tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-280177682024-03-07T21:16:42.982-05:00Memoirs of the Forgetful PeopleBecause you're not hard core unless you live hard core.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-16371404980337389522022-10-29T18:54:00.001-05:002022-10-29T19:50:59.407-05:00Voter Guide Leon County, Florida General Ballot Blog Nov 2022<p> </p><h3>Leon County, Florida General Ballot Blog November 2022</h3><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="">Don't forget to vote November 8, 2022</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br />This is my take and observations on the candidates on my ballot. I include links where I can but really this is an exercise to help ME decide who to vote for. Hope it helps those others out there researching.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="">You wouldn't choose your brain surgeon based on personality, choose your government leader based on how they vote.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="">A few additional resources I like.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><a href="https://www.jamesmadison.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/2020_Amendment_Guide_v04_web.pdf" target="_blank">James Madison Institute Amendment Guide</a></div></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><a href="https://ivoterguide.com/" target="_blank">ivoter guide </a>- simple non-partisan summary based on your zip code (make sure you click the 2020 general election button on the right.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="">The <a href="https://www.tallahassee.com/story/news/politics/elections/2022/10/19/voter-guide-2022-election-tallahassee-leon-county-florida-mayor-school-board-state-house/8022248001/" target="_blank">Democrat Guide </a>is OK but you can only view it a couple of times before they make you pay for it.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>United States Senator - </b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://marcorubio.com/"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Marco Rubio (REP) -</span></a></b><b><span style="color: red;">(my pick) -</span></b>He consistently votes as a conservative. I have disagreed with him on only a few decisions.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://valdemings.com/"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Val Demmings (DEM)</span></a> -</b> Current mayor of Orange County. Served in Florida's Congress. Former Orlando chief of Police. Good on being pro-police. Votes as most democrats, pro big government, and more government control.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>Representative in US Congress, District 2</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://www.nealdunn.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Neal Dunn (REP) </span></a></b><b><span style="color: red;">(my pick) </span></b><b>- </b>While he steers away from controversial issues and often does not want to take a strong stand, he votes fairly conservative. <b> </b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://lawson.house.gov/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Al Lawson (DEM) -</span></a> </b>While not as progressive as some, he consistently votes with the democratic party.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>Commissioner of Agriculture - </b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://wiltonsimpson.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Wilton Simpson (REP)</span></a><a href="https://tallahasseereports.com/2020/07/11/public-defender-candidate-profile-jessica-yeary/"> -</a> </b><b><span style="color: red;">(my pick) </span></b>Current member of the Florida State Senate (since 2016); Elected Senate president in 2019; Lifelong farmer currently has a egg production farm. Supported by Ron DeSantis.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://naomiblemur.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Naomi Esther Blemur (DEM)</span></a></b> - A first generation Haitian-American Minister. A career in management, working for several fortune 500 companies in the retail industry and commercial banking. Established a non-profit focused on women's issues and at-risk girls. No real connections to farmers or the agriculture industry. This is just a political stepping stone for her.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><p><b><a href="https://floridafamilyaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/FFP-2022-Judicial-Voting-Guide-3.pdf" target="_blank">Judicial Voting Guide</a></b></p><p><b>Justice of the Supreme Court (Retain ?)</b></p></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Retain Justice <a href="https://www.floridasupremecourt.org/Justices/Justice-Charles-T.-Canady" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Charles T. Canady</span></a><span style="color: #2b00fe;"> </span>- appointed by Jeb Bush in 2002. Formerly served 3 terms in Florida House and 4 terms in U.S. house of representatives.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Retain Justice <a href="https://www.floridasupremecourt.org/Justices/Justice-John-D.-Couriel" target="_blank">John D. Couriel<span style="color: #2b00fe;"> </span>-</a> appointed by Ron Desantis in 2020. Assistant US attorney in south Florida for several years. Private attorney for several years.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Retain Justice <a href="https://www.floridasupremecourt.org/Justices/Justice-Jamie-R.-Grosshans" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">J</span>amie Grosshans</a><span style="color: #2b00fe;"> </span>- appointed by Ron Desantis in 2020. Assistant state attorney for several years. Court of appeals for a few years.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(No)</span> Retain Justice <a href="https://www.floridasupremecourt.org/Justices/Justice-Jorge-Labarga" target="_blank">Jorge Labarga</a><span style="color: #2b00fe;"> </span>- appointed by Charlie Christ in 2009. Circuit court judge before that and public defender for several years. Based on recommendation by the Florida Family Council.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Retain Justice <a href="https://ballotpedia.org/Ricky_Polston" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">R</span>icky Polston</a><span style="color: #2b00fe;"> </span>- appointed by Charlie Christ in 2008. Served as judge on District Court of Appeals and adjunct professor at FSU.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>District Court of Appeal (Retain ?)</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Retain <a href="https://www.1dca.org/Judges/Judge-Ross-L.-Bilbrey" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Judge </span><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Ross L. Bilbrey</span></a> - appointed by Rick Scott in 2014. County and circuit judge since 2006</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Retain<a href="https://www.1dca.org/Judges/Judge-Susan-L.-Kelsey" target="_blank"> <span style="color: #2b00fe;">Judge </span><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Susan Kelsey</span></a> - appointed by Rick Scott in 2015. Prior to that worked in private law practices.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Retain <a href="https://www.1dca.org/Judges/Judge-Robert-E.-Long-Jr" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Judge Bobby Long</span><span style="color: #2b00fe;"> </span></a>- appointed by Ron Desantis in 2020. Served as a trial court judge and Circuit Court Judge. Was general council for Leon County Sherriff's office.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Retain <a href="https://ballotpedia.org/Lori_S._Rowe" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Judge Lori S. Rowe </span></a>- appointed by Charlie Christ in 2009. Deputy Attorney General for a few years. Private attorney for a few years.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Retain <span style="color: #2b00fe;"><a href="https://www.1dca.org/Judges/Judge-L.-Clayton-Roberts" target="_blank">Judge </a>Bo Winokur </span>- appointed by Rick Scott in 2015. Served as Army Judge advocate for a few years. Previously served as assistant attorney general for a few years.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>Board of County Commissioners At Large, Group 2 - </b>There is no good pick here, Nick is the least bad.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: #ffa400;"><b><a href="https://www.voteforjosh.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Josh Johnson</span></a> -</b> </span>Not much info on him. Teaches Government and Economics at Godby High. Self proclaimed small business owner. Against the BluePrint $ going to FSU football Stadium. Anti building/growth. Supported by the far progressive wing of the city.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><a href="http://nickmaddox2014.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #ffa400;">Nick Maddox</span></b></a> -<b> <span style="color: red;">(least bad)</span></b> Our current commissioner since 2010. Considers himself "a conservative Democrat", is OK with raising taxes, focus on affordable housing in the county. Former FSU and NFL football player, voted for $800,000 sidewalk project that mostly benefits the Double Tree.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><br /></b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>Board of County Commissioners, District 2</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: #ffa400; font-family: inherit;"><span><b><span><a href="https://christiancaban.com/" target="_blank">Christian Caban</a></span></b> </span>- </span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #ffa400;"><b><a href="https://votehannahcrow.com/" target="_blank">Hannah Crow</a></b> </span>-<b> </b><span style="color: red;"><b>(my pick)</b> </span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>Board of County Commissioners, District 5 - </b>both are leftists</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: #ffa400; font-family: inherit;"><span><b><span><a href="https://www.imwithpaula.com/" target="_blank">Paula DeBoles-Johnson</a></span></b> </span>- </span><b style="color: red; font-family: inherit;">(my pick)</b><span style="color: red; font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">not quite as far left</span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.davidforleon.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;"><b>David T. O'Keefe</b></span> </a>-<b> </b></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>School Board Member, District 3</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: #ffa400; font-family: inherit;"><span><b><span><a href="https://jonesforschoolboard.com/" target="_blank">Darryl Jones</a></span></b> </span>- </span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #ffa400;"><b>Write-in</b></span> -<b> </b><span><b style="color: red;">(my pick)</b><span style="color: red;"> </span><b>Dr. Ed Moore</b>, or just put anyone they will be better.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></span></div></span></div></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>School Board Member, District 4 - </b>both seem like they could do a good job but I liked Laurie in the interviews better.</span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #ffa400;"><a href="https://www.laurielawsoncox4schoolboard.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Laurie Lawson Cox</span></a> </span>- </b></span><b><span style="color: red;">(my close pick) </span></b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Teacher for 33 years. Well spoken, seems to have a lot of connections in the schools. Supported by Hodges. </span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #ffa400;"><a href="https://tallahasseereports.com/2022/06/14/alex-stemle-to-run-for-leon-county-school-board/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Alex Stemlie</span></a> </span>- </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Assistant principal at Ran for school board 2 years ago. Previous dean of students at Deer Lake Middle School. Not a conservative but seems reasonable and a good vision for the school board.</span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Mayor</b></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><span style="color: #ffa400;"><a href="https://www.talgov.com/cityleadership/dailey" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">John Dailey</span></a> </span>- </b> <b style="color: red;">(my pick) </b>A democrat but I believe an honest one. I don't always agree with his stances but I think he genuinely cares about our town and is not corrupt. Supported giving Blueprint Funds to update FSU and FAMU stadiums.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://www.dozierformayor2022.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Kristin Dozier</span></a> - </b>Current county commissioner for District 5. Vice president of Mad Dog Construction. Leed Accredited. Opposed giving Blueprint Funds to update FSU and FAMU stadiums. Not a lot different between her and John Dailey, but she is supported by some very far progressive groups including Dream Defenders and Florida Rising.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><br /></b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>No. 1 Constitutional Amendment: Limitation on the Assessment of Real Property Used for Residential Purposes</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><span style="color: red;">(YES)</span> </b>This protects home owners from increased taxes when they make improvements that help protect their property from flooding.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>No. 2 Constitutional Amendment: Abolishing the Constitution Revision Commission (CRC).