Friday, November 04, 2005
Thursday, November 03, 2005
Municipalities borrowing money from other governmental agencies
From "The Smithfield Herald"
Clayton secures $1.8 million loan
Clayton -- N.C. Gov. Mike Easley on Wednesday announced that the state would loan the Town of Clayton $1.8 million for a sewage project.
On Thursday, Town Manager Steve Biggs said Clayton would use the loan to build a system to pump treated wastewater to Pine Hollow Golf Club on East Garner Road.
The golf course will get water for irrigation, and Clayton will end up pumping less wastewater into the Neuse River, Biggs said.
"It will reduce the amount of nitrogen discharged into the river," the town manager said. "That is beneficial to the environment."
Easley likewise called the loan a benefit for Clayton and the environment. "This type of investment is key to the area's success in pursuing economic development opportunities and for improving the environmental performance of its facilities," the governor said.
The County of Johnston has a similar system that can divert wastewater to farms, nurseries and golf courses instead of the Neuse River.
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The reason I wanted to quote the story is that I have an issue with towns borrowing money from another government agency, regardless of the level of government. Governments sometimes have to borrow funds to accomplish projects for the public good. OK, no problem. However, borrowing from the federal or state government seems to be irresponsible to the tax payers, in my opinion. Yes, the town may get a lower interest rate. However, the tax payer has to fund the lending government in order to be able to lend the cash AND pay the town's debt. Basically, we are taking it on the chin on both ends, and that is just not wise tax money management. To tax me twice to pay one debt is just plain wrong. It should bother you as the tax payer to be paying twice for the same debt. Private lending institutions are in the business of lending money. Governments should not be.
I was quoted in "The Smithfield Herald" as stating this very position a while ago. I still stand by this position.
Clayton secures $1.8 million loan
Clayton -- N.C. Gov. Mike Easley on Wednesday announced that the state would loan the Town of Clayton $1.8 million for a sewage project.
On Thursday, Town Manager Steve Biggs said Clayton would use the loan to build a system to pump treated wastewater to Pine Hollow Golf Club on East Garner Road.
The golf course will get water for irrigation, and Clayton will end up pumping less wastewater into the Neuse River, Biggs said.
"It will reduce the amount of nitrogen discharged into the river," the town manager said. "That is beneficial to the environment."
Easley likewise called the loan a benefit for Clayton and the environment. "This type of investment is key to the area's success in pursuing economic development opportunities and for improving the environmental performance of its facilities," the governor said.
The County of Johnston has a similar system that can divert wastewater to farms, nurseries and golf courses instead of the Neuse River.
----------------------
The reason I wanted to quote the story is that I have an issue with towns borrowing money from another government agency, regardless of the level of government. Governments sometimes have to borrow funds to accomplish projects for the public good. OK, no problem. However, borrowing from the federal or state government seems to be irresponsible to the tax payers, in my opinion. Yes, the town may get a lower interest rate. However, the tax payer has to fund the lending government in order to be able to lend the cash AND pay the town's debt. Basically, we are taking it on the chin on both ends, and that is just not wise tax money management. To tax me twice to pay one debt is just plain wrong. It should bother you as the tax payer to be paying twice for the same debt. Private lending institutions are in the business of lending money. Governments should not be.
I was quoted in "The Smithfield Herald" as stating this very position a while ago. I still stand by this position.
Check out The Selma News article and web site
"The Selma News" has gotten their web site up and running. Thanks, Rick Stewart. Click on the link in the title of this post to see the last article about the election to be published in the paper before Tuesday's election. Then, go surf "The Selma News" web site. I will probably be sending regular web traffic to their web site.
More musings
Until this week's Selma News, I was the only candidate for town council with an ad in the paper. Today, Jackie Lacy's quarter page ad showed up along with Debbie Johnson's ad with red outline and print. My third ad was in the paper, as well. Charles Hester's ad was a full page color ad taking up the back cover this time. I know how much Jackie paid for her ad, since I was quoted that rate when I was looking at placing ad space. I have no idea what prime placement of a full page color ad would run. The things you can do when you have the money.
Speaking of the mayoral candidates, here are the results so far of the mayoral race poll on "The Selma News" web site. Here are the poll results according to my web site.
Speaking of the mayoral candidates, here are the results so far of the mayoral race poll on "The Selma News" web site. Here are the poll results according to my web site.
Thoughts on the upcoming election
One thing about the local election is that candidates are generally accessible. I sure try to be. The flip side is that most candidates also work for a living and have lives to lead. That is certainly the case with me. Even though I have taken vacation time all this week, I have been tied up with so many small details, I have had little time to campaign as planned. It is simply a part of life. Then again, many things have not gone as planned for me this campaign season. The election is just five days away and I am spending yet another day away from the "campaign trail". I just got another five hundred flyers printed up and I am hoping to be able to get some of them out. I certainly have not had the opportunity to knock on doors as I had previously planned.
Ah, I am back. I know that you didn't know I had to go answer my cell phone, but a good friend of mine called. Her husband is a buddy of mine. He is going in for surgery today at the V.A. hospital in Durham. I am going to the hospital to see him in a few hours. I know it is campaign season, but a dear friend is in a time of need, so I am going to be with him for a bit today. Friends are the family that you choose. I know that it sounds cliche, but it is the truth. This couple is family to me, so I am going to be with family today. It may take some away from my campaign time, but family is worth it to me. Win or lose the election, these people will still be in my life.
Anyway, back to the topic at hand and the train of though that I had started to derail. I plan on being at one of the two polling places on Tuesday. My wife will be at the other. We may alternate our locations, but I don't know at present. If you have not had the chance to meet me at Railroad Days, throughout the course of your travels, read enough about me in the local newspapers, read enough on this web site, etc. to get to know me sufficiently to vote for me, then I encourage you to call me, email me, visit me, have me visit you, whatever. My cell phone number is 919-623-7649. I usually have it with me everywhere I go (except in the hospital today, where it is not allowed). My email link is at the right of this page. You are welcome to ask me questions and just plain get to know me better.
