Proposed Changes for Planning & Zoning Commission

This morning a new application form for all county boards / committees was approved with a unanimous vote of the Hernando County Board of Commissioners. This new application form includes questions relating to arrest records for felony prosecutions, 1st & 2nd degree misdemeanors, plus questions in reference to civil litigation involving the applicant. This new form will aid in preventing any future problems with applicants for the Planning & Zoning Commission with the added verbiage that states, in part, "By my signature below, I hereby authorize Hernando County to check my references and my background including, without limitation, obtaining a criminal history check and/or consumer credit report". As a current member of the Planning & Zoning Commission, this morning I authorized the Board of County Commission to conduct a search on my background, to make it a level playing field with all new applicants, even though the BOCC had not chosen to make this provision retroactive for current members. This stringent new application is necessary to protect the integrity of this quasi-judicial board. Hopefully, a more relaxed application form will be made available to all other committees / board positions for the county volunteers. After much discussion, the Planning and Zoning applicant interview process proposal brought forward by Commissioner Stabbins, was postponed until their November 1, 2005 meeting so Garth Coller could obtain more information on a process currently utilized in Citrus County.

FLORIDA'S INNOVATIVE MEDICAID REFORM PLAN RECEIVES APPROVAL

United States Department of Health and Human Services Secretary, Michael O. Leavitt and Governor Jeb Bush today announced federal approval of Florida's groundbreaking Medicaid transformation plan. Florida's reform program will improve quality of care and provide predictability in spending for Medicaid, the state-federal partnership charged with providing healthcare to more than 2.2 million vulnerable, disabled and elderly Floridians. This reform plan means better access to quality care, improved choice for Florida's Medicaid participants by moving to a patient-centered system, plus create a Medicaid Marketplace.

This introduction of competition and consumer choice will improve quality of care and empower Florida's 2.2 million Medicaid beneficiaries with choice. With upcoming Legislature approval, this reform plan implementation will begin in Duval and Broward Counties for Phase 1. Florida's new Medicaid plan will modernize an outdated program and assist in better prediction of our state spending.

Our thanks to Governor Bush!

Ronald Reagan's 11th Commandment

"Thou shalt not speak ill of a fellow Republican."

Octoberfest at Oak Hill

The annual Octoberfest celebration at Oak Hill Hospital was a huge success last night. This event is co-sponsored by Withlacoochee River Electric and coordinated through the Greater Hernando Chamber of Commerce. An Om-Pah-Pah Band played Polkas as the attendees feasted on Bratwurst, sauerkraut and red cabbage with delicious German chocolate cake for dessert. Many local notables, such as, Jeff Stabbins and Nancy Robinson were seen mingling in the crowd along with Pat Crowley, Dave Weinman, Barbara Manuel and Eunice Abdul-Rahim. Our thanks go out to Oak Hill Hospital and Withlacoochee Electric for being such good corporate partners in our community.

2005 Heart Walk Halloween Hullabalooza

Oak Hill Hospital is hosting a children's Halloween Costume Contest, Silent Auction extravaganza along with a local talent showcase to benefit the 2005 Heart Walk on Sunday, October 30th from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Fun food, prizes, and surprises will provide family fun for everyone! To register, call (352)597-3007

Vote to Shield Gun Makers from Lawsuits

The US House of Representatives will vote to shield gun makers from lawsuits today according to comments made by Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite on a local Brooksville radio station this morning. With this pending legislation, criminals, not manufacturers, will face being sued for gun-related damages. Previously the Senate voted on July 29, 2005 to shield firearms manufacturers, dealers and importers from lawsuits brought by victims of gun crimes, a measure opponents said had been ordered up by the gun lobby. This Senate vote of 65-31 vote passed a bill that supporters said protects the industry from financial disaster and bankruptcy caused by damage lawsuits. In reference to the Senate vote in July, the NRA was quoted as stating, "The Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act will end predatory lawsuits against our firearm industry and gun owners scored their greatest legislative win since enactment of 1986`s Firearms Owners` Protection Act."