</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><span style="color: red;">(No)</span> </b>I go back and forth on this one. The CRC is a double edged sword. The CRC meets every 20 years to make amendments. One of a few ways to do so. While the last time they met they introduced several amendments that were "silly and unnecessary" but a few were also important and hard to get on the ballot any other way. Overall the Florida Constitution is amended too often, and this is one of the the few ways to undo some of those bad amendments. </div></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>No. 3 Constitutional Amendment: Additional Homestead Property Tax Exemption for Specified Critical Services Workforce</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><span style="color: red;">(YES)</span> </b>Provides additional tax break to teachers, military and first responders on property tax. I don't like property taxes to begin with. But this does put a higher burden on the rest of us, unless they makeup the taxes in sales taxes (which I prefer).</div></div><h3><br /></h3>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-77890747248197047342022-08-10T22:49:00.106-05:002022-08-21T14:40:19.833-05:00Voter Guide Leon County, Florida Primary Ballot Blog (Republican Party) Aug 2022<p> </p><h3>Leon County, Florida Primary Ballot Blog (Republican Party)</h3><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="">Don't forget to vote August 23, 2022</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br />This is my take and observations on the candidates on my ballot. I include links where I can but really this is an exercise to help ME decide who to vote for. Hope it helps those others out there researching</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>Commissioner of Agriculture - </b>both candidates are well qualified with good experience and similar outlooks on the profession Simpson just has more experience and more likely to win the general election.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://defendourunion.org/candidates/james-shaw-fl-commissioner-of-agriculture"><span style="color: #ffa400;">James W. Shaw (REP)</span></a> - <span style="color: red;"> </span></b>Interesting guy. Strong 2nd Amendment supporter. Entrepreneur, has had a lot of different businesses including a compost farm. Seems competent but not as experienced as Simpson. </div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://wiltonsimpson.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Wilton Simpson (REP)</span></a><a href="https://tallahasseereports.com/2020/07/11/public-defender-candidate-profile-jessica-yeary/"> -</a> </b><b><span style="color: red;">(my pick) </span></b>Current member of the Florida State Senate (since 2016); Elected Senate president in 2019; Lifelong farmer currently has a egg production farm. Supported by Ron DeSantis.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><br /></b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>County Judge, Group 1 - </b>Both are former law enforcement, although Jason has more experience, being endorsed by Ben Crump makes me reluctant.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://judgejasonjones.com/"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Jason Jones</span> </a> - </b><b><span style="color: red;">(my reluctant pick) </span></b>Leon County judge from 2020 to present<b>. </b>Former FDLE legal council. FDLE special agent for 9 years. Assistant state attorney for 5 years. Endorsed by Ben Crump (definitely a negative)</div><div><span style="color: #ffa400;"><a href="https://www.theodore4judge2022.com/" style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Mario R. Theodore</span></a> </span><b>- </b>Correctional Deputy for 9 years in Chicago. Owns a small law firm. Public defender for 2 years. </div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><br /></b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>Board of County Commissioners At Large, Group 2 - </b>There is no good pick here, Nick may be the least bad.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://rudyferguson.com/#about" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Rudy Ferguson Sr </span></a>- </b>Senior pastor of New Birth Tabernacle of Praise. Board Member of Griffin Heights Neighborhood Assoc. Board Member of 100 Black Men Chapter of Tallahassee. Board Member of Leon County Sherriff's Citizen Advisory Council.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: #ffa400;"><b><a href="https://www.voteforjosh.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Josh Johnson</span></a> -</b> </span>Not much info on him. Teaches Government and Economics at Godby High. Self proclaimed small business owner. Against the BluePrint $ going to FSU football Stadium. Anti building/growth.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><a href="http://nickmaddox2014.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #ffa400;">Nick Maddox</span></b></a> -<b> <span style="color: red;">(least bad)</span></b> Our current commissioner since 2010. Considers himself "a conservative Democrat", is OK with raising taxes, focus on affordable housing in the county. Former FSU and NFL football player, voted for $800,000 sidewalk project that mostly benefits the Double Tree.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominique-%E2%80%9Cnikki%E2%80%9D-zumbo-825466113/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Dominique "Nikki" Zumbo</span></a></b> - Executive Assistant for Student Housing Solutions. Legislative Assistant for Gray Robinson. Worked on Jack Porter's campaign. (a definite negative) </div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><br /></b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>Board of County Commissioners, District 1</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="https://www.barber4leon.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Terrance L. Barber</span></a></b> -<b> </b><span style="color: red;"><b>(my pick)</b> </span>Not much info on him, but I liked his presentation and ideas in the WFSU debate. Pro business, strong emphasis on growth and jobs.</span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: #ffa400;"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-pearl-cotterell/"><span style="color: #ffa400;"><span><b>Donna Pearl Co</b></span>-<span><b>tterell</b> </span></span></a> </span>Certified Grants manager. Worked briefly for city of Quincy. Brief term as a middle school teacher. Director at a theater for several years.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #ffa400;"><a href="http://cms.leoncountyfl.gov/Home/County-Commission/Bill-Proctor" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #ffa400;">Bill Proctor</span></b></a> </span>- Current County Commissioner. While not the worst county commissioner we have, we could definitely use a change.</span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>School Board Member, District 4 - </b>all 3 seem like they could do a good job.</span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #ffa400;"><a href="https://www.laurielawsoncox4schoolboard.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Laurie Lawson Cox</span></a> </span>- </b></span><b><span style="color: red;">(my close pick) </span></b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Teacher for 33 years. Well spoken, seems to have a lot of connections in the schools. </span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #ffa400;"><a href="https://www.susanhodges4schoolboard.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Susan Hodges</span></a> </span>- </b>Main focus is physical safety in school. Supports Parental Rights Bill. Strong supporter of DeSantis. She does not seem as familiar with the schools and active programs in them. </span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #ffa400;"><a href="https://tallahasseereports.com/2022/06/14/alex-stemle-to-run-for-leon-county-school-board/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Alex Stemlie</span></a> </span>- </b>Assistant principal at Ran for school board 2 years ago. Previous dean of students at Deer Lake Middle School. Not a conservative but seems reasonable and a good vision for the school board.</span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Mayor</b></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><span style="color: #ffa400;"><a href="https://www.talgov.com/cityleadership/dailey" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">John Dailey</span></a> </span>- </b> <b style="color: red;">(my pick) </b>A democrat but I believe an honest one. I don't always agree with his stances but I think he genuinely cares about our town and is not corrupt. Supported giving Blueprint Funds to update FSU and FAMU stadiums.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://www.dozierformayor2022.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Kristin Dozier</span></a> - </b>Current county commissioner for District 5. Vice president of Mad Dog Construction. Leed Accredited. Opposed giving Blueprint Funds to update FSU and FAMU stadiums. Not much different between her and John Dailey.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-ibrahim-594430120/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Michael "Mike" Ibrahim</span></a> - </b>His last three jobs have been owner or ceo of a vape shop or cannibals seller. It's a hard no for me. </div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Whitfield-Leland-III-108594757562892/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Whitfield "Hubba Bubba" Leland</span></a> - </b>Not much info but the little there is says no no no.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><br /></b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>City Commissioner, Seat 3</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://www.votebellamy.com/david-2/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">David Bellamy</span></a> - </b><b style="color: red;">(my pick) </b>Former Police Officer, current physician. Also a democrat, but he can't be much worse than Jeremy. Endorsed by the Florida Police Benevolent Society and the Board of Realtors.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://talgov.com/cityleadership/matlow" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Jeremy Matlow</span></a> - </b>Current City Commissioner since 2018. All of the current city commissioners are "progressives" he and Jack Porter are two of the most progressive out of them. </div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><br /></b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>City Commissioner, Seat 5</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://www.shelbytlh.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Shelby Green</span></a> - </b>Recent engineering grad currently working with Soil and Water conservation district. Young environmentalist and social justice warrior. </div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><span style="color: #ffa400;"><span style="color: #ffa400;"><a href="https://www.adnerfortallahassee.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Adner Marcelin</span></a> </span>- </span></b>Uber lib. Active in the local NAACP chapter. Endorsed by: Ben Crump, Jeremy Matlow. and Jack Porter</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><a href="https://www.talgov.com/cityleadership/williams-cox" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Dianne Williams Cox</span></a> - </b><b style="color: red;">(my reluctant pick) </b><span>Current city commissioner Seat 5. Worked for 19 years in several different state jobs, jumping from one section to another. Has spent much of her career as a Democrat chairperson on one committee or another. </span><span>At least she is not the other 2 running for this seat. The best thing she has going for her is that Jeremy Matlow and Jack Porter are actively trying to get her removed, so she must be doing something right.</span></div><h3><br /></h3><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><br /></b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-55318572594907363932020-10-15T22:37:00.006-05:002020-10-20T12:30:39.048-05:00Voter Guide Leon County, Florida General Election Ballot November 2020<p><b> Leon County, Florida General Election Ballot November 2020</b></p><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="">Don't forget to vote November 3, 2020</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br />This is my take and observations on the candidates on my ballot. I include links where I can but really this is an exercise to help ME decide who to vote for. Hope it helps those others out there researching. Feel free to comment and/or provide additional information you know about the candidates.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><a href="https://democrats.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/08/2020-Democratic-Party-Platform.pdf"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Link to Democrat party platform</span></a></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: #ffa400;"><a href="https://prod-cdn-static.gop.com/docs/Resolution_Platform_2020.pdf">Link to Republican party platform</a></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="">A few additional resources I like.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><a href="https://www.jamesmadison.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/2020_Amendment_Guide_v04_web.pdf" target="_blank">James Madison Institute Amendment Guide</a></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><a href="https://ivoterguide.com/" target="_blank">ivoter guide </a>- simple non-partisan summary based on your zip code (make sure you click the 2020 general election button on the right.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="">The <a href="https://www.tallahassee.com/story/news/tlhelections2020/2020/10/03/voters-guide-2020-general-election/5885959002/" target="_blank">Democrat Guide</a> is OK but you can only view it a couple of times before they make you pay for it.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>Representative to Congress, District 2</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><a href="https://dunn.house.gov/"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Neal Dunn (REP)</span></a> - <span style="color: red;">(my pick)</span> running unopposed he has been a good representative, I like him.