Thank you for your vote. My recommendation on voting this year? There are two men and two women running for town council. The men are both proven conservatives that have stated officially that holding the line on town spending and keeping taxes low are priorities. I am not real sure where one woman stands on many of the issues, and another believes that our crime issues will be solved by building more parks. I see more parks as giving more places for crime to take place, since that is where much of our drug dealing is happening. I would rather take the criminals off the street and give them orange uniforms to wear and a room mate named Bubba. I believe that it is time for men like Tommy Holmes and myself to take the lead along side Gary Jackson and Jeff Weaver in our town council.
I will say no to profligate spending and non essentials that would take priority over essential services. I will say yes to maintaining our infrastructure. That means that we need to keep the electricity, water, and sewer flowing. Fires need to be put out, and criminals need to be put in jail. Essential services come first, including maintaining and improving these things. We have sewer mains made out of terra cotta (the stuff clay pots are made of) that are decrepit and are a century old. We have fire hydrants that are insufficient and need replacement. We have new wells that we need to tie into our existing water supply.
Selma done a good job of planning in some areas. I was glad to hear how we are handling some areas of financial planning and wish to continue that smart planning. I have talked with our fire and police department leaders, our water department, and town manager about their priorities. I take this job seriously, and I hope that you will give me the opportunity to do so.
Ah, I am back. I know that you didn't know I had to go answer my cell phone, but a good friend of mine called. Her husband is a buddy of mine. He is going in for surgery today at the V.A. hospital in Durham. I am going to the hospital to see him in a few hours. I know it is campaign season, but a dear friend is in a time of need, so I am going to be with him for a bit today. Friends are the family that you choose. I know that it sounds cliche, but it is the truth. This couple is family to me, so I am going to be with family today. It may take some away from my campaign time, but family is worth it to me. Win or lose the election, these people will still be in my life.
Anyway, back to the topic at hand and the train of though that I had started to derail. I plan on being at one of the two polling places on Tuesday. My wife will be at the other. We may alternate our locations, but I don't know at present. If you have not had the chance to meet me at Railroad Days, throughout the course of your travels, read enough about me in the local newspapers, read enough on this web site, etc. to get to know me sufficiently to vote for me, then I encourage you to call me, email me, visit me, have me visit you, whatever. My cell phone number is 919-623-7649. I usually have it with me everywhere I go (except in the hospital today, where it is not allowed). My email link is at the right of this page. You are welcome to ask me questions and just plain get to know me better.
Thank you for your vote. My recommendation on voting this year? There are two men and two women running for town council. The men are both proven conservatives that have stated officially that holding the line on town spending and keeping taxes low are priorities. I am not real sure where one woman stands on many of the issues, and another believes that our crime issues will be solved by building more parks. I see more parks as giving more places for crime to take place, since that is where much of our drug dealing is happening. I would rather take the criminals off the street and give them orange uniforms to wear and a room mate named Bubba. I believe that it is time for men like Tommy Holmes and myself to take the lead along side Gary Jackson and Jeff Weaver in our town council.
I will say no to profligate spending and non essentials that would take priority over essential services. I will say yes to maintaining our infrastructure. That means that we need to keep the electricity, water, and sewer flowing. Fires need to be put out, and criminals need to be put in jail. Essential services come first, including maintaining and improving these things. We have sewer mains made out of terra cotta (the stuff clay pots are made of) that are decrepit and are a century old. We have fire hydrants that are insufficient and need replacement. We have new wells that we need to tie into our existing water supply.
Selma done a good job of planning in some areas. I was glad to hear how we are handling some areas of financial planning and wish to continue that smart planning. I have talked with our fire and police department leaders, our water department, and town manager about their priorities. I take this job seriously, and I hope that you will give me the opportunity to do so.
Forced annexation a concern in other town elections
The N&O article I just linked you to deals with how Carrboro is having a major issue with forced annexation in their town that will be a factor in their election on Tuesday. Since only those inside the town limits here will be voting, it doesn't really matter too much of my stance on the issue to voters. However, my stance will be known to all, anyway.
I have a problem with forced annexation simply so that a town can start taxing newly inducted residents. It is one thing is those property owners live in an area served by public utilities owned by that town and are or will be immediately receiving town services. Rarely has that been the case, however. I have read articles about how some properties have been surrounded by the incorporated limits of a town and yet not annexed. They receive all city services, yet are not officially part of the municipality. That is a prime instance of where annexation is entirely appropriate.
Outlying areas are differernt. Many people enjoy subdivision life outside of corporate limits for the lower taxes, location, and proximity to a town for convenience. To start taxing people just because a town can is entirely inappropriate and unethical. I will fight such things on Selma's Town Council.
Voluntary annexation is an entirely different situation. Sysco is a great example. They wanted city services such as water, sewer, and electrical. Thus, the property was voluntarily annexed into the town.
I have a problem with forced annexation simply so that a town can start taxing newly inducted residents. It is one thing is those property owners live in an area served by public utilities owned by that town and are or will be immediately receiving town services. Rarely has that been the case, however. I have read articles about how some properties have been surrounded by the incorporated limits of a town and yet not annexed. They receive all city services, yet are not officially part of the municipality. That is a prime instance of where annexation is entirely appropriate.
Outlying areas are differernt. Many people enjoy subdivision life outside of corporate limits for the lower taxes, location, and proximity to a town for convenience. To start taxing people just because a town can is entirely inappropriate and unethical. I will fight such things on Selma's Town Council.
Voluntary annexation is an entirely different situation. Sysco is a great example. They wanted city services such as water, sewer, and electrical. Thus, the property was voluntarily annexed into the town.
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
I actually got an invoice for more money from WMPM after I paid in full, up front
In an effort to further perpetuate the cover-up for WMPM's mistake on the rate charged for political advertising, I got a bill today from them. It is not legal to bill for political advertising, to my knowledge. All ads are supposed to be paid in advance, as I did. I just paid at the rate they quoted me and they agreed to. Now, in order to show in their records that I was to pay a higher rate just as other political candidates, they have billed me for the remainder. That is just not ethical nor is it legal, in all probablility.
The scan of the invoice will be too big to put on the blog and keep the proper aspect of the web page. However, I did upload the file to my file server. Click on the title of this post to see the invoice in question.
The scan of the invoice will be too big to put on the blog and keep the proper aspect of the web page. However, I did upload the file to my file server. Click on the title of this post to see the invoice in question.
