th. Champion shooters from around the country will be competing in this event titled, Vengeance Trail 2006 . The line-up of the tournament of champions is Evil Roy, Long Hunter, Handle Bar Doc, Lefty Longridge, Ozark Azz, Quick Cal, single Action jackson, Shalako Joe, Badlands Bud and Lead Dispenser. You can come out to just watch, or you can participate in the event. Food, from Burgers to BBQ, will be served throughout the weekend for a minimal charge. Club members are admitted free, with a $2.00 charge entrance fee for non-members. Children under 12 admitted free with an adult. So put on your best cowboy (or cowgirl) gear and come one out to see some real slick western-style shooting. Call Randie or Diane Rickert for further information at 352-597-9931.

Pioneer Day

The Chinsegut Nature Center, along with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, will host "Pioneer Day" this Saturday, November 4, 2006 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This event will take place at the Chinsegut Nature Center which is located approximately 7 miles north of Brooksville on Lake Lindsay Road (at the flashing traffic signal, go west off US41). Pioneer Day has many fun things planned like kid's sack races, watermelon seed spitting contests, cow milking, soap making, beekeeping demonstrations, etc. This is a family-friendly event should be great fun with the old-fashioned hand-cranked ice cream and horse drawn wagon rides. For more information, call (352)754-6722.

Call on Senator Kerry to apologize

WASHINGTON- Today, Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite (FL-05) joined Rep. Jack Kingston (R-GA) to call on Senator John Kerry to apologize for his recent remarks about our brave troops who are fighting in Iraq. Brown-Waite, Kingston and 25 House Republicans sent the following letter:

Senator John Kerry
304 Russell Senate Building
Washington, DC 20510

Dear Senator Kerry:

We are writing to express our outrage over your recent disrespectful and condescending comments concerning our brave troops in Iraq. We demand that you offer a clear and simple apology, without caveat or explanation, to America's finest.

In case you don't remember, you told a recent campaign audience, "You know education, if you make the most of it and you study hard and you do your homework and you make an effort to be smart, you can do well. If you don't, you get stuck in Iraq." We don't know how many of our soldiers you have met, but they are the best and brightest that our nation has to offer and unlike you, Senator, they do not believe they are "stuck in Iraq."

Senator Kerry, it is bad enough that you disparage their mission at every chance you get, that you ignore any signs of progress or hope, that like the mainstream media you focus only on the bad news and ignore the good news that American troops and their Iraqi allies are bringing to Iraqi families every day, and that you offer no alternatives and no plan for victory in Iraq or in the larger War on Terror. Sadly, this seems to have become a pattern: blame America first and disparage the men and women who serve so bravely in our defense.

We hope you will quickly and clearly apologize and in the future think about those who are in danger, so far away, so that we may remain free to exercise the freedoms here that they are bringing to millions of people over there.

Sincerely,

Rep. Jack Kingston (R-GA)
Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite (R-FL)
Rep. Jeff Miller (R-FL)
Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC)
Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-NC)
Rep. Trent Franks (R-AZ)
Rep. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN)
Rep. Louie Gohmert (R-TX)
Rep. Dan Burton (R-IN)
Rep. Scott Garrett (R-NJ)
Rep. Ted Poe (R-TX)
Rep. Adam Putnam (R-FL)
Rep. Tom Feeney (R-FL)
Rep. Todd Akin (R-MO)
Rep. Steve Buyer (R-IN)
Rep. Bill Shuster (R-PA)
Rep. Candice Miller (R-MI)
Rep. Tom Price (R-GA)
Rep. John Peterson (R-PA)
Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL)
Rep. Barbara Cubin (R-WY)
Rep. Sam Johnson (R-TX)
Rep. C.W. Bill Young (R-FL)
Rep. Joe Pitts (R-PA)
Rep. Steve King (R-IA)
Rep. John Sullivan (R-OK)
Rep. Mike Sodrel (R-IN)

Happy Halloween!

“May every tricks

That you try tonight

Foretell a future

Of true delight.”

*Vintage Postcard, 1915

Shortsighted isolationist thinking

The city of Brooksville will have referendums on the November 7th general election ballot concerning city charter revisions. There are three proposed changes for the city charter this election year. One proposed change clearly spells out that only city residents can serve on the city charter review / revision committee. From an inclusive standpoint for city residents, this would prevent anyone from serving on this charter review / revision committee that did not live within the city limits. This would be a good choice if the city consisted with only residential property within their (city) limits without any commercial or industrial business. But we all know that the city could not survive without commercial and industrial interests propping up their tax base so why would anyone choose to exclude them from sitting at the table to discuss the city charter? Most business interests, from attorneys, to doctors, to contractors, or shopping outlets, are run by individuals, or corporate structures, that are outside the city limits. Having said that, it does not diminish the tax base that these many businesses bring to the yearly city budget. Having served on the previous city charter review/revision committee, I can dare say that one individual cannot make any overriding decisions for this committee because of the existing review and revision structure for the city charter. This is a five step process of review by the committee, then the city council; and revisions by the committee, then revisions by the city council before it is placed on the general election ballot to be decided by only city voters. This five step process is all open to the public with input considered on all levels for the city charter. Isolationist governing by the Brooksville City Council only creates a feeling of ill-will for the many long time supporters of city projects. The supporters,such as their commercial and industrial property owners, that have contributed to the city's tax base by their choice of moving to the city without a vote. Long term visioning should not include this type of shortsighted, isolationist thinking if the city of Brooksville expects to thrive with a strong economic growth in the future.

Please say a prayer

Please say a pray for him David Weinman, former chairman of the Hernando County Fine Arts Council. Dave is gravely ill, under hospice care, with his wife Betty at his bedside. My thoughts are with Dave and Betty at this most difficult time in their lives.

Daylight Saving Time officially ends this Saturday, October 29, 2006.

Please remember to set your clock back by one hour!

All the smoke

In this morning's newspaper, county administrator, Gary Kuhl was quoted as saying the insurance issues seem insurmountable and there seems to be no interest in changing usage designation of the old hospital from medical to storage. Mr. Kuhl also said that he had received three or four inquiries for the purchase of the old hospital. Any clear thinking individual can understand the frustration of Commissioner Stabins by the road blocks set up by the county administration staff. The Hernando County Board of Commission gave clear, concise direction for the old hospital at a previous meeting but have been mired down in red tape. Where did this red tape come from? Was it Gary Kuhl for not following the direction given to him by the full board of county commissioners by a consensus vote? Was the red tape created by Commissioners' Rowden and Kingsley acting outside the authority of the entire board of commission to push their personal agenda to sell the hospital? As each month creeps away in this endless bureaucratic cycle another $74,000 a month in tax payer money evaporates in upkeep for this vacant facility. Commissioner Stabins, Robinson and Hogan should be asking to see the three or four purchase inquires mentioned by Mr. Kuhl since they are subject to open public records regulation. This is not the first time the administrator has not carried out the direction of the board in a timely fashion. Mr. Kuhl did not have the ordinance for the 4/5 majority vote on the comprehensive plan prepared on the date directed by the county commissioners and had to be prompted to grudgingly submit it a week later. The county website has the general job guidelines for the county administrator which reads, in part: The county administrator is the Chief Administrative Officer appointed by the Board of County Commissioners. It is the responsibility of the County Administrator to effectively implement all decisions, policies, ordinances and motions made by the Board of County Commissioners. What part of implement all decisions, policies, ordinances and motions does the county administrator not understand in his job title? Taxpayers are having a hard time with all the smoke that is being blown at the hospital issue. It is time Commissioners Stabins' plan be removed from life support by the majority of the commissioners at their next meeting and breath some fresh air into this issue.