A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

During National Character Counts Week, we focus on ways to reach out to our fellow Americans, especially children. Parents are the first and best example of character in a child's life. By volunteering and performing other acts of service in their communities, parents can teach children about the good that comes from helping others. By extending a hand to those who suffer, parents can demonstrate kindness and compassion and help children learn the importance of serving a cause greater than themselves.
Our schools also play a vital part in providing children with the principles they need to grow and succeed. The Department of Education supports character education through its Partnerships in Character Education Program. During my Administration, over 60 State and local education agencies have received funding from the Department of Education to provide programs that teach important values to our youth.
Many citizens around the country are helping in the effort to teach character to children. One of the most important ways to contribute is to become a mentor. By showing love, support, and compassion, one person can make a difference in the life of a child.
During National Character Counts Week and throughout the year, I encourage children and all Americans to make good choices in life, set high standards, and serve as leaders. By working together, we can all contribute to a culture of good citizenship and responsibility that strengthens our Nation.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 16 through October 22, 2005, as National Character Counts Week. I call upon public officials, educators, librarians, parents, students, and all Americans to observe this week with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourteenth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.
GEORGE W. BUSH

Hernando County Legislative Delegation

The Hernando County Legislative Delegation will conduct their semi-annual meeting for public comment/input on November 4, 2005 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the County Commission Chambers located at 20 N. Main Street in downtown Brooksville. This delegation includes Rep. David Russell, Rep. Charles Dean, Senator Dockery and Senator Fasano. For information, call Rep. Russell's office at 688-5004.

President Congratulates Iraqis on Successful Elections

"We believe, and the Iraqis believe, the best way forward is through the democratic process. Al Qaeda wants to use their violent ways to stop the march of democracy because democracy is the exact opposite of what they believe is right. ... We're making progress toward peace. We're making progress toward an ally that will join us in the war on terror, that will prevent al Qaeda from establishing safe haven in Iraq, and a country that will serve as an example for others who aspire to live in freedom."
-- President George W. BushOctober 16, 2005

P & Z Application Process Up For Review?

During commissioner's time this morning, at the Board of Hernando County Commission meeting, discussion ensued about the process to choose new members for the Planning & Zoning Commission. Commissioner Stabbins voiced his desire to have a short interview process of the new applicants. After a consensus of the board was reached Chairman Schenck stated that this item will be placed on next week's BOCC agenda to discuss any changes in the application process for future P & Z members.

Search for new county administrator

This morning the Hernando County Commission gave Human Resource director, Barbara Dupre direction on advertising for the replacement of Gary Adams, county administrator. A motion was passed to use the same procedure when Mr. Adams was hired 18 months ago by utilizing the (same) 15 member citizen board already in place to review the applications. In this motion, Commissioner's Stabbin's & Kingsley will review the final applicants to bring back to the board. This motion passed with a 4-1 vote with Commissioner Schenck voting nay. Commissioner Schenck stated that he wanted a new committee formed of citizens to choose the new county administrator which would have required public notice.

Citizen's Property Insurance Legislation

Attorney General Charlie Crist is backing new ethics legislation after questions were raised about business activities of some Citizens Property Insurance. Crist, who is running for governor, announced Monday a proposed bill that would require employees of "quasi-governmental" organizations such as Citizens to follow the same post-employment restrictions now imposed on other state workers.

That would include a two-year ban on doing business with or lobbying their former employer, shutting down the revolving door that has spun a number of Citizens officials into careers running insurance companies that do business with the state. Most recently, Citizens' chief financial officer and controller left to start a company built entirely on policies formerly held by Citizens. Overtures for a similar venture were made by a Citizens board member earlier this spring.

The bill is sponsored by Sens. Mike Fasano, R-New Port Richey, and Nancy Argenziano, R-Dunellon, and by House Insurance Chairman Dennis Ross, R-Lakeland."This is about accountability," Fasano said. "When you're dealing with taxpayers and taxpayer money, and raising premiums 110 percent, somebody better be accountable."