Gang activity
Selma has a similar problem that the news story below describes. The Latino gang SUR 13 is active in Selma, as well. Perhaps SUR 13 needs to meet HK 9 or S&W 45.
Gang Graffiti Found At Smithfield Business - Smithfield Police have confirmed graffiti found spray painted outside Lowes Home Improvements on US301 North is that of a Hispanic gang. The symbol SUR 13, representing the Surenos gang, was found on a cargo trailer in the parking lot on Tuesday. Police Captain Joey Cuddington said there are active gangs in the area and this was probably a gang member marking their territory. Damage to the trailer spray painted with the graffiti was estimated at $2,800.
Gang Graffiti Found At Smithfield Business - Smithfield Police have confirmed graffiti found spray painted outside Lowes Home Improvements on US301 North is that of a Hispanic gang. The symbol SUR 13, representing the Surenos gang, was found on a cargo trailer in the parking lot on Tuesday. Police Captain Joey Cuddington said there are active gangs in the area and this was probably a gang member marking their territory. Damage to the trailer spray painted with the graffiti was estimated at $2,800.
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
WRAL's list of candidates
WRAL has put a list of candidates on their web page. Of course, there is no information provided except a list of candidates for each election. They also spelled my name wrong. The P in LaPlante is supposed to be capitalized. I figure that it will probably be misspelled on the ballot, as well. Hey, as long as people vote for me, I don't care how they spell my name. I might not like it being spelled H - I - T - L - E - R, or something like that, but as long as I am the one that would take the oath of office following the election...whatever.
VOTE FOR TROY!
The latest musings
Hopefully, you have heard my ads on the radio on WMPM. I caught two of them yesterday afternoon. The only other political ad I heard the entire afternoon was from Tom Bell, running for town council in Smithfield.
We are about out of election flyers. Time to have more printed tonight. We have handed out about two thousand flyers so far. One ream of paper yields a thousand flyers. We are about to print our third ream.
I spend between and hour and ninety minutes talking with Joe Price, the head of the Selma Water Department and Fire Chief. We had a nice talk. I got to know more about where he is coming from with the fire department operations, his needs from the town on as far as water and sewer, as well as the fire side of things. We discussed personnel needs, equipment needs and plans, and infrastructure planning/replacement needs.
Hopefully, we can maintain a good working relationship after the election. That is my hope for all departments, really.
We are about out of election flyers. Time to have more printed tonight. We have handed out about two thousand flyers so far. One ream of paper yields a thousand flyers. We are about to print our third ream.
I spend between and hour and ninety minutes talking with Joe Price, the head of the Selma Water Department and Fire Chief. We had a nice talk. I got to know more about where he is coming from with the fire department operations, his needs from the town on as far as water and sewer, as well as the fire side of things. We discussed personnel needs, equipment needs and plans, and infrastructure planning/replacement needs.
Hopefully, we can maintain a good working relationship after the election. That is my hope for all departments, really.
Monday, October 31, 2005
The issues
Since it is getting closer to the election, then I know that you will want to know where the candidates stand on different issues. I strongly encourage you to surf through this blog to see the volumes that I have written on my positions on things pertaining to Selma. Also, please find past articles in "The Selma News" and "The Smithfield Herald". The "News and Observer" has also published a voters' guide for your convenience.
If you have any questions on issues, please feel free to contact me. I may be a bit busy this week, since it is the last week prior to the election, but I will do my best to answer you questions. My email link is on the right. You can leave comments on this blog by clicking on the comment link below each post. You can also telephone me at 965-9695 or 623-7649.
If you have any questions on issues, please feel free to contact me. I may be a bit busy this week, since it is the last week prior to the election, but I will do my best to answer you questions. My email link is on the right. You can leave comments on this blog by clicking on the comment link below each post. You can also telephone me at 965-9695 or 623-7649.
An article of note
Here is an article in "The News and Observer" about small towns, their population, and work force that may be of interest to us "Selmites".
Sunday, October 30, 2005
I wish I had found this much earlier
I just found a web site where you, as a visitor to my web site, can see where other visitors live. Please feel free to add yourself to the map of visitors to this site. It is free, it takes just a minute or so, and there is no need to register and give any personal information. Just click on the button below.
My reason for running for office
I have written in this blog a few times about my desire to serve my community. I want to emphasize the servanthood part, since that is my sole aim. I couldn't care less about the power of being in any office, except to safeguard against abuse by those who do want such power for their own purposes. I certainly don't care about the money, since the $1800 per year (about $150 per month) certainly is nothing to live on. Why then, run for office other than to serve? I have been in the service of the Lord for almost fifteen years now. I have been in ministry, in service "behind the scenes" for several ministries, and do continue to do so, though on a lesser scale. As we are told in Ecclesiastes 3, there is a season for everything.
I am a stong believer in being the servant of God and have the burden to do so. I have served in public service from my youth. I have been out of the public service sector for a while and have been more in the ministry service sector until recently. I wish to continue to serve. I wish to be the following:
Romans 13:1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
Romans 13:2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
Romans 13:3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:
Romans 13:4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.
Romans 13:5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.
Romans 13:6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.
The executing wrath is only a part and perspective of the idea of civil authority. Actually, on the Town Council, I would be responsible for setting up and supporting those very people. That is an important part of serving the public and serving God, in my opinion.
I am a stong believer in being the servant of God and have the burden to do so. I have served in public service from my youth. I have been out of the public service sector for a while and have been more in the ministry service sector until recently. I wish to continue to serve. I wish to be the following:
Romans 13:1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
Romans 13:2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
Romans 13:3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:
Romans 13:4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.
Romans 13:5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.
Romans 13:6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.
The executing wrath is only a part and perspective of the idea of civil authority. Actually, on the Town Council, I would be responsible for setting up and supporting those very people. That is an important part of serving the public and serving God, in my opinion.
Saturday, October 29, 2005
Friday, October 28, 2005
Something you won't find on the WMPM web site
I spoke with the Johnston County Board of Elections today. I was in the court house to renew my Notary Public commission and stopped by the Board of Elections office to follow up on the aforementioned issue of advertising with WMPM. All that is known at present is that the State Board of Elections has attempted to contact the radio station to investigate and that no return communication has happened as yet.
