A good beat

Dick Clark always had a "rate the record" for his Bandstand show. If this show was still on, the younger kids would probably rate Jeff Webb's rap tune "keepin' free speech real" as having a good beat but you can't dance to it. I'm sure they would all agree though the contents of Mr. Webb's lyrics were based on sound content and should be shouted from the roof tops.

No one should agree with the arrest and over night conviction of Christopher Holder for singing rap music in public while listening to his Ipod. Yes, he was crude and insensitive to the needs of a young mother's children in ear shot but who will be next on the hit list to have their free speech curbed by some one that is offended in public? Will it be the self-proclaimed preachers on the street corner or the anti-war protesters voicing their opinions? Free speech is based on the very foundation of this country.

The only judge and jury to carry out a sentence on this young man should have been his own mother using a bar of soap to clean up the filthy language, not a deputy who took it upon himself to determine what free speech would be allowed in public. As for Jeff Webb's clever column to get his point across to the public on the preservation of free speech, I say well done! Please, Jeff, don't quit your day job cause I don't think the young rap market is ready for you yet.

Pig in lipstick...

This morning on Fox News Sunday, President Bush indicated he would jump on the campaign trail for John McCain. The President attempted to sell the American public that McCain is a true conservative who deserves support from the entire republican party base for his quest to become the next commander-in-chief. This morning the Buzz on Florida Politics carried a short clip indicating that former Governor Jeb Bush sent a check to presumptive GOP nominee, John McCain, and stated this is a clear message to skeptical republicans.

The audible groans from the audience were clear when Mitt Romney bowed out of the race at the annual CPAC convention last week, paving a smooth path for a John McCain nomination of the republican party or will it? Did anyone happen to notice Mike Huckabee won 2 of the 3 states yesterday, not their presumptive front-runner John McCain? Cartoons and quotes have attempted to drive a stake into the heart of conservatism last week. Liberal media pundits are giddy with the notion the conservative movement in this country is dead upon arrival but the November General Election will be the only true indicator.

You can dress up a pig for a party social by putting lipstick on it but at the end of the party all you have is the same old pig. This analogy is similiar to that of John McCain with the republican big wigs now attempting to paint him as a true conservative. At the end of the campaign trail, the republican party will still have a quasi-democrat as their nominee...

GBW press release

This morning, I received this press release from Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite's office concerning their use of the word "foreign" instead of the word "territory" for citizens living in Puerto Rico. After all the comments, pro and con, this response by Congresswoman Brown-Waite should fully explain her point of view:

Congresswoman Fights with Facts, Not Angry Slurs and Name-Calling

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – U.S. Representative Ginny Brown-Waite (FL-05) today released the following statement about the media generated controversy surrounding her opposition to sending federal income tax rebate checks to territorial citizens that do not pay federal income taxes.

“When I was elected to Congress, I was elected to represent the 5th District, the interests of Florida, and to be a fiscal conservative. The important issue here is whether or not people who do not pay federal income taxes should get tax rebate checks as part of the economic stimulus package. Those who are personally attacking me are just seeking to mask the fact that territorial residents will be getting rebate checks from federal income taxes they never paid.

“I read the statements from Central Florida Democrat Party leaders today and am deeply disappointed that they engaged in the kind of race baiting politics we have come to expect from their Party. Apparently when fiscal conservatives have facts on their side, like I do here, the only way to defeat them is to attack us personally. Whether it is Bill Clinton in South Carolina, Hillary Clinton in California or frequent Democratic congressional candidate Charlie Stuart in Central Florida today, we are seeing Democrats sink to new levels in desperation to capture Latino votes in Florida. Orlando area Democrat leaders have taken a detailed policy discussion and turned it into a personal attack. Perhaps they realized that they cannot win on the issues, so they have resorted to name calling and demagoguery.

“The facts are that I have already issued a clarification that using the word territorial would have been a better choice of words; case closed. But the original issue of my press release stands unchallenged. Is it fair or fiscally responsible to give tax rebate checks to folks who have not paid into the federal income tax system? My 5th District residents, and most Americans, would answer no.

“Some might ask where the idea for this enormous federal income tax transfer originated. One of the Democrat leaders in the House, Rep. Jose Serrano of New York, issued a press release claiming credit for inserting this mammoth earmark into an economic stimulus bill. Rep. Serrano’s earmark is the type of backroom deal that the American public has rejected time and again. They want legislation to be debated out in the open, not tucked in at the last minute with little or no discussion. This is yet another example of Democrat leadership failing to live up to their promises of being an ethical and open Congress.

“By attacking me personally, instead of debating the issue of taxation and rebates, I believe some individuals are trying to shift media focus away from the billion dollar earmark that Rep. Serrano has inserted in the legislation. By calling me names they hope to draw attention away from what amounts to an enormous transfer payment to the government of Puerto Rico, not to its residents; this is a direct transfer payment to territorial governments disguised as tax rebates.

“Furthermore, instead of taking real action to strengthen the economy, the Democrats proposed a package that would give tax “rebates” to folks who have not paid into the federal income tax system. It is not a rebate if people have not paid taxes in the first place.

“My constituents overwhelmingly want a fiscally conservative economic growth package that makes the tax cuts permanent, cuts the corporate tax rate, currently the highest in the world, and includes a stimulus for our seniors and veterans. Anything else is a job half done.”

Resign to run

The Buzz on Florida Politics in yesterday's metro section of the St. Petersburg Times stated Governor Charlie Crist will appear with John McCain at a fundraiser tonight in New York City. Mr. Crist will also accompany McCain to Connecticut, Missouri and Arizona on Super Tuesday. It sure looks like Charlie is interviewing for the vice presidential spot on the republican ticket with McCain.

If Super Tuesday puts McCain as the front-runner for the delegate count nationwide then an announcement of his running mate will surely be made soon by his campaign. It looks like Crist appears to be on the short list of vice presidential picks for the McCain team.

Florida has a resign to run law for all elected officials. This statute would require Charlie Crist to resign his position as the governor of Florida if he accepts an offer for a McCain-Crist ticket. That would mean we would be voting for a new governor in November since Charlie Crist has served less than two years in office and a new election would be required to fill his position.

I just found out from a a very reliable source that the Resign to Run law for state officials running for federal offices was abolished last year. Apparently this was done to assist Charlie Justice to run against Bill Young (Pinellas County) or for Crist to run as VP. This certainly answers the questions many of us had about Governor Crist riding shotgun with John McCain on his campaign trail just prior to Super Tuesday!

Nitpicking...

Yesterday, the Hernando Times ran an editorial opinion titled, "Wrongheaded remark warrants swift apology" which was in reference to Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite's office issuing a written statement referring to Puerto Rico and Guam as foreign citizens. This editorial has called for an apology and immediate clarification of her office's statement. The statement was made in reference President Bush's economic stimulus package that tax dollars for the people of Puerto Rico, Guam and Samoa that do not pay federal income taxes.

In the editorial, it stated that Charlie Keller had admitted the use of the term "foreign citizens" was inaccurate but also stated that he thought it was nitpicking by those who questioned it. I agree with Mr. Keller. This is selective nitpicking of our republican congresswoman. If a democrat had made a similiar statement in a press release it would have flown under the radar without even a whisper from the media.

