Right direction?

On February 6, 2007, the Hernando County Board of Commissioners agreed to sell the old Brooksville Regional Hospital. I thought it was rather odd that the name of the company winning the hearts of the county commissioners was the mirror image of the address of the old hospital site. The newspaper listed the company as 55 Ponce de Leon, LLC which is oddly enough the address of the old Brooksville Regional Hospital. Curiosity got the best of me so I looked up this 55 Ponce de Leon, LLC at the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations to see who were the principals in this business.

Guess what? There was no listing for this limited liability corporation when this deal was brokered with our county commissioners. This 55 Ponce de Leon, LLC submitted a contract for review on February 8, 2007 and still no indication of valid corporation at the Florida Department of State.

Today, nine days after the deal was brokered between 55 Ponce de Leon, LLC and the Hernando County Commissioners a document was filed with the Florida Department of Corporations. Guess what? This filing by Holland & Knight for 55 Ponce de Leon, LLC was a rejected filing.

It is really amazing that the Hernando County Office of Business Development did not check out the documents of this limited liability corporation with the Florida Department of State before this presentation was made to the commissioners. It was really odd that this 55 Ponce de Leon, LLC had time to have artist renderings made for their presentation to the commissioners but failed to make themselves legal with the Florida Division of Corporations.

It was said by Commissioner Rocco after the deal was brokered, "It's not how fast or slow but that we moved in the right direction." Is brokering a deal a group that has yet to file proper corporate documents the right direction? It looks like the county commissioners moved just a wee bit too fast on this deal and swerved off course...

Are"they" in charge...

How many more will it take to satisfy the vindictive appetite of the three Brooksville city council members Pugh, Bernardini and Bradburn? Just when everyone thought a little sanity was returning to the city council, two individuals were placed on administrative leave this afternoon. Chief Tincher and the human resource director were shown the door this afternoon when acting city manager, Steve Baumgartner, placed them on administrative leave again.

What was the reason for this leave? Mr. Baumgartner did not inform Chief Tincher of the reason for the leave other than to say he wanted them out of the way of the investigation. When asked what the scope of the investigation was, the acting city manager stated the investigation was confidential. A letter was sent out to all employees giving them immunity to speak at free will to the "hired investigator". This immunity was probably needed to prod employees because the city does not have the power to make people talk without having any evidence of a crime.

Rick Hankins has been been placed in charge of the Brooksville Police department in the absence of Chief Tincher. Steve Baumgartner is insisting that this current administrative leave is all his idea even though he stated that "they" also wanted Lt. Hankins on leave but he refused to comply with "their" wishes. Who is really in charge? Are "they" in charge or is the acting city manager?

Needless to say, the moral within the city is low. Is this really the "new direction" we envision for the city of Brooksville?

Please excuse my sparse postings of late. A close family member of mine had a serious work related injury and my mind and heart has not been with this blog. I hope to return soon. Please stop back...

Kudos to Mr. Kuhl

Imagine that, service with a smile, for your county government representative! Hernando County administrator, Gary Kuhl, has made it his top priority to have all (county) employees complete customer service classes at PHCC within the next two years. This customer service program was set up by department representatives to underscore the responsibility of excellent service by all county employees, correct weak areas of service, and establish uniform service patterns for all departments. This concept of excellent service is usually only seen in private business practices, not county government, and it is a very refreshing change of pace. Mr. Kuhl should be commended for promoting good service from our county civil servants. The only downside to this program is the cost to send all the county employees to Pasco-Hernando Community College. An in-house educational program should be implemented in the event that taxpayers will be asked to pick up to the tab for this customer service program at PHCC. Kudos go out to Mr. Kuhl for his initiative to promote good government practices here in Hernando County.

Golf tournament

The Kiwanis Club of Ridge Manor is having a golf tournament on March 31, 2007 at the Whispering Oaks Golf Club. This golf tournament is to raise funds for their annual scholarship program. Entry fees are $50.00 which includes lunch and prizes. If you are interested in sponsoring, or playing in this worthwhile event, please contact James Nico at 352-799-0901

Tax break for veterans...

A friend of mine named Jeff Johnston drops of a copy of the Veterans Post to me once a month. Jeff is seen all over the county volunteering on behalf of veterans and I, for one, am glad that he includes me in his route. This month's edition has a special notice of a tax break for Florida veterans. Florida's disabled veterans, or surviving spouses, are eligible to for a credit on their property taxes. The amount of this discount is equal to the percentage of the permanent "combat-wounded" service connected disability. Several rules apply for this tax break which are:

• You had to be a Florida resident when you entered the military
• You currently receive Homestead Exemption
• You are at least 65 years old by January 1, 2007
• Have a minimum of a 10% "combat-related" disability
• Have an honorable discharge, DD-214
• Must meet the March 1, 2007 deadline to apply.

If you meet all of these requirements, contact the Hernando County Property Appraisers office for an application before the March 1st deadline.

Capital credits

Several weeks ago Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative, Inc. had a notice in the local newspaper to notify many former members of the cooperative of unclaimed capital credits. Withlacoochee River Electric will assign any these unclaimed credits to the WREC Educational Foundation, Inc. after 5:00 p.m. on April 9, 2007. Contact Withlacoochee River Electric for more details if you think you may be qualify for these capital credit refunds.

Marvelous transformation...

In the last decade, the city of Brooksville has come from the dark ages to become a progressive, bustling town. With the annexations of Southern Hills and the Majestic Oaks property, the city has more than doubled its size. Included in these annexations is the old Milk-A-Way Farm which is also a future planned development project. These residential community projects are only the tip of the iceberg seen in growth within the city in comparison to the increases in business development.

Large businesses, some of which are the super Wal Mart, Loew's Home Improvement Center, Walgreens, CVS and Applebee's Restaurant, have popped up over the landscape of Brooksville over the last ten years. Small to moderate business operations have flourished within the city limits as well since 1994. Hot Wheels, the new Dairy Queen, and yes, our business, A.L. Covell Electric, Inc. have all experienced the positive growth spurt within the city limits. Even as we speak, a new business is sprouting out of the earth on Jefferson Street, next to the Christmas House, which will be a golf cart distribution company.

This residential and business growth would not have happened without massive infrastructure improvements within the city of Brooksville. Some of the major improvements over the past decade, or so, include a new city hall, the new sewer plant on Cobb Road, 7 lanes up SR 41 into the city, the Jerome Brown Center, Tom Varn Park, and the Brooksville Quarry Golf Course. Some items that are not so readily visible are new sewer lines, and new water lines to support the future growth for the residents and business owners.

The city of Brooksville has a new ladder truck for the fire department which is the envy of the west coast of Florida. Our new fire Chief Tim Mossgrove is a positive influence for progressive improvements in fire safety within our community. Many young police officers have been working their way up the food chain in recent years, like Lt. Hankins, who has put his heart and soul into making Brooksville a safe place to live, play and work. This city has many un-sung heroes that have participated in the future growth of the city. City employees ask little, but give a lot, to all of us. Their contributions of new sidewalks, bulb-outs, and city entrances are pale in comparison to their over all net worth as civil servants. The majority of residents and businesses owners have worked hand-in-hand to influence a strong, successful future for the city of Brooksville.

Has all this smart growth happened by magic? No, this marvelous transformation of the once sleepy little town of Brooksville occurred under the watchful eye of Brooksville's city manager, Richard Anderson. Thank you, Mr. Anderson for all your outstanding contributions for the city of Brooksville. Your leadership in good times, and bad, have proved that you are a real pillar of our community and a real southern gentleman. I, for one, am proud to call Dick Anderson my friend! Best wishes from all of us as you enter into retirement, Dick!