Secure Fence Act

This afternoon, President Bush signed the Secure Fence Act, hailed by Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite as a concrete step to secure America's borders. This fence will consist of physical fences, unmanned aerial vehicles and electronic sensors on the most porous 700 miles of the United States southern border. "Americans want real border security now," said Rep. Brown-Waite. "I heard from nearly 25,000 5th District residents about the need for tighter border security, and almost unanimously, they oppose the Senate's amnesty bill and favor the House's approach to close our borders first and the Secure Fence Act will stem that tide and help protect law-abiding American citizens."

Future Transportation Maps

For people interested in the long range transportation plans and roadway network for Hernando County, Mr. Ronald Pianta, planning director for the county has offered an invitation to attend two workshops for public input. For citizens that are concerned with the future roadway network plans for Hernando County, here is your chance to voice your opinion:

• Hernando County Commission Chambers/20 North Main Street, Brooksville
• Thursday, October 26, 2006 from 3-5 p.m.
• Monday, November 6, 2006 at 5 p.m
• Contact Jim King, 754-4057, ext. 28020

This workshop will discuss the Functionally Classified Roadway map 2025, the Highway Network Map 2025, and the Buildout Thoroughfare Map under consideration for updating the comprehensive plan.

Russell endorses Ginny Brown-Waite

Florida Representative David Russell became concerned in his bid for Hernando County Commission when he was asked the question why was he running against Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite. David Russell wants the voters to know that Ginny has his firm support for re-election and clearly understands the confusion since his last name is the same as Ginny's opponent. David and Ginny have worked together quite well over the last decade protecting the interests of Hernando County, like funding for the future expansion of the County Line Road project, at the state and federal level. Retiring as distinguished member of the Florida House of Representatives, David Russell wants to make it clear to voters that he supports the Ginny Brown-Waite Campaign by his endorsement of her re-election to Congress.

Gubernatorial election

Last week the Tampa Bay Business Journal ran a survey question about the race for Florida's governor. The question was, "Who will you vote for in the gubernatorial election?" The results:

• 56% - Charlie Crist
• 41% - Jim Davis
• 2% - Other

Kitchen table politics...

Last year, the Honorable Steven Rushing was appointed by Governor Jeb Bush to serve as a judge for circuit court. When Judge Rushing was sworn into office he became ineligible to participate in any partisan events, clubs, or political party activities by Florida State Statutes. Shortly after his appointment, Judge Rushing's wife, Mia, emerged on the local political scene, throwing herself into activities like the Nature Coast Federated Republican Women's organization and fund raising for Republican candidates. Mrs. Rushing has a guest column in the Hernando Today to occasionally to voice her opinion on what she perceives as political facts. Mia Rushing's articles clearly outline her right wing conservative point of view. Keeping in the spirit of the family, Timothy Rushing, the offspring of Mr. and Mrs. Rushing, is now a political cartoonist for the Hernando Today. Timothy cartoons have been what one would call equal opportunity cartoons, with arrows being flung to both sides of the isle. For example, his cartoons have attacked Rose Rocco, Democratic candidate for county commission, as well as sitting Republican county commissioner, Jeff Stabins. Ms. Rocco was portrayed as a puppet of Diane Rowden and as a unveiled rat in another cartoon. Timothy Rushing's cartoons have advocated the over throw Jeff Stabins several times. In fact, the cartoon in yesterday's paper depicted the demise of Jeff Stabins in the 2008 election. It will be interesting to see if these ominous caricatures of local political figures by Timothy Rushing include his father, Stephen, when he runs for re-election. Tip O'Neal coined the phrase that all politics are local which has proved to be true in many ways. Local politics usually begin in the home, and this is how the phrase "kitchen table politics" was labeled during the Clinton administration. Keeping it all in the family with the non-partisan judge, the political activist, and the equal opportunity political cartoonist. What a wonderful country we live in where someone can have his cake, and eat it too!

Big time

The local Bandshell Bash made the big time by winning the 2006 Roy F. Kenzie Cultural Enhancement Award. This award was presented to Brian Brijbag, on behalf of the city of Brooksville, at the Florida Redevelopment Association Conference in Miami yesterday. Brian was quite gracious when accepting this recognition, stating that this was truly a community award for the efforts of the Bandshell Bash committee, the Hernando County Fine Arts Council, and all the local businesses and individuals that participate in this monthly event. The Florida Redevelopment Association brings together professionals involved in preserving Florida communities, and their main goal is urban revitalization. It was fabulous that our town was recognized for the achievements of these fine folks. Congratulations to all the hardworking individuals that make the bandshell Bash a success each month!

Poll has Ginny at 56%

WFLA TV was the sponsor of Survey USA Election Poll for the 5th Congressional District. This poll was conducted September 17-19, with pollsters contacting 1000 individuals. Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite held a substantial lead with 56%, with John Russell (D) trailing far behind at 40%, with 4% still undecided. If you would like to check out the complete breakdown of this survey, click on the attached link: http://www.surveyusa.com/client/PollReport.aspx?g=e9237405-b939-4780-b77f-6fbb050672e4

Real change of pace

This afternoon, my husband and I had a real change of pace from our usual brown bag lunch. We attended a concert in the park on Ft. Dade which was sponsored by the Hernando County Fine Arts Council. As we munched on a catered lunch from a local restaurant, we listened to the music of Nova Era. This 3-piece combo played classical music with a modern upbeat tempo. The group's members were dressed in Victoria costumes, included the white powdered wigs of that era. About 75 people had gathered on the lawn to casually eat lunch and enjoy the music of Nova Era. The participating restaurants were Mallie Kylas Cafe, Main Street Eatery and the Sunrise Cafe. What a nice way to spend our lunch time. Thanks go out to Linda Anderson, treasurer of the HCFAC, who worked so hard to organize this event.

Health Fair

Make sure that you mark your calendars for the annual Hernando County Health Fair that will take place on October 28th, from 10 a.m. to 2 pm., at the Elk's Club on SR50 (not far from the parkway). This free health fair is being sponsored by Oak Hill, Brooksville, and Spring Hill Regional Hospitals, along with the Hernando County Health Department. The health department will be administering flu shots for $25.00. Professionals will be on site to answer your health care questions.

IMP-PAC

Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite has been endorsed by IMP-PAC. IMP-PAC is under the umbrella of the organization, It's My Party, Too. Christine Todd Whitman, the former governor of New Jersey, and former a member of President Bush's Cabinet for Environmental Protection, founded "It's My Party, Too". This organization provides a place for moderate Republicans to reach out to one another and support those that believe in basic Republican principals of fiscal responsibility, engaged foreign policy, strong national defense, personal freedom and protecting our environment, without engaging in social conservative agenda.

NRA Endorsements

The National Rifle Association (NRA) has published their endorsement of candidates for the 2006 election cycle. Listed below are the NRA's candidates of choice:

• Charlie Crist /Governor
• Tom Lee / CFO
• Charles Bronson / Commissioner of Agriculture
• Bill McCollum / Attorney General
• Katherine Harris / US Senate
• Ginny Brown-Waite / US House of Representatives

For the latest in NRA election news related information, please visit their website at www.nrapvf.org

Skipping the election?