Quasi-democrat

Confetti's strewn on the floor. Empty strings with deflated balloons. Campaign banners hanging limply from the walls. All that's left of the state of Florida's Presidential Primary is to clean up the mess. The janitors have the easy job of tidying up campaign halls, with the clutter left behind by the entourage of republican candidates but who is going to clean up the turmoil left behind with Governor Crist's 11th hour endorsement of John McCain?

Political pundits have been spouting the demise of the conservatives in the republican party all day with the win of McCain last night. They are conveniently ignoring the hard, cold numbers of the Florida campaigns. Yes, McCain won but his margin of victory was slim, at best. Looking at it realistically, 64% of republicans that voted in yesterday's Primary did not agree with McCain's brand of politics.

It is apparent that the republican guru's at the top of the food chain have forgotten the message the voters sent them in 2006 which gave the majority control over to democrats in Congress. Republicans are still smarting from the pain of holding our noses in 1996 after Bob Dole's failed bid for president. What's next? Asking republicans to vote for a quasi-democrat under the guise of the republican banner?

The one bright spot in yesterday's election was the passage of amendment 1 that will help jump start our sagging economy.

Precinct 1

This morning when I drove up to my precinct to vote I became concerned because my elderly neighbor was not sitting outside. Much to my relief, he was attempting to stay warm just inside the door. This neighbor has been a poll worker since before I began voting in Precinct 1 in 1992. His name is Orville "Buck' Sharp and is lovingly called the mayor of Nobleton. After giving Buck a big hug we chatted briefly about his well being. Although Buck is close to 90 years old, he still works at our polling place from sun up to sundown, along with many more of my elderly neighbors. Else Howell was there this morning checking identification of the voters along with my neighbor Maxine Milliken. As much I consider voting my civic duty being a pleasure, I find just as much joy going to the polls to visit with my neighbors who have volunteered at our precinct for more years than I have lived in Hernando County. My thanks go out to these kind souls that give their time to our community!

.

Please vote "Yes" on Amendment 1

on January 29, 2008

Election results tomorrow

I received this press release from Hernando County Community Relations Coordinator, Brenda Frazier concerning tomorrow's Presidential Preference Primary Election:

PRESS RELEASE
Monday, January 28, 2008
Local Election Results

The local government channel, Bright House Channel 622, will show Hernando County's results in tomorrow's Presidential Preference Primary Election, including Amendment 1, as soon as the tabulation has been completed. According to the Supervisor of Elections Office, the results should be finalized by 9:00 p.m. The results will also be posted on the Elections website: www.hernandovotes.com.

Quid Pro Quo

Endorsements, endorsements, endorsements, etc. Has everyone heard enough about the Presidential Preference Primary slated to take place tomorrow? My email box has been full everyday with campaign literature. My phone has been ringing off the hook with that last minute candidate promotions. Radio stations have been blaring last minute campaign ads to get the attention of the voters. Every TV station has inundated our brains with mindless drivel about the candidates. Every candidate is the best thing since sliced bread was invented if you believe the ads.

I thought I had heard it all until Saturday night. Fox News interrupted their regular broadcasting to show Governor Charlie Crist endorse John McCain at the Pinellas County Republican Lincoln Day Dinner. That's when I snapped and started to scream at the television. What does Charlie Crist think he's doing endorsing a candidate before our Florida Presidential Preference Primary Election? It doesn't matter which candidate the Governor endorsed, its the fact that he endorsed a candidate at all before the Primary. This endorsement sure looks like quid pro quo. "I endorse you and you pick me for the vice president on your ticket". This type of "back door politics" is what has been wrong with the republican party for years. They just don't get it...

Weeki Wachee

I received this press release from Weeki Wachee Springs earlier this afternoon and thought you might be interested in the progress of their negotiations with Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Weeki Wachee Springs and the State Reach Agreement


WEEKI WACHEE, FL- Yesterday, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Division of Recreation and Parks hosted officials from Weeki Wachee Springs, L.L.C. At the conclusion of the meeting, an agreement was signed by both parties, bringing Weeki Wachee Springs one step closer to becoming a state park. The agreement is now pending approval of the agreement by the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

“We are pleased with yesterday’s meeting and we remain optimistic about the future of Weeki Wachee Springs. We look forward to continuing our work with all partners to preserve this cultural icon as part of Florida’s award-winning state park system.” ~ Sarah Williams, DEP.

For more information, please contact Weeki Wachee Springs Public Relations Director John Athanason at (352) 427-3299 and DEP Press Secretary Sarah Williams at (850) 245-2112.

Picky...

Let's see if we all understand this morning's lead story in the Hernando Today. The article relates to the choice of the new county administrator and the headline reads, 'County bosses plan to be picky'. Commissioner Rocco was quoted as saying, "You don't want to jump and make a hasty choice." Commissioner Rowden agreed with Ms. Rocco.

The Hernando County Commissioners voted last October to have a six-person committee of local business executives and a Pasco County government official review candidates for the open position of county administrator. This committee was tasked with reviewing all the candidate applications and to submit a short list for the county commission review. After wading through almost 40 applications, this appointed committee offered the names of David Hamilton, Tom Marko and Kathy Rice for the administrator's position.

These three candidates were brought to Hernando County at taxpayer expense for personal interviews with the county commissioners today. Mr. Hamilton was flown in from Minnesota. Ms. Rice came in from Arizona. Mr. Marko is here from south Florida. If Commissioner Rocco and Rowden were incapable of making a decision after four months into the search, is it unreasonable to ask just how long they intent to take picking a new administrator?

Leadership quality for elected officials depends primarily on their character and integrity. Leadership means being able to make sound decisions, without arbitrary changing their minds, otherwise they lose the trust of their constituents that voted into office in the first place. All your constituents want you to do is make a firm decision and not waffle on every item that crosses your desk...

Poll

Tampa Bay Business Journal has been running a Presidential Preference Poll this week. Here are the results:

Hillary Rodham Clinton
14%

John Edwards
5%

Rudy Giuliani
18%

Mike Gravel
0%

Mike Huckabee
6%

Duncan Hunter
0%

Dennis Kucinich
0%

John McCain
16%

Barack Obama
17%

Ron Paul
3%

Mitt Romney
11%

Fred Thompson
6%

Other
1%

Belly up to the bar...

Isn't it time our county commissioners belly up to the bar, so to speak, and start making some decisions on their own? After spending over $100,ooo of our taxpayers money on an outside consultant for a countywide fire master plan, the Hernando County Commissioners have now decided to appoint another volunteer board. Why? Is it too much to ask for our county commissioners to make some executive decisions on their own without calling for another study, committee, commission, consultant, whatever? Appointing new committees has become synonymous with waffling on issues for the commissioners. Apparently their wasn't enough discussion from the public yesterday to officially throw this master plan report in the trash so they appointed another committee to talk the issue to death.

Does anyone remember the citizens appointed by the county commissioners to Committee of 25 to review capital improvements and a workable Facilities Master Plan? These dedicated individuals spent months to compile data for long term plans, including the outcome of the old Brooksville Regional Hospital. The county commissioners completely ignored this report and sold the old hospital for $1.2 million. We are now being told a private-public partnership would be the answer for the judicial space crunch by Interim County Administrator, Larry Jennings. David Russell was quoted as saying he wants to see the facility built downtown to keep the county government services in one area. Too bad he, and the other commissioners, didn't think of the 10+ acres of prime real estate they sold in Brooksville which just happened to be the old hospital.