Upcoming events

Several upcoming events worth noting:

• Father Daughter Dance on Saturday, February 3rd from 6 to 9 pm at St. Anthony Church. Please call the Hernando County Parks Department for information / tickets at 754-4031
• Deputy Lonnie C. Coburn Memorial Bike Ride on February 17th. This memorial ride is for law enforcement officer, Lonnie C. Coburn, who was killed in the line of duty. The ride begins at SR 50 and US Hwy. 301 at noon. Contact Jeff Duval or Jerry Jennings at 796-0189 or 683-0699 for details.

Train wreck in slow motion

Sitting in the audience of the Brooksville City Council meeting last night can only be described watching as train wreck in slow motion. The last agenda item on the schedule was labeled "City Manager Search Process" presented by Richard Anderson. Mr. Anderson gave a brief presentation on suggested methods for undertaking a search for his replacement as city manager. Councilwoman Bradburn made a motion to use the services of the Human Resources offices of the Hernando County Government and Swiftmud along with the city's HR director. This motion by Ms. Bradburn lacked any real substance and had to be refined by the city clerk so the staff had a clear idea on how to proceed with a search for a new city manager.

Frankie Burnett was the only council member that came to the meeting with some concrete ideas on how the next manager should be narrowed down from the applicants. Mr. Burnett managed to convince his fellow council members to appoint a five member committee to refine the search from a list provided by the Human Resource Directors to present to council.

This agenda item then took a strange twist with the discussion that ensued between the council members. Several motions were made to place additional items on the agenda even though they had not been publicly advertised in the newspaper. Council Richard Lewis attempted to retain Richard Anderson until a new manager could be chosen by council. Councilman Burnett seconded Mr. Lewis' motion but it died with a 3-2 vote to deny, with council members Bradburn, Bernardini and Pugh voting nay.

Councilman Bernardini then suggested that Richard Anderson be fired immediately but was counseled by their attorney about the pitfalls of immediate termination of the city manager. The city attorney advised that 30 days severance pay would accompany this method. Mr. Bernardini then made a motion to have Mr. Anderson put on administrative leave until his resignation date. This motion was placed on the agenda by the

second of Ms. Bradburn and received the third vote for a majority by Mr. Pugh, to seal Mr. Anderson's fate with the city. Needless to say, once this item was on the agenda, Mr. Pugh, Ms. Bradburn and Mr. Bernardini voted to have Mr. Anderson placed on administrative leave until his resignation becomes effective on February 8th.

At the conclusion of the meeting, directly after citizens input, Mayor David Pugh took the opportunity to throw a few jabs at his critics in the audience. Time will only tell how long it will take for the city to heal with this controversy...

Hoo-Rah!!!

Hoo-Rah! A very reliable source informed me a few minutes ago that Chief Tincher, Lt. Hankins and Ron Baker were told to report to work tomorrow morning at 8 a.m. because the investigation turned up nothing of substance. The city council meeting tonight should prove to be very interesting since they (city council) have not discussed this latest development...

Affecting him very deeply...

Imagine if you had to suggest an employment agency to conduct a search for your successor because your boss was incapable of exhibiting any leadership concerning your position within your firm. Would you be the stand-up type of person to show loyalty for the company until your last day or would you just walk away after being treated so shabbily by your boss? I dare say most individuals would just walk away.

Well, this is just what the city manager has done in the absence of any leadership by the Brooksville City Council. Several days ago, Mr. Anderson recommended in a memo to the city council suggestions to find a replacement for him as city manager. Needless to say, the job search for a new manager replacement should have been initiated by the city council.

Looking past how the city council managed to create this turmoil over the last several weeks, it is now time for them to do the right thing. The right thing would be to ask Mr. Anderson to stay on until the completion of his contract so an in-depth search can be made for his replacement. With Mr. Anderson in place, an in-depth hunt could begin for the new manager that will mesh with the city of Brooksville. From a practical stand point, Mr. Anderson’s expertise would be quite beneficial for the day-today operations while the city council prepares to find his replacement. A citizen appointed panel could be set up review the applicants just like the search that is being conducted for a new school superintendent.

Richard Anderson has earned the respect of the city residents and taxpayers during his 12 years at the helm. Watching his actions over the last several weeks have given me a new found respect for his integrity to do what is right, even when it is very difficult. Mr. Anderson has wiped away many tears of his employees and friends while it is apparent his heart is breaking from the cruelty of his bosses, the city council. The tired look on his face is the only outward sign that this travesty is affecting him very deeply. For goodness sakes, city council members, do what is what at your meeting tomorrow night and vote to reject Mr. Anderson’s resignation, effective February 8, 2007.

Policy direction

If you are interested in watching our local government officials in action, plan on attending the Hernando County Commission workshop at the Hernando County Utility Building on SR50 (the old Lil Dess building). The workshop is open to the public and starts at 8:30 a.m. This workshop is to provide policy direction to the staff for projects and activities which will impact the 2007/08 budget. Although this workshop will be a discussion of the county commissioners and staff public input will taken at the end of the meeting. If you have any questions, call the county administrator's office at 754-4002.

Special session odds

Last week the Tampa Bay Business Journal ran a survey question relating to the special session of the Florida Legislature on the insurance crisis in this state. Their poll specifies that is not scientific but offers a quick glimpse of what the business readers are thinking on the issue. Here is the survey question with answers:

Will the special session on insurance make a difference?

• 14% Yes, I have confidence in the Legislature to force a change
• 73% No, the crisis in Florida isn't going away anytime soon
• 12% Undecided

I sure hope the Florida Legislature beats the odds of this survey to fix the homeowner insurance problem.

Deserves everyone's attention

I hope everyone read the St. Petersburg Times this morning. The article "Feudin' and Fussin' in Brooksville" read like a version of Hatfield and McCoy feud. Every little scrap of gossip was included in this article for the whole world to see in the Local & State edition which is commonly referred to as the metro section. This well written article by Jonathon Abel would be hilarious to the outside reader but in reality it is a very sad reflection of how gossip, and loose tongues, can destroy lives and careers. This article is a mirror image of our community and it is not a pretty sight.

The Hernando Times edition ran a guest column by local attorney, Mr. Jimmy Brown this morning, too. This column by Mr. Brown was a well thought out analysis of the dispute in the city of Brooksville. A quote by Mr. Brown was, "The proud and honorable heritage of our city require we act with the dignity and foresight our predecessors left us as their legacy." Although I am not a native of Brooksville, his words are very thought provoking and deserve everyone's attention. Mr. Brown asks that the city council return the three employees "to their indispensable positions".

The Brooksville City Council will meet again on Monday, January 22 at 7 p.m. Hopefully, each council member will keep their personal comments in check and do what is right for the city at this meeting to resolve this crisis. Brooksville's future depends their leadership to be fair and respectful to everyone involved in this issue...

Charter violation confirmed

I have confirmed information from two reliable sources that the Brooksville City Council has violated the intend of the city charter by placing Chief Tincher, Lt. Hankins and Ron Baker on administrative leave. The “hired gun aka labor attorney” for the city of Brooksville has issued the first opinion in response to questions surrounding the alleged violations of the city charter. It seems that this “labor attorney” hired by the Brooksville City Council has come back with the opinion that the city manager is the only person responsible for personnel issues relating to (city) employees. With this opinion, the city manager, not the city council, has ultimate responsibility for all personnel issues, including the placement of employees on administrative leave.