All I wanted to know is if the proposed exchange of funds would be legal or not. I had no intention of spurring a full investigation into an honest mistake. Drawing a candidate into covering up a mistake, however, is not appropriate. Hence, my seeking counsel as to whether it was legal to do so. Either way, I hadn't intended for it to go this far.
I guarantee that this would most likely never have happened with any other candidate. This is the story of my life.
All I wanted to know is if the proposed exchange of funds would be legal or not. I had no intention of spurring a full investigation into an honest mistake. Drawing a candidate into covering up a mistake, however, is not appropriate. Hence, my seeking counsel as to whether it was legal to do so. Either way, I hadn't intended for it to go this far.
I guarantee that this would most likely never have happened with any other candidate. This is the story of my life.
I wrote about some of this earlier
I knew that this was coming in the recent mutual aid agreement between Smithfield and Selma. I am not a big fan of speeding violations, since I have my own personal opinions on speed limits, especially on interstate highways. I do realize that often times, traffic violations bring drug busts. Here is the latest on the topic from the WMPM web site.
Smithfield & Selma Police Cracking Down On Speeders On I-95 - In an effort to reduce aggressive driving and speeding, Smithfield and Selma Police have increased visibility and radar enforcement on Interstate 95. Smithfield Police Chief Steve Gillikin said his officers, along with those from the Selma Police Department, began working together three weeks ago to cut down on violators on I-95 through Smithfield and Selma. Officers have spent at least one each week cracking down on motorists. Selma Police Chief Charles Bowen said under a mutual aid agreement between the two agencies, officers have jurisdiction in both towns. Chief Bowen said while traffic enforcement is a major part of the campaign, he hopes officers may be able to capture a drug dealer off the interstate. Chief Gillikin said the campaign will continue indefinitely.
Smithfield & Selma Police Cracking Down On Speeders On I-95 - In an effort to reduce aggressive driving and speeding, Smithfield and Selma Police have increased visibility and radar enforcement on Interstate 95. Smithfield Police Chief Steve Gillikin said his officers, along with those from the Selma Police Department, began working together three weeks ago to cut down on violators on I-95 through Smithfield and Selma. Officers have spent at least one each week cracking down on motorists. Selma Police Chief Charles Bowen said under a mutual aid agreement between the two agencies, officers have jurisdiction in both towns. Chief Bowen said while traffic enforcement is a major part of the campaign, he hopes officers may be able to capture a drug dealer off the interstate. Chief Gillikin said the campaign will continue indefinitely.
Thursday, October 27, 2005
Local news
From the WMPM news site:
Selma Awards Bids For Electrical, Water, Sewer Improvements - The Town of Selma has awarded a $1.31 million bid for equipment for a new electrical substation. Another bid for $417,816 was approved for water and sewer improvements. A majority of the work is required to supply Sysco with utility services when they open next year.
"The Selma News", as is always the case with print media, has more detail. Part of the article is here.
Selma is getting started now on planning next year's antique show. Very good. That is how it should be done. Early planning with local business is important. "The Selma News" has more detail:
Selma Development Partnership appoints Antique Show committee
The topic of conversation at the Selma Development Partnership meeting last Thursday centered on plans for the town’s next antique show. It was decided that the show will no longer be known as the East Coast Antique Show, but will be the Selma Antique Show.
A committee, made up of three local antique dealers and members of the Selma Development Partnership, was set up to work out details of next year’s show. Appointed to the committee were Rose Wagaman, Albert Kenzsak, and Donna Reid.
A meeting of the committee and all Selma antique dealers is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 3 at 6 p.m. in the town hall conference room. All interested Selma antique dealers are encouraged to attend this brainstorming meeting.
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Also of note in Selma is that one of our police officers will be serving a tour of duty in Afghanistan. I bid you Godspeed, Officer Michael Conway.
Selma Awards Bids For Electrical, Water, Sewer Improvements - The Town of Selma has awarded a $1.31 million bid for equipment for a new electrical substation. Another bid for $417,816 was approved for water and sewer improvements. A majority of the work is required to supply Sysco with utility services when they open next year.
"The Selma News", as is always the case with print media, has more detail. Part of the article is here.
Selma is getting started now on planning next year's antique show. Very good. That is how it should be done. Early planning with local business is important. "The Selma News" has more detail:
Selma Development Partnership appoints Antique Show committee
The topic of conversation at the Selma Development Partnership meeting last Thursday centered on plans for the town’s next antique show. It was decided that the show will no longer be known as the East Coast Antique Show, but will be the Selma Antique Show.
A committee, made up of three local antique dealers and members of the Selma Development Partnership, was set up to work out details of next year’s show. Appointed to the committee were Rose Wagaman, Albert Kenzsak, and Donna Reid.
A meeting of the committee and all Selma antique dealers is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 3 at 6 p.m. in the town hall conference room. All interested Selma antique dealers are encouraged to attend this brainstorming meeting.
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Also of note in Selma is that one of our police officers will be serving a tour of duty in Afghanistan. I bid you Godspeed, Officer Michael Conway.
Recent happenings
So much for starting vacation last night. I ended up working until 4:00 this morning.
One of my favorite restaurants is closing. Legend's Tap and Grill at Blackstone Plaza is closing its doors on Saturday. Quite honestly, I am not surprised, but I am none the less saddened at its passing. The Republican groups that meet there will have to find a new venue. So will my wife and I. We eat there at least once per week, sometimes more.
The Director of the Johnston County Board of Elections maintained contact with me yesterday about the ad buy I wrote about on WMPM. I do not want to do anything illegal or do something that will bite me later on. I refuse to knowingly get involved with or perform something illegal, shady, or otherwise possibly scandalous. Teresa Davis, the Director, spoke with me about the issue. She said that she would contact the lawyer at the State Board of Elections. She asked me to call back in the afternoon. Later that afternoon, she still did not have an answer from the lawyer yet, but would still be expecting an answer. Within a few hours, Ms. Davis called me back and informed me that the lawyer would research this topic, but in his immediate opinion, it would be illegal to perform the monetary transaction requested by WMPM, and his advice was to NOT do anything of the sort at the moment.
I sought counsel before doing anything stupid or potentially so. I will not get myself into trouble over someone else's mistake. I am glad that I did. As I find out more, I will let you know.