Is it too much to ask of our local elected officials to make some sound decisions in the name of the public they represent instead of worrying their political backsides on every issue that comes down the pike?

Public apologies...

Kudos to Interim Hernando County Administrator, Larry Jennings for the suspension of the Human Resource Director Barbara Dupree. His actions in this matter have served to reinforce his superior management ability for Hernando County government. This long running cat fight between Ms. Dupree and County Commissioner Diane Rowden has been a public embarrassment to the county. Public apologies should be forthcoming from both women to mark an end to this tacky behavior the public has witnessed for several years.

Alt. Minimum Tax

Normally, I do not include an entire press releases from an elected official but I believe this message from the desk of Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite needs to be seen in its entirety by the public. This one-year patch on the Alternative Minimum Tax is welcome relief to the middle class tax payer who is getting caught up in our antiquated tax system.

Stopping Democrat-Led Tax Increases and Fighting to Keep Your Taxes Low

The Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) for individuals was originally enacted to ensure that high-income taxpayers pay at least a minimum amount of federal taxes. The AMT functions as a parallel tax system to the regular income tax. Taxpayers calculate their regular income tax and then calculate their AMT. If their AMT liability is larger than their regular income tax liability, then they must pay the AMT. However, the AMT is not indexed for inflation, and this factor, combined with the recent reductions in the regular income tax, has greatly expanded the impact of the AMT. The number of taxpayers subject to the AMT would have increased from 3.5 million in 2006 to 23 million in 2007.

On December 19, 2007, after numerous bi-partisan negotiations, the House passed the final version of a one-year AMT patch. I was proud to support passage of this legislation, which prevents more than 23 million Americans from being hit with this outdated tax provision. You will also be happy to know that Republicans fought to ensure that the Democrat proposed $55.7 billion tax increase did not make it into the final version of the bill, which was signed into law by President Bush on December 26, 2007.

There is no doubt that our current tax code is antiquated, confusing, and cumbersome. Each year, Americans spend too much time navigating this complex labyrinth, with the result often being a tremendous burden on their time and hard-earned money. Some groups estimate that Americans will spend 3.5 billion hours individually, or 26 hours per household, filing their taxes. Additionally, individuals and businesses spend a staggering $250 billion each year to remain in compliance with tax laws. The bottom line is that Americans deserve a more clear and efficient tax system.

Since coming to Congress in 2003, I have made simplification of the tax code one of my highest priorities. Therefore, I applaud the efforts of those like Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) and the Cleanse the Code Coalition, toward achieving tax fairness for millions of Americans. Given the divisive nature of tax reform, bipartisan support will be necessary in order to accomplish this goal. I look forward to working with my colleagues in Congress to ensure that this occurs, and you can rest assured that I will keep your concerns in mind.

Welcome relief...

I rubbed my eyes in disbelief as I read the column written by the new editor of the Hernando Today, Chris Wessel, calling for civility while printing hard hitting news articles on December 31, 2007. This first column of Mr. Wessel's outlined a testimonial, of sorts, of the things to come under his command a new editor-in-chief at the Hernando Today.

One can only assume the hiring of Mr. Wessel by Hernando Today's publisher, Duane Chichester, was to change the direction of his paper. Maybe the slumping market share for the Tampa Tribune and the Hernando Today under the direction of their previous editor, Robert Nolte, had a lot to do with the new direction of this newspaper. Maybe it was pressure from the local business community for change after the Hernando Today became in tangled with the Government Gone Wild seminars last summer with Robert Nolte's relentless attack on the county government. No one will know for sure except Mr. Chichester and Mr. Nolte but the change in leadership at the Hernando Today is a welcome relief over the many months of negative, nasty articles which were riddled with half-truths about our county government.

With that, I say welcome, Mr. Chris Wessel, to Hernando County and may your reign at the Hernando Today be a prosperous one...

Yes on 1

Several days ago, I received an email from local realtor and businessman, Gary Schraut asking for my support of the "Yes, on 1" amendment for the property tax reform. This appeared to be a blanket email sent to everyone in Mr. Schraut's address book but the message itself speaks volumes. Here is a short comment from his email, "No matter how much you like another proposal, the soonest anything else can get on the ballot would be Nov. of 2008 taking effect Nov of 2009.......almost 2010!!! Florida cannot wait that long for a "start"! Being an astute businessman, Mr. Schraut has taken the initiative to assist in the passage the property tax reform legislation that will give almost everyone with Homestead Exemption tax relief in this slow economic trend.

It was reported in the "Buzz" of the St. Petersburg Times, the Florida Association of Realtors has donated the largest check, to date, for the "Yes on 1" campaign with their contribution of $1-million dollars. This political committee working for passage of the property tax amendment has collected almost $3-million to promote the passage of the property tax reform on Jan. 29, 2008. If you want more information about this campaign to pass Amendment 1, click on http://yeson1florida.com/

The passage of this amendment would give immediate tax relief and would give Florida businesses a jump start to recovery from this housing slump. Voting yes on this amendment would enable homeowners to keep more of their own money with the proposed $50,000 Homestead Exemption. So what are you waiting for? Pass the message on to everyone to vote yes on Amendment 1 on January 29th!

More in tax dollars

Last week, my son dropped an article on my desk concerning the 3 percent withholding law that requires any government entity with an operational budget of $100 million or more (federal, state or local) to withhold 3 percent from any contracts doing business with that entity. Before you say too bad for Big Business because they should pay, think twice. This 3% will not be absorbed any business entity but will be an added cost of doing business with the government entity. This added cost means it will cost more for the government vendor service which will cost each of you more in tax dollars.

I am certainly glad that my son was astute in bringing this to my attention since it is slated to be implemented in 2011. Many members of Congress have initiated the repeal of this 3% withholding but to date none has been effective in passage to eliminate this 3% withholding law. I emailed Congresswoman Ginny Brown Waite last week concerning this law. My email is below, along with the reply that I just received from the Congresswoman's office:

My email:

Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite:

What is your position on H.R. 1023? This bill would repeal the 3 percent withholding from any contractors doing business with any government agency (federal, state or local) with an operational budget of over $1million or more? If this allowed to go into affect in 2011 it will have devastating affect on our economy. Business will not absorb a 3% loss right off the top, and thus, these fees will be added to the cost of the service to the government entity.

The state of Florida is already charging a 1% transaction fee to all contractors which we have dubbed the "extortion fee" for doing business with the state of Florida. By the way, this 1% is included in the cost of doing business which drives our cost up to the state costing the taxpayers.

Anna Liisa Covell
A.L. Covell Electric, Inc.

Her reply:

Dear Anna:

Thank you for bringing your concerns to my attention. I appreciate the time you took to contact my office on this important issue and welcome the opportunity to respond.

As you know, the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 included a provision that would require government entities, whether federal or local, to withhold three percent of payments to certain vendors with whom they have contracts. In response, Congressman Kendrick Meek (D-FL) introduced H.R. 1023, which would repeal this language. Currently, the House Committee on Ways and Means is reviewing this legislation.

Like you, I worry about government regulations that adversely affect businesses, especially when they take the form of taxes, as is the case here. Should the House of Representatives vote on this measure, I will be sure to support it. In the meantime, rest assured that I will keep your concerns in mind as Congress examines our nation's tax policy.