How many lawsuits will be spawned with this micro-managing of Mayor David Pugh, Councilwoman Lara Bradburn and Councilman Joe Bernardini for the violations of the city charter? Who knows, but a full re-instatement of these three employees by city council needs to take place today!

National holiday

Today is a national holiday to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King's birthday but you sure would not know it by the silence in downtown Brooksville. A spokesman for the local NAACP had cited, the lack of funds for a parade permit and insurance, per the city of Brooksville requirements, was the reason no parade was scheduled this year. The only local activities to commemorate the day will be a fish fry at Kennedy Park this afternoon, followed by church services this evening. This quiet way to remember Dr. Martin Luther King, in lieu of the annual march up Main Street, is a sad reflection on our community.

The Brooksville City Council could not waive the insurance requirements due to a new amendment to the city charter voted in by the residents in November 2006. In a nutshell, this new amendment prevents the city council from waiving insurance requirements to outside organizations. On the surface, this amendment was a sound financial decision by the city voters but it has really hurt two local groups that have been active in past few years with community events, like the Martin Luther King Parade and the Veterans Appreciation Parade in November.

Here's a few suggestions for the Brooksville City Council as they set their agenda for the coming year. As they plan for some of the city functions like Founder's Week, please consider taking the Martin Luther King Parade and the Veterans Appreciation Parade under your wing (of the city) by officially sponsoring these two events. As you evaluate the tax dollars required to make the Founder's Week a success, please consider including the Martin Luther King Parade and the Veterans Appreciation Parade.

In the word's of Dr. Martin Luther King: "Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter".

Leadership for Dummies

The Brooksville city council members should have been issued an easy to understand manual that outlines the chain of command within the city structure. This manual could resemble many of the self-help books on the market today. Most of these books have familiar titles like this, "_____ for Dummies, 101" that only need to have the subject inserted in the blank.

A classic example of arrogance underscored the immediate need for a " Leadership for Dummies" manual for council members Lara Bradburn and Joe Bernardini this morning. The Hernando Today ran an article by Tony Marrero that cited the disgust of Lara Bradburn and Joe Bernardini in reference to the backlash from residents supporting Chief Tincher and the police.

Too bad someone hasn't thought about a "Leadership for Dummies" manual to sit on the shelf at the bookstore next to all the other "Dummie" books. A basic "Leadership for Dummies" manual would begin on page one by stating that "the residents aka voters" are always the boss in government, not the elected official!

Congratulations, Jeff

Yesterday, following the re-enactment ceremony of Commissioner Rocco's swearing in ceremony, Commissioner Jeff Stabins was chosen the a new chairman of the Hernando Board of County Commissioners with a 5-0 vote by his peers . This was the second time in two years that the majority party has elected a chairman of the minor party for the county commission. A message for our commission chairman would be said best in the words of President Theodore Roosevelt, "Keep your eyes on the stars, and your feet on the ground." Congratulations and good luck to our new moderate, centrist Chairman Jeff Stabins!

Heads rolled...

It did not take long for the city council members to clean house in Brooksville. A forced resignation of the city manager, Richard Anderson was only the beginning as heads rolled at the city council meeting last night. Council members David Pugh, Lara Bradburn and Joe Bernidini voted to place Chief Ed Tincher, Lt. Rick Hankins and Ron Baker on paid administrative leave from the city, under the strong objections from Councilmen Richard Lewis and Frankie Burnett with a 3/2 vote.

Where was David LaCroix, the city's attorney, during this discussion and vote? According to the Brooksville city charter, these council members do not have the authority to hire, fire, or put anyone on administrative leave other than the city manager. This appears to be a violation of Brooksville's city charter by Mr. Pugh, Ms. Bradburn and Mr. Bernidini. This is clearly a textbook case of misfeasance on the part of these three council members to infringe on the rights of others in an improper, if not unlawful manner by violating the very city charter they were elected to protect for the city of Brooksville.

The action of these three council members is reminiscent of the year 1994 when a past city manager fired Chief Tincher and the fire chief. Many city tax dollars were spent to restore these two positions after three prior council members were recalled under the provisions of the city charter. By the way, Joe Bernidini was one of the council members thrown out of office in this recall vote of 1994.

Lara Bradburn has labeled her actions, and those of her cohorts, Mr. Pugh and Mr. Bernidini, a new direction for the city of Brooksville. This "crash and burn" new direction of these three council members is a total disgrace to city taxpayers. Unfortunately, Ms. Bradburn and Mr. Bernidini are untouchable under Florida Statute 100.361 for recall as sitting elected officials until they serve one year in office but Mayor David Pugh is fair game under these provisions.

Chief Tincher should have been given the opportunity to complete the internal investigation already underway within the Brooksville Police Department, without the interference. This novice mayor, and two city council members, appear to have a personal vendetta rid the city of employees that do not mesh with their ideals. If questions had still remained after this internal investigation was completed within police department, and not answered to the full satisfaction of the entire city council, then an outside investigation would be fully warranted at the direction of the city manager.

Mr. Pugh, Ms. Bradburn and Mr. Bernidini should heed the following quote by President Ronald Reagan: "Those who preach the supremacy of the state will be remembered for the sufferings their delusions caused their peoples".

Please be advised that I have removed & blocked future comments on this post. I fully understand that emotions are running on full speed with this issue but I respectfully request that any comments on my blog remain free from profanity. While I appreciate all your comments, pro or con, inappropriate language will not be allowed on this blog. Thank you for your consideration in this matter on future posts.

Spiteful form of micro-managing

This morning, the Hernando Today ran an article titled, "Mayor asks for probe of police department." Mayor David Pugh, Jr. is apparently demanding an independent investigation of the city's police department. Mr. Pugh was quoted as saying, "I don't have any confidence in our police department when it comes to investigating someone internally". This is the second time in the last several months that Mr. Pugh has expressed extreme displeasure with a city employee.

If you recall Mr. Pugh was hyper-critical of city manager, Richard Anderson, during a city council meeting in August and Mr. Anderson was not there to defend himself. Is Mr. Pugh's criticism of city employees warranted? Some might applaud Mayor David Pugh's action to ask for an outside agency to investigate the police department as leadership or it could be viewed as a spiteful form of micro-managing from the youthful, inexperienced mayor.

Chief Tincher should be given the opportunity to complete the internal investigation already underway within the Brooksville Police Department, without the interference of the novice mayor and city councilman, Joe Bernadini. If questions still remain after the internal investigation is completed within police department, and not answered to the full satisfaction of the entire city council, then call for an outside investigation.

High hopes...

Last Friday, I listened to the Hernando County Legislative Delegation on the small television in my office. It was the first time in 5 years that I was unable to attend this yearly meeting of our delegation. I was chained to my desk attempting to close out our books for the year 2006.

The Honorable Robert Schenck was nominated by Senator Fasano to lead the Hernando County Delegation and seconded by Rep. Charles Dean. Rep. Schenck filled the shoes of David Russell with ease this year.

The first order of business on this delegation's agenda was to listen to the local elected officials. It never ceases to amaze me that each year the local elected officials are given an unlimited time to present their wish lists while the non-profit groups, and local citizens, are given just 3 minutes to speak at the podium. It seems kind of ironic that the local officials stand at the podium promoting pet projects, which will eventually be funded by our tax dollars, while the citizens sit patiently waiting in the audience for their chance to be heard by their delegation.