Excerpts taken from Paige St. JohnNews Journal Capital Bureau, "Crist backs ethics legislation after Citizens questions"

Florida Property Rights Advocates

Florida lawmakers are back in Tallahassee this week for committee meetings. During the committee process is the time when the public can voice their concerns and opinions directly with representatives. The House Select Committee to Protect Property Rights will meet on Tuesday, October 18th at 4 p.m. in Morris Hall. Florida property-rights advocates should take note of this important meeting in Tallahassee.

City of Brooksville Founder's Week Celebration Events this week, in brief:

• Monday - Bus tours, Victoria Tea, Great Brooksvillian Ceremony
• Tuesday - Walking Tours, Horse & Buggy Rides
• Wednesday - DECA Car Show, Victoria Tea, Bus Tours
• Thursday- Concert in the Park
• Friday - Period Costume Contest, Hernando High Homecoming Parade, Mural Walk, Civil War Campsite
• Saturday - Tom Dorsey Book Signing

This is just an abbreviated list of exciting events, for details & time, call 544-5400

At the Conservative Political Action Conference in Washington, D.C, March 1, 1985, President Ronald Reagan was quoted-

"Conservative thought is no longer
over.....on the right, it's the mainstream now."

Upcoming Events:

• Veterans Appreciation Parade on November 5, 2005 at 10 a.m. in downtown Brooksville

Note: This parade is a citizens participation parade to thank our veterans and those currently serving in our military for freedom worldwide which is proudly sponsored by the City of Brooksville and coordinated by Anna Liisa Covell.

The Founder's Day Parade in Brooksville on Saturday, October 15th was an outstanding success. Each year this local parade enlarges with the participates, as well as on-lookers. Some of the local individuals & groups that marched in the parade yesterday were very notable to say the least, like our own Sheriff Nugent riding his white horse at the lead of his mounted officers for the HCSO. Bonnie Ruge was also seen marching with her ladies of the Daughter's of the American Revolution right ahead of the Hernando High Band & ROTC units. The Young Marines got a rousing round of applause as they passed city hall and I do believe a few Hurrah's & Semper Fi's were heard from the on-lookers. Rep. David Russell and Commissioner's Schenck & Robinson were leading the parade in some real snazzy, classic cars. Radio station WQYK even had several vehicles riding in the parade passing out candy to the children. Mary Alice Quieros was the Grand Marshall for this very special celebration for the 149th birthday of the City of Brooksville. The City of Brooksville's city council spoke at a large gathering at the conclusion while everyone enjoyed birthday cake & lemonade. This was just the kick-off of Founder's week so stay tuned to more exciting news.

Politically speaking, another candidate has thrown his hat into the ring for the 2006 election:

• Florida State Representative Charles Dean has announced his bid for re-election

Apologies go out to US Rep. Katheryn Harris for not mentioning her announcement to run for the US Senate in an earlier post. The latest polling data has Rep. Harris within 3 points of her incumbent opponent. Keep a close eye on this one!

A very reliable source poised this question to me yesterday & I sure hope it is true...........

"Are you aware of a petition circulating to reduce the millage for Hernando County?"

Congratulations to Senator Dockery for being recognized for these most prestigious awards!

• Governing magazine has selected Florida State Senator Paula Dockery as a 2005 recipient of “Public Official of the Year.” This honor is due to her intensive work on the historic water bill, Senate Bill 444, which passed earlier this year. Senator Dockery is one of eight public officials from across the country that will be honored at an awards dinner next month in Washington, D.C.
• State Senator Paula Dockery will be recognized as a “County Champion” by the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) during the Polk County Commission Meeting on October 12, 2005 at 9:00 AM. The Association honors Senator Dockery for her strong commitment to address critical issues around the State.
  “We are honored to recognize Senator Dockery with the County Champion Award for her commitment to Florida’s Counties,” said Florida Association of Counties President Welton Cadwell (Lake). “She understands the importance of state and county governments working together to protect Florida’s natural resources, particularly in the areas of water quality and supply.” This award stems from Senator Dockery’s work during the 2005 legislative session on Enterprise Zones, School Capital Outlay Funding, Recycling, Growth Management, Water, and other issues which positively impact counties around the state.