If you are contemplating the thought of skipping this election, and not casting your ballot on November 7th, please consider the following quote by Sara Brady, "This is the opportunity we've been waiting for." Senator Charles Shumer (D) and Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D) are masterminding a campaign to overturn the pro-gun majority and here is just a small taste of what may be in store for us:

• Federal Arsenal License: to possess more that 20 firearms a special $300 "federal arsenal license" will be required along with law enforcement approval and extensive background check
• To get the "arsenal license" you have to allow home inspections by BATFE agents 3 times a year
• Small caliber pistols and revolvers would be banned
• Ammunition determined to be non-sporting would be banned & magazines could only hold six rounds
• Waiting periods and gun rationing would take place with a national 7-day wait period
• Registration combined with fingerprinting, fees, and fire safety courses, to obtain two year licenses

Former President Ronald Reagan said it best, "You won't get gun control by disarming law-abiding citizens. There's only one way to get real gun control: disarm the thugs and the criminals, lock them up, and if you don't actually throw away the key, at least lose it for a long time".

Citrus County Forum

Last night I attended a forum at the Citrus County National Guard Armory to hear the judicial and congressional candidates. This standing room only event was hosted by Citrus County Chronicle and firm rules were implemented to insure all the candidates were given a fair opportunity to make their presentations without being heckled by the audience. The audience did its best to comply with rules by using signs to make a point instead of heckling the opposition candidates. The judicial candidate's from Hernando County were Jeff Kirk and Daniel Merritt, Jr. who both gave a 5 minute presentation to introduce themselves to Citrus County voters. Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite did a dynamic job with her statements, along with giving in-depth answers to questions asked by the panel. Our congresswoman gave clear, precise answers for the comprehensive energy bill passed by the House; why veterans should support her in this election; and her firm position on the illegal alien problems facing this country. Mr. Russell used his time to personally attack Mrs. Brown-Waite and then danced around the questions. Although the audience was packed, the support was obvious for Congresswoman Ginny Brown Waite by the sea of waving signs. Just a note that I thought was interesting about the Citrus County election is that they elect their mosquito control directors by district and the pay is $4,800 a year...

Public service announcement

I received this public service announcement from Senator Paula Dockery's office this afternoon and thought you might find it helpful in case of an vehicle accident:

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles now offers an emergency contact information registration. The idea being that if you are ever in an accident and are injured and unable to speak the officer will be able to type your driver's license number into his computer and, if you have registered your emergency contact information on the DHSMV website, they will be able to pull up your contact information immediately. By having access to this information at the accident site they will be able to save time if you are seriously injured by being able to contact someone who can make decisions about your care.

The link below will direct you to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles website https://www6.hsmv.state.fl.us/dlcheck/findcustomer

Way to go, girls!

Weeki Wachee, Mayor Robyn Anderson appeared this morning on Fox News Network program Fox and Friends. The show was being aired at the Don Cesar on St. Petersburg Beach. Robyn looked magnificent representing her tiny city of Weeki Wachee, as she read a proclamation to Fox for their tenth birthday celebration. The proclamation said, in part, that Weeki Wachee recognized Fox News for their achievements as being number one on land and at sea. The camera panned on her mermaids swimming in the Don Cesar's pool, as Mayor Robyn spoke with Steve Duecie about Weeki Wachee. Way to go girls!

4/5's majority

The following is an email that I sent to Commissioner Jeff Stabins this morning concerning 4/5's majority vote for the comprehensive plan on tomorrow's agenda:

October 16, 2006

Commissioner Jeff Stabins:

Although I will be unable to attend tomorrow's county commission meeting due to a prior commitment, I would like to offer you my support for the 4/5's majority vote approval of new comprehensive plan amendments.

The Hernando County Chamber of Commerce has voiced their opposition to this 4/5 majority plan in the newspaper this morning. As a long time member of this organization, please be assured that they do not speak for me personally, or for my business, on this critical issue. The local Chamber of Commerce need only look to Hillsborough and Collier counties to understand that this ordinance will not impede the planning process, nor will it impede future growth within Hernando County.

As a republican, I also do not agree with the logic of Mrs. Trinque of the Hernando County Republican Executive Committee citing a 4/5's vote will empower the minority over the majority with a 5 member county commission. I tend to look at it from the perspective of true representative government instead of having a myopic view of a 5 member board vote. I view it from the point that 4 of the 5 commissioners are on the board to represent their constituents, thusly representing 4/5's of the voting population of Hernando County.

Good luck tomorrow and stand tall with Teddy Roosevelt.
Anna Liisa Covell

Founder's kick-off events...

The Founder's Day parade for the city of Brooksville was a smashing success yesterday. The crowd was pleased to watch the vintage cars, period costumes and Civil War re-enactors, all with the fire trucks blaring as they drove the parade route. I think the fireman had just as much fun as did the children watching the parade. Hernando High and Central High bands were on hand, as well as the Young Marines and the Navy ROTC. There were many more in the parade, from politicians to policeman, and it was a great kick-off for Founder's week. After the parade, proclamations were read on the city hall lawn by Mayor Joe Johnston and County Commission Chair Diane Rowden. Barbara Manual, manager of WWJB, then lead everyone in singing Happy 150th Birthday to the city as they served a beautiful homemade cake. This afternoon the Hernando County Fine Arts presented a street dance with the Charlie Vegas 5-piece Swing Band. As this band played rhythm and blues, the crowd danced on Russell Street to their tunes. The crowd was moderate but busy all afternoon enjoying the music, food and cold, Coca-Cola products (I had to mentioned that since I manned the Coke wagon for the HCFAC). Congresswoman Ginny Brown Waite popped in for a few minutes, as did County Commissioner Nancy Robinson and Mayor Joe Johnston. Everyone had a great time and vowed that next year's event would be even bigger and better than this year.

Thought provoking...

Several weeks ago, Newt Gingrich made a very thought provoking statement on Fox News Network. The former Speaker of the House said, "Have you ever noticed that when Republicans stand in firing squad it is usually done in a circle". The Republican party has been historically known as the leaders in positive solutions. Isn't it about time the Republicans stand up for their accomplishments since September 11th like our strong economy, lower fuel costs, low unemployment, lower taxes, Medicare prescription plans, etc., etc., etc., instead of allowing the opposing party drive the debate?

Deranged individual

This afternoon I was privy to some very disturbing information about a candidate forum that took place last night at the Beverly Hills Civic Association in Citrus County. Congresswoman Ginny Brown Waite was invited to speak at this forum, along with her democratic opponent, John Russell. Apparently they were scheduled to speak last due to their earlier commitment at the Hernando County Chamber of Commerce forum. It seems that John Russell lost total control of himself during this forum in Citrus County and began yelling at the audience. Mr. Russell's bad behavior included the intentional berating of a mother of a soldier currently serving in Iraq. Apparently he took this opportunity to yell at her, using the microphone to increase the rage in his voice. As if this behavior wasn't despicable enough, Mr. Russell also took the opportunity to flip off some members of the audience. Mr. Russell was so out of control that he would not relinquish the floor when his allotted time was up. Greg Hamilton, the Citrus Times Editor of Editorials was seen shaking his head in his hands at the unbelievable behavior of this candidate. At the conclusion of Congresswoman Ginny Brown Waite's presentation, the majority of the audience got up and walked out while Mr. Russell continued his tirade at the remaining members of the audience. One brave individual in a wheelchair went directly to the stage to confront this deranged individual at the conclusion of the event. It is a sad day when our democratic process is subjected to a candidate with such low moral fiber. Do we really need an individual like this representing us in Congress for the 5th district of Florida? I think not...