A suggestion to speed up the process for next year's delegation would be to have either the county administrator, or city manager, present all the requests to the delegation in lieu of having multiple commissioners giving political speeches at the podium. The Hernando County Delegation has been subjected over the years with numerous commissioners taking their turn at self promotion at the podium and this year was not any different with Commissioners' Rowden, Rocco and Kinglsey taking a tremendous amount of allotted time that would have been better spent listening to the non-profit organizations, and just us plain citizens. In fact, I believe that state statutes were written for the benefit of ordinary citizens to have the ability to directly speak annually with their legislative delegation.

The Hernando Legislative Delegation listened quite patiently to all the concerns of the citizens. Two of the most important items brought to the table were homeowner insurance and high property taxes. Encouraging words were spoken by both, Rep. Schenck and Senator Fasano, about soaring property insurance rates and the need for in-depth discussion at the special session of the Legislature this month.

Representative Robert Schenck has been working on methods for equalizing residential property taxes, with updated equations for local property appraisers, which is being co-sponsored by Senator Mike Fasano. Senator Fasano spoke about the need for a 3% cap on commercial property taxes to protect the interests of those Mom & Pop businesses struggling to stay afloat under a sea of bills that include high property taxes, along with extremely high business insurance premiums for their property.

It is a good thing I was in my office alone while listening to this broadcast on channel 19. I shouted out a loud hoo-rah for Representative Charlie Dean when he advocated that he would push for all counties to have zero-based budgets, with line items, so the citizens could better understand where their tax dollars are being spent each year. Zero based budgeting, along with performance management, were key items in my platforms when I ran for commissioner in 2000 and 2004 so I was ecstatic to hear Charlie Dean spout the need for this simple approach to budgeting in local government. By the way, Commissioner David Russell used this same zero based budgeting agenda in his campaign of 2006 and hopefully he follows through with the implementation of this process in Hernando County.

It looks like our Representatives and Senators are ready to hit the ground running this legislative session. I have high hopes that our delegation will do their best to look after the interests of their constituents. Good luck to the Hernando County Legislative Delegation!

New trends...

I'm sure everyone is aware of the ever changing advances in technology in our society. With all the new items on the market, like MP3 players and multi-functional cell phones, many retailers have had difficulty keeping up with the new trends. With each new year these advances in the electronic and computer technology keep most of us on our toes.

One area that has fallen behind the times is the sector that oversees cell tower placement. I am speaking of our local Hernando County ordinance that regulate the placement of cell towers. In 2000, cell companies were flooding our county and the fear of having a glut of towers was very real possibility for our community. The Hernando County Board of Commissioners took the lead in 2000 and developed an ordinance regulating cell towers. The mind-think of 2000 was having high towers, with multiple carriers, to prevent having a cell tower every mile, or so, with strict adherence to radius rings of coverage. This thinking was excellent for 2000 but has quickly become outdated as technology has increased the demand for cell phones.

Today, people are using cell phones in place of land-line units within their homes and businesses which has created a new problem for cell phone companies. The towers need to be lower and closer together for appropriate coverage within the confines of a home or business. Lowering the heights of some of these towers has given rise to the many new towers being erected in densely populated areas of Hernando County over the last year. With these new towers cropping up, so are the concerns of the local neighbors. This lower tower requirement, with the need for closer proximity, was tackled in Phoenix, Arizona by co-locating the cell tower equipment on utility power poles with in the city. Other areas of the country have used innovative approaches by placing the tower equipment on church steeples, water towers, and the signage of local businesses.

At the last month's meeting of Hernando County Planning and Zoning Commission, I requested that Ron Pianta, planning director, ask the future direction of the Hernando County Board of Commissioners regarding a review and update of the ordinance relating to cell towers. Hopefully, the 2006 county commission will be as progressive as that of the sitting board of 2000, with this new technology facing Hernando County.

This year has been a doozy...

This year has been a doozy, politically speaking. The public's perception has ranged from excitement to disgust over the antics of this year's political figures. One thing is for certain though, Hernando County's reputation for having rough and tumble campaigns and elections has not disappointed anyone.

It was the year that local incumbent politicians had little chance for survival. A lone school board representative and the state congresswoman were the only survivors, after the dust had settled on the November election, to oust incumbents. With all the candidates running so fast towards the middle, the lines on the road were hard to distinguish on many of the issues. A fast blur of the white line seemed to be painted on the backs of candidates because most had no real platform for Hernando County's future. Republicans ran as democrats. Democrats ran as republicans. Heck, score cards should have accompanied the elections ballots!

Everyone is still waiting for the last chapter for our General Elections results in the Rocco vs. Robinson debacle. It looks like a few more chapters may be added to the saga, with the opinions of opposing legal counsel and that of the Florida Department of State. In the words of one prominent attorney on the case, "it ain't over until the fat lady sings".

Hernando County even made the spotlight in the statewide media for the bigoted comments of a former county commissioner, and his wife, which gained the attention of Governor Bush and Governor-elect, Charlie Crist. Even Carol Jean Jordon, chairwoman of the Republican Party of Florida, wrote a letter to condemn the comments which were met with consternation by the couple. Ana Trinque, local chairwoman of the Hernando County Republican Executive Committee stood behind the comments, as did the newly-elected vice chairman of the HCREC, Alan Setelius. After all the media flap died down, nothing more was said, or done, by state republican party officials. It is business as usual, with the former county commissioner still serving as state committeeman for the republican party.

The holiday season provided all of us with a much-needed reprieve from the constant political chatter of the media while we turned our attention towards family and friends. The old adage, "out with the old and in with the new" somehow brings a renewed sense of positive possibilities as we head toward springtime.

Oh, Hernando County will survive the bruising 2006 political season. In fact, it will thrive with a renewed sense of liberation for all the endless possibilities that face us in the future.

Happy New Year to everyone!

My rendition of 2006

Looking back throughout 2006, many interesting things have happened in our county. I listed below some of the positive highlights from my blog that really make our community shine. I hope you enjoy my rendition of the 2006 year in review.

• January 2006: Thanks to the City of Brooksville http://hernandoapa.blogspot.com/2006/01/thanks-to-city-of-brooksville.html
• February 2006: Proud to call her my friend http://hernandoapa.blogspot.com/2006/02/proud-to-call-her-my-friend.html
• March 2006: Grand opening at Jericho Road http://hernandoapa.blogspot.com/2006/03/grand-opening-at-jericho-road.html
• April 2006: Oak Hill stroke facility http://hernandoapa.blogspot.com/2006/04/oak-hills-primary-care-stroke-facility.html
• May 2006: Volunteer Recognition Day http://hernandoapa.blogspot.com/2006/05/volunteer-recognition.html
• June 2006: "I played hookie to go on safari in South Africa"
• July 2006: Fire master plan http://hernandoapa.blogspot.com/2006/07/fire-master-plan.html
• August 2006: Fallen soldier honored http://hernandoapa.blogspot.com/2006/08/fallen-soldier-honored.html
• September 2006: Times wins hands down over Today http://hernandoapa.blogspot.com/2006/09/times-wins-hands-down-over-today.html
• October 2006: Thank, Debbie! http://hernandoapa.blogspot.com/2006/10/thanks-debbie.html
• November 2006: Secret Santa http://hernandoapa.blogspot.com/2006/11/secret-santa.html
• December 2006: WREC http://hernandoapa.blogspot.com/2006/12/wrec.html

News Flash!!!