One of my favorite restaurants is closing. Legend's Tap and Grill at Blackstone Plaza is closing its doors on Saturday. Quite honestly, I am not surprised, but I am none the less saddened at its passing. The Republican groups that meet there will have to find a new venue. So will my wife and I. We eat there at least once per week, sometimes more.
The Director of the Johnston County Board of Elections maintained contact with me yesterday about the ad buy I wrote about on WMPM. I do not want to do anything illegal or do something that will bite me later on. I refuse to knowingly get involved with or perform something illegal, shady, or otherwise possibly scandalous. Teresa Davis, the Director, spoke with me about the issue. She said that she would contact the lawyer at the State Board of Elections. She asked me to call back in the afternoon. Later that afternoon, she still did not have an answer from the lawyer yet, but would still be expecting an answer. Within a few hours, Ms. Davis called me back and informed me that the lawyer would research this topic, but in his immediate opinion, it would be illegal to perform the monetary transaction requested by WMPM, and his advice was to NOT do anything of the sort at the moment.
I sought counsel before doing anything stupid or potentially so. I will not get myself into trouble over someone else's mistake. I am glad that I did. As I find out more, I will let you know.
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
Bumper sticker
Since this blog has political news and views in it, I will throw out one for you. There is a new bumper sticker coming out that a lot of Democrats will be putting on their back bumpers. I think that I will get one, too.
2008 - RUN HILLARY RUN
The only difference is that I would put it on my front bumper, instead.Dude, what the...???
I got an odd phone call from WMPM radio today. I produced some ads for radio broadcast on their radio station. I brought the ads by on CD, paid for a radio broadcast schedule, and was looking forward to hearing the ads on the radio soon. The check already cleared the bank. I have a copy of the cancelled check already, since I bank online quite a bit. Today's phone call was to tell me that the ad rate I paid for was too low and that they wanted to raise my rate by 50 cents per ad. That is like buying a car with cash and the dealership coming back to you after the fact and asking for more money.
Advertising regulations are fairly strict when it comes to political advertising. There are guides printed for radio stations and candidates. I have one somewhere on my book shelf, having been in radio for years, myself. You have to stick to the published rate card. I was shown a rate card with $x.xx per ad. Today, I was informed that the rate card was an older version and the newer rate card was not available at the time, and that my ads were going to be more expensive. Sorry, but I already paid for them according to an established rate card, as shown. That is NOT my problem.
My assumption is that WMPM sold some more ad time to other political candidates at a higher rate and to cover their back sides, they wanted to squeeze more money out of me so that all political ad buys are shown at the same rate. That is important, I understand. However, again, that is not my problem. You don't change the terms of a contract after the contract has been paid in full up front.
The station owner actually wants me to come to the station, write them a check for the difference, and then he will write me a check back for the same amount. This would be to satisfy me that I should not have to pay more money and to satisfy the idea that they have to show in their records that I paid the same rate as everyone else, at least on paper. That bothers me...and it should. I am still pondering that one.
Advertising regulations are fairly strict when it comes to political advertising. There are guides printed for radio stations and candidates. I have one somewhere on my book shelf, having been in radio for years, myself. You have to stick to the published rate card. I was shown a rate card with $x.xx per ad. Today, I was informed that the rate card was an older version and the newer rate card was not available at the time, and that my ads were going to be more expensive. Sorry, but I already paid for them according to an established rate card, as shown. That is NOT my problem.
My assumption is that WMPM sold some more ad time to other political candidates at a higher rate and to cover their back sides, they wanted to squeeze more money out of me so that all political ad buys are shown at the same rate. That is important, I understand. However, again, that is not my problem. You don't change the terms of a contract after the contract has been paid in full up front.
The station owner actually wants me to come to the station, write them a check for the difference, and then he will write me a check back for the same amount. This would be to satisfy me that I should not have to pay more money and to satisfy the idea that they have to show in their records that I paid the same rate as everyone else, at least on paper. That bothers me...and it should. I am still pondering that one.
A nearby town's municipal election...almost wish it could happen here ; ^ )
Clayton Town Council Candidate Withdraws From Race - One of the six candidates running in the Clayton Town Council has withdrawn. Rev. Raymond Pittman withdrew his name last week after he learned his church planned to reassign him to the western part of the state. Pittman told Board of Election officials he planned to return to Clayton in two years and hoped to run in the 2007 race. Elections Director Teresa Davis said it was too late to remove Pittman’s name from the ballot. She will inform poll workers not to count votes for Pittman on election night. Three council seats are up for election November 8 in Clayton.
Monday, October 24, 2005
We need to work on these sorts of things in Selma
Some things perpetuate a town's reputation. We need to really work on this. Quite honestly, some things proposed by others running for office will perpetuate things like this, not help. Of course, we can not prevent all crime, but we can sure have a police and citizenry presence to discourage these things. Furthermore, we can clean up our neighborhoods that contribute to this sort of behavior. Here are a few examples from WMPM's web site.
Nightclub Refuses To Help Patron Stabbed Outside Club - A complaint has been filed against a nightclub after a patron was stabbed in the parking lot, yet the business allegedly refused to allow the victim inside for medical aid or to even dial 911 to summon help. The stabbing occurred Saturday morning outside Sebastian’s in Selma. The victim, 29-year-old Randy Pearce of 7723 Highway 96 North, Selma was hospitalized after help finally arrived. Felony warrants have been obtained against a suspect in the case, who still remains at large.
Troy's commentary: What the heck? What sort of heartless and irresponsible business will not render medical assistance or even call for help? I am glad that charges have been filed against the business.
Video Store Robbed In Selma - Selma Police don’t have any suspects in a robbery at Movies Unlimited at 1114 South Pollock Street. Around 8:25pm Saturday, a lone black male entered the business and approached the counter to buy a soft drink. Once the clerk opened the register the suspect took $40 in cash and fled. Police canvassed the around but did not locate the individual. No injuries were reported.
Troy's commentary: Two words: concealed carry. If enough business owners and employees carry concealed weapons or have access to them, AND criminals know this, robberies like this will decline rapidly.