Fun things this weekend!

For those of you that think there is nothing fun to do on weekends in Brooksville, think again. Tomorrow Brooksville kicks off Founder's Week celebrations with a parade up Howell Avenue to city hall at 10 a.m. Stick around city hall for the delicious birthday cake after the parade. The Bandshell Bash begins at 4 p.m. and will feature the Taste of Hernando, along with some really fine music. Make sure that you plan on attending "Swing Time at the Station" on Russell Street on Sunday from 4 to 8 p.m. at the old railroad depot. This event will be a street dance sponsored by Hernando County Fine Arts and the Brooksville Historical Society. Charlie Vegas 5-piece swing band will provide the music. See you all there!

Candidates strut their stuff...

Last night's forum, presented by the Hernando County Chamber of Commerce, was the last big event for candidates to strut their stuff before election day on November 7th. Editors, Robert Nolte and Mike Konrad, from the Hernando Today and Hernando Times, respectively, did an excellent job asking the tough questions of these candidates. Chris Pipinger, chair of the Chamber's governmental affairs committee, was exceptional as the monitor.

The presentation of Congresswoman Ginny Brown Waite was superior to that of her opponent. Ginny confidently addressed her accomplishments during her past two terms and was resolute in her determination to face the challenges of two more years as our congresswoman.

Robert Schenck tackled the tough questions by the editors easily with his well thought out campaign platform of lower taxes and insurance reform. Mr. Schenck is clearly the candidate to keep your eye on as our next state representative for district 44.

The county commission candidates fielded a host of questions, ranging from tax reduction, to ways of coping with our explosive growth in Hernando County. The candidates were fairly well matched, with the exception of district 4 race. David Russell's distinguished experience and knowledge of growth management issues proved that he is the candidate of choice in this race. In district 2, neither candidate hit a home run, so to speak, but each expounded on their platforms. Rose Rocco clearly defined her opposition of the recent milage rate reduction while Nancy Robinson voiced her support for tax relief for our citizens.

The only school board candidate worthy of our attention is John Druzbick. Mr. Druzbick gave a powerful presentation of the positive accomplishments of our school district while outlining his blueprint for the future.

Council candidate for the city of Brooksville, Lara Bradburn, displayed her firm grasp of the needs for the city's future, unlike her opponent's novice approach. Ms. Bradburn's past, and current, volunteer efforts with the city give her the experience necessary to lead the city for the next four years.

As we wind down to election day, a special thanks needs to be expressed to all the candidates who have invested their efforts in campaigning for the improvement of our community.

Federal deficit fell to 4-yr. low

Here is something that should have made headline news but only got a byline column in the business edition of the Times this morning:

The federal deficit fell to a four-year low in the budget year that just ended, a result President Bush pointed to Wednesday in claiming Republicans are better stewards of the economy than are Democrats. The administration said the deficit dropped to $247.7-billion---welcome news for Republicans struggling to keep control of Congress. Democrats said the improvement in the 2006 federal deficit was a temporary blip.

New Publix

On October 26th, the new Publix store in Brooksville (SR50 & SR41) will officially open for business. The old store will close early on the 25th to make final preparations for this new store. The new store will have an improved dairy isle, meat counter, larger deli and bakery. As a long time shopper at the old store it will be a pleasure, as the Publix slogan goes, to shop in this new store!

Fingering-pointing, tongue-wagging

Is anyone ready for this year's election season to be over? Are you growing weary of finger-pointing, flip-flopping candidates talking about everything except the issues? It seems that candidates are resorting to the he-said, she-said politics of pointing fingers, as we move closer to the General Election. This finger-pointing, tongue-wagging method of political campaigns has become common place nationwide and it is no different here in Hernando County. Another common practice of candidates, nationwide and locally, is to waffle on important issues placed at their doorstep, as their campaigns wind down to the 11th hour. The term flip-flop was coined during the 2004 presidential race to describe Senator John Kerry. In fact, the Online definition of flip-flop is a sudden real or apparent change of policy or opinion. Usually it will occur during the period prior to an election in order to maximize the candidates' popularity. This flip-flop label was originally used to attack politicians for making election policies that they either had no intention of keeping, or decided not to keep for political convenience. Sometimes the label of flip-flop is unfairly placed on candidates by the mass media with the intent to sway public opinion. For instance, Congresswoman Ginny Brown Waite is an example of the negative media influence that has attempted to distort her position on the war in Iraq. Brown-Waite has been very clear from the beginning of the war and has always kept her constituent's informed on her position. During her two terms in office as our congresswoman Ginny has effectively governed in a non-partisan fashion to fairly represent the interests of her district. Sometimes the flip-flop label is appropriate though when a candidate makes a firm statement on an issue before the Primary Election and then decides to take a "wait and see" approach if successful in the General Election, like Rose Rocco, Jaime Wrye and David Russell who are all candidates for county commission. The public is hungry for honest candidates that are committed to keeping truthful campaign pledges, even if it is the unpopular thing to do...

If you plan on voting in the General Election on November 7th, today is the last day to register at the Hernando County Supervisor of Election's office!

Hinged on money...

Last Saturday's edition of the Hernando Today ran two stories referencing Hernando County Fire Rescue. The articles were titled, "High Point firefighters' judgment questioned, fire chief fears life will be lost", and "Fire guts house, kills dog". It seemed rather ironic that in the lead story Chief Nickerson/HCFR expressed fear that life will be lost at High Point unless a modern fire service is established when the second article listed the death of dog from a fire which gutted a house in Weeki Wachee. Incidently, the gutted house fire in Weeki Wachee was fought by Chief Nickerson's professional firefighters from Hernando County Fire Rescue. Chief Nickerson has been questioning the expertise of High Point volunteer firefighters and has renewed his call for a swift takeover by his paid professionals from Hernando County Fire Rescue in an email to county administrator, Gary Kuhl. At their October 17th meeting, the Hernando County Commissioners should ask Chief Nickerson if his prime motive for writing this letter hinged on money. Hernando County Fire Rescue stands to gain a windfall of $254,883.10 from High Point residents if the commissioners discontinue their volunteer units.

Founder's week

An action-packed week of festivities will be kicked off with the Founders Day Parade on October 14th. This year's Founder's Day celebration will mark the 150th birthday of the city of Brooksville. The schedule of all the events can be accessed at the city of Brooksville's website which is http://www.ci.brooksville.fl.us/

Browning Family

The Browning family will dedicate their building on its 100th year with a bronze plaque. This dedication will take place on October 18, 2006 at 4:30 p.m. The Browning building is located at 1 North Main Street which is directly across the street from the old courthouse in downtown Brooksville. This dedication by the Browning family is listed an official event during Founder's Week that marks the 150th birthday of the city of Brooksville.