Judge Booth ruled in Rose Rocco's favor this morning. According to a very reliable source, Mrs. Rocco was sworn into office this morning and now holds the title, Commissioner Rocco.

Very joyous holiday

Wishing you, and your family, a very joyous

Holiday Season and a New Year filled with peace and happiness.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Anna Liisa Covell

Conveys the message

The following is a re-run from my last year's holiday greeting but I think it best conveys the message of Christmas. Please enjoy this transcript of Ronald Reagan's radio message from 1978:

Christmas-

Meaning no disrespect to the religious convictions of others, I still can’t help wondering how we can explain away what to me is the greatest miracle of all and which is recorded in history. No one denies there was such a man, that he lived and that he was put to death by crucifixion.Where….is the miracle I spoke of? Well consider this and let your imagination translate the story into our own time-----possibly to your own home town.

A young man whose father is a carpenter grows up working in his father’s shop. One day he puts down his tools and walks out of his father’s shop. He starts preaching on street corners and in the nearby countryside, walking from place to place, preaching all the while, even though he is not an ordained minister. He never gets farther that an area perhaps 100 miles wide at the most.He does this for three years. Then he is arrested, tried and convicted. There is no court of appeal, so he is executed at age 33 along with two common thieves. Those in charge of his execution roll dice to see who gets his clothing---the only possessions he has. His family cannot afford a burial place for him so he is interred in a borrowed tomb.

End of story? No, the uneducated, property-less young man who…..left no written word has, for 2,000 years, had a greater effect on the world than all the rulers, kings, emperors; all the conquerors, general and admirals; all the scholars, scientists and philosophers who have ever lived---all of them put together.How do we explain that? ......unless he really was what he said he was.

-Ronald Reagan / Dailey Radio Commentary (syndicated) December, 1978

Jericho Road Ministries

Jericho Road Ministries will host their Ninth Annual Christmas Luncheon. The luncheon will take place at the First United Methodist Church of Brooksville this Saturday, December 23rd from 11:00 to 2:00 p.m. Pastor Bruce Gimbal started this holiday lunch program nine years ago as a way to say thanks the community and to celebrate the Christmas season.

Jericho Road Ministries sponsors a shelter program (in addition to their men's program) to respond to the economic, emotional and spiritual needs of women and children called Mary's House. Mary's House is for women and children that have been displaced in life due to circumstances beyond their control. Mary's House is located at 1090 Mondon Hill Road in Brooksville. For shelter placement, call (352)799-2912.

Thank you, Pastor Bruce Gimbal and Rev. Scott Simmons for all your hard work in our community.

Equal access to quality healthcare

Does everyone in Hernando County have equal access to quality healthcare in an emergency situtation? In the event that you, or your loved one, has a medical emergency you should be aware of directives in place by the emergency medical director. The Hernando County Emergency Medical Director has issued directives to transport patients to the nearest emergency room even if the patient has specified a particular facility. This makes logical sense, or does it?

What if the patient lives on the east side of the county and requests transport to Oak Hill Hospital? EMS directives dictate that the patient be taken to the nearest facility which is Brooksville Regional Hospital, under the discretion of the paramedic. This seems like the safest path for the patient, or does it?

Hypothetically speaking, if the east side emergency patient is exhibiting stroke-like symptoms, EMS personnel would take the patient to Brooksville Regional even though Oak Hill is the only state certified stroke facility in Hernando County. Once this hypothetical patient is evaluated as a stroke patient, they are air lifted to Tampa General Hospital for stroke treatment. The question that should be on everyone's mind is why wasn't the patient transported to Oak Hill Hospital in the first place to safe precious minutes. The first three hours after suffering a stroke symptoms are the most critical in the recovery of a patient so it would be only logical that they should have been transported to Oak Hill Hospital in the first place. The full recovery of the patient should be the main objective of EMS personnel when evaluating stroke patients. How much precious time is wasted in the critical 3-hour stroke window of the patient by taking them to Brooksville Regional, only to then be air lifted to Tampa General?

This stroke scenario could be re-created with the heart attack patient since Oak Hill is a certified heart facility, too. When the heart patient is taken to Brooksville Regional, only to be air-lifted to Tampa General, how much heart muscle could have been saved by an immediate transport to Oak Hill Hospital?

Is the health, safety and the welfare of the patient paramount in the Hernando County Medical Director's directive or are HMA's corporate interests the driving factor in the "closest facility directive" since Brooksville Regional Hospital and Tampa General are under this parent corporation. The county's emergency medical director is under contract by the approval of the Hernando County Board of Commissioners. It is the Hernando County Board of Commissioners overriding authority to protect the health, safety and welfare of all the citizens of this county. Hopefully they will investigate this very troubling directive by their emergency medical director that allows out of county transport of our citizens in medical emergencies.

WREC

Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative, Inc. has really been busy up in my neck of the woods. WREC has had their subcontractors, Davey, Inc. and Pike, Inc. working on a project to pave the way for major capital improvements along Lake Lindsay Road and Edgewater Avenue through Nobleton. Without going into technical jargon, WREC's public relations manager, Ernie Holzhauer related to me that the work being done was to improve current service in our area, and be prepared for future growth in Hernando County corridor. The capital improvements being made by WREC is to double the size of transmission lines in the northeast portion of our county. Taller power poles, equipped with larger insulators, are being installed to accommodate these larger size transmission lines by WREC. Davey, Inc. has been extremely busy clearing and trimming trees to make way for these taller poles. Pike, Inc. has worked in conjunction with Davey to install the taller poles in a well orchestrated, timely fashion. As soon as the taller poles were installed, the WREC trucks rolled in to begin work on the completion of this major capital improvement. The rural community of the Istachatta and Nobleton area are certainly lucky to be members of this electric cooperative. Thanks go out to Withlacoochee River Electric, for meeting our current electric needs and investing capital dollars to be prepared for our future in Hernando County!

What wrong with this picture?

While the Hernando County School Board is considering plans to abandon busing to end racial segregation, they voted on a pilot program for same gender classrooms at Westside Middle School this week. What's wrong with this picture? Are we to believe 'the separate but equal' mind set will become acceptable in our society again? We had a prior definition for this 'separate but equal' way of life in the south called Jim Crow law's. These Jim Crow law's were designed to give legal recognition to discrimination, with the separation of black and white Americans by law, from 1883 to 1954. In 1896, the US Supreme Court approved of racial segregation with the Plessy vs. Ferguson decision that gave an official seal on the "Separate but Equal Doctrine". The Plessy vs. Fergusan decision had a lone vote of dissent by US Supreme Court Justice John Marshall Harlan, a former slave owner from Kentucky. Justice Harland declared: " Our Constitution is color-blind, and neither knows nor tolerates classes among citizens...The thin disguise of 'equal' accommodations will not mislead anyone, nor atone for the wrong this day done." The "Separate but Equal Doctrine" remained in effect until the US Supreme Court heard the Brown vs. the Board of Education to enforce the Fourteenth Amendment that guarantees equal protection under the laws. Being of the baby-boomer age, the image of busing to end segregation in the south was a terrifying time in our society. While the National Guard patrolled schools to enforce court-ordered integration, parents of black, and white children, alike, were afraid to send their children to school due to violent acts of many senseless people. These violent acts ranged from vandalism, to fire bombings, at many schools in the south. During these turbulent times, a police officer was stabbed in the chest at a Pinelllas County high school. Do we really want to turn back the hands of time justifying the "Separate but Equal Doctrine" in our society? Hopefully, history will not repeat itself right here in Hernando County.