Nightclub Refuses To Help Patron Stabbed Outside Club - A complaint has been filed against a nightclub after a patron was stabbed in the parking lot, yet the business allegedly refused to allow the victim inside for medical aid or to even dial 911 to summon help. The stabbing occurred Saturday morning outside Sebastian’s in Selma. The victim, 29-year-old Randy Pearce of 7723 Highway 96 North, Selma was hospitalized after help finally arrived. Felony warrants have been obtained against a suspect in the case, who still remains at large.
Troy's commentary: What the heck? What sort of heartless and irresponsible business will not render medical assistance or even call for help? I am glad that charges have been filed against the business.
Video Store Robbed In Selma - Selma Police don’t have any suspects in a robbery at Movies Unlimited at 1114 South Pollock Street. Around 8:25pm Saturday, a lone black male entered the business and approached the counter to buy a soft drink. Once the clerk opened the register the suspect took $40 in cash and fled. Police canvassed the around but did not locate the individual. No injuries were reported.
Troy's commentary: Two words: concealed carry. If enough business owners and employees carry concealed weapons or have access to them, AND criminals know this, robberies like this will decline rapidly.
Sunday, October 23, 2005
Get your copy of last Thursday's "The Selma News"
I implore you to get a copy of Thursday's "The Selma News". You will have the opportunity to read about three of the four candidates in the upcoming Town Council election. In this write up, I do believe that you will see a strong contrast in the candidates that has not appeared in other publications. The same is true for the mayoral race.
Just based upon the article, there are perspectives/points that you will need to consider in selecting a candidate for town council. Issues brought up that you as a voter will need to consider are:
1. Do you support the idea of town government supported low income housing?
2. Do you believe that recreational programs will be the solution to crime and drug problems?
3. Do you believe that more jobs being brought to Selma will automatically help low income earners?
4. Do you believe that the parks and recreation proposal for three dog parks and seven mini-parks in Selma is appropriate?
5. Do you support systematic town wide planning that is not overly restrictive so as to encourage business, yet does not promote profligate sprawl?
6. Are your water, sewer, and electrical rates too high? Can we cut costs to reduce those rates?
For mayor, the issues just based upon the newspaper article are:
1. Should the town pay for beautification of private property?
2. Should the town give tax breaks to those who wish to renovate their property?
3. Should the town supply health care for its citizens?
4. Are we heading in the right direction with our utility expansion to attract more businesses to Selma?
5. Should the town help businesses expand?
PLEASE, if you have not taken these issues into consideration, please do so. Perhaps I will write more commentary on these individual issues. I will simply close this post with my asking you to become informed as a voter. Look at the issues. Choose candidates that better follow your vision for Selma. It is my hope that your views and my own are the same. So, vote for Troy!
Just based upon the article, there are perspectives/points that you will need to consider in selecting a candidate for town council. Issues brought up that you as a voter will need to consider are:
1. Do you support the idea of town government supported low income housing?
2. Do you believe that recreational programs will be the solution to crime and drug problems?
3. Do you believe that more jobs being brought to Selma will automatically help low income earners?
4. Do you believe that the parks and recreation proposal for three dog parks and seven mini-parks in Selma is appropriate?
5. Do you support systematic town wide planning that is not overly restrictive so as to encourage business, yet does not promote profligate sprawl?
6. Are your water, sewer, and electrical rates too high? Can we cut costs to reduce those rates?
For mayor, the issues just based upon the newspaper article are:
1. Should the town pay for beautification of private property?
2. Should the town give tax breaks to those who wish to renovate their property?
3. Should the town supply health care for its citizens?
4. Are we heading in the right direction with our utility expansion to attract more businesses to Selma?
5. Should the town help businesses expand?
PLEASE, if you have not taken these issues into consideration, please do so. Perhaps I will write more commentary on these individual issues. I will simply close this post with my asking you to become informed as a voter. Look at the issues. Choose candidates that better follow your vision for Selma. It is my hope that your views and my own are the same. So, vote for Troy!
Some thoughts on taxation
I am on several message boards, one of which is my favorite. There was one discussion about coservative versus liberal politics that covered idealogy on taxation. Here is what was posted and my replies to the fellow member of the forum.
Sounds pretty reasonable to me that the people who make the most money should pay the most taxes. Does anyone have a problem with that?
One of my objections to the Bush administration is that they cut taxes, then went on a spending spree like they were Tip O'Neil on speed. Does anyone really think that spending more than what's brought in is either right or practical?
And the president stands in front of friendly crowds, blathering about "sacrifices" for the war. He's the only president who ever cut taxes during wartime, and he did it for people who were doing just fine without the cuts. Where's the sacrifice in that? Or the sense? I seriously resent having my children and grandchildren stuck with the bill for this administration's profligate ways
My reply is in blue. Quotes are in red.
Quote: (Originally Posted by troy2000)
Sounds pretty reasonable to me that the people who make the most money should pay the most taxes. Does anyone have a problem with that?
Yes, I do. As a percentage of income, they pay more in taxation than the bottom income earners. That is a problem, in my opinion, and grossly unfair. If the rate was more "flat", they would still pay more in actual dollars, but not in proportion to income. That would be fair.
Quote:
One of my objections to the Bush administration is that they cut taxes, then went on a spending spree like they were Tip O'Neil on speed. Does anyone really think that spending more than what's brought in is either right or practical?
There, you have the big issue that really incenses many conservatives. It shows the divergence between so called Republicans inside D.C. and those who elected them. Spending has been one of the biggest disappointments I have seen with the current administration and Congress. There are other issues, as well.
Quote:
and he did it for people who were doing just fine without the cuts. Where's the sacrifice in that? Or the sense? I seriously resent having my children and grandchildren stuck with the bill for this administration's profligate ways
That part is just plain inaccurate. The tax cut was 1. minimal and 2. broad based. It was not for the well off exclusively, as was characterized by the left and the media. Tax cuts increase tax revenue EVERY TIME it is tried. This was no exception. JFK knew this and did it in the 60's. Reagan knew it and did it in the 80's. Bush knows it and did it in the 2000's. His tax cuts didn't go far enough, however.
The profligate ways, as you put it, is relevent to spending, but not the minor tax cuts. Sorry, but it is econ 101.