Florida Scenic Highway

On November 3rd, at 1 p.m., a designation ceremony will take place at Anderson Snow Park to name the Suncoast Parkway as a Scenic Highway. The FDOT, along with the officials from Hernando, Hillborough and Pasco County, will be on hand for this dedication. Food and refreshments will be served as the Scenic Highway Corridor Advisory Group unveils a sample sign post to commemorate the Suncoast Parkway as a Florida Scenic Highway.

Proposed amendments

The General Election ballot on November 7th will list eight proposed constitutional amendments. A voter guide for these amendments can be viewed at www.VoteSmartFlorida.org

Strong arm tactics?

As an ardent supporter of Tri-County Volunteer Fire Department, I have been following the news about all our volunteer fire departments in Hernando County for a number of years. Masaryktown was the first department to be shut down by the county in the late 1990's. Hernando County Commissioners then tried to eliminate the Tri-County Volunteer Department's service in the Nobleton/Istachatta but the people fought back to save to their volunteer department. These same citizens used the power of the ballot box in 2000 to eliminate the commissioners that tried to shut down Tri-County Volunteer Fire Department.

It now looks like the High Point Volunteer Fire Department is in the sights of County Commissioner Diane Rowden as the next to go on the chopping block. Ms. Rowden has been quite vocal in her plans to eliminate this volunteer department and have the Hernando County Fire Rescue assume the duties for this community.

This morning's edition of Hernando Today ran two articles about the High Point Volunteer Fire Department, one positive and one negative. By reading the information in the one article, I could only assume that the residents of High Point are ecstatic with the initial report by the state Fire Marshall that gave their department a passing grade. The other article tried to insinuate that the High Point Volunteers were using less than savory collection methods for their yearly fire dues. Commissioner Rowden was quoted as saying the volunteers were using extortion, and strong arm tactics, to force money out of the residents for fire dues. This was an interesting comment by Ms. Rowden. If you think about it, Hernando County does the same thing for delinquent fire dues listed on our non-Ad Valorem portion of property taxes. If someone does not pay their property taxes, the county can levy your property and sell it on the courthouse steps by auction. Historically speaking, who is next on the list for volunteer take over? Will it be Hernando Beach Volunteer Fire Department?

Why did we pay $100K for a consultant to supply a Hernando County Fire Master Plan, if premature decisions are going to take place to skew the results before it is completed by Karen Nicolai's committee?

Upcoming Candidate Forum

The Greater Hernando Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with the Hernando Builders Association and Hernando Realtors Association, will host a General Candidate Forum on Thursday, October 12th beginning at 6 p.m. in the County Commission Chamber. Candidates will be on hand early to meet and greet the citizens beginning at 5 p.m. In the event you are unable to attend, this forum will be broadcast on the Hernando County Government, Channel 19.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Tony Marrero of the Hernando Today for his article this morning titled, "Bloggers sound off on local issues". It was a sincere privilege to be interviewed by this nice young man, and I am humbled by the attention given to my blog site by the Hernando Today. My sincere thanks again, Anna Liisa

Thanks, Debbie!

This morning's editorial column, "It's a shelter, not corporate welfare" by Jeff Webb in the Hernando Times hit the nail on the head. After the last several days of negative news articles and radio frenzy, it was time to turn down the volume and put some sanity into this serious issue confronting Hernando County. Does anyone recall the large number of deaths in nursing facilities during Hurricane Katrina? We certainly do not need a tragedy like the one seen in New Orleans here at home. Who will take care of the most fragile citizens in our county in the event of a disaster? The answer is we all should be responsible for the most vulnerable of our society.

This morning at the BCC meeting, Garth Coller clarified the use of public funds for this special needs shelter, saying it was for a public purpose to protect the special needs of citizens during hurricanes. Our community needs to move forward on this project and certainly does not need any further misrepresentation of the facts by interim Commissioner Hogan. Tom Leto, Emergency Management Coordinator indicated that a special needs shelter of this caliber will certainly be state mandated in the very near future so Hernando County will be ahead of the curve with minimal investment.

Oak Hill is graciously donating the land, along with recurring costs, for the Enrichment Center to development this special needs shelter. The one time investment by the county of $400K will be recouped in Ad Valorem taxes paid by Oak Hill Hospital. Debbie Walker-Druzbik is working tirelessly to lobby private business for their contributions to make this project a reality. Senator Mike Fasano was recently quoted as saying, the $400,000 pledged by the board of county commissioners is a necessary expense that will certainly benefit the most vulnerable residents. Many community and government leaders have jumped on board to get this project off the ground like CCA, the builders association, the mining association and Coastal Engineering. Thanks, Debbie, for your hard work on this project!

Swing Time at the Station

Come join the fun for an old-fashioned street dance on Russell Street in downtown Brooksville on October 15th from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. "Swing Time at the Station" is being sponsored by the Hernando County Fine Arts Council, and the Brooksville Historical Society, during Heritage Week. The old railroad depot platform on Russell Street will serve as a bandstand for the Charlie Vegas Swing Band. Warm up your dancing shoes to jitterbug to the tunes of this spectacular 5 piece swing band. Make sure that you bring your lawn chairs to casually relax while feasting on hot dogs, sausage, and Coca-Cola served up by the volunteers of the two non-profit organizations. Just make sure that you save room for the ice cream social. To reminisce about the era, an array of classic cars will be on hand for your viewing pleasure as you enjoy this wonderful event. All proceeds for food sales will benefit the Hernando County Fine Arts and the Brooksville Historical Society.

Thank you commissioners...

Last night, the Hernando County Commissioners voted 4-1 for a 1/2 mil reduction in Ad Valorem taxes. The remarkable thing about this vote was that 4 votes consisted of two republicans and two democrats. The lone nay vote was by the political appointee, Thomas Hogan, who demonstrated it was a pure partisan maneuver to garner support from fringe element of the republican party. Commissioner Stabins was the driving force in pressing for the 1/2 mil tax reduction, with Commissioner Robinson at his side. Commissioners Rowden and Kingsley should also be commended for following Mr. Stabins lead on tax reform in this county. All four of these commissioners critically evaluated the needs of taxpayers while setting aside partisan politics. It is really a shame that Commissioners Stabins, Robinson, Rowden and Kinglsey took a verbal beating on local talk radio today. Mr. Stabins stated this is only the first step in tax reform for our county and promised to continue next year with more cost saving methods for taxpayers. Looking at it from the perspective that the glass is half full, these four commissioners were right on target by voting for the 1/2 mil reduction to give the citizens much needed tax relief this year. Thank you, Commissioners Stabins, Robinson, Rowden and Kingsley...

Gentlewoman from Florida

Below is a short excerpt from our Congresswoman, Ginny Brown-Waite, from the floor of Congress that I thought you might find interesting:


Approximately 2:08 - 2:09 pm, Monday, September 25, 2006

The Speaker Pro Tempore: "For what purpose does the Gentlewoman from Florida rise?"

Ms. Brown-Waite: "To address the house for one minute and revise and extend my remarks."

The Speaker Pro Tempore: "Without objection."

Ms. Brown-Waite: "Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The old saying, united we stand, divided we fall, is so true. Just as common language can unite a people, the lack of a unified language can be divisive. However, the Senate's immigration bill failed the American people by giving them a watered down feel-good statement that does nothing. New immigrants already have to learn English to become citizens, it's only common sense that we come together under one unified language by making English the official language of the United States. Listen up, America, enough is enough. United we stand and English we speak. Thank you Mr. Speaker, and I yield back the balance of my time."