Never forget

I received this information by email this morning. It seems that something positive has been made out of the evil of September 11th:

USS New York It was built with 24 tons of scrap steel from the World Trade Center It is the fifth in a new class of warship - designed for missions that include special operations against terrorists. It will carry a crew of 360 sailors and 700 combat-ready Marines to be delivered ashore by helicopters and assault craft. Steel from the World Trade Center was melted down in a foundry in Amite , LA to cast the ship's bow section. When it was poured into the molds on Sept. 9, 2003, "those big rough steelworkers treated it with total reverence," recalled Navy Capt. Kevin Wensing, who was there. "It was a spiritual moment for everybody there." Junior Chavers, foundry operations manager, said that when the trade center steel first arrived, he touched it with his hand and the "hair on my neck stood up." "It had a big meaning to it for all of us," he said. "They knocked us down. They can't keep us down. We're going to be back."

The ship's motto? - 'Never Forget'

Smooth transition

Monday night, three new members of the Brooksville City council were sworn into office. Lara Bradburn is the freshman of the newly seated city council members, with Richard Lewis and Joe Bernardini being considered veterans for their previous tenure on the board. Congratulations go out to David Pugh, Jr. who was elected the new mayor and to Frankie Burnett as vice mayor. It appears that Ms. Bradburn did not let any grass grow under her feet with her in-depth questioning of most items on their agenda. Several in the audience mentioned the term micro-managing in reference to Councilwoman Bradburn. Yes, Ms. Bradburn does her homework, as well she should being a newspaper reporter by profession, but micro-managing should not be tagged on her after just one meeting. Will she expect complete answers to her questions? Knowing Lara, the answer is yes. Will she micro-managing the staff? That is yet to be determined but she deserves a chance to become comfortable in her position as councilwoman before any hushed rumors are generated from the staff. Mayor David Pugh has his work cut out for him in the coming year. Many items will pass over his desk in the next several months, from legal problems relating to city annexations, to a pending performance review of city manager, Richard Anderson. It appears that it is truly a new day for the city of Brooksville. Our anticipation for a smooth transition for the city council runs high in the community. Good luck to everyone!

Future superintendent

Ken Pritz, Hernando County school district's executive director of facility and support operations, has submitted his application for the future vacancy of the school superintendent's position. The current superintendent, Wendy Tellone is retiring at the conclusion of the 2007 school year. When Mrs. Tellone was hired as superintendent, the public perception was to hire from within Hernando County. Mrs. Tellone worked her way up through the local school system and has proved to be very competent during her tenure as the superintendent of Hernando County schools. Mr. Pritz is the only local candidate to apply for the superintendent's position and should be given preference based on his 26 year tenure with the school district. Mr. Pritz has worked his way up the ladder and has the administrative experience to tackle the duties of superintendent. Mr. Pritz has been a non-voting member of the Hernando County Planning and Zoning Commission for almost two years. While I cannot speak for his professional qualifications for the position of superintendent, I will say that Ken Pritz is a very nice individual who treats everyone with respect and courtesy at all of our meetings. The Hernando County School Board should strongly consider hiring from within the local school district once again.

Pearl Harbor

Today is Pearl Harbor Day. The day of infamy, as described by President Franklin Roosevelt, in his speech to the Nation on December 7, 1941. Some foggy memories, combined with the dwindling number of military survivors, does not make this day any less significant than the actual day our Nation came under attack in Pearl Harbor. One survivor of the attack on Pearl Harbor attended our local Veterans Appreciation Parade for the last two years. His name is Allan T. Hartshome, age 88. Mr. Hartshome and his wife reside in the Hill n' Dale subdivision of Hernando County. Several years ago, we had the membership of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association attend our parade with their replica of the USS Arizona Memorial float. We are truly blessed to have these local Pearl Harbor survivors residing in our county. Although the number of Pearl Harbor survivors are succumbing to age, each person is a monumental portion of our Nation's history and have our deepest respect for their service for our country. Please take time today to say thanks for all our veterans.

Santa

Santa Claus will be making a stop in Nobleton this Saturday, December 9th, to visit with the local neighborhood children. Santa will be at the Tri-County Volunteer Fire Department on Forbes Street from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Playing politics

Almost one year ago, Jeff Webb of the Hernando Times wrote an editorial in reference to the state's sales tax surplus of $3.2 billion that was reported in January, 2006. The theme of his previous column focused how each political party would be fighting over this massive surplus while trying to influence votes since it was an election year. Well, the politicians in Tallahassee proved Mr. Webb's point.

The state legislature pandered at the highest level to enhance themselves to the voting public and got the most bang for our buck. By April, the Florida Legislature learned that they had an additional windfall of $960-million in addition to the a $5.6 billion surplus that had been reported in March of 2006. Where have all the state legislator's been hiding with this insurance crisis that hit our state late last year? Were they with hiding with Governor Bush? Were they hiding at their campaign offices, hoping no one would notice the lack of a action by Florida Legislature on the insurance crisis that hit our state last year?

Everyone has been pleading for a resolution to the crisis in Citizens' Property Insurance that has forcing people from their homes since last year and the people's voice fell on deaf ears in Tallahassee during the 2006 legislative session. Yes, a few of our elected officials have voiced concern over the insurance crisis but it has been barely audible until the new legislators were sworn in several week ago.

Senator Fasano had a guest column titled, 'Insurance crisis undermines state' in this morning's issue of the Hernando Times which discusses the insurance crisis in Florida. In his column, Mr. Fasano stated that in the closing hours of the 2006 legislative session, insurance industry lobbyists managed to sneak language into Senate Bill 1980 requiring Citizens to raise rates to cover the cost of re-insurance. How does any group sneak language into a house or senate bill? If this really happens, then the citizens need to hold their representative government officials responsible for not thoroughly scrutinizing legislation before passage. Taking into consideration Senator Fasano he did not support Senate Bill 1980, it still does not erase the fact that our state has been in an insurance crisis since the fall of 2005.

Senator Fasano stated in his column that the insurance crisis has the potential to decimate every aspect of our state's economy. Where was Senator Fasano almost a year ago when the state coffers were flush with cash to fix this insurance crisis? Playing politics with a person's most valuable asset of their home, or business, by jeopardizing their ability to afford home owners insurance, is unacceptable. In hindsight, Jeff Webb has every right to say I told you so...

Could become a stalemate

Much discussion has taken place in the last several weeks about the empty seat on the Hernando County Commission. Robert Nolte had an editorial column in this morning's Hernando Today about the important issues our county will face in the upcoming months. Mr. Nolte suggested that governor should appoint an interim commissioner until such time that the Robinson-Rocco debacle is settled in court. He mentioned the hazards of having a four member board of county commission. With a four member board it is possible that nothing will be accomplished by the county commission in the coming months. Mr. Nolte's column focused on critical issues that could become a stalemate with a four member board but he forgot to mention one big issue. In January, it will be time for the county commissioners to choose a new chairperson. Which one of the commissioners will cross that great partisan divide to vote for an opposing party member for chairperson? Better yet, what happens if they have a 2-2 vote for the person nominated? Does that mean Commissioner Rowden will remain as chairwoman for another year? I believe a 2-2 vote nullifies the motion which would leave Commissioner Rowden seated as chairwoman. Someone needs to call the governor ...

Shovel

You know what the best reason is for living in Hernando County? For that matter, for living in the state of Florida? The best part about living here is you don't need to shovel sunshine!