In regards to the idea that the "well off" not needing tax cuts, consider the following basic truth. The wealthy are the ones who hire people. Poor people do not. When their money is more heavily taxed and therefore not available for business growth, then they will not be investing more into their businesses, hiring more people, buying new equipment, increasing existing wages, etc. When less money is sent to the governemnt in the form of taxation, more capital is available for business. More business capital means business growth. Business growth means that more tax money is generated by more employees and more commerce. Since the economy is not a static or a "zero sum gain", the resultant tax revenues actually increase.
I have never gotten a job from a poor man.
Sounds pretty reasonable to me that the people who make the most money should pay the most taxes. Does anyone have a problem with that?
One of my objections to the Bush administration is that they cut taxes, then went on a spending spree like they were Tip O'Neil on speed. Does anyone really think that spending more than what's brought in is either right or practical?
And the president stands in front of friendly crowds, blathering about "sacrifices" for the war. He's the only president who ever cut taxes during wartime, and he did it for people who were doing just fine without the cuts. Where's the sacrifice in that? Or the sense? I seriously resent having my children and grandchildren stuck with the bill for this administration's profligate ways
My reply is in blue. Quotes are in red.
Quote: (Originally Posted by troy2000)
Sounds pretty reasonable to me that the people who make the most money should pay the most taxes. Does anyone have a problem with that?
Yes, I do. As a percentage of income, they pay more in taxation than the bottom income earners. That is a problem, in my opinion, and grossly unfair. If the rate was more "flat", they would still pay more in actual dollars, but not in proportion to income. That would be fair.
Quote:
One of my objections to the Bush administration is that they cut taxes, then went on a spending spree like they were Tip O'Neil on speed. Does anyone really think that spending more than what's brought in is either right or practical?
There, you have the big issue that really incenses many conservatives. It shows the divergence between so called Republicans inside D.C. and those who elected them. Spending has been one of the biggest disappointments I have seen with the current administration and Congress. There are other issues, as well.
Quote:
and he did it for people who were doing just fine without the cuts. Where's the sacrifice in that? Or the sense? I seriously resent having my children and grandchildren stuck with the bill for this administration's profligate ways
That part is just plain inaccurate. The tax cut was 1. minimal and 2. broad based. It was not for the well off exclusively, as was characterized by the left and the media. Tax cuts increase tax revenue EVERY TIME it is tried. This was no exception. JFK knew this and did it in the 60's. Reagan knew it and did it in the 80's. Bush knows it and did it in the 2000's. His tax cuts didn't go far enough, however.
The profligate ways, as you put it, is relevent to spending, but not the minor tax cuts. Sorry, but it is econ 101.
In regards to the idea that the "well off" not needing tax cuts, consider the following basic truth. The wealthy are the ones who hire people. Poor people do not. When their money is more heavily taxed and therefore not available for business growth, then they will not be investing more into their businesses, hiring more people, buying new equipment, increasing existing wages, etc. When less money is sent to the governemnt in the form of taxation, more capital is available for business. More business capital means business growth. Business growth means that more tax money is generated by more employees and more commerce. Since the economy is not a static or a "zero sum gain", the resultant tax revenues actually increase.
I have never gotten a job from a poor man.
Friday, October 21, 2005
One-Stop Early Voting Underway
Just remember to cast your early vote for Troy!
One-Stop Early Voting Underway - One-stop early voting for the November 8 municipal elections is underway. Early voting is taking place at the Johnston County Board of Elections office in Smithfield through November 5. Voting is allowed Monday through Friday from 8am until 5pm and on Saturday’s from 9am until 1pm. Requests for absentee ballots will be accepted through November 1.
Thoughts on Harry Blackley's views as expressed in "The Selma News"
Harry Blackley and I are in agreement on most things he expressed in "The Selma News". We feel the same way about working with sewer, water, and electrical capacity to keep it ahead of demand. I don't necessarily know how much ability that we as a town government have to keep "good paying jobs" in Selma or even to bring them here other than to be "business friendly" and continue to seek and attact more industry. By this, I don't mean giving corporate welfare in the form of tax breaks. This includes helping existing businesses to expand. Selma is in a great position to attract further business with our geography, available area work force, and utility expansion. There is no guarantee that new business will bring new residents, but that is the hope.
Harry didn't have a lot of other things of note in the paper, other than touching on the crime and police issues, in which we are in agreement; and one extra curricular issue that I will leave alone for the moment.
Harry didn't have a lot of other things of note in the paper, other than touching on the crime and police issues, in which we are in agreement; and one extra curricular issue that I will leave alone for the moment.
Thoughts on Charles Hester's views as expressed in "The Selma News"
I have had nothing but positive interaction with Charles Hester thus far. I have not had many conversations with Mr. Hester, but those I have had were pleasant. He seems to be a well educated and intelligent man, as well as an obviously successful business man. For that, I respect him and have nothing negative to say about the man.
I do wonder, however, about a viewpoint or two as expressed in yesterday's "The Selma News". I have been pondering it since I read it, and even commented about it in yesterday's blog entry. There are a few conflicting viewpoints, as I see it.
QUOTE: "Hester believes the town needs to "reduce spending, therefore reducing the amount of utility charges to our citizens." Also, he believes that all town management needs to be accountable." I agree with the accountability. However, the cutting of spending will not necessarily reflect in our utility bills. The overall spending is not necessarily directly linked to the cost of electricity or water, sewer, and trash pick up. Yes, we may very well need to reduce spending. Yes, I would love to see reduced utility bills. However, the reduced spending needs to be directly in those areas. Quite honestly, it looks as if we may need to increase spending in the utility construction area to keep pace with future growth. That is one of the very few areas I have no problem with spending more money. Infrastructure is important to sustaining population and expansion.
I have a problem wiht the town aiding in "the restoration of homes and businesses in town through tax breaks". Such as? Cutting specific property taxes to help people restore their houses and businesses at the expense of the general tax paying population? Sorry, but I do NOT want to subsidize private restoration efforts with my taxes, nor should any sensible citizen.
QUOTE:"We need to beautify the town signs, walks, streets, and appearance of all real property." At who's expense? Do you force people to beautify or take their property by eminent domain? Or do you provide civil penalties for non-compliance? Do you use public tax dollars to paint and maintain privately owned businesses and homes? Do you simply have the town perform all maintenance to beautify and then bill the property owner? I think that the town could encourage the behavior desired of property owners, but there is a limit as to how you treat private property rights.