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>Representative to Congress, District 5 </b>(includes northern Leon Co all the way to Jacksonville)</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><a href="https://electadler.com/" target="_blank">Gary Adler (REP)</a> </span>- <span style="color: red;">(my pick) </span>Based in Jacksonville, a business owner who is new to politics. Would not be my first choice but probably better than Lawson.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><a href="http://www.allawson.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Al Lawson (DEM)</span></a> - The incumbent. Has been state legislature for 28 years. Active insurance agent. Owner of a marketing firm. Current focus is on health care. Not a socialist, but tends to vote for bigger government and higher taxes.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>State Senator, District 3</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><a href="https://marvapreston.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Marva Harris Preston (REP)</span></a> </span>- <span style="color: red;">(my pick) </span> Graduated from Wakulla High but has worked for 26 years as a police officer for the city of Miami, ordained <span>ministry for <span style="background-color: rgba(226, 226, 226, 0.2); color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 16px;">Christ Church Anglican in Crawfordville, Florida, </span></span>Endorsed by Gov Desantis. Not a lot of political experience, but appears to be a strong conservative.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><a href="https://www.ausleyforsenate.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Loranne Ausley (DEM)</span></a> - Incumbent. Career politician, in the Florida house from 2000-2008 and 2016-present. I regretfully once voted for her thinking she was a moderate, but she is not and has proven herself to be far left big government type. </div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>State Representative, District 9</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/jimkallinger4floridahouse/" target="_blank">Jim Kallinger (REP)</a> </span>- <span style="color: red;">(my pick) </span>Moderate conservative. Past State Representative 2001 to 2004. Past chair of the Florida Faith & Freedom Coalition. Current senior strategist for Front Lines Strategies, a marketing firm.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><a href="https://allisontant.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Allison Tant (DEM)</span></a> - Moderate progressive. Self proclaimed community organizer, has focused on support for disabled children in education (good cause). Very non-committal in many of her comments and answers. State chair for Democratic party.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>Superintendent of Schools</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><a href="https://www.hightowercampaign.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Pam Hightower (DEM)</span></a> - <span style="color: red;">(my reluctant pick)</span> 40 years of educational experience. Former principal for 3 different schools, and District Director of Title 1 and Special Services. I'm willing to give someone else a chance.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><a href="https://rockyhanna.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Rocky Hanna (NPA)</span></a> - Incumbent, actually a DEM. Remember the school bussing fiasco last year? He will not allow teachers to participate in Florida's armed teacher program. Has a weird relationship to some LLC's registered in Las Vegas used to support <a href="https://tallahasseereports.com/2020/01/12/rocky-hanna-continues-to-make-campaign-donations-through-las-vegas-llcs/" target="_blank">local campaigns</a>.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>Justice of the Supreme Court (Retain ?)</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Retain Justice <a href="https://www.floridasupremecourt.org/Justices/Justice-Carlos-G.-Muniz" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Carlos G. Muniz </span></a>- recent appointment by Ron DeSantis in 2019. Formerly served as lawyer for the US dept. of Education, served as deputy attorney general and chief of staff to the Florida Attorney General.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>District Court of Appeal (Retain ?)</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Retain <a href="https://www.1dca.org/Judges/Judge-Joseph-Lewis-Jr" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Judge Joseph Lewis Jr.</span></a> - Incumbent since 2001. Office of the Attorney General 1995-2000. appointed by Jeb Bush.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Retain <a href="https://www.1dca.org/Judges/Judge-Scott-Makar" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Judge Scott Makar</span></a> - Incumbent since 2012. Appointed by Rick Scott. Solicitor General, State of Florida 2007-2011. General Counsel City of Jacksonville 2001-2007.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Retain <span style="color: #2b00fe;"><a href="https://www.1dca.org/Judges/Judge-Rachel-E.-Nordby" target="_blank">Judge Rachel Norby</a> </span>- recent appointment by Ron DeSantis in 2019. Served as Senior Deputy Solicitor General for the Florida Attorney General. Also was a partner at Tallahassee law firm.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Retain <a href="https://www.1dca.org/Judges/Judge-Timothy-D.-Osterhaus" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Judge Tim Osterhause </span></a>- Incumbent since 2013. Appointed by Rick Scott. I have met him and casually knew their family. Good people.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Retain <span style="color: #2b00fe;"><a href="https://www.1dca.org/Judges/Judge-L.-Clayton-Roberts" target="_blank">Judge Clay Roberts</a> </span>- Incumbent since 2007. Appointed by Charlie Crist. Deputy Attorney General 2003-2007. Adjunct law professor 2004-2013. </div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Retain <span style="color: #2b00fe;"><a href="https://www.1dca.org/Judges/Judge-Adam-S.-Tanenbaum" target="_blank">Judge Adam S. Tanenbaum</a> </span>- Recently appointed by Ron DeSantis in 2019. Lawyer for FL House of Representatives 2016-2019, FL Dept of State 2015-2016. Back and forth as Assistant public defender and private attorney between 1997-2014.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>Circuit Judge, 2nd Judicial Circuit, Group 4</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><a href="http://tiffanybaker2020.com/"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Tiffany Baker</span></a> - young attorney worked past 7 years as <span>a <span style="background-color: white; color: #303030;">criminal defense, personal injury and family law attorney. Young but actually spoke about upholding the constitution in interview.</span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><a href="https://www.amandawallforjudge.com/">Amanda P. Wall</a> </span>-<b> (</b><span style="color: red;">my pick</span>), 31 Years in law practice as both a private attorney and as a prosecutor. appears to have a greater variety of types law practice which I think is a plus for a judge.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>Board of County Commissioners at Large, Group 1</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><a href="https://www.cummingsforcommissioner.com/?fbclid=IwAR0Qf9jAuuSj4dYUA2GoSAx5gpFMeSDCcv_J07_xMqxHPIkonZ76peD4ars">Carolyn Cummings</a> </span>- <span style="color: red;">(my pick)</span> An attorney with over 35 years of experience in government and general practice law. Main concerns are crime and affordable housing. Supports Children's Services Council. This is a close one, although I don't agree with her on everything she seems fairly moderate and willing to work with the business community.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span><a href="https://kellyotte.com/"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Kelly Otte</span></a> - <span style="font-family: inherit;">s</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">erved as the executive director at the PACE Center for Girls for more than a decade. Columnist of the Tallahassee Democrat. Has had a variety of jobs. Lots of volunteer works. Main concerns economic growth, crime and poverty. </span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>Board of County Commissioners, District 4</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><a href="https://www.bryandesloge.com/" target="_blank">Bryan Desloge</a> </span>- <span style="color: red;">(my reluctant pick) </span>Former IBM employee and former owner of a medical device firm. Former chair of city Chamber of Commerce. A rare republican (possibly the only one) on the county commission. Can be a hot head at times, and I don't always agree, but he is more conservative than most of the others on the commission.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><a href="https://www.welchforleon.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Brian Welch</span></a> - Chiles High teacher, Main issues, getting additional parks for the NE Tallahassee and limiting development. I agree with many of his positions, I just agree more with Desloge.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>City Commissioner, Seat 2</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://curtisforcitycommission.com/"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Curtis Richardson</span></a> - <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">Current City Commissioner, a progressive, pushed for 27% city tax hike, voted to approve contracts for city vendors that had recently donated to his campaign and did not excuse himself from voting.</span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.billschack.com/"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Bill Schack</span></a> - (<span style="color: red;">my pick</span>) Tallahassee business owner. Food service director for Tallahassee homeless shelter and Guardian ad litem volunteer. Strong law enforcement supporter.</span></div></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>Leon Soil and Water Conservation District Seat 5 (very little info on either candidate)</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: #2b00fe;">James R. Billingsley</span> - (<span style="color: red;">my pick</span>) F<span style="background-color: white; color: #303030; font-family: "Georgia Pro", Georgia, "Droid Serif", serif;">ormer member of Canopy Roads Citizens Committee and employee of the Florida House and Senate, </span>whatever that means. Pick only due to experience on CRCC.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><a href="https://www.facebook.com/KyleJFrostFL/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Kyle Frost </span></a>- Software engineer. Is active in the local environmental community. </div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>Capital Region Community Development District, Seat 4</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><u>Carl Mikyska</u> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">- </span><span style="color: red;">(my pick)</span><span style="color: red;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Incumbent.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"> Executive Director of the Florida Metropolitan Planning Organization Advisory Council. Worked for FDOT. </span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><u><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Andrew Wiggins</span> </u>- Could not find any information about him.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><h4><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Establishment of Children's Services Council of Leon County</span></h4><div><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">This creates a new county bureaucracy that would have their own taxing power and will not be able to be removed until 12 years after being established. Children services are already covered under the county's budget, with lots of different programs. There is no written plan or budget for this new initiative. You're expected to vote for it before you can see what it will do. </span><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">Additional Children's Services and budgets should be addressed through the existing mostly transparent county commission and not a new unaccountable committee.</span></div><div><span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">(No)</span></div><h4><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Amendments</span></h4><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small;">In general if you don't understand an amendment it is better to vote NO. Our Florida constitution is muddied up with way too many things that should have been left to legislation by the house and senate, and not put forever in the constitution.</span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>No. 1 - Citizenship Requirement to Vote in Florida Elections</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="">Requires Florida residents to be citizens to vote. This is kinda redundant, but is an attempt to clarify the language in the law. This is an issue that cannot be addressed by the Legislature.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">(Yes)</span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="background-color: white; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;"><b>No. 2 - Raising Florida's Minimum Wage</b></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: times, times new roman, serif;">Raises Florida's Minimum Wage to $15. This is a job and small business killer. Small businesses like restaurants already struggling to stay alive will be forced to fire people and/or shut down. The only companies able to absorb the costs will be large corporations like Target. For a great summary explaining why this is a bad idea go <a href="https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=2634177146847976" target="_blank">HERE.</a></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="background-color: white; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;"><span style="color: red;"><b>(NO NO NO.......)