Throughout my tenure in public service, I have always kept an open door and an open dialogue with my constituents. As Congress addresses the many challenges facing our nation, I hope you will continue to share your thoughts and views with me. Accordingly, I encourage you to visit my Web site at http://brown-waite.house.gov/ to email me and find useful information about our 5th Congressional District.
It is my honor and privilege to serve the people of Florida's 5th Congressional District and my offices and staff are here to provide you with any assistance you may need.

Sincerely,
Ginny Brown-Waite

Member of Congress

.

Happy New Year to Everyone!

Merry Christmas!

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

Pressing the flesh...

Walking into the VFW 10209 last night had the aura of a republican candidate rally even though the event was advertised as a grassroots meeting to discuss a "constitutional amendment effort" to cap property taxes at 1.35% with guest speaker, Marco Rubio, Florida's Speaker of the House. Six republican candidates were pressing the flesh with the approximately 150 people in attendance for this event.

The climate in the room took on an aggressive tone as the majority of the candidates shoved their petitions cards into the unsuspecting crowd's hands for signatures to get their names on the ballot. John Druzbick, candidate for county commission, district 3, was the only candidate that did not bring campaign literature or petitions to this event which really shows that he is true gentleman that respects the electorate he hopes to serve in the future. One odd touch that really set the stage for spurious event was the water bottles set out on each table bearing the label of a candidate for district 5 county commission which could be construed as tacky and self-serving for this individual.

The event got under way with the arrival of the guest speaker, Marco Rubio about 7:15 p.m. The hostess of this event was called to the stage to give her brief comments that included remarks stating that this was not a partisan event for either democrats or republicans. Apparently she forgot to remind the attending candidates and their entourages of the non-partisan nature of this event.

Florida's House Speaker, Marco Rubio's presentation lasted about 15 minutes and detailed what he termed the failure of the Legislature to get the job done on tax reform during their last session. He repeated this "failure" statement numerous times while he sp0ke of the constitutional amendment. His off the cuff speech discussed of the Florida's ranking of 2nd place in home foreclosures. Mr. Rubio discussed the American dream in his speech but clearly forgot the constitution in this "representative republican" we call America. To his credit, Mr. Rubio did not speak against the amendment on the ballot for January 29th to increase our Homestead Exemption to $50,000. He just stated numerous times that this legislation was a failure of the Legislature.

The observation of this event gave the impression that Marco Rubio is attempting to do an end-run around the Florida Legislature and Governor Charlie Crist. In a "representative republic" the three branches of government are meant protect the peoples interest in a system of check and balances. Clearly, if Mr. Rubio deems himself a failure then he should sharpen his pencil as he returns to the Legislature in 2008 to lower the tax burden on Florida property owners, not grandstand by pushing a constitutional amendment outside the parameters of his job classification as a Florida Representative.

Fiscal fascists...

Jeff Webb's editorial column in yesterday's Hernando Times really hit the nail on the head. If you missed it, he discussed Hernando County employees courting the idea of joining the Teamster's Union. He referred to the anti-tax zealots that have driven the employees to consider unionizing after last summer's contentious budget debate.

In his article, Mr. Webb referred to "the fiscal fascists who vowed to punish county commissioner for their benevolence with their government bashing scheme in next year's election. The county commissioners Mr. Webb referred to were Mr. Stabins, Ms. Rowden and Mr. Kingsley for their affirmative vote to approve county employee salary increases. This public threat to their political future was leveled at the last budget hearing by Blaise Ingoglia of the Government Gone Wild seminars.

To quote Mr. Webb article, he said "Property taxes are too high because the real estate, building and mortgage industries were to busy making money three years ago to worry about not over inflating the housing market". In my opinion, this single statement set the tone for the downfall of the housing market. Speculators fueled an artificial economy and are crying foul for the mess they created in their respective trades and now expect everyone else to pick up the pieces.

Will the county employees vote for the Teamster's Union representation? I hope not but who would blame them after being held up to public ridicule for months being depicted as being lazy, incompetent and overpaid...

So-called analysts...

Yesterday, the Hernando Today ran an article titled, "Selling homes in a down market". In this article, local realtor, Gary Schraut was quoted as saying, "Home prices were artificially driven up by wild speculation and it is unfair to use those years (2003 to 2005) as a yardstick to say the home market is a complete disaster". He also said that "We're seeing a turnaround in the housing market and hopefully we're going to stabilize. I think all the speculators are gone". Local builder, Dudley Hampton was also quoted in the same article saying, Hernando County still boasts the lowest prices (on homes) in the Tampa Bay metropolitan area" and he believes that much of the negativity comes from so-called analysts who continue to preach grim housing news.

Gary Schraut and Dudley Hampton need to be commended for having a positive outlook for the local housing market. Their professional outlook of our local economy was refreshing to read in yesterday's paper. Both of these individuals operate well-established businesses in our county and their market research gave the public a clear insight on state of our current economy. In short, their positive attitude is a direct reflection of the majority of the business owners who strive to successful in our community.

Holiday spirit

Last Saturday's Christmas edition of Bandshell Bash was a tremendous success for the community. The Bandshell Committee had teamed up with Hernando Hospice this year to present some outstanding talent for our local community. The Hernando Youth Symphony opened the festivities by playing some old time Christmas classics. The Bandshell committee invitations to the local choir groups, the church bell ringers, the harpist and soloist proved to be a success for this holiday extravaganza.

Hernando County Commissioner Rose Rocco was on hand to personally hit the switch to light the Hernando Hospice memory tree on display next door to the Chamber office on Fort Dade. The holiday crowd that had assembled thoroughly enjoyed ringing in the holiday spirit with this month's bash. In case you missed the fun and festivities at the park, it will be broadcast over the government access channel on Brighthouse network for your home viewing, holiday entertainment.

Decade's long debacle

The Brooksville Housing Authority is in limbo now that Mayor Pugh has forced the majority of their board to submit resignations against their will with his flimsy charges of being inefficient in their board duties. The Brooksville Housing Authority Board is suppose to have seven full time members from the community but only has three left standing which does not constitute a quorum to conduct the BHA business. It will be interesting to see how long it takes with this now, dysfunctional board before the business at the Brooksville Housing Authority comes to a screeching halt.

With these forced resignations, David Pugh, Jr. has envisioned a group of business leaders temporarily taking the rein of the Brooksville Housing Authority Board to determine if the Hernando County Housing Authority should assume responsibility for this decade's long debacle. Beyond the clear intent for the Brooksville City Council to micro-manage the BHA with this latest action, it appears that no one has logically evaluated who makes the final decision in reference to the Hernando County Housing Authority assuming responsibility for the Brooksville Housing Authority.

Any changes to the structure of the Brooksville Housing Authority must first pass the approval of HUD officials. The Brooksville City Council has absolutely no authority to mandate changes in Brooksville's Housing Authority oversight, and neither does the Hernando County Commissioners. The Hernando County Housing Authority Commissioners, who serve by the appointment of the governor of Florida, have the final oversight in any final decision of assuming the Brooksville Housing Authority.

Former BHA member

Below is the full text of the letter of resignation submitted last week byJeanette Soto, former Brooksville Housing Authority Board member.