The Speaker Pro Tempore: "The Gentlelady yields back."

Fuels our local economy...

Mike McHugh, director of the business development should be complemented on his economic development plan for Hernando County. His four key principals for continued economic growth are high wage business retention and recruitment, an educational resources, work force housing and business planning for the city and county. During his presentation to the board of county commissioners yesterday, he stressed the need for a highly educated workforce and the availability of business-ready buildings for new business. One goal that should have been emphasized just a little stronger in his presentation was the retention of existing businesses in Hernando County. It seems that his report focused more on bringing in higher paying firms but not looking at the local business community within Hernando County. Mr. McHugh should be actively contacting existing businesses within the county to retain this engine that fuels our local economy. His study should focus on why good businesses are leaving Hernando County. One example of business departure is that of Florida Metal Roofing Products that goes under the name of Bradco. Bradco, a local business that started in Brooksville in 2003, is moving their headquarters to Palm Beach. It seems that the Palm Beach Business Development Board has reached out to recruit Bradco to their county. This example of business departure is to highlight the need for our local business development director's office to stay in touch with the needs of existing Hernando County businesses. Hopefully, Mr. McHugh will include more emphasis on the retention of local business in his economic development plan as he formulates the goals, policies and timetables for the board of county commissioners.

Fire master plan consultant

On September 18th, 2006, Emergency Services Consulting, Inc. was chosen by the Hernando County Audit Services Planning and Priorities Committee as the consultant for the countywide fire master plan study. This company's home base is Wilsonville, Oregon, with their eastern regional office located in Chesterland, Ohio. Apparently the Audit Services Planning and Priorities Committee was looking for a short term fix of the flat rate/ MSBU versus the Ad Valorem MSTU rate system in our county and Emergency Services Consulting, Inc. indicated they could assist in achieving these goals. The first step for this firm is to begin gathering information at the individual fire departments. Hopefully, this firm will include the public on their fact finding missions, as they write a countywide fire master plan, at the direction of Karen Nicolai.

Shivers down your spine...

The headline in this morning's Hernando Times reads, "Public works site polluted aquifer water". This headline should make cold shivers run down your spine. Everyone will think twice before turning on their tap for a drink because of the carcinogen benzene level that is at 430 times the limit considered safe for drinking water in the aquifer. It will be interesting to see how this crisis unfolds in the public eye over the next several weeks. This is an equal opportunity contaminant that has the potential to affect everyone in central to northern Florida, not just those residents in Mitchell Heights of south Brooksville. We certainly do not need further political pandering by Commissioner Rowden and Kingsley, in reference to the Mitchell Heights residents. The political rangling needs to stop immediately at the local level, and strict attention needs to be paid to the environmental experts, and legal authorities, to clean up this mess. The pollution caused by this old DPW site has escalated from a local residential problem, to a state, and national crisis which could harm our environment for years. The very sad part about this entire clean-up is the risk manager for Hernando County did not have insurance coverage for environmental pollution. Swift and precise measures need to be taken immediately to assure everyone that we can rely on the very drinking water that is necessary for our existence here on Mother Earth.

Thanks to Roy...

This evening my husband and I attended a dinner dance hosted by the Wellington Republican Club. The club's president, Roy Martin, organized a very nice affair with approximately 100 people in attendance. Roy opened the evening by introducing the elected officials and candidates which were Commissioner Stabins, Commissioner Robinson, Sheriff Nugent, and former Commissioner Schenck. The president of the Timber Pines Republican Club, Jerry Lebo was also in attendance along with Hernando County Planning & Zoning members, Anthony Palmieri and Anna Liisa Covell (me). After happy hour a very tasty meal was served followed by music for dancing after dinner. We thoroughly enjoyed the food, the company and the music! Thanks to Roy, and the board of directors for the Wellington Republican Club, for all your hard work putting this event together.

Inflammatory statements...

This morning WWJB radio’s general manager, Steve Manual ran an editorial concerning the DCA denial for Hickory Hill’s application to change Hernando County Comprehensive Plan while citing some very inflammatory statements in reference to the Hernando County Planning Department. Mr. Manual criticized the county planning staff for not transmitting documents in a timely fashion, not being transparent to the public and basically being biased in their submittal to DCA. Descriptive terms like mistake, misdeed, or incompetence were used to sum up the editorial by stating that “we need to know.”

Did anyone ever stop to consider that WWJB’s general manager did not have all the facts on this subject. It appears that Mr. Manual relied heavily on hearsay information from two sources, the Hernando Today, and a political activist, to formulate his one-sided argument. Mr. Manual appears to be guilty of the same accusations that he thrust at the county planning staff for not doing his homework on the issue. A simple phone call to the Hernando County Planning Department’s new director, Mr. Ron Pianta would have cleared up the entire matter.

One major issue in the Hickory Hill denial by DCA contained two major sticking points which revolved around transportation issues. First, the Hernando County Planning Department did not submit a current Long Range Transportation Plan Comprehensive amendment. Why, you ask? The amendment approval was postponed by the Hernando County Planning & Zoning Commission in August at the public’s request. This postponement was to compile information for the eastern Hernando County long range transportation issues. It was determined by the P & Z that a postponement was necessary to have complete, and accurate, transportation information from Hickory Hill representatives, the Sun Rise PDD representatives, as well as the rural residents in the area. The Planning and Zoning Commission was more concerned with having accurate information instead of submitting incomplete data to the Board of County Commissioners. A workshop is being planned this fall to consider all input for the long range transportation plan by the county planning department. Secondly,DCA required a detailed transportation network analysis by the developer. A fair share agreement was required for transportation infrastructure, based on cost and data analysis and model runs / data analysis were not complete. The cost and data analysis was required to show the proportionate fair share costs for everyone involved in the development area which includes Sunrise PDD, rural residents, and the Hickory Hill project.

In conclusion, WWJB radio would be far better serve the public needs with accurate, fact-based, responsible information and not just assume our local government is always at fault.

Everyone was wondering...

Commissioner Stabins should be commended for keeping his composure while discussing the use of the old hospital as storage space at yesterday's BCC meeting. Several citizens came to the podium to voice their concerns on the issue of the old hospital that is costing taxpayers $70K a month in expenses and security costs. The department heads were quite informative and receptive to the idea of using this building as storage. Each of them discussed the pros and cons while explaining what was necessary to make the change of use for the building. The one person that seemed to be dragging her feet was Flo Boles, the risk management officer. Her presentation appeared to be very defensive while explaining what the insurance company could not do, instead of looking for positives solutions for Commissioner Stabins proposal. Grant Tolbert clearly explained state building regulations, and then detailed the steps necessary to make Mr. Stabins plan work. Pat Fagan gave a brief presentation on his search for storage space for the supervisor of election's voting equipment currently housed at the old DPW site. Mr. Fagan outlined the problems he was having due to the guidelines set up by Annie Williams. Apparently, Ms. Williams has decided she wants to be close to the courthouse to make it convenient for her, even though lease rates go for approximately $15.00 a square foot in downtown Brooksville. Ms. Williams indicated to Mr. Fagan that she wants additional working space for her employees plus necessary storage space. It now appears Ms. Williams has stayed at the old DPW site by her own choice, contrary to the newspaper account that she was forced to remain there, even though she had a lease offer for a 3,500 foot facility at the airport industrial complex priced at $8.00 a square foot. It would be nice to know if the parks department has been reimbursed by the supervisor of elections office for their exhaustive search for rental property for Ms. Williams. After the meeting, everyone was wondering just why the county's insurance company would cover the condemned building at the DPW site used by Annie Williams for storage but would not cover the hospital building. Thank you, Commissioner Stabins, for listening to the citizens on the hospital issue...