</b></span></span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>No. 3 - All Voters Vote in Primary Elections for State Legislature, Governor, and Cabinet</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="">This would make Florida's Primaries "Open" which means REP can vote for DEMs in the primary and visa versa. I don't like this idea as it makes it possible for either party to sabotage the other party's primary by voting against the other party's stronger candidate.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(No)</span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>No. 4 - Voter Approval of Constitutional Amendments</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="">Requires Florida Constitutional amendments to pass voter approval twice. Currently I think Florida's constitution is changed too easily. This will help make sure that amendments are looked at more closely. Since a different set of voters tend to vote every 2 years it makes since to have each weight in.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><br /></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>No. 5 - Limitations on Homestead Property Tax Assessments: </b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="">Extends the homestead tax exemption (Save-Our-Homes) from 2 to 3 years. Gives homeowners a time exemption for those that take a long time to build a home, which has been happening a lot lately with the recent hurricane issues.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="">This is an issue that cannot be addressed by the Legislature.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b><br /></b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><b>No. 6 - Homestead Property Tax Discount for Surviving Spouses of Deceased Veterans</b></div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="">Does what it sounds like. It is only for veterans with combat related disabilities. I think this makes sense.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="">This is an issue that cannot be addressed by the Legislature.</div><div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop=""><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-13343500997099323972018-10-28T21:27:00.001-05:002018-11-04T14:40:29.977-05:00Leon County General Election 2018<h3>
<span style="color: orange;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Leon County, Florida Ballot Blog </span></span></h3>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<span style="font-size: small;">Don't forget to vote November 6, 2018</span></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">This is my take and observations on the candidates on my ballot. I
include links where I can but really this is an exercise to help ME
decide who to vote for. Hope it helps those others out there researching. </span> <br />
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Commissioner of Agriculture</span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://votecaldwell.org/">Matt Caldwell</a> - <span style="color: blue;"><span style="background-color: white;">Rep -<span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: black;"> (<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) <span style="font-weight: normal;">My pick during the primary. Former real estate appraiser. Current member of the Florida House where he was elected in 2010. Has a lot of endorsements</span></span></span></span> </span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://nikkifried.com/">Nicole "Nikki" Fried</a> - <span style="color: blue;"><span style="background-color: white;">Dem - <span style="color: black;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Worked as a public defender after college, now is lawyer in private practice. Increased access to medical marijuana is her main platform.</span></span></span></span> </span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Mayor</span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.daileyformayor.com/">John Dailey</a> - (<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;">My reluctant Pick</span></span>) <span style="font-weight: normal;">He is not as bad as Dustin. One day I hope to be able to elect at least some moderates to the city government, until then John is the least bad option.</span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.dustindaniels.com/">Dustin R. Daniels</a> - <span style="font-weight: normal;">Dustin is a buddy of Andrew Gillum and involved in some of the same "receiving of favors". If you like Andrew Gillum then Dustin is for you.</span> </span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> City Commissioner Seat 3</span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.lisabrownfortlh.com/">Lisa Brown</a> - <span style="font-weight: normal;">(<span style="color: red;">My reluctant Pick</span>) </span></span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;">CEO and board member at the Tallahassee-Leon Federal Credit Union. Formerly registered republican now NPA, considers herself a moderate. At least she is not supported by NOW.</span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.jeremymatlow.com/">Jeremy Matlow</a> - <span style="font-weight: normal;">Owner of Gaines Street Pies, supported by NOW, FSU college DEMS, the teachers union, and Boldprogressives.org.</span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> City Commissioner Seat 5 (this is a no win race)</span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://boblotane.com/"><b>Bob Lotane</b></a> - Communications (marketing lobbying) Consultant - Progressive liberal. Anti-school choice, anti-charter schools, proposes to ban plastic bags, proposes "high speed" buses. He does have a strong ethics reform and government transparency stance. His website has a lot of info. </span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/dwilliamscox">Dianne Williams-Cox</a></b> -(<span style="color: red;">my changed pick</span>)Accountability/Comp. Officer for Voices of FL, Inc., Proud member of the Democratic party. She didn't really state any real policies only platitudes. After reading some negative politico flier I changed my mind to pick her.</span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b>Leon Soil and Water Conservation District 2</b></span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Cara Feischer - Co-leader of Tallahassee citizens climate lobby (that sounds like an organization that needs some tax money)</span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">John W. Hedrick -Assistant public defender, served as chair of democrat environmental caucus.</span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Will Henry - (<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) Veteran, retired nurse and accountant, seems at least somewhat moderate</span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Leon Soil and Water Conservation District 4</span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Bill Helmich - (<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) He is running on a platform of doing away with the Leon Soil and Water Conservation committee, which sounds like a good idea since their original function is not longer needed. They were created in the 1938 to represent small farmers to report soil and water needs to the government. They do not make policy or influence taxes but only inform and lobby for their own ideas.</span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Brian Lee - Incumbent, co-founder of Re-think energy Florida advocate.</span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.floridasupremecourt.org/justices/lawson.shtml">Retain Justice Alan Lawson</a> - (<span style="color: red;">Yes</span>) <span style="font-weight: normal;">A conservative leaning judge appointed by Rick Scott.</span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.1dca.org/judges/jay.html"><b>Retain Judge Harvey Jay</b></a> - (<span style="color: red;">Yes</span>) Appointed by Rick Scott, I could not find a reason not to keep him.</span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b><a href="http://www.1dca.org/judges/ray.html">Retain Judge Stephanie Ray</a></b> - (<span style="color: red;">Yes</span>) Appointed by Rick Scott, lots of awards and community organizations. </span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.1dca.org/judges/judge_bradford_l_thomas.htm"><b>Retain Judge Brad Thomas</b></a> - (<span style="color: red;">Yes</span>) Appointed by Jeb Bush, I could not find a reason not to keep him.</span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b><a href="http://www.1dca.org/judges/thomask.html">Retain Judge Kemmerly Thomas</a></b> - (<span style="color: red;">Yes</span>) </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">A conservative leaning judge appointed by Rick Scott.</span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b><a href="http://www.1dca.org/judges/winsor.html">Retain Judge Allen Winsor</a></b> - (<span style="color: red;">Yes</span>) Appointed by Rick Scott, </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">I could not find a reason not to keep him.</span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></span></span></h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Circuit Judge, 2nd Judicial Circuit, Group 12</span></span></h4>
<a href="https://www.lisafountainforjudge.com/">Lisa Barclay Fountain </a>-Worked at a variety of private law firms, about half plantiffs and half defense lawyer. <br />
<a href="https://www.davidfrankforjudge.org/">David Frank</a> - (<span style="color: red;">My Close Pick</span>)
Former Green Beret, CIA analyst, and Assistant Attorney General.
Currently owns The Frank Law Firm. Also has defense and plantiff
experience. I give him the edge because he had experience as a
prosecutor in addition to private work.<br />
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Amendments</span></span></h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">In
general if you don't understand an amendment it is better to vote NO.
Our Florida constitution is muddied up with way too many things that
should have been left to legislation by the house and senate, and not
put forever in the constitution.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><b>No. 1 - Increased Homestead Property Tax Exemption</b> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">If you own a decent home you will get an additional tax break on the house you live in. I love lower taxes.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">No. 2 - Limitations on Property Tax Assessments</span></span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: black;">Makes permanent, li</span>mits to non-homestead property tax increases to 10% or less. This limit is already in effect, this just makes it permanent.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"></span></span>
<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">No. 3 - Voter Control of Gambling in Florida</span></span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: black;">Financed by the Seminole Tribe and Disney. It would make it so that expanding gambling would require being voted on by Florida residents. (now the legislature or voters can authorize gambling). I don't think it makes sense that voters in Tallahassee would have a say in Miami expanding gambling or visa versa. After additional research and discussion I don't think this should be in the constitution and the legislature should have a say in this issue. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;">(No)</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">No. 4 - Voter Restoration Amendment</span></span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #222222;">Fairly straight forward. Restores the voting rights of felons after they complete their sentence. Does not apply to murder and sexual offenses. I believe in restoring the rights and privileges to those that have finished their sentence. </span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">No. 5 - </span></span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Supermajority Vote Required to Impose, Authorize, or Raise State Taxes or Fees. </span></span></span></b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #222222;"> </span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #222222;">Requires 2/3rds vote of each house of the legislature to raise taxes or fees. Does not apply to counties or cities only state. I am for lower taxes in general. If a fee is really important they can get more than 2/3rds votes.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #222222;"></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">No. 6 - Rights of Crime Victims: Judges</span></span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #222222;">I don't like that this is really 3 (or more) amendments rolled into one. This is a complicated one with too many different moving parts. I agree with overall giving rights to victims (Marcy's Law), I think this is a complex issue that requires more simplification and clarity than is given by this amendment. </span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;">(No)</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">No. 7 - First Responder and Military Member Survivor</span></span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #222222;">While I support giving death benefits and cheaper college to the surviving family members of First Responders and the military, this does not belong in the constitution and should be handled via the legislature. </span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;">(No)</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">No. 9 - Prohibits Offshore Oil and Gas Drilling; Prohibits Vaping in Enclosed Indoor Workplaces</span></span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #222222;">First this should not be 1 amendment but 2. Prohibiting Oil and Gas Drilling is shortsighted and foolish, a sentiment based on fear. This should be handled first in the marketplace, and second in the legislature. Vaping issues should be handled by whomever owns the workplace and not in the constitution.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;">(No)</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">No. 10 - State and Local Government Structure and Operation</span></span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #222222;">Although this has way too many different things in one amendment, I strongly support elections of the sheriff, property appraiser, tax collectors, and clerks of court. County officials that remove the elections and instead put there own choices in these positions have way too much power. The other part of the amendment are not that important. </span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">No. 11 - Removal of Obsolete Provision; Criminal Statutes</span></span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #222222;"><a href="https://ballotpedia.org/Florida_Amendment_11,_Repeal_Prohibition_on_Aliens%E2%80%99_Property_Ownership,_Delete_Obsolete_Provision_on_High-Speed_Rail,_and_Repeal_of_Criminal_Statutes%27_Effect_on_Prosecution_Amendment_(2018)">This is a bundle of several revisions</a> proposed by the "Constitution Revision Commission" to remove and change 3 main provisions. 1. repeals a prohibition of foreign-born persons from owning or inheriting Florida property. 2. repeals provision that forced the development of high-speed rail. 3. Allows more flexibility in prosecuting amended criminal statutes. </span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">No. 12 - Lobbying and Abuse of Office by Public Officers</span></span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #222222;">This prohibits public officials from lobbying for compensation