December 7,2007

Mayor David Pugh,

This letter will serve as my resignation from the board, effective immediately. Though I have always wished to support you, and your directive for the Brooksville Housing Authority Board, I was extremely reluctant to submit my resignation after reading your comment in the newspaper November 29, 2007 that “charges might be forth coming”, especially after you had told me numerous times I had done nothing wrong nor had I caused any trouble on my short 3-month (four meeting) tenure. I couldn’t possibly imagine any charges directed only at me, since I was only one member of a seven member board. I felt your subsequent comments in the newspaper December 4th regarding my integrity were even more damaging to my reputation.

In spite of the very heavy baggage brought forth from the past, (long before any of the current board members took office), there are good things happening in the community.
It was a pleasure to voluntarily work with all members of the BHA Board, the Executive Director and especially to have been given the privilege and opportunity to meet many of the residents of the housing’s community.

I thank you and the City Council for giving me the opportunity to volunteer and serve the City of Brooksville. I remain,

Sincerely,
Jeanette Soto

Sweet Treats...

The caption in this morning's Hernando Times article read, "Purchasing goodies is not in the new police chief's job description". For those of you that did not read this article, it related to candy needed for the city council members to throw to the children in this morning's Christmas Parade. Since the city council has been pushing this new public-private partnership, what was wrong with them opening up their pocketbooks to buy several bags of candy for the children instead putting their hands out to private business? This "candy" is used by the city council as a way to ingratiate themselves with the public, so you would think they would have loaded up on these sweet treats.

The new police chief for the city of Brooksville stated in this article that his responsibilities were to provide security, drive the mayor in the lead car and keep the parade moving at an acceptable pace and not provide candy for the children like the previous chief, Ed Tincher. Turner was also adamant that he would not wear a Santa suit in the parade. Since he didn't wear the Santa suit and pooh-poohed the duty of buying candy for the children, did anyone notice if he dressed for the occasion by putting on an Ebenezer Scrooge outfit?

Two wrongs...

At Monday night's Brooksville City Council meeting, local resident Richard Howell protested the re-election of David Pugh, Jr. as mayor for a second term. Mr. Howell stated at the podium that past protocol dictated the vice chair be chosen for the position. Mr. Howell was correct in his past interpretation of procedures to choose the mayor of the city of Brooksville even though he was countered by Mr. Pugh, who pointed out that he, himself, had served as vice mayor for two consecutive terms.

To refresh every one's memory, Joe Johnston was chosen for a second year in 2005 to serve as mayor even though it was clearly David Pugh's turn in this position as leader. The reasons given then were basically the same which was council preferred to have Mr. Johnson continue in this position. The only thing different was it was a 5-0 open vote to retain Mr. Johnston, unlike the 3-2 paper ballot on Monday night. During the 2005 city council vote to retain him, it was clearly implied that Mr. Johnston's experience outweighed protocol to elect David Pugh, Jr. who had been seen by a majority of his fellow council members as immature, and too inexperienced to hold this ceremonial position.

David Pugh, Jr. should have been more gracious on Monday night to decline the endorsement by Mr. Bernardini. Two wrongs just don't make a right...

Blind-sided

What ever you call it, term or turn, Brooksville's Vice Mayor got overlooked last night at the city council meeting. Councilman Richard Lewis nominated Frankie Burnett for the position of Mayor. Joe Bernardini then indicated he wanted to retain David Pugh as mayor. Instead of voting on Frankie Burnett's nomination first, as directed by Robert's Rule of Procedural Order, the city council voted 3-2 with Mr. Bernardini's suggestion of retaining Mr. Pugh for another year. Council members Bradburn, Pugh and Bernadini voted in favor while Mr. Burnett and Mr. Lewis voted nay.

Even though the position of mayor in the city of Brooksville is largely ceremonial in nature, it is seen as a privilege to serve the community in the highest capacity of an elected official. Frankie Burnett deserved the opportunity to serve the city as mayor this year and was blind-sided by these three council members...

BHA

I have included two letters (below) that I received concerning news that David Pugh, Jr. has once again requested four Brooksville Housing Board members submit resignations by noon today. Mayor Pugh's letter to Brooksville Housing Board member, Jeanette Soto, did not indicate that she had violated any rules or procedures, only that he wanted a more "cohesive board". Has the Brooksville Housing Authority had their controversy over the last 18 months? Yes, they have, but some of the blame lies at the doorstep of the Brooksville City Council for not asserting their authority during the indictments and convictions of two previous employees of the Brooksville Housing Authority.

Mr. Pugh was quoted in the Hernando Times last Friday as saying, "I really think a new group of board members can go in, review day-to-day operations and report back." Report back to him? Wasn't the mayor paying attention to the letter from HUD that clearly stated Brooksville Housing Authority members cannot interfere with day-to-day operations which are not the duties of the Brooksville Housing Authority board members. HUD clearly stated that Brooksville Housing Board members cannot interfere with day-to-day operations to micromanage the housing authority. Their main concern is the oversight of their executive director, Mr. Ronnie McLean. If the Brooksville City council wanted a more cohesive board then they should have immediately appointed a seventh member after the resignation of previous board member. This appointment of a seventh member would have aided in the democratic process of the BHA board meetings to prevent tie votes and assist in "more cohesive meetings".

This letter is from Mayor David Pugh to Mrs. Jeanette Soto, Brooksville Housing Authority member:

Dear Mrs.Soto:

The City of Brooksville acknowledges that public service is the foundation and backbone of our community. Furthermore, the City commends your efforts in attempting to make Brooksville a better place to live.

As you are aware, the Brooksville Housing Authority (BHA) has been mired in controversy for several months. I attempted to remedy the problem the BHA has been experiencing through the appointment of new members. Unfortunately, it does not appear that the current composition of the BHA has been effective in administering its duties.

I have spent many hours contemplating how this matter should be addressed, and it is with a heavy heart that I must respectfully request that you resign from your position on the Brooksville Housing Authority, as I believe that new members must be appointed to ensure the cohesive operation of the BHA.

I have enclosed a Letter of Resignation. Please sign the Letter of Resignation where indicated, and return it to the City Manager no later than 12:00 PM., Monday, December 3, 2007.

It is my sincere hope that you will consider this action as an attempt by the City to avoid further distractions, and not as a reflection on you personally.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

David Pugh, Mayor

This letter is from Jeanette Soto to the Brooksville City Council:



December 1, 2007

Honorable Mayor, David Pugh, and City Council Members
201 Howell Avenue
Brooksville, FL 34601

RE: Brooksville Housing Authority Board

Dear Mayor Pugh and City Council Members:

This letter is to request a formal hearing before the entire City Council regarding the Mayor’s request for my resignation as a member on the Brooksville Housing Authority Board.

The Mayor called me Thursday afternoon, November 29, 2007 to advise me that he was sending me a voluntary letter of resignation from the BHA Board for my signature. He assured me numerous times during the call that, “I had done nothing wrong, nor had I caused any trouble.” After receiving this letter and carefully considering the Mayor’s request, I have decided that I will not resign from the Board. Having done nothing wrong, there is no reason for me to resign. I intend to complete the term of office to which I was appointed and to continue to serve the residents of the Community.

It is not clear to me whether the Mayor was acting alone or with the support of the City Council. Accordingly, if the City Council desires my resignation, I request the opportunity to address the Council in a formal hearing.