Sad article

The Hernando Times ran a very sad article in the paper this morning about a young woman named Nicole Batiste who pleaded guilty to aggravated manslaughter for the death of her newborn baby. This young woman will be sentenced next month for a crime that should have never taken place. Does she deserve the punishment of jail time? That will be up to the judge to decide in January. This unwanted pregnancy could have turned out to be good news if this young woman had dropped the baby off at a hospital or fire station. No questions would have been asked of this young woman and the baby would have been put up for adoption. The Florida Legislature wisely passed legislation in 2000 for desperate mothers to drop off unwanted newborns within 3 days of birth without prosecution. Its too bad this young woman did not follow the law. The Hernando Times needs to be commended for printing the information about this law, along with helpful agencies, adjacent to the article.

Secret Santa

Every holiday season it never ceases to amaze me how wonderful the people are in Hernando County. I am not talking about the busy shoppers with the short fuses, or the increased snow bird traffic on our local roadway but all the good-hearted people reaching out to their neighbors in the true Christmas spirit. Each year I have a caring individual come by our business to ask us to help him with his secret Santa program in south Brooksville. This individual gets the names, ages and gender of some really deserving, and needy children, to make their holiday bright. Do I trust this person to fulfill his promises to these families? You bet I do. This individual has worked with the youth in the south Brooksville community for years as a girl's softball coach, mentor, and all around good guy. This person works for the city of Brooksville and his name is Sonny Gill. Sonny's own daughters are now grownup but he continues to participate within the south Brooksville area trying to make the lives of neighborhood children a little brighter during the holiday season. So the next time you think Santa Claus does not exist, look around your little patch of the world. I'll bet you'll find more than one person that resembles the good-hearted Sonny in the south Brooksville neighborhood.

Picking up the tab...

Without weighing in on the Rocco-Robinson debate again, only one question needs to asked today. Who is paying for former Chief Justice Stephen Grime to represent Annie Williams? It will be interesting to see if the taxpayers are picking up the tab or if Ms. Williams will pay these legal fees out of her own pocket.

Money shifting...

Twice in one week we have heard from Commissioner Kingsley that the state of Florida is mysteriously shifting money away from Hernando County. Both of these instances of money shifting have proven to be incorrect. The Hernando County dredge project is on target with all the state funding intake, as is the FDOT five-year tentative work plan, with the distribution of allocated money for Hernando County. Did Commissioner Kingsley act impetuously to a perceived shifting of money for the Hernando Beach dredge project last week, and today, with his concerns to focus on the Florida Department of Transportation shifting money from the our county? It is an odd coincidence that Commissioner Russell worked directly on both of these projects while he was our state representative. Mr. Russell worked with Senator Fasano for the dredge project funding and he was also the chairman of the transportation committee in Tallahassee. Why did Commissioner Kingsley write a letter to the Florida Department of Transportation Secretary, Donald Skelton expressing his concerns about the State Road 50 funding without getting the consensus of the entire board of county commissioners? It seems that if there was a real perception of funding loss, it would have been prudent for Chairwoman Diane Rowden to pen the letter to Donald Skelton. Was Mr. Kingsley truly concerned with county funding or was it his way to undermine Commissioner Russell before he had time to get his feet wet on the Hernando County Board of Commissioners?

Loud swirling sound...

If you hear a loud swirling sound coming from Brooksville, just ignore it, since it just our tax money being flushed down the drain at the old hospital site. The projected forecast for completion of a feasibility study for the old hospital site is now November 2007. Last August, Commissioners Robinson and Hogan, at the urging of a longtime community activist Janey Baldwin, decided to start the search over for a firm to conduct a feasibility study, based on the results of Strollo Architects. Apparently Strollo had exceeded the original bid requirements by expanding their scope of work. If common sense had prevailed with the county commissioners in August, the project would not be another four months behind costing an additional $220K in tax money. The commissioners always have a choice of professional firms based on their fair ranking and the ability to perform the requested tasks. The most logical approach would have been to eliminate Strollo for exceeding the bid requirements in August and award the contract to the firm in second place to conduct the study. Government bureaucracy has been blamed on the county staff many times but the responsibility for this "money pit" lies squarely on the county commissioners shoulders. In hindsight, over $2 million will be used on this project before any concrete decisions are made for the old hospital. The county commissioners should have been pro-active in 2001 with the new lease agreement with Brooksville Regional. This feasibility study should have been completed prior to the county assuming full responsibilities of the hospital last spring before Brooksville Regional staff vacated the premises. If a pro-active approach had taken place in 2001 by Commissioners Rowden, Kingsley and former Commissioner Robinson, our tax money would not be wasted today on these unnecessary delays. So on December 4th, the selection committee will once again rank the same firms to conduct this feasibility study. Ironic, or just plain sad, you be the judge?

"Happy Thanksgiving to your family from ours!"

Welcome, Commissioner Russell

This morning at the Hernando County Board of Commissioners, Judge Daniel Merritt, Sr. had the honor of swearing in newly elected Commissioner David Russell. Very little fanfare was undertaken for Commissioner Russell other than a few snapshots by newspaper photographers. Chairwoman Rowden took a ten minute recess for everyone in the chamber to greet Commissioner Russell then she called the meeting back to order. This swearing in ceremony of Commissioner Russell did not have any of the fanfare like in previous years. In fact, this ceremony seemed rather clinical, to the point of being cold, since Chairwoman Rowden did not even take the opportunity to welcome her new colleague on board, nor did the other two commissioners. Commissioner Russell will be a real asset to the Board of County Commissioner with his wealth of knowledge from the Florida Legislature. From the citizens of Hernando County, welcome on board Commissioner Russell.

Wonderful photos

Mark Rials of the Hernando Sportsman Club took some wonderful photos of our Veterans Appreciation Parade. Here is the link:
http://www.hernandosportsmansclub.com/images/Military%20Museum/Veterans%202006/index.html
Thanks, Mark!

Continuing saga...

According to an announcement on WWJB radio, Judge Booth will conduct a hearing at 3:30 p.m. this afternoon in the continuing saga of Robinson vs. Rocco. We have so many players in this issue it will be interesting to see which parties will go before Judge booth this afternoon.

A process of self promotion?

Who is keeping score in the Robinson / Rocco heavyweight fight of this local election season? Its getting kind of confusing with the flurry of legal motions filed in the past few days. One thing is for sure though, some local attorneys are not experiencing a recession with this headline news. An interesting twist of events now has local gadfly, Janey Baldwin as a player in the action, with her own lawsuit in this debacle. Her attorney, Joe Mason, was quoted in the Hernando Times as saying, in part, "Janey just wants to participate". If you remember, this is the same person that filed an ethics complaint against Mayor Robyn Anderson in 2004 during Swiftmud's attempt to revoke Weeki Wachee's long term lease agreement. Is this most recent court action by Mr. Mason's client an honest attempt to participate in the fair electoral process or just a process of self-promotion by this gadfly?

Robinson vs. Rocco

A press release, in reference to the Robinson vs. Rocco civil complaint, was just read on the air by WWJB talk show host, Bob Haa. Judge Booth ordered the Hernando County Canvassing Board to withhold the certification of the county commission, district 2, race and any swearing in ceremony for Rose Rocco until such time as court hearings are held in this case.

Melting Pot?