during the official's term in office and for six years after the
official leaves office and prohibits public officials from using the
office to obtain a disproportionate benefit. A good idea in theory, enforcement would be very tricky, but does not belong in the constitution.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;">(No)</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">No. 13 - Ends Dog Racing</span></span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #222222;">I disagree with dog racing for a number of reasons, however, language in this bill could be used </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #222222;"> to limit or outlaw hunting, fishing, farming of animals, etc. It has a "poison pill" and does not belong in the
constitution.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;">(No)</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;">Extras: (not Constitutional)</span></span></span></b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;"><b>Code of Ethics as Proposed by the Citizen Charter Review Committee</b></span> </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">Establishes a Code of Ethics for the County Commissioners, employees, and their appointees. Long overdue, the county is in bad need of Ethics reform.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;">(Yes) </span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;"><b>Second Judicial Circuit Public Defender Appointee to City of Tallahassee Independent Ethics Board</b></span> </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">Provides that the Public Defender will appoint Seat 2 on the Tallahassee Ethics Board.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;">(Yes) </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: red;">I will continue as I have time:..... </span></span></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-13140490529622212652018-08-26T15:23:00.004-05:002018-10-25T21:45:03.367-05:00Leon County Florida, Primary Ballot August 2018 <h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name">
<span style="color: orange;">Leon County Florida, Primary Ballot August 2018
</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="color: orange;">
Leon County, Florida Primary Ballot Blog (Republican Party)</span></h3>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
Don't forget to vote August 28, 2018</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<br />
This is my take and observations on the candidates on my ballot. I
include links where I can but really this is an exercise to help ME
decide who to vote for. Hope it helps those others out there researching. </div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<b>United States Senator</b> </div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="https://vote.rocky101.com/en_us/">Roque "Rocky" De La Fuente</a> - why is this guy wasting his time? He is a Californian running for senator simultaneously in 5 states. Maybe so he can combine funding who knows.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="https://rickscottforflorida.com/">Rick Scott</a> - (<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) If you don't know who Rick Scott is maybe you should try voting on the 29th. He is not perfect but this is a no brainer.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<br /></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<b>Governor and Lt. Governor</b></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
Surprisingly there are more than 2 candidates</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
I'm not going to discuss the Lt. Governor because it doesn't really matter.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Don-Baldauf-for-Florida-Governor-1001170809985606/">Don Baldaulf</a> - Business man, small government guy, but he doesn't have the experience to be the Governor. I'm sorry to say Don has no chance.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="https://desantis.house.gov/">Ron DeSantis</a> - (<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) The current US Congressman for the 6th District. Former Navy JAG officer. A member of the conservative Freedom caucus. </div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<u>Timothy M. Devine</u> - He was a write-in candidate for Governor in 2014. Also ran twice for Oceola Sheriff. Has no website and doesn't do interviews. Apparently he just likes the idea of being on a ballot.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<u>Bob Langford</u> - Retired Tallahassee attorney, worked for the Legislature for eight years and had been a lawyer for
the Office of Public Counsel as well as in the Attorney General's office. Also has no website or Facebook page. Qualifications include quote "I believe I have been to every intersection in this state, many times." ...I'm sure he has.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="http://www.patriotforthestate.com/">John Joseph Mercadante</a> - Not good with words. Businessman working as an HVAC repairman. Seems like a nice guy but doesn't have a chance.<br />
<a href="https://brucenathan2018.com/">Bruce Nathan</a> - physical therapist for over 20 years, once a democrat that changed republican after 9/11. No political experience. Also no chance.<br />
<a href="https://act.adamputnam.com/floridafirst/?utm_medium=text&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=20180103_FLGrown-32154_google&utm_content=FLGrown-32154&gclid=CjwKCAjwtvnbBRA5EiwAcRvnpskh3mjxkPspxu1CrOX2p8PNM3wvjqgh8iwvGEkYd7og9O8bm5FHWRoCYbEQAvD_BwE">Adam H. Putnam</a> - (<span style="color: red;">A close runner up</span>) Current Florida's Commissioner of Agriculture. Served in Florida congress for 10 years. I think he would make a good governor, but after hearing the debate between him and DeSantis I have to give the edge to DeSantis.<br />
<br />
<b>Attorney General</b><br />
<a href="https://www.electashleymoody.com/">Ashley Moody</a> - (<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) Practiced commercial litigation then became a federal prosecutor for a few years. After that she became the youngest judge in Florida. Supported by Pam Bondi and a lot of sheriffs. <br />
<a href="https://www.frankwhite.com/about">Frank White</a> - CFO and general counsel to Sansing Dealer Group. Serves as chair of Florida Development Finance Corporation Board of Directors. Has not been a prosecutor before, I think that is really important.<br />
<br />
<b>Commissioner of Agriculture</b><br />
<a href="http://votecaldwell.org/">Matt Caldwell</a> - (<span style="color: red;">My Close Pick</span>) Former real estate appraiser. Current member of the Florida House where he was elected in 2010. Has a lot of endorsements<br />
<a href="https://denisegrimsley.com/">Denise Grimsley </a>- Registered Nurse with an MBA, Current member of the Florida Senate, Chair of the Senate Ag committee. Also has a lot of endorsements, has detailed plan in the form of a short e-book. (think Leslie Knope)<br />
<a href="https://mikemccalister.com/">Mike McCalister</a> - Retired Army Colonel. Former professor. Owner/operator of a small tree farm. I liked most of his ideas for changes in the Ag department. He does not have many endorsements and does not have much chance of winning<br />
<br />
<a href="https://baxtertroutman.com/">Baxter Troutman</a> - Family farmer and rancher also CEO of Labor Solutions. Former member of the Florida House 2002 - 2010. Board member with Farm Bureau. He does not have many endorsements, has more funding than McCalister but still does not have much chance of winning<br />
<br />
<b>Circuit Judge 2nd Judicial Circuit, Group 12</b><br />
<b>-</b> I listened to a "debate" with them and any of the 3 would make a decent judge.<b> </b> <br />
<a href="https://www.lisafountainforjudge.com/">Lisa Barclay Fountain </a>-Worked at a variety of private law firms, about half plantiffs and half defense lawyer. <br />
<a href="https://www.davidfrankforjudge.org/">David Frank</a> - (<span style="color: red;">My Close Pick</span>) Former Green Beret, CIA analyst, and Assistant Attorney General. Currently owns The Frank Law Firm. Also has defense and plantiff experience. I give him the edge because he had experience as a prosecutor in addition to private work.<br />
<a href="http://thurmanforcircuitjudge.com/">D. Christine Thurman</a> - Worked primarily in family civil law. Strong volunteer background.<br />
<br />
<b>County Judge, Group 3</b><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/CydneeB4Judge/">Cydnee Brown</a> - Former non-commissioned officer in air-force and prosecutor with State Attorney, currently criminal defense and family law attorney. <br />
<a href="http://www.moniquerichardsonforjudge.com/">Monique Richardson</a> - Former public defender and managing attorney to Legal Services of North Florida. Current lawyer to the AME Church, Supported by NOW so not supported by me.<br />
<a href="http://suzanne4judge.com/about-us/">Suzanne Van Wyk</a> - (<span style="color: red;">my Pick</span>) Currently an administrative law judge, served as GC to the Florida Department of Community Affairs, as assistant county attorney with the Leon County Attorney’s Office, and
as a staff attorney for the Florida Building Commission and the Florida
Senate, Committee on Community Affairs. My pick based on her experience as a judge and lawyer<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<b>Mayor</b><br />
Norris H. Barr<b> </b>- No website or facebook page, difficult to find info. No.<br />
<a href="https://www.daileyformayor.com/">John Dailey</a> - Was county commission for 12 years. He endorses Gwen Graham for governor.<br />
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/dustinrdaniels/">Dustin R Daniels -</a> Andrew Gillum's former chief of staff....NO No No.<br />
<a href="https://carrie4tally.wordpress.com/">Carrie Litherland</a> - Young with no experience, not clear where she stands on several issues.<br />
<a href="http://www.votemichelle.us/">Michelle Rehwinkel Vasillinda</a> -Moderate Democrat in the Florida house, pro 2nd amendment, could do worse.<br />
<a href="http://gojoe2018.com/">Joe West</a> - (<span style="color: red;">my close Pick</span>) Disabled Vietnam Vet. I agree with most of ideas and we need someone new in city office.<br />
<br />
<b>City Commissioner, Seat 3</b><br />
Lisa Brown - formerly registered republican now NPA, considers herself a moderate.<br />
Richard Garzola - Democrat, community organizer<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/alex4tlhseat3/">Alex C. Jordan</a> - Democrat, longtime state administrator.<br />
Jeremy Matlow - Democrat<br />
Bill Schack - Republican<br />
<br />
<b>City Commissioner, Seat 5</b><br />
Henry Adelusi Jr - <br />
Howard Kessler -<br />
Bob Lotane -<br />
Dianne Williams-Cox - <br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-1695107306469696802016-10-31T23:03:00.001-05:002016-11-07T13:36:55.382-05:00Leon County Florida, General Election, November Ballot 2016 :(<br />
<br />
After many hours of work and late nights staying up writing this blog it was accidently deleted and I can't figure out how to get it back.<br />
<br />
I apologize for the lack of in depth research but below is a quick synopsis of how I plan to vote without all of the previous detail, except in a few races.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller</h4>
Difficult choice but I give the edge to Gwen.<br />
<a href="http://www.gwenforclerk.net/">Gwen Marshall</a> - DEM - <span style="color: red;">(My Pick)</span> has been working for the Clerks of the Circuit Court and Comptrollers for 17 years. <br />
<a href="http://www.ayetinforclerk.com/">Franklin Ayetin</a> - NPA - Assistant General Counsel for the Florida Division of Emergency Management.<br />
<h4>
Sheriff</h4>
After 2 years being the county with the highest violent crime rate in the state it is time for a change.<br />
Charlie Strickland - REP -<span style="color: red;"> (A close second)</span> - <br />
Walt McNeil - DEM - Former Police Chief, would also make a good choice.<br />
Tommy Mills - NPA - <br />
Mike Woods - NPA - <span style="color: red;">(My Pick) </span>Current Sheriff, based on inside info, has helped to greatly improve moral at the office. <br />
<h4>
Property Appraiser</h4>
Akin Akinyemi - former county commissioner. My favorite quote from him. "I am a very humble man, but I have done more for this county in 3 years than anyone." He should not be allowed to hold any public office.<br />
Greg Lane - <span style="color: red;">(My Pick) <span style="color: black;">Has been in real estate and doing property appraisals for many years.</span></span><br />
<br />
<h4>
Superintendent of Schools</h4>