Please inform me of a date and time for a hearing to fully discuss this matter.

Sincerely,



Jeanette R. Soto, Commissioner
Brooksville Housing Authority Board


Cc: Jennene Norman-Vacha, City Manager
John G. Niesz, Director, HUD Office of Public Housing
Hernando Times
Hernando Today

State froze investment account

This morning the Sun-Sentinel ran an article about the State Board of Administration (SBA) headed up by Governor Charlie Crist, CFO Alex Sink and Bill McCollum, Attorney General. The article described how the SBA froze state investment accounts used by local governments. This action was taken in an effort to halt what one official called "an investment world version of a run on the bank". Nearly half the $27 billion investment fund has been drained over the past two weeks after the state notified local finance directors that some investments were exposed to sub-prime risk. Some of the public revenues were backed by residential mortgages that were downgraded by the credit rating service Standard and Poor's. A "run of the bank' was created with the sub-prime meltdown.

After reading this article, I emailed the Hernando County Budget Director to ask if Hernando County was at risk with their funds. Mr. Zoettlein forwarded an email released from Karen Nicolai's office this afternoon which I have enclosed below:

From: Karen Nicolai

Sent: Fri 11/30/2007 2:34 PM

To: All_Network_Users

Subject: State of Florida Investment Fund

As you may know, the State of Florida manages an investment fund for use by local governments. Recently, there have been articles regarding the stability of that fund. Yesterday, the State froze the fund, preventing local governments from withdrawing money. Local governments that are invested in the fund might experience liquidity problems in meeting payroll and other obligations.

As Chief Financial Officer, my office is on top of this and would like to put any concerns you might have to rest. Our office had an indication of the problem early on and withdrew over $30 million (almost all of the money invested with the fund) at the beginning of November. The County's portfolio of over $200 million is invested in strong conservative investment instruments. Our primary goal is, and always has been, to protect the County's assets.

There has also been concern expressed regarding the possibility that this will affect the County's retirement/pension funds with the State. Although the State considered 'assisting' the investment pool with pension funds during their meeting yesterday, the State's Chief Financial Officer advised against it. If it does however happen in the future, I'm sure they'll put in safeguards to prevent putting pension funds at risk.

In summary, this will not affect Hernando County's ability to meet any financial obligations. Thankfully, the Clerk's Office responded very timely to avoid any negative impact on the County. If you have any questions, please contact me.

Thank you.
Karen Nicolai, Clerk of Circuit Court

Poll

Tampa Bay Business Journal has been conducting poll asking which Presidential candidate would be best for business. Even though this is an unscientific poll, the results so far are an interesting insight on the thoughts of the local business community. Here is the poll:

Which presidential candidate is best for business?

Rudy Guiliani
25%

Hillary Clinton
16%

John McCain
3%

John Edwards
4%

Mitt Romney
20%

Barak Obama
8%

Fred Thompson
8%

Bill Richardson
2%

Dennis Kucinich
1%

Mike Huckabee
6%

Other
8%

Soul searching...

After the newest revelation about the unpaid traffic violation of Mr. Ronnie McLean, it is apparent the Hernando Times editorial was correct in their evaluation of the Brooksville Housing Authority's Executive director. Mr. McLean's continued procrastination only gives rise to his critics and adds fuel to the fire that his presence is detrimental to the future direction of the Brooksville Housing Board. Honesty is the key role in gaining public trust for any civil servant and it appears that Mr. McLean thinks rules do not apply to him. The Brooksville Housing Authority needs to do some soul searching of their own by stepping up to plate to do what is right for the residents under their care...

Informed consumer...

Yesterday, an article appeared in the Hernando Times about Blaise Ingoglia's affordable housing initiative. He is promoting this plan to assists teachers and local law enforcement qualify for home ownership. A similar article about Mr. Ingoglia's plan ran in the Hernando Today several weeks ago.

In the Hernando Times article, Stan Fitterman, a senior technical advisor for the Florida Housing Coalition pointed out some of the risks associated with Mr. Ingoglia's initiative. He pointed out that the potential homeowner should understand the risk of facing a balloon at the end of the ten year term and have alternate ways to refinance this debt. Mr. Fitterman pointed out that homeowners sometimes become mired in debt and may find it difficult to repay the balloon note suggested in Mr. Ingogolia's intitiative.

The wide media blitz of Blaise Ingoglia's "affordable housing" initiative has not included pertinent public record data for Hartland Homes. The informed consumer needs to look no further than the Hernando County website to review the land holdings of Hartland Homes. As of yesterday, the Hernando County Property Appraiser listed Mr. Ingoglia's company owning 17 properties. The property appraiser listed Hartland Homes as being delinquent for the 2005 and 2006 tax years in the amount of $11,198.14. By adding the current 2007 tax bill of $17,280.63 for Hartland Homes to their prior year(s) delinquent taxes the amount is $28,524.10. Hartland Homes is also listed as being delinquent on the Citrus County Property Appraiser's website for 2005 and 2006 in the amount of $5,857.59, in addition to their current 2007 tax bill of $11,576.47. The combined total of Ad Valorem taxes dues on the Hartland Homes properties for Citrus and Hernando Counties is $45,687.00.

It will be interesting to hear if Mr. Ingoglia's company plans to absorb the delinquent taxes due on his properties in his proposed affordable housing initiative or if this will become a cost the consumer will be expected to absorb in their mortgage.

.

Happy Thanksgiving!

HUD letter

Yesterday, I read the editorial page of the Hernando Times in reference to the Brooksville Housing Authority. Apparently their editorial staff of the Times was not privy to a letter, dated November 13, 2007, from John Niesz, director of Office of Public Housing, Jacksonville Field Office of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The content of that editorial may have been different had they been informed on the latest developments with the Brooksville Housing Authority. This letter was sent to all five members of the Brooksville Housing Authority, Mayor David Pugh and the Executive Director, Ronnie McLean by certified mail.

The subject line of Mr. Niesz's letter referred to the inappropriate actions by some members of the Brooksville Housing Authority Board and underscored the importance of providing the necessary training of all board members. This letter specifically referred to emails and demands by board members, Earl Watkins and Paul Douglas, that exceeded the purview of their role as commissioners on the Brooksville Housing Board. This letter clearly defines the role of the Brooksville Housing Authority Commissioner and strongly suggests board training to properly inform the Brooksville Housing Commissioners on their duties and responsibilities as board members.

It appears that the majority of the Brooksville Housing Authority Board has been acting in good faith in spite of the micro-managing by Mr. Watkins and Mr. Douglas. Hopefully, the media will read up on this latest development for the Jacksonville office of HUD before making any further recommendations about the demise of "entire" Brooksville Housing Authority Board.

Real challenge

In the last several months, the number of my posts has been sparse, and written intermittently, due to the constraints on my time. In addition to working full time, serving on Hernando County Planning & Zoning Board and the Hernando County Housing Authority, plus the Oak Hill Community Advisory Committee, I'm attending Pasco Hernando Community College. Currently, I'm enrolled in 6 credit hours of classes consisting of College Algebra and International Business. As you can see, my time comes at a premium while I squeeze in all my extra curricular activities. I must say though, the Algebra homework has been a real challenge for this old girl!