$25,000.00 Impact Fees

This afternoon at a 2007 Hernando County Summit Growth Management Committee meeting, I heard some preliminary figures for updating the impact fees next year to approximately $25,000.00 for residential homes. The county is using the rational that costs are escalating for infrastructure so this number is not unreasonable when discussing impact fee increases. Our committee is made up of contractors, developers, lay persons, the agriculture interest, SWIFTMUD, the city of Brooksville, the county planning department, and Chamber of Commerce members and everyone had a different point of view. To me, this will ultimately eliminate any chance for the first-time home buyer, by pricing them out of the market. Are we going to import labor to perform service industry jobs like plumbers, hamburger flippers, etc. in Hernando County? Yes, costs have risen dramatically but the suggestion to raise impacts fees by approximately 250% in very hard to fathom.

Veterans Appreciation Parade

Please mark your calendar for the 6th Annual Veterans Appreciation Parade scheduled for November 11th / 10 a.m. in downtown Brooksville. This year's parade will host the Hernando High School Band, the Nature Coast High Band and the Military Vehicle Preservationist Club (from the Hernando Sportsman Club) along with many other individuals and clubs. If you would like to participate in this parade to honor our veterans, please contact me (Anna Liisa Covell). There is no fee to participate but an rsvp would be appreciated so the Brooksville Police Department can plan on the appropriate safety measures for everyone. More details will become available in the coming weeks, please stay tuned!

Spiked, pink high heels...

About eight years ago, Hernando County had a commissioner who took it upon herself to inspect people's homes, the roof of the fairgrounds building, etc. in her spiked, pink high heels. Her name was Patricia Novy. She was a very nice woman but was nicknamed "the maverick" for her antics in the community. The one antic she was most famous for was filing complaints against Grant Tolbert at the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. These complaints cost Hernando County considerable sums of money and all complaints were dismissed by the DBPR. Ms. Novy was on a mission to undermine the Hernando County Building Department's director, Grant Tolbert. This little step back in time is to illustrate the connection with Commissioner Kingsley rallying the upset homeowners and the former Commissioner Novy. It seems Mr. Kingsley arranged a meeting at the Senior Citizens Club of Hernando County on Wednesday night to listen to problems residents were having with local contractors but he forgot one thing. He forgot to invite Mr. Tolbert to his party. Grant Tolbert was the one person that could have answered the questions of the homeowners, with directness and clarity, was not invited to the meeting, and the question is why? Somehow, this is like going to your auto mechanics shop and having his secretary diagnosis your vehicle. Mr. Kingsley stated the meeting was meant to gather information, see what he needed to do, and who he needed to talk with, and then said it really worked out well. Who did it really work out well for? Mr. Kingsley? Yes, there are some shoddy contractors in Hernando County but they are very few in actual numbers, thanks, in part, to Mr. Grant Tolbert, and the professionals that work in the Development Department.

Sea of red ink...

This morning's headline in the Hernando Times reads, "Forecasts paint possibility of red ink". In this article George Zoettlin stated, "There is some scary things, that's what happens when you lower the millage going through uncertain times." Yes, it is a scary time for everyone, especially the taxpayers that are also facing higher interest rates, a rising inflation rate, and skyrocketing insurance costs. The answer to the predicted gloom of a forecasted, sea of red ink would be to reduce Hernando County government spending at the current rate of 8.16%. The current rate of spending by the county seems just a little excessive when you take into consideration the cost of living is currently set at 4.1% for senior citizens on Social Security. Anyone that is interested in voicing their opinion should attend the Hernando County Budget hearings which will begin promptly at 5:01 p.m. this afternoon in the county commission chambers located at 20 N. Main Street in downtown Brooksville.

Steady progress

Steady progress is being made by Treelawn Builders in the clean up of the old DPW sit on Martin Luther King Blvd. Buildings are being torn down, and the site in being cleaned up, at a remarkably swift pace. It does not appear that the clean-up of this site will take very long to complete because of the efficient manner in which this builder has under taken the task. Thank goodness for the neighbors that this mess is finally getting cleaned up.

Very remarkable

Yesterday afternoon while driving down SR50, I noticed something very remarkable on Charles Sasser's property by Mobley Road. The construction workers had hung a very large America flag from the second story building steel of the new condominium under construction on the site. This is the first time I have seen the flag there so I can only imagine that it was placed there to commemorate the victims of 9-11.

Fire master plan consultant interviews

This morning I attended a meeting of the Audit Services Planning and Priorities Committee in the county commission chamber. In layman's terms, this was a meeting for the Hernando County Fire Rescue Services Consulting Project which was chaired by Karen Nicolai, Clerk of Court. This meeting was to hear presentations, and conduct interviews, to choose a consultant for the countywide fire master plan study. The four firms scheduled for presentations this morning were Emergency Services Consultants, Inc., Mizzelle, Hodges, and Associates, Carroll Buracker and Associates and the Management Advisory Group. Due to time constraints, I was only able to stay long enough to hear one presentation. I was surprised that this meeting was not televised on Channel 19 due to the wide interest shown in the community on fire services. Some of the members of this Audit Services Planning and priorities Committee were Karen Nicolai, Gary Kuhl, Larry Jennings and George Zoettlin. It is probably a good thing that this meeting was not televised or the camera may have gotten a shot of Mr. Zoettlin napping this morning at the dais. Brooksville's Fire Chief Tim Mossgrove and Assistant Fire Chief Davies of Spring Hill were also on hand to ask questions, along with Assistant Fire Chief Larry Nichols and Jill Allen of Hernando County Fire Rescue. I was dismayed to see that no one had attended from any of the volunteer fire departments in the county. The firm that will be picked for this study will be chosen at their next meeting on September 18th / 7:30 a.m. at the Country Kitchen Restaurant.

Your own recollection

September 11th was designated Patriot Day by Congress and the President of the United States in 2001 after terrorists attacked our country in 2001. I still remember that morning starting out like any other day. It was a rainy Tuesday and no one seemed to be in a very good mood that morning. I had the radio on in my office tuned to the local AM station when I heard the announcer say a plane had just crashed in the World Trade Center. In disbelief, I switched on this little black & white TV in my shop to catch glimpse of what I presumed would be a tragic plane accident. This horrific sight became even more unbearable to watch as the second plane crashed into the other Trade Tower. Next came the view of the Pentagon being hit by a plane. I could not take my eyes off this little television even though the picture was a very poor quality. Fear griped my heart like at no other time in my life just knowing that our Nation was under attack. The sight of people leaping out of the Trade Towers was chilling enough and was only surpassed by watching the Trade Towers pancake upon themselves as they collapsed from this terrorist attack. These images will be ingrained in my memory for the rest of my life. I hope each of you has your own recollection of September 11, 2001 and you never forget that day either...