View the WCTV debate <a href="http://www.wctv.tv/content/news/Leon-County-Superintendent-Debate-397951301.html">HERE</a><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/ForrestVanCamp/">Forrest Van Camp</a> - REP - <span style="color: red;">(My Pick)</span> Former Leon County School Board member and long-time school administrator. He is against the common core curriculum.<br />
<a href="http://www.jackiepons.com/">Jackie Pons</a> - DEM - Current Superintendent, Time for someone new.<br />
<a href="http://www.rockyhanna.com/">Rocky Hanna</a> - NPA - Worked as Assistant Principal and Principal of Leon High, worked with Special Sites and Programs for Dept. of Juvenile Justice.<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Patricia-Sunday-for-Superintendent-of-Schools-248916585464664/?ref=nf">Patricia Ann Sunday</a> - NPA - No chance of winning not enough people know who she is.<br />
<h4>
Justice of the Supreme Court</h4>
<span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Charles T. Canady - one of only 2 conservatives on the court<br />
<span style="color: red;">(No)</span> Jorge Labaraga<br />
<span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Ricky L. Polston - the other conservative.<br />
<br />
<h4>
District Court of Appeal</h4>
<span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Ross Bilbrey<br />
<span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Susan Kelsey<br />
<span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Lori S. Rowe<br />
<span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Kent Wetherell<br />
<span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span> Bo Winokur<br />
<span style="color: red;">(No)</span> Jim Wolf<br />
<br />
<h4>
Supervisor of Elections</h4>
<a href="http://vote4earley.org/">Mark S. Earley</a> - <span style="color: red;">(MY PICK)</span> 22 year employee of the elections office, currently Voting systems manager. Endorsed by Ion Sancho. Clearly has the most experience.<br />
<a href="http://electalanwilliams.com/v2/">Alan Williams</a> - Former Democrat State Representative looking for another government job.<br />
<br />
<h4>
County Commissioner - District 2</h4>
<a href="http://www.jimbojackson.com/">Jimbo Jackson</a> - Has served as Administrator at Fort Braden School for past 12 years. Seems OK but I'll give the edge to Manny.<br />
<a href="http://www.mannyjoanos.com/">Manny Joanos</a> - <span style="color: red;">(My Pick)</span> <span style="color: white; display: inline; float: none; font-family: , , , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Divisional Director for the Leon County School District. Endorsed by NEBA (pro business group), based on his platform he seems more pro business which is something Leon county needs.</span></span><br />
<br />
<h4>
County Commissioner At Large, Group 1</h4>
<a href="http://www.davidthawkins.com/">David T. Hawkins</a> - <span style="color: red;">(My Pick)</span> Works at Florida Department of Revenue Warehouse. Fiscal conservative, emphasis on limiting county spending. <br />
<a href="https://cms.leoncountyfl.gov/Home/County-Commission/Mary-Ann-Lindley">Mary Ann Lindley</a> - Current County Commissioner, former Tallahassee Democrat and Miami Herald employee and Hillary Clinton supporter.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Leon County Soil and Water Conservation District 1</h4>
Unpaid position<br />
<a href="http://brookebustle.wixsite.com/bustleforleoncounty">Brooke Bustle</a> - <span style="color: red;">(My Pick)</span> Works for Strategic Management Office of the DMV. Has worked for Steve Southerland and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation.<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/lorin.pratt.1">Lorin Pratt</a> - Current Supervisor of the Leon County Soil and Water Conservation District. Public Information Specialist.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Leon County Soil and Water Conservation District 3</h4>
Unpaid position<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/fraziertabitha">Tabitha Frazier</a> - Runs website "leontrees.org" a website dedicated to Leon County's trees. <span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial"; font-size: x-small;">Current supervisor, Leon Soil and Water Conservation District. <span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: small;">Not bad.</span></span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Bill-Helmich-for-Soil-and-Water-Conservation-District-3-553454501506344/">Bill Helmich</a> - <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">(</span><span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">My Pick</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">) BA Military History. Owns local business consulting firm. Has worked for City Water Utilities and Underground Utilities Departments. <span style="font-size: x-small;">Previous supervisor, Leon Soil and Water Conservation District</span></span><br />
<br />
<h4>
Capital Region Community Development District, Seat 2</h4>
Brian Kelley - Regional Sales Director for IT company.<br />
Carl Mikyska - <span style="color: red;">(My Pick)</span> Executive Director of the Florida Metropolitan Planning Organization Advisory Council. Worked for FDOT. He has the most experience.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Amendments</h4>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">In general if you don't understand an amendment it is better to vote NO. Our Florida constitution is muddied up with way too many things that should have been left to legislation by the house and senate, and not put forever in the constitution.</span><br />
Amendment 1 - Rights of Electricity Consumers Regarding Solar Energy Choice<br />
this has been pushed by the Florida Utility companies, and should not be in the Constitution, but through legislation.<br />
<span style="color: red;">(No)</span><br />
<br />
Amendment 2 - Use of Marijuana for Debilitating Medical Conditions<br />
I am actually for the Medical use of Marijuana or its derivative, but this should not be in the constitution.<br />
<span style="color: red;">(No)</span><br />
<span style="color: red;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black;">Amendment 3 - Tax Exemption for Totally and Permanently Disabled First Responders</span><br />
For this to happen, needs to be through amendment.<br />
<span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span><br />
<span style="color: red;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black;">Amendment 5 - Homestead Tax Exemption for Certain Senior, Low-income, Long-Term Residents; Determination of Just Value.</span><br />
This is a revision of a previous amendment and must be handled by another amendment<br />
<span style="color: red;">(Yes)</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-1947706277534648612016-08-23T20:47:00.000-05:002016-08-23T22:45:43.464-05:00Leon County Florida, Primary Ballot August 2016<h3>
Leon County, Florida Primary Ballot Blog (Republican Party)</h3>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
Don't forget to vote August 30, 2016</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<br />
This is my take and observations on the candidates on my ballot. I include links where I can but really this is an exercise to help ME decide who to vote for. Hope it helps those others out there researching</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
</div>
<h4 class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
United States Senator</h4>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="http://carlosberuff.com/" target="_blank">Carlos Beruff -</a> A businessman with some experience on local government boards, appears to be a strong conservative. I would consider voting for him if Rubio were not running.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="http://ernierivera.com/about/" target="_blank">Ernie Rivera -</a> Former pastor from Puerto Rico. Has done a lot of missions work and a little bit of Puerto Rican politics. Appears to be a constitutional conservative.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="http://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/" target="_blank">Marco Rubio - </a> <span style="color: red;">(MY PICK)</span> You should know him by now. He is not perfect, but I like him and think he will continue to do a great job as senator.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="http://www.dwightyoungforsenate2016.com/" target="_blank">Dwight Mark Anthony Young</a> - Born in Jamaica, former army, currently a Sheriff's Deputy, very little experience. Should try to be a little more active in the community first.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
</div>
<h4 class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
Representative in Congress District 2</h4>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
These are all good candidates I just like Ken better.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="https://www.nealdunn.com/" target="_blank">Neal Dunn</a> - Served in the army for 10 years. Currently a Urologist in Panama City. Locally active in community groups charity boards and the boy scouts. Supported by Steve Southerland (a plus). Strong conservative, I would vote for him if not for Ken running.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/fightwithken/" target="_blank">Ken Sukhia</a> - <span style="color: red;">(MY PICK)</span> A lawyer that served as a clerk for the Florida Supreme Court for many years and now owns his own law firm. Politically conservative. I know personal stories about Ken, that let me know he is a man of great character. This is one of the most important traits a politician can have.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="http://www.runwithmary.com/" target="_blank">Mary Thomas</a> - Born to Indian parents after migrating to US. A lawyer that currently serves as the General Counsel at the Department of Elder Affairs. A strong conservative in a tough race.<br />
</div>
<h4 class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
State Committeewoman (for Leon County)</h4>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
What is a State Committeewoman you ask? It is an unpaid, vague position designated by each political party. It is basically an elected party leader, who is to support the party (Republican" for me), and only has "power" within the party itself, and is in charge of overseeing Republican organizations and clubs throughout the state.<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/dotty.mcpherson.5?fref=nf" target="_blank">Dorothy Lee "Dotty" McPherson</a> - retired, former Legislative Aide and Legislative Analyst, locally active in Navy League, American Legion, and the Republican Party. Not a bad pick.<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/caitlinmurraycampaign/" target="_blank">Caitlin Murray</a> - <span style="color: red;">(MY PICK)</span> Director of Government Affairs at Florida Office of Insurance Regulation, former finance consultant for CMM strategies, Chief Legislative Assistant, Campaign Manager for State Senate. To be so young she has a lot of experience and appears to be very ambitious. </div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
</div>
<h4 class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
County Judge Seat 2</h4>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="http://www.moniquerichardsonforjudge.com/" target="_blank">Monique Richardson</a> - Endorsed by NOW, 15 years as an attorney for the State Attorney's office and the Public Defender's office. I just can't get over her being proud to be endorsed by NOW.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="http://electjudgesmith.com/" target="_blank">Layne Smith</a> - <span style="color: red;">(MY PICK)</span> He is the current judge. Worked in private practice for 24 years. Also worked as a Special Assistant Prosecutor and as a Special Assistant Public Defender. Also has a lot of local community involvement, teaching and doing law stuff. I don't know much about his judgements so this is not a strong endorsement.<br />
</div>
<h4 class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
Supervisor of Elections</h4>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="http://vote4earley.org/" target="_blank">Mark S. Early</a> - <span style="color: red;">(MY PICK)</span> 22 year employee of the elections office, currently Voting systems manager. Endorsed by Ion Sancho. Clearly has the most experience.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="http://tenapate.com/" target="_blank">Tena M. Pate</a> - Served for a long time on the Parol Commission, been on a lot of state public safety boards. Served under last 4 governors.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="http://alan%20williams%20for%20leon%20county%20supervisor%20of%20elections/" target="_blank">Alan Williams</a> - Former Democrat State Representative looking for another government job. Huge partisan progressive, I would never vote for him.<br />
</div>
<h4 class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
School Board District 4</h4>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
For the Tallahassee Democrat Debate video click <a href="http://www.tallahassee.com/story/news/2016/07/03/teachers-union-endorses-wood-rasmussen-school-board/86656062/" target="_blank">HERE</a></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Patrick4leonschools/" target="_blank">Patrick Cannon</a> - political science grad, currently works on the Florida Rehabilitation Council, which is part of the Department of Education, and assists people with disabilities as they leave high school.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="http://tallie4students.com/" target="_blank">Tallie Gainer III</a> - <span style="color: red;">(My uncertain Pick)</span> former teacher and assistant principal at Capital City Public Charter High School. Served as youth pastor at St. John Cathedral, current Christian radio host. </div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="http://deedee.org/" target="_blank">DeeDee Rasmussen</a> - Current chair of the Leon County School Board, has been on board for 8 years. Has 15 years experience in higher education (whatever that means), and was a senior staff member in Florida's legislative and executive branch. There have been several issues, like bathroom choice and no bid contracts that the school board could have done better. She is also endorsed by the Teachers Union, which is a negative for me.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