Semester exams are coming up in several weeks and then it will be sprint for me to the finish line in the spring. I have already enrolled in my final 6 credit hours in order to graduate from PHCC, with honors, in the spring of 2008. Gee, I wonder if I will be PHCC's oldest graduate?

Great photos

Mark Rials of the Hernando Sportsman's Club took some great photos of this year's Veterans Appreciation Parade. If you want to check them out, here is the link: http://www.hernandosportsmansclub.com:80/images/Military%20Museum/Veterans%202007/index.html

Piece of history...

At 11:15 a.m. in the atrium of the government building, the World War II museum piece from Tallahassee was unveiled for the public with an official ribbon cutting arranged by Sue Rupe, Tourist Development Director for Hernando County. The Springstead JROTC kicked off the event with the presentation of colors, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance lead by County Commission Chairman Jeff Stabins. After Mr. Stabins gave a brief speech, Commissioners Kingsley and Rocco greeted the crowd.

Commissioner Kingsley, and Pat Crowley from the Chamber of Commerce, then began the official ribbon cutting ceremony. I was honored to be asked to participate by Commissioner Kingsley, along with a veteran of the Women's Army Corp of WWII, and Commissioners Stabins, Rocco and Kingsley.

Sue Rupe needs to be commended for all her efforts to have this traveling museum on site for the Veterans Day weekend celebration. Anyone wishing to view this piece can visit the atrium of the government building over the next 60 days since it is on loan to our county from Florida Museum in Tallahassee. Thanks Sue, from all the veterans in the audience who wiped tears from their eyes this morning at the unveiling of this magnificent piece of history.

Spectacular success

The 2007 Veterans Appreciation Parade was a spectacular success this morning! Our parade to honor veterans has come a long way, baby, and we hit the big time this morning in downtown Brooksville. A special thanks needs to go out to the Hernando County Fine Arts Council for taking the parade under their wing this year.

A special mention needs to be made of the individuals that opened up the wallets and their hearts to pool money for the insurance coverage of this parade. In order of donations that rolled in for the parade were from Jim King, Wayne Dukes, Jennene Norman-Vacha, Tony and Anna Liisa Covell, and Henry and Janet Searcy.

My hats off to the city manager, Jennene Norman-Vacha for lending her support to make this parade a success. Sgt. Maeder from the Brooksville Police Department did an outstanding job with our new, and improved, parade route that went as smooth as silk this year. I was excited to see everyone again this year along with some new faces to make this the biggest and best parade to date.

One lady this morning made all this parade preparation worthwhile for me. She asked if she could walk in the parade with the folded American flag from the recent internment of her husband in the National Cemetery of Bushnell. She was worried whether she would fit into our celebration of veterans. I asked Commissioner David Russell to take her under his wing as they walked the parade. He quickly obliged and walked with her though out the route. This is why this parade is so special in my heart. It is all the good people that love our veterans and just want to say thank you.

Thanks from the bottom of my heart to those that came to view our parade and to those who came to participate this morning, as listed below:

· Hernando High School Band

· JROTC units from Springstead, Hernando & Central High Schools

· American Legion, Post 99

· Operation Pride

· Hernando Sportsman Club / Military Vehicles

· Hernando County Sheriff's Honor Guard

· Joint Veterans Commission / Florida National Cemetery / Bushnell

· Cub Scout Pack 443

· Young Marines / Marine Corp League 708

· Representatives for Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite

husband Harvey & District Director, Shirley Anderson

· Commissioners Stabins, Rocco, Kingsley and Russell

· Judge Stephen Rushing & wife Mia

· "Saluting Military & Veterans Float" /Bay Pines Veteran volunteers

· Members of DAV Tampa

· Ye Mystic Air Krewe / Tampa for Fly-Over

· Jenenne Norman-Vacha (city manager) & veteran husband

· Hernando County Fire Rescue / 3 trucks & honor guard

· Women’s Army Corp / Chapter 97· Moose Lodge

· Moose Lodge

· Daughters of American Revolution

· National Federation of the Blind

· Hernando Guide Dog, Inc. members

· John Druzbick & wife, Debbie

· Spence & Ed McKenzie with military vehicles

· Wayne Dukes & wife, Silvia

· John Nicole, Santa Harley Rider

· Harley Riders from Coney Island weekly bike group

· Bob Haa, WWJB

· Sheriff Richard Nugent

· THE Bus

· Mini-horse with cart / Mr. & Mrs. Lent

· Brooksville City Coucilman Frankie Burnett

·

See You All Next Year!

Dinner to honor employees

Last night, my husband and I attended a dinner to honor employees of the city of Brooksville at the American Legion, Post 99 on Ft Dade. It was a nice event to honor hardworking individuals that work at their city jobs, within various departments. Bubba Perkins, the commander of the American Legion Post put on a roast beef feast and a unique dessert prior to the evening's presentations.

Ed Baker of the American Legion was the master of ceremonies for the presentation of the awards. All city departments were recognized and the department directors gave out the awards. Sgt. Maeder was the proud recipient of the award from the Brooksville Police Department. Pat Jobe had tears in her eyes as Bill Geiger presented her award from the Planning Department. Robert Brown was given the honor by his department director of Public Works, Emory Pierce and Audrey Williamson was the proud winner from the Parks Department.

At the end of the presentations, Ed Baker discussed the veterans parade and asked my husband, Tony, to escort me to the stage. I was humbled by the beautiful plague from the American Legion Post that recognized my dedication to veterans in our community. My husband and the American Legion had kept this secret from me so I was really stunned by the award. After shedding a few tears, I gave Ed a big hug and kiss and thanked everyone for their kind words...

Honor our veterans...

The Hernando County Fine Arts Council, in conjunction with several of their sub-committees, will proudly present an action packed day in downtown Brooksville to honor our veterans on Saturday, November 10, 2007. All the fun begins at 10 a.m. and will last late into the evening. Here is the line-up:

• Veterans Appreciation Parade at 10:00 a.m. (line-up starts in city hall parking lot about 9 a.m.)
• World War II Museum with ribbon cutting at 11:15 a.m. (from Florida Museum of Tallahassee)
• Hernando Youth Symphony Orchestra at noon (in courtyard between the old & new courthouse)
• Bandshell Bash at 4 p.m. with the Cab Callaway Band, Hernando Hi-lites, and Big Z Band/classic car show.

For those of you that want to view the parade, here is the route:

Leave city hall parking lot & go south on Main Street; turn left (east) on Liberty St.; go to Magnolia, turn left (north); proceed on Magnolia through the courthouse parking lot & across Jefferson, continue to Ft. Dade; turn left (west) & return to city hall parking lot.

"See you all tomorrow"

Cartoon

Did anyone you see the cartoon on the editorial pages of the Hernando Today this morning? It was a really cute reminder of the Veterans Appreciation Parade that will take place tomorrow in downtown Brooksville. My thanks go out to the artist!

Ironically...

Does anyone remember the short tenure of former Hernando County administrator, Bonnie Dyga. Ms. Dyga was fired from her position by a majority of three county commissioners during the tumultuous public hearing on fire rates at the Hernando County Fairgrounds. Ms. Dyga was publicly humiliated when Commissioner Kingsley made a motion to fire her immediately from her position. Former Commissioners, Bobbi Mills and Pat Novy voted with Mr. Kinglsey for this immediate termination of Ms. Dyga.