QUOTE: "We should stress health care for all citizens and seek means to enable this to be done with no costs to the taxpayers." Uh...yeah, right. Sorry, sir, but since when is it the town's responsibility to ensure health care for anyone? Where is it in the town's charter that the municipality has the responsibility to provide health care for its citizens? Why should I pay for health care for someone other than my own family? How the heck are we, as a town, going to do so "with no costs to the taxpayer" other than having a charity run a program? Or with grants from other governmental agencies that we are funding with tax money? Health care is not cheap and there will be expense to the tax payer if the government even touches it, regardless at which level of government. I especially have a problem with the idea of even thinking of supplying anything but life saving emergency health care to anyone here illegally. We have a county run hospital that can provide critical care. Why should the town even think about health care for anyone other than those in its employ?
QUOTE: "Also, we should work to eliminate noise that is a nuisance with better and more stricter ordinances" NEWSFLASH: We already have noise ordinances.
QUOTE: "Also, he wants the town to pursue and correct illegal immigration." It is sad that we even have to consider this, but in this, he is correct. It is the federal government's job to work on this, hence the existence of the Immigration and Naturalization Service and Border Patrol. However, the feds are not doing the job that we are paying them to do. So, we have to take action at the local level. Personally, I believe that we should refuse city services such as water, sewer, and electricity to anyone who does not have the necessary documentation to show that they are in this country legally. It is my understanding (based upon conversation with our town clerk) that the town is regularly shafted on utility bills by illegal immigrants who are very transient. If it is so difficult for the average citizen to get utility service, why is it so easy for illegals to get service in the first place and then skip out on the bill? Why allow this at my or your expense? Why even think about allowing those who refuse to follow the law to enter this country the possibility of priviledge or of breaking further law and take advantage of our system?
I don't write all of this to be severly critical of one mayoral candidate over the other. I debated about whether to write this or not. However, if elected to the town council, I will have to deal with issues like this, and will specifically have to deal with these issues if Mr. Hester is also elected. Now you all know exactly where I stand on these topics. That has been the aim of this web site from the beginning. I have been open in my viewpoints. You have the opportunity to contact me, make comments on this web site, and question things as you see fit. As long as I don't get spammed with the porn ads in the comments area, you are welcome to write comments. You are also welcome to click on my email link to the right side of the page.
I do wonder, however, about a viewpoint or two as expressed in yesterday's "The Selma News". I have been pondering it since I read it, and even commented about it in yesterday's blog entry. There are a few conflicting viewpoints, as I see it.
QUOTE: "Hester believes the town needs to "reduce spending, therefore reducing the amount of utility charges to our citizens." Also, he believes that all town management needs to be accountable." I agree with the accountability. However, the cutting of spending will not necessarily reflect in our utility bills. The overall spending is not necessarily directly linked to the cost of electricity or water, sewer, and trash pick up. Yes, we may very well need to reduce spending. Yes, I would love to see reduced utility bills. However, the reduced spending needs to be directly in those areas. Quite honestly, it looks as if we may need to increase spending in the utility construction area to keep pace with future growth. That is one of the very few areas I have no problem with spending more money. Infrastructure is important to sustaining population and expansion.
I have a problem wiht the town aiding in "the restoration of homes and businesses in town through tax breaks". Such as? Cutting specific property taxes to help people restore their houses and businesses at the expense of the general tax paying population? Sorry, but I do NOT want to subsidize private restoration efforts with my taxes, nor should any sensible citizen.
QUOTE:"We need to beautify the town signs, walks, streets, and appearance of all real property." At who's expense? Do you force people to beautify or take their property by eminent domain? Or do you provide civil penalties for non-compliance? Do you use public tax dollars to paint and maintain privately owned businesses and homes? Do you simply have the town perform all maintenance to beautify and then bill the property owner? I think that the town could encourage the behavior desired of property owners, but there is a limit as to how you treat private property rights.
QUOTE: "We should stress health care for all citizens and seek means to enable this to be done with no costs to the taxpayers." Uh...yeah, right. Sorry, sir, but since when is it the town's responsibility to ensure health care for anyone? Where is it in the town's charter that the municipality has the responsibility to provide health care for its citizens? Why should I pay for health care for someone other than my own family? How the heck are we, as a town, going to do so "with no costs to the taxpayer" other than having a charity run a program? Or with grants from other governmental agencies that we are funding with tax money? Health care is not cheap and there will be expense to the tax payer if the government even touches it, regardless at which level of government. I especially have a problem with the idea of even thinking of supplying anything but life saving emergency health care to anyone here illegally. We have a county run hospital that can provide critical care. Why should the town even think about health care for anyone other than those in its employ?
QUOTE: "Also, we should work to eliminate noise that is a nuisance with better and more stricter ordinances" NEWSFLASH: We already have noise ordinances.
QUOTE: "Also, he wants the town to pursue and correct illegal immigration." It is sad that we even have to consider this, but in this, he is correct. It is the federal government's job to work on this, hence the existence of the Immigration and Naturalization Service and Border Patrol. However, the feds are not doing the job that we are paying them to do. So, we have to take action at the local level. Personally, I believe that we should refuse city services such as water, sewer, and electricity to anyone who does not have the necessary documentation to show that they are in this country legally. It is my understanding (based upon conversation with our town clerk) that the town is regularly shafted on utility bills by illegal immigrants who are very transient. If it is so difficult for the average citizen to get utility service, why is it so easy for illegals to get service in the first place and then skip out on the bill? Why allow this at my or your expense? Why even think about allowing those who refuse to follow the law to enter this country the possibility of priviledge or of breaking further law and take advantage of our system?
I don't write all of this to be severly critical of one mayoral candidate over the other. I debated about whether to write this or not. However, if elected to the town council, I will have to deal with issues like this, and will specifically have to deal with these issues if Mr. Hester is also elected. Now you all know exactly where I stand on these topics. That has been the aim of this web site from the beginning. I have been open in my viewpoints. You have the opportunity to contact me, make comments on this web site, and question things as you see fit. As long as I don't get spammed with the porn ads in the comments area, you are welcome to write comments. You are also welcome to click on my email link to the right side of the page.
Thursday, October 20, 2005
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