</div>
<h4 class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
Tallahassee City Commission Seat 1</h4>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
This is a Pick of the least bad.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
For the WFSU Debate video click <a href="http://video.wfsu.org/video/2365805030/" target="_blank">HERE</a></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
Gary Gayle - Group manager at LegalShield, did not respond to multiple local debate requests, Not a serious candidate</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="http://www.lutherlee.org/" target="_blank">Luther Lee</a> - <span style="color: red;">(My Reluctant Pick)</span> degree in Information Systems, currently working in management for FL Department of Revenue, formerly worked as a sales manager. New to politics. Based on his answers to candidate surveys and in debate, he is not great but is the least bad.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="http://www.talgov.com/commission/commission-officials-maddox.aspx" target="_blank">Scott Maddox</a> - Ugghh, Former mayor of Tallahassee. Former chair of the Democratic party. Big progressive, Not my favorite</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/stroublefortallahassee/" target="_blank">Dr. Bruce W. Stouble Jr</a> - Community organizer, big into social justice, well spoken, just graduated in 2015, affiliated with left leaning alarmist media group "<a href="http://peopleoverpolitics.org/" target="_blank">People Over Politics</a>", can anyone say Obama</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
</div>
<h4 class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
Tallahassee City Commission Seat 2</h4>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
For the WFSU Debate video click<a href="http://news.wfsu.org/post/political-perspectives-tallahassee-city-commission-seat-two-0" target="_blank"> HERE</a></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
Dr. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Steven-Hougland-for-Tallahassee-City-Commission-Seat-2-1195398273835620/" target="_blank">Steven Hougland</a> - <span style="color: red;">(My Pick) </span>Retired police officer, and former professor. Supports a change of policy to make it illegal for vendors to donate to campaigns. The best thing about Steven, is that he is not Curtis.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<a href="http://www.curtisforcitycommission.com/" target="_blank">Curtis Richardson</a> - Current City Commissioner, a progressive, pushed for 27% city tax hike, voted to approve contracts for city vendors that had recently donated to his campaign and did not excuse himself from voting.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
</div>
<h4 class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
No. 4 Constitutional Amendment, Article VII, Sections 3 and 4, Article XII, Section 34</h4>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
I'm voting <span style="color: red;">(YES).</span> If a property owner adds solar to their home or business, when the property value is assessed for taxes, this bill would make it so the addition of solar does not add to the property owners taxes.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
A good article is <a href="http://www.tallahassee.com/story/opinion/editorials/2016/05/04/opinion-yes-amendment-august/83931358/" target="_blank">HERE</a></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
This is very different from the Solar Amendment that will be on the November ballot, which you should vote NO.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-26539728548808920172014-10-27T19:56:00.001-05:002014-11-02T22:10:43.144-05:00Leon County General Election 2014This is my take and observations on the candidates on my ballot. I
include links where I can but really this is an exercise to help ME
decide who to vote for. Hope it helps those others out there researching.<br />
<br />
Research Websites:<br />
<a href="http://www.wfsu.org/bandwagon2014/" target="_blank">WFSU Bandwagon</a> - A bunch of 3-minute videos of each candidate "debating" <br />
<a href="http://www.vote411leon.org/" target="_blank">League of Women Voters</a> - short summaries of each candidate<br />
<a href="http://www.flchamber.com/political/2014-election-center/florida-chamber-endorsements/" target="_blank">Chamber of Commerce guide</a><br />
<a href="http://www.jamesmadison.org/issues/2014-fall-journal-excerpt-amendment-guide.html" target="_blank">James Madison Institute guide</a><br />
<a href="http://flfamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/FFP-GenR2-legal_2.4.pdf" target="_blank">Florida Family Policy Council guide</a> <br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Representative in Congress/ 2nd Congressional Congressional District:</b><br />
<i><a href="http://www.southerlandforcongress.com/" target="_blank">Steve Southerland</a> - REP - </i>(<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>)When
I first supported Steve in the last election I wasn't sure how he would
actually vote. He has been great, voting conservative often against his
own party.<br />
<i><a href="http://www.lawson4congress.com/" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://www.gwengraham.com/" target="_blank">Gwen Graham</a> - DEM - </i>Daughter of Bob Graham, lawyer, works as an administrator for Leon School superintendent. Supports Obama Care.<br />
<br />
<b>Governor & L.T. Governor</b><br />
<i><a href="http://www.rickscottforflorida.com/" target="_blank">Rick Scott</a> - REP - </i>(<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) Current governor. Although not a very good speaker and not always a conservative, he has really focused on job creation in the state, and has done a pretty good job in that arena.<br />
<a href="http://www.charliecrist.com/" target="_blank"><i>Charlie Crist</i></a> - DEM - Former Republican governor. Will say just about anything to get elected. Blatantly contradicts himself depending on who he is speaking to.<br />
<i><a href="http://wyllieforgovernor.com/" target="_blank">Adrian Wyllie</a></i> - LPF - Chairman of the Libertarian Party of Florida. Former military, owns IT business. I agree with the Libertarian Party on 80% of their issues, and he would probably make a good governor, however the race is too close to risk letting Charlie win.<br />
<i><a href="http://khavariforgovernor.com/" target="_blank">Farid Khavari</a></i> - NPA - Another libertarian not on the libertarian ticket, supports legalizing all marijuana, against death penalty, pro-2nd amendment...Not a chance of winning<br />
<i><a href="http://ballotpedia.org/Glenn_Burkett" target="_blank">Glenn Burkett</a></i> - NPA - Formerly ran against Bill Nelson in the DEM primary. I have more chance of winning.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Attorney General</b><br />
<a href="http://www.pambondi.com/" target="_blank"><em>Pam Bondi</em></a> - REP - (<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) Current Attorney General. I think she has done a great. She has focused on busting up pill mills and lowering car insurance rates by targeting the gangs that cause accidents to file fraudulent claims. Endorsed by pretty much all of the state police organizations.<br />
<em><a href="http://georgesheldon2014.com/#" target="_blank">George Sheldon</a></em> - DEM - Former member of the Florida House of Representatives, served as the Secretary of the Florida Department of Children and Families. Supports Obama Care, Medical Marijuana, gay marriage, and pro-abortion.<br />
<em><a href="http://wohlsifer4ag.com/" target="_blank">Bill Wohlsifer</a></em> - LPF - supports "an end to the war on drugs", supports gay marriage, medical marijuana, open carry gun laws, <br />
<br />
<strong>Chief Financial Officer - </strong>this is a hard one to judge, it is not really political.<br />
<em><a href="http://www.jeffatwater.com/about" target="_blank">Jeff Atwater</a></em> - REP - (<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) Current CFO. Former banker at Riverside National Bank for ~25 years. Former Florida House of Representatives, Former Florida Senator.<br />
<em><a href="http://rankinforcfo.com/" target="_blank">William "Will" Rankin</a></em> - DEM - Served as Special Agent investigator in the Army, served as Director of Asset Management for the State Treasury of Ohio, not many endorsements other than the Democrat party.<br />
<br />
<strong>Commissioner of Agriculture</strong> - this is not really political either but is often a step stool for candidates to go to the next level. I think either will do a good job.<br />
<a href="http://www.adamputnam.com/" target="_blank"><em>Adam Putnam</em></a> - REP - (<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) Current commissioner of Ag. Seems to have been doing a good job. His family are ranchers and citrus growers. He is spoken well of by farmers and former friends of his that I have known.<br />
<em><a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics-government/state-politics/article3346179.html" target="_blank">Thaddeus Thad Hamilton</a></em> - DEM - Worked for USDA, National Resources Conservation Service for many years, former chairman Broward County Land Preservation Council. Nothing wrong with Thad, I just think Adam is already doing a good job.<br />
<br />
<b>Retaining Judges:</b> <br />
I heard that justices in Florida have always been retained.<br />
I'm voting NO for all the Judges. I think they end up staying in these positions way too long, but check out their resume's and judge for yourself.<br />
District Court<br />
<a href="http://www.1dca.org/judges/benton.html" target="_blank">Robert T. Benton</a><br />
<a href="http://www.1dca.org/judges/lewis.html" target="_blank">Joseph Lewis Jr.</a><br />
<a href="http://www.1dca.org/judges/makar.html" target="_blank">Scott Makar</a><br />
<a href="http://www.1dca.org/judges/osterhaus.html" target="_blank">Tim Osterhaus</a><br />
<a href="http://www.1dca.org/judges/roberts.html" target="_blank">Clay Roberts</a><br />
<br />
<strong>County Commissioner, District 1 - </strong>was hard to choose<br />
<a href="http://www.weserkhufucampaign.com/" target="_blank"><em>Weser Khufu</em></a> - (<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) Formerly James Washington. Lived in Leon county many years. business owner, engineer and certified General Contractor. He actually has some good ideas that he expressed in an interview I heard.<br />
<a href="http://cms.leoncountyfl.gov/Home/County-Commission/Bill-Proctor" target="_blank"><em>Bill Proctor</em></a> - Current County Commissioner. While not the worst county commissioner we have, we could definitely use a change.<br />
A good summary of the two is in the <a href="http://www.tallahassee.com/story/news/local/2014/09/12/proctor-khufu-again-competing-for-district-1-seat/15516407/" target="_blank">Tallahassee Democrat here</a><br />
<br />
<strong>County Commissioner At Large</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.baynes4leon.org/" target="_blank">Curtis Baynes</a> - (<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) Real Estate broker. Regular attender for city and county commission meetings. Against the city utility surcharges. Well spoken, I liked the interview I heard.<br />
<a href="http://nickmaddox2014.com/" target="_blank">Nick Maddox</a> - Our current commissioner. Considers himself "a conservative Democrat", is OK with raising taxes, focus on affordable housing in the county. Former FSU and NFL football player, voted for $800,000 sidewalk project that mostly benefits the Double Tree.<br />
<br />
<strong>Leon Soil and Water Conservation District, Group 2</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.fsunews.com/article/20121021/POLITICSPOLICY/310210057/Leon-County-Soil-Water-Conservation-District-5" target="_blank">William E. Helmich</a> - (<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) BA Military History. Owns local business consulting firm. Has worked for City Water Utilities and Underground Utilities Departments. Current supervisor, Leon Soil and Water Conservation District.<br />
<a href="http://vote411leon.org/images/Stan_Peacock.pdf" target="_blank">Stan Peacock</a> - Optometrist. Has had a lot of school involvement. Did a good job answering questions from the Florida League of Women Voters. Not a bad pick but doesn't have the experience or education of Helmich.<br />
<br />
<strong>Leon Soil and Water Conservation District, Group 4</strong><br />
<a href="http://vote411leon.org/images/Lee_Brian_2014_final_a.pdf" target="_blank">Brian Lee</a> - Democrat Campaign Director and organizer. Education in political science. Political operative.<br />
<a href="http://ryan2014.com/" target="_blank">Ryan Truchelut</a> - (<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) works as graduate research assistant, Degree in Geosciences working toward a PhD in Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences. He probably can actually tell the difference between soil and water.<br />
<br />
<b>The Amendments</b> <br />
In general if you don't understand an amendment it is better to vote NO. Our Florida constitution is muddied up with way too many things that should have been left to legislation by the house and senate, and not put forever in the constitution.<br />