Why is this important almost 9 years after the fact? It is important to note that Ms. Dyga was stopped short of implementing a re-structuring plan of our county government even though she had been hired to think outside the box for her new visioning in Hernando County. Ironically, Ms. Dyga's proposed re-organization of our county government's structure is almost identical to that of out-going county administrator, Gary Kuhl.

The key difference in the Dyga plan versus the Kuhl plan is how the timing of the re-organization would take place within the government structure. The crucial difference was Bonnie Dyga attempted to implement her program immediately but was opposed by the department directors and ultimately fired by the county commissioners after she handed in her resignation. Gary Kuhl's plan proposes a phase-in system to use retirements of these department directors as a way of streamlining our county government.

If only the public had a crystal ball to find out if the current county commissioners will have the intestinal fortitude to take on the task of county government re-organization this time. Does anyone remember the advertising slogan "We will sell no wine before its time?" Well commissioners, it's time...

Florida in WWII

I received this press release from the office of Sue Rupe, Hernando County Tourist Development. The official ribbon cutting for this traveling museum will take place on Saturday, November 10th, right after the Veterans Appreciation Parade, in the atrium of the Hernando County government center.

Susan Rupe, Director of Tourism, and the Hernando County Tourist Development Council, is pleased to sponsor “FLORIDA IN WORLD WAR II”. The traveling exhibit, made available by the Museum of Florida History, presents an overview of this important time in Florida history. Topic areas include the home front, military training in Florida, the German U-boat threat, and Floridians in military service.

There are 19 million war veterans living in the United States today, and every day we lose 1,600 of them. Motivated by the need to collect the stories and experiences of war veterans while they are still among us, the United States Congress created the Veterans History Project. The Veterans History Project covers World War I, World War II, and the Korean, Vietnam, and Persian Gulf wars. It includes participants of all those wars, both civilian and military. The Project documents the contributions of civilian volunteers, support staff, war industry workers, and military personnel from all branches of the Armed Forces and Merchant Marines. As a Partner in the Project, the Museum of Florida History makes this history available to residents and visitors in the State of Florida.

New officers...

Several committees and commissions in Hernando County will have a changing of the guard at their next meeting.

The Hernando County Fine Arts Council will be swearing in their newly elected officers at their December 6, 2007 meeting. The new chairman of the Fine Arts Council is Tony Covell, with Myndee Washington serving as vice chair, Lois Hall as secretary and Sherri Tarrio as treasurer. Jack Welch has taken on the position of public relations director for the arts council.

The Hernando County Housing Authority Commissioners elected new officers at their October 24, 2007. Local Realtor, Beth Garman was elected commission chair, with Anna Liisa Covell serving as vice chair, and Paul Sullivan taking on the position of 2nd vice chairman.

Good luck to everyone in the coming year!

Standing ovation!

After all the accolades for the fun, food and performers at 1st annual Jazz Fest At Weeki Wachees Springs, a special thanks needs to go out to the hardworking volunteers that made this event a tremendous success. A special thanks goes out to Robyn Anderson, mayor of Weeki Wachee. Her generosity and cooperation made this a outstanding event for the entire community.

The Hernando County Fine Arts Council and the Jazz Society worked in junction with each other for over a year to plan this music and food fest that proved to be an amazing success for Hernando County. Eddie Lawrence, the president of the Jazz Society was in charge of arranging all the wonderful musical acts. The committee from the Hernando County Fine Arts Council that organized this event were Patti Cotter, Lois Hal, Linda Anderson, Tony Covell, Mikel Hannigan, Lee Parent, Mary Jane Russell, Sherri Tarrio, Valerie Till, Myndee Washington, Jack Welch and Walter Kujawa.

All of these "behind the curtain" volunteers deserve a standing ovation for their continuing commitment to bring arts and entertainment to our community!

A force to be reckoned with...

I was delighted to read in this morning's paper that Shirley Anderson had informally announced her candidacy for Hernando Supervisor of Election. Even though I have been privy to Shirley's plans for several months, I promised to remain mum until she felt the time was right to file her pre-qualification papers.

I liked Shirley Anderson from the very first time I met her way back in 2000 and I admire her determination to follow through on any assignment she has taken on in the past. Over the last seven years, Shirley has become a seasoned professional in the realm of politics here in Hernando County and is a force to be reckoned with as a candidate for Hernando County Supervisor of Elections. Shirley Anderson's determination and drive would even wear out the Energizer Bunny in a campaign!

Shirley Anderson will officially kick off her campaign on the Hernando County Courthouse Steps (Historical Courthouse entrance) on Tuesday, November 6, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. My only disappointment is that I will be unable to attend this momentous occasion because of a previous commitment, so I will just say, "You go girl".

Creative financing...

On Wednesday, the Hernando Today ran an ad on the front page of their paper which was titled "Civic activist eyes county's housing crisis". This ad was to promote an affordable housing initiative developed by Blaise Ingoglia, CEO of Hartland Homes to place people in his homes, without imposing income restrictions. The ad states that people with credit scores as low as 550 are eligible for his program and is designed to cut new homeowners' monthly mortgage payments up to 40 percent. According to this ad, Hartland Homes will build new homes at or below builder's cost, with the balance of the contract being recorded as a second mortgage This second mortgage will not require any payment for 10 years, or until the home is sold, whichever comes first.

This ad had plenty of information on Mr. Ingoglia's initiative but did not list some pertinent information in his sales pitch for the local consumer. Besides being the CEO of Hartland Homes, Mr. Ingoglia is also a corporate officer of a title company and a mortgage company. Arriviste Title Group, Inc. is listed in the Florida Division of Corporations, with Mr. Blaise Ingoglia holding the title of director. He is also listed as a corporate officer of American One Home Loans.

A website for Mr. Ingoglia's program was listed at the end of the ad which included models and general locations around the county where this affordable housing could be located for the consumer. Those needing more detailed information about the land holdings of Hartland Homes can look on the Hernando County Property Appraiser's website.

Commissioner Rocco was quoted in this ad as saying, "In the past, creative financing plans sometimes didn't work out to the best advantage of the potential homeowner which were very wise words indeed, in light of the news from HUD officials today stating they are looking at more than one million foreclosures on home loans across the country. Ms. Rocco has real concerns about how these mortgages would be structured by Mr. Ingoglia and she questioned the protection for the consumer and if there was any back loading that would not be fully understood by the buyer. These concerns of Commissioner Rocco ring true with the news today that Florida ranked among the top states in the nation in terms of foreclosure in the third quarter, after jumping more than 50 percent from the previous quarter.

***All SHIP funding for down payment assistance, referenced in this ad, has already been allocated for this fiscal year.

Farewell reception

This afternoon, I attended the farewell reception for out-going county administrator, Gary Kuhl. This event was held on the 4th floor of the county government center just outside the commissioners offices. The majority of the county department directors were an attendance, as was Commissioners Stabins, Rowden and Rocco. The absence of Commissioners Kingsley and Russell was quite obvious and so was the lack of any presence by the local media although they may have dropped in after I left the reception. Many individuals dropped by to enjoy a piece of cake and visit with Mr. Kuhl. Best wishes go out to Mr. Kuhl as he departs to assume the position of Utility Department Director for Sumter County.