Meaning spending reform needed

After watching the emergency budget workshop last Thursday, I began to wonder just who is running Hernando County government. The committee of 25, the county staff, Linda Hayward's petitions, the county commissioners, just who??? I commend Commissioner's Stabins, Hogan and Robinson for representing the people with a millage rate reduction but even their approach was short-sighted when you look at the long term needs of our rapidly expanding county. Trust in government is the essential element that Commissioner Stabins is trying to restore, by pushing for a large millage rate reduction in Ad Valorem taxes. The naysayers bring up the mere $36.00 this tax relief could bring to the homeowner in Hernando County. We were told this $36.00 would not even buy a tank of gas for an automobile. For someone watching their pennies, $36.00 could buy several pairs of inexpensive shoes for their children at Wal Mart. Speaking of Wal Mart, Commissioner Rowden threw out a large dollar figure that Wal Mart would save if an Ad Valorem rate reduction takes place this year like this was somehow evil. This type of analogy is a classic example of the demonization of corporate America played out by liberal democrats everyday across this nation. The problem with this type of analogy is corporations do not pay taxes, people do, and many small business entities across the county are being crippled by extremely high assessments on their businesses because there is no 3% cap on commercial property. Besides, I could never understand why corporations are criticized when they produce jobs, and wealth in America. Getting back to the point of being short-sighted when looking at the long term needs of Hernando County, none of the county commissioners ever mentioned cutting spending as a viable approach to budget control. Oh, a few sacrificial lambs were offered to cut spending several weeks ago by the county staff, but were pale in comparison to what is needed to be fiscally prudent with our tax dollars. Has anyone ever wondered why the county spending equals collected tax revenue? Its called projective budgeting, or locking up all monies collected by taxpayers. Sheriff Nugent stated at this workshop that if the county commissioners did not approve his budget he could go over their heads to the governor. One major job function of the county commission is to oversee the budget by being good stewards of our tax dollars. It is their responsibility to question the budgets of the sheriff, the clerk of court, the tax collector, the supervisor of elections, and the property appraiser but this was largely ignored during the budget review process. Yes, any constitutional officer can go directly to the governor if they think their budget is being jeopardized by the county commissioners but do you really think that would happen? The backlash for any constitutional officer having to justify their budget to the governor, let alone the citizens of Hernando County, would be political suicide. Its about time the county commissioners stand up to the challenge presented to them and question all budget entities, even the constitutional officers. Budget director, George Zoettlin, indicated at this workshop that a good credit rating is necessary for additional bonding, as in the bonding of the costs related to the old hospital renovation. It appeared that Commissioner Kingsley voted against tax relief based on these bond statements by Mr. Zoettlin. New bonding issues seemed to fly right under the radar scope of some of the county commissioners who were focused on tax relief for the citizens. Hernando County is already bonded up to the hilt with many projects like the new animal services building, the emergency operations building, two new libraries, and the purchase of Florida Water Services, not to mention the outstanding mortgages on several fire stations in Hernando County. What happened to save first, then buy approach for government services instead of putting our county further into debt? The implementation of zero-based budgeting should be a first start in correcting the age-old practices of the tax and spend mind-think of our elected officials. Meaningful spending reform and tax relief is essential to restoring our faith in the system before any discussion can take place on the future needs of county government.

Primary election turnout

If my arithmetic is correct, the percentage of people to vote in yesterday's Primary Election hovered at 12%. This turn out was a reduction of over 11% of the total voters since the last gubernatorial primary election in 2002 for Hernando County. This turnout is about one third the amount Annie Williams wished for last week. This gloomy reflection on our primary only underscores the need for changes in electoral process in this county, and across the state of Florida. Somehow I really thought it was the supervisor of elections office to educate the public on upcoming elections but public service announcements by the SOE's office during the past few election cycles has been minimal to attract voters. Just remember that the 12% of the registered voters who voted yesterday in Hernando County chose the candidates that will be on the General Election ballot. Busy lives, lack of information, voter apathy, whatever you call it, it is a grim reflection on our basic fundamental rights and responsibilities as citizens. Please get involved, informed, and energize to vote in the General Election on November 7th.

Updated Information as of 7 a.m. / 09-07-06: The turn out for the Primary Election was actually 21% according to this morning's newspaper. This "21% turnout" was still a very poor representation of our registered voters in Hernando County. This updated figure of 21% is still 3% lower than the 2002 election. The incorrect percentages used in my post (above) were a direct reflection of the information pulled from Annie Williams website at 9:15 p.m. /09-06-06. The citizens of Hernando County will be far better served by having correct information on the Supervisor of Elections website than incorrect, incomplete election results.

Looking for a truck...

Are you looking for a new truck, a school bus, a front-end loader, dump truck or maybe a boat w/trailer? Then you are in luck. Hernando County, Swiftmud and the Hernando County School Board are auctioning off their surplus equipment on Saturday, September 16 at 9 a.m. This sale is located at 1037 Varsity Drive in Brooksville (across from Cloverleaf Mobile Home Park). The equipment should be in reasonably good condition since it has been maintained by our tax dollars. Heck, most of it is probably like new! So, if you want a deal on some equipment for your home, or business, attend this local government auction.

Blues Brothers Tribute

Come on down to the Bandshell Bash for a free outdoor concert on September 9th from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. The Bandshell Bash will take place at Hernando Park in downtown Brooksville (Ft. Dade & Main St.) The headline entertainment will be "Blues Brothers Tribute Band" along with the Brooksville Cruise-In Car & Motorcycle show. For information call, 754-4788.

A special thanks...

A special thanks goes out to all the candidates that ran in this year's election. It takes a special person to withstand the rigors of campaigning while offering one's self for public service. Just remember, what ever the outcome is when the votes are tallied, all of these candidates are winners in the poll of public opinion!

Times wins hands down over Today

Comparing this morning's editorial columns of the Hernando Times, and the Hernando Today for quality and ethics was an easy task. Jeff Webb won hands down for his tongue-in-cheek, lighthearted editorial. In his editorial, he noted the conviction of all candidates that had offered themselves for public service in this year's primary election. Mr. Webb's column used a light-hearted approach to wind down the hard fought campaigns by all candidates before Tuesday's primary elections. Robert Nolte's column was written with the last minute intent to sway voters, with a innuendos, or inflammatory comments, about candidates his newspaper has opposed throughout this primary election cycle. Robert Nolte used a few catchy words, or phases, in his editorial to dispel doubt on these candidates so voters ignore them at the polls on Tuesday. One phrase used for Rose Rocco, candidate for county commission, district 2 was "closely tied to the county polls that she could be a victim of the anti-incumbent mood". This phrase does not apply to Ms. Rocco since she has never held elective office. Unfortunately, this 11th hour editorial cannot be disputed by this candidate before election day on Tuesday. Mr. Nolte also characterized Mr. Wiggins as the most ineffective school board member in recent memory. Again the candidate cannot dispute these claims before Tuesday. Too bad Mr. Nolte's short term memory is foggy because his own paper endorsed Robert Wiggins in 2002 election. Each election year, both of our local newspapers interview candidates, and then endorse the person they determine to be best suited for the particular office. It sets a bad precedent for any newspaper to use the power of the press to cloud someone's character in a political campaign. Jeff Webb, and all the editors of the Times, have earned our respect from their fair and accurate reporting during this primary campaigning season.