<a href="http://www.jamesmadison.org/issues/2014-fall-journal-excerpt-amendment-guide.html" target="_blank">Amendment 1</a> - (<span style="color: red;">NO</span>) 1st this should not be in the constitution. It limits the ability to adjust the budget in hard times. Over 27% of Florida is already "public lands" which are untaxed. This WILL raise taxes for everyone else by limiting the tax base of state and local governments. Don't be suckered by environmental emotionalism.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://vote411leon.org/images/StateAmendments.pdf" target="_blank">Amendment 2</a> - (<span style="color: red;">NO</span>) Again this does not belong in the constitution and should be legislated. In fact the legislature already allows one type of marijuana for medical use. I don't have a problem with anyone getting any kind of medicine if it helps and does more harm than good. My fear is that the way this is worded is going to make it more about making it easier to smoke pot than it is about providing medicine, Did I mention it shouldn't be in the constitution.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jamesmadison.org/issues/2014-fall-journal-excerpt-amendment-guide.html" target="_blank">Amendment 3</a> - (<span style="color: red;">NO</span>) This is actually relevant to the constitution but I'm voting against is based on the idea that lame duck governors are picking judges just before the new governor takes office. Even though this might benefit Republicans this year or next, I think it is bad policy.<br />
<br />
<strong>One Cent Local Government Surtax Extension (Should be called the 1% Sales Tax)</strong><br />
<span style="color: red;">(Yes) </span><span style="color: black;">- Adds 1% sales tax to everything bought in Leon County. I've been on the fence about this one. We already have one of the highest sales tax in the state. That being said I prefer consumption tax over property tax. Without the sales tax increase you can bet the commission would just up our property taxes which hurts locals and doesn't allow us to gain from tourists spending money when they visit.</span><br />
<br />
<strong>Referendum Amending Charter Establishing an Ethics Anticorruption Code, Board, Office and Campaign Finance Program</strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: red;">(YES - PLEASE</span></strong>) One thing Leon county and Tallahassee definitely needs is some way to help stop government corruption. Just using the voter box has not worked (as Mayor Marks knows).<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-32303892939640252602014-08-20T20:31:00.001-05:002014-08-20T20:31:31.727-05:00Leon County Florida, Primary Ballot - August 2014Leon County, Florida Primary Ballot Blog (Republican Party)<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Don't forget to vote August 26, 2014</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This is my take and observations on the candidates on my ballot. I include links where I can but really this is an exercise to help ME decide who to vote for. Hope it helps those others out there researching</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Governor & Lt. Governor:</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.yinkaadeshinaforgovernor2014.com/about" target="_blank">Yinka Abosede Adeshina</a> - Who ??? She ran for president as a democrat in 2010 so.....</div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/elizabeth-cuevas-neunder-candidate-for-governor/8/872/a31" target="_blank">Elizabeth Cuevas-Neunder</a> - Very focused on Florida Puerto Rican cooperation<br />
<a href="http://www.flgov.com/" target="_blank">Rick Scott</a> - While he has his flaws and made a lot of state workers angry, I think he has done a pretty good job, especially in promoting business and jobs in the state.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>State Representative 9th House District: (both Democrats)</b><br />
<a href="http://www.tallahassee.com/story/news/politics/2014/08/10/newcomer-grice-walker-challenging-rehwinkel-vasilinda/13853793/" target="_blank">Arnitta J. Grice-Walker</a> - First time running, elementary teacher for 16 years. Wants minimum wage increase</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.votemichelle.com/" target="_blank">Michelle Rehwinkel Vasilinda</a> - (<span style="color: blue;">my pick</span>) Currently holds this office. Lawyer/professor, not bad, has a pro-2nd Amendment stance.<br />
</div>
<div>
<b>Mayor</b></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.andrewgillum.com/about_andrew" target="_blank">Andrew D. Gillum</a></span> </span>- Currently a city commissioner. Very liberal. Works for George Soros funded group "People for the American Way" more like Communist way.<br />
<a href="http://www.hendricks4mayor.com/" target="_blank">Larry Hendricks</a> - He wants less development and fewer roads. The video interview is entertaining. He works hard at being involved but I do not think he is very competent. </div>
<div>
<a href="http://votezack.info/" target="_blank">Zack Richardson</a> - (<span style="color: blue;">my pick</span>) CEO of Pivotal Point Enterprises. Supports an independent ethics officer for Tallahassee. Is not Andrew Gillum.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>City Commissioner Seat 2 (hard to pick)</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://electdiana2014.com/" target="_blank">Diana Oropallo</a> - (<span style="color: blue;">my pick</span>) Says Public Safety is 1st priority. First time running for office. Well spoken. Against the city "kill switch" at meetings. Supports "penny" sales tax.</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Representatives/details.aspx?MemberId=4189" target="_blank">Curtis Richardson</a> - Democrat - Current Florida House Representative of Dist. 8. A Psychologist consultant, <br />
<a href="http://www.davidbubbariddle.com/about-1.html" target="_blank">David "Bubba" Riddle</a> - Former Army and former Corrections officer (20 years). Has a hard time answering interview questions. Supports an independent ethics officer. Supports "penny" sales tax.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>City Commissioner Seat 3</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.votenancymiller.com/aboutnancy/reume/" target="_blank">Nancy Miller</a> - Current City Commissioner. Former Project Coordinator of TAPP. Former Urban Planning Consultant. Voted against independent ethics officer.</div>
<div>
<a href="http://votestevestewart.com/">Steve Stewart</a> - (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #000099;">My Pick</span>) Runs the newspaper "Tallahassee Reports". Electrical Engineer, realtor, business owner that does marketing and printing. Has focused campaign on reducing Utility rates, making City spending more transparent, and making doing business easier. Strong conservative.</div>
<div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-18867763875485803932012-10-21T22:53:00.000-05:002012-11-05T23:37:14.297-05:00Leon County General ElectionThis is my take and observations on the candidates on my ballot. I
include links where I can but really this is an exercise to help ME
decide who to vote for. Hope it helps those others out there researching.<br />
<br />
Research Websites:<br />
<a href="http://www.wfsu.org/bandwagon2012/candidate-schedule.php" target="_blank">WFSU Bandwagon</a> - A bunch of 3-minute videos of each candidate "debating" <br />
<a href="http://www.vote411leon.org/" target="_blank">League of Women Voters</a> - short summaries of each candidate<br />
<a href="http://www.flchamber.com/wp-content/uploads/2012-Florida-Election-Guide.pdf" target="_blank">Chamber of Commerce guide</a><br />
<a href="http://www.jamesmadison.org/wp-content/uploads/Journal_Fall2012AmendGuide.pdf" target="_blank">James Madison Institute guide</a><br />
<a href="http://flfamily.org/resources/voter-guides/" target="_blank">Florida Family Policy Council guide</a> <br />
<br />
<br />
<b>United States Senator:</b><br />
<i><a href="http://www.conniemack.com/" target="_blank">Connie Mack</a> - REP - </i>(<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) I am really not a big fan of Connie but he is way better than Bill<br />
<br />
<i><a href="http://nelsonforsenate.com/splash" target="_blank">Bill Nelson</a> - DEM -</i><b> </b>I have never liked Nelson, I'm sure he is a fine person, but he is very liberal and has been in politics way too long.<br />
<br />
<b>Representative in Congress/ 2nd Congressional Congressional District:</b><br />
<i><a href="http://www.southerlandforcongress.com/" target="_blank">Steve Southerland</a> - REP - </i>(<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>)When I first supported Steve in the last election I wasn't sure how he would actually vote. He has been great, voting conservative often against his own party.<br />
<i><a href="http://www.lawson4congress.com/" target="_blank">Al Lawson</a> - </i>DEM - I'm not sure how Al got elected previously, he is not a good speaker and avoids debate.<br />
<br />
<b>State Attorney, 2nd Judicial Circuit:</b><br />
I'm not sure who to pick for this one.<b> </b>I think either one will do a good job. <br />
<i><a href="http://www.votepetewilliams.com/" target="_blank">Pete Williams</a>- </i>REP<i> - </i>(<span style="color: red;">My pick</span>) The<i> </i>recent Inspector General for the Florida Department of Education, he has an impressive resume. He as worked in a number of different prosecutor positions in Florida including, Statewide Prosecutor, and director of the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco.<br />
<i><a href="http://www.sao2fl.org/Willie%27s_Profile.htm" target="_blank">Willie Meggs </a>- </i>DEM - Overall I think Meggs has done a good job. He has been State Attorney a long time, even retiring then getting re-elected for another term. My one issue is that after being elected he "retired" for 30 days so he could collect retirement and salary at the same time.<br />
<br />
<b>State Senator District 3:</b><br />
This is a hard choice<b> </b><br />
<a href="http://www.johnshaw.org/" target="_blank">John Shaw </a>- REP - 27 year old IT professional, small business owner. Irish Step Dancer. One of his major platforms is legalizing industrial hemp. I happen to agree with this issue. More of a libertarian than republican: Pro-choice, pro-2nd amendment, pro-single payer healthcare, non-interventionist, pro-FairTax.<br />
<a href="http://www.billmontford.com/about-bill" target="_blank">Bill Montford</a> - DEM - (<span style="color: red;">My reluctant pick</span>) Current State Senator. A former teacher and long time school principal has served Leon County Superintendent of schools and as Leon County Commissioner in the 80's.<br />
<br />
<b>State Representative 9th House District:</b><br />
<i><a href="http://maxwellforhouse.com/about-bradley/" target="_blank">Bradley Maxwell</a> - </i><b> </b>REP - (<span style="color: red;">My pick</span>) A really nice guy. I know him from the NE conservative club. A small business owner.<br />
<a href="http://votemichelle.com/" target="_blank">Michelle Rehwinkel Vasilinda</a> - DEM - Our current state representative. She is a fairly moderate democrat but still too liberal for me.<br />
<br />
<b>Sheriff:</b><br />
Based on my sources I think it is time for a change.<b> </b><br />
<a href="http://www.sheriffcampbell.org/" target="_blank"><i>Larry Ca</i><i>mpbell</i></a> - DEM - Our sheriff since 1996. I have thought that he has done a pretty good job. I would like to see a little more discipline among some of the officers.<br />
<a href="http://www.lisaforsheriff.com/" target="_blank"><i>Lisa Sprague</i></a> - NPA- (<span style="color: red;">My uncertain pick</span>) CEO of private security firm. Former Deputy Chief of Police for Florida State University. Says she has 30 years of law enforcement experience but clear where.<br />
<br />
<b>Superintendent of Schools:</b><br />
<a href="http://jackiepons.com/jackies-bio/" target="_blank">Jackie Pons</a> - DEM - (<span style="color: red;">My pick</span>) Our current Superintendent of Schools. He seems to have done a good job and will probably do better than Allen.<br />
<a href="http://www.sabrinamallenforsuperintendent.com/index.html" target="_blank">Sabrina M. Allen</a> - NPA - A teacher for 15 years in English and reading. Has a MS degree in special ed. I listened to an interview with her. She is a little crazy.<br />
<br />
<b>Retaining Judges:</b> <br />
I heard that justices in Florida have always been retained.<br />
I'm voting NO for all the Judges. I think it is time for a change in particular the Supreme court is very liberal.<br />
<a href="http://flfamily.org/wp-content/uploads/downloads/2012/10/FFP_SCJ-Guide_FINAL_v3.pdf" target="_blank">Supreme Court major decisions.</a><br />
District Court Judges: <br />
<a href="http://www.1dca.org/judges/marstiller.html" target="_blank">Simone Marstiller</a><br />
<a href="http://www.1dca.org/judges/ray.html" target="_blank">Stephanie Ray</a><br />
<a href="http://www.1dca.org/judges/swanson.html" target="_blank">Ron Swanson</a><br />
<a href="http://www.1dca.org/judges/judge_bradford_l_thomas.htm" target="_blank">Brad Thomas </a><br />
<br />
<b>Circuit Judge, 2nd Circuit Group 2</b><br />
<a href="http://judgepedia.org/index.php/Barbara_Hobbs" target="_blank">Barbara Hobbs</a> - Owns Private law firm for 16 years. Attorney for DOT for 9 years<br />
<a href="http://keepjudgetamayo.com/" target="_blank">Josefina M. Tamayo</a> - (<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) The current circuit judge. She has a more impressive resume being the attorney for 3 different state agencies and a former assistant state attorney.<br />
<br />
<b>Board of County Commissioners At Large, Group 1</b><br />
I don't really like either choice but one is better than the other.<br />
<a href="http://cms.leoncountyfl.gov/Home/CountyCommission/AkinAkinyemi" target="_blank">Akin Akinyemi</a> - My favorite quote from him. "I am a very humble man, but I have done more for this county in 3 years than anyone." He is a little crazy. He also likes to spend the county's money. <br />
<a href="http://www.maryannlindley.com/index.html" target="_blank">Mary Ann Lindley</a> - (<span style="color: red;">My reluctant Pick</span>) Newspaper columnist. Has been a part of a lot of local organizations and awards.<br />
<br />
<b>City Commissioner Seat 1</b><br />
<a href="http://www.scottmaddox.com/" target="_blank">Scott Maddox</a> - Former mayor of Tallahassee. Former chair of the Democratic party.<br />
<a href="http://votestevestewart.com/" target="_blank">Steve Stewart</a> - (<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) I like Steve. I've listened to him speak a couple of times.<br />
<br />
<b>Leon Soil & Water Conservation District I Supervisor</b><br />
<a href="http://www.votemarthalang.com/index.html" target="_blank">Martha Lang</a> - FSU doctoral student in "