Walter Dry and Nick Morana of the Human Rights Coalition have organized a forum on tolerance on November 20, 2006. This forum is titled, "Is Hernando County Truly a Melting Pot?" It will take place at The Lake House located at 1202 Kenlake Avenue in Spring Hill from 6 to 9 p.m. Nick Morana was quoted as saying, "We're just going to bring it all out into the open and see what we can come up with," in reference to the firestorm created by Mary Ann Hogan's letter about the Islamic faith. This should be a good opportunity for our community leaders to have an open, frank discussion on intolerance or the perception of it.

Ambulance catches fire...

Did anyone catch the small article on page A-7 of the Hernando Today this morning titled, "Ambulance catches fire at scene of brush fire?' Apparently Hernando County Fire Rescue had an ambulance catch on fire while responding to a fire in the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge. The article said that the fire was thought to be mechanical in nature. Hopefully, an in-depth investigation will be made to determine the cause (and cost) of this fire since this equipment is extremely expensive for the taxpayers.

The real losers

Arm chair quarterbacks are weighing in all over Hernando County on the "Rocco vs. Robinson" fight for the county commission seat in district 2. Was Rose eligible on November 7th, or is Nancy nitpicking an issue because she is a sore loser?

Sterling Ivey, spokesman for the Florida Department of State said Florida case law clearly states that Mrs. Rocco should have established residency requirements on November 7th, the day of the election. Mr. Ivey said there appears to be no wiggle room according to his statements in this morning's edition of the Hernando Today.

Who will really win this battle? It certainly will not be the voters in Hernando County. If Nancy Robinson is success in her civil suit, she would resume her duties as commissioner. If Rose Rocco is success in defending this challenge, she will be the commissioner for the next four years. Clouds of doubt will hover over this county because the voters will question either winner of this challenge. If Mrs. Robinson is successful with her civil litigation, she will carry the reputation of a loser that does not deserve the seat. If Mrs. Rocco is sworn in as commissioner, she will bear the stigma of cheater for not abiding by residency requirements.

The Hernando County canvassing board, made up of Annie Williams, Commissioner Kingsley and Judge Scaglione, has a tough job on Friday. Will Ms. Williams and Mr. Kingsley leave their partisanship at the door when deciding whether to certify this election? If Mrs. Rocco is certified the winner on Friday, which judge will hear the civil litigation? Will it Judge Springstead, or Judge Merritt, or maybe Judge Rushing? Remember the partisan cartoons in the Hernando Today that depicted Mrs. Rocco in a unfavorable light drawn by Timothy Rushing, son of Judge and Mia Rushing.

Two new players to this debate popped up this morning attempting to influence the outcome of this election. Ana Trinque, chairwoman of the HCREC and Jay Rowden, chairman of the HCDEC are now weighing in with their partisan positions. Will the HCREC file an injunction to halt the swearing in ceremony of Mrs. Rocco next Tuesday? If so, will Mr. Rowden ask the HCDEC to take legal action? Or should Ms. Trinque and Mr. Rowden be involved at all? Is this a legal question that should be determined strictly by the merit of the law while leaving partisan politics out ot the equation?

Question, questions, questions...

Questions will remain for the next four years in the district 2 county commission seat. This debacle is a recipe for further voter apathy because we, the voters, are the real losers in this battle...

Christmas cards

Once again, the Hernando County Recreation Department, in cooperation with the Brooksville Kiwanis, will be organizing the Christmas cards on the Hernando County Courthouse lawn. Cards will be displayed from December 11th through 29th. For specific rules for registration, set-up, and display times, contact Marie Warren at 754-4031 (Hernando County Parks).

Example of goodness...

David Bearden, local chapter president of the National Federation of the Blind, recently was approved to become a foster parent. This is a remarkable achievement for Mr. Bearden since he is legally blind. David is also the first legally blind individual in the state of Florida to be certified as a foster parent. This challenge undertaken by David to give these children a home would be difficult even for a sighted person since several of his children, and foster children, are disabled, with one child being legally blind. David Bearden is a shining example of goodness in our community.

My heartfelt thanks...

Please allow me to express my heartfelt thanks to all of those that participated, and attended, The 6th Annual Veterans Appreciation Parade in Brooksville. A note of thanks to the participants:

• Brooksville Police & Fire Departments
• Hernando County Sheriff's Department Honor Guard
• Representative-elect Robert Schenck
• City Council members Mary Staib, Ernie Weaver & Frankie Burnett
• County Commissioners Jeff Stabin, Diane Rowden & Chris Kingsley
• County Commissioner(s)-elect David Russell & Rose Rocco
• Judge Stephen Rushing & his wife Mia, both veterans
• School Board member Sandy Nicholson
• WWJB talk show host, Bob Haa
• Hernando High School Band
• Hernando High Air force ROTC
• Central High Navy ROTC
• Young Marines
• Hernando County Chap. Of Military Officers
• D.A.V.
• American Legion, Post 99
• Gulf Coast Waves
• Knights of Columbus float
• National Federal of the Blind
• Operation Pride
• Beauty queens Eileen Majik, Morgan & Lane McDaniel, Alisa & Lexie Jester, Brittany Raborn
• Red Hat Ladies
• Daughters of American Revolution
• Girl Scouts, Troop 108
• All the walkers in the parade
• Alan Hartshorne, Pearl Harbor survivor
• Hernando Military Vehicle Preservation Association
• Hernando Sportsman Club
• Ye Mystic AirKrewe of Tampa

A special thanks to Chief Tincher, Sgt. Maeder, and the staff of the Brooksville Police Department for all their hard work in making this event a success once again this year. Thanks to my husband Tony, my son Bryon & Ed Baker (Am Leg. Post 99) & Rosann Toshich(Am. Leg. Post 99) for staging the event line-up and the many (many) emails & phone calls to get everyone on board.

See you all next year!

Anna Liisa Covell / Parade Coordinator

Reception for Nancy Robinson

For those of you who wish to thank Nancy Robinson for her 14 years of dedicated service to our community, a reception will be held at 11:00 a.m. following the county commission meeting on Tuesday, November 14th. For details, call the county administrator's office at 754-4002.

Veterans
Appreciation
Parade


Saturday, November 11, 2006 at 10 a.m.



Bring your American flags, your children & your neighbors
to show support for our men & women of our military, past & present.

Participation in this patriotic event will proudly salute our local
Veterans for their valiant service to our Nation!

Everyone is encouraged to walk with our Veterans to express thanks for their
heroic deeds. Please take a few minutes out of your day to express your
patriotism during this very crucial time in our country's history.

Parade line-up starts at 8:30 a.m. in the parking lot behind
Brooksville City Hall located at 201 Howell Avenue in downtown Brooksville.
(plenty of parking in adjacent lot on Orange Avenue)



"God Bless America"

Offer the olive branch...

Nausea overwhelmed me this morning. Our community is being consumed by hatred and bigotry to the degree not seen since the era of the 1960’s. Years ago many of us watched our black and white televisions in horror as blind hatred over took emotions in racial riots that proceeded the 1964 Civil rights Act. Do we really need to return to the age of the Ku Klux Klan and John Birch Society? Even though I respect everyone’s right of free speech, elected officials have the sworn duty to protect and serve our community without prejudice. A representative government sometimes means having to protect and serve those in our community, even when our elected officials vehemently disagree, in regards to race, creed, color, religion, or political persuasion. In this representative government, respectful dissent by the people is also an accepted method to approach your elected official. A truce needs to be called before innocent people are hurt, or religious institutions are damaged in our community. All party’s involved in this Muslin situation need to immediately set their prejudices on a shelf for the sake of our community to apologize to the offended party’s. The Hogan’s need to be the first to offer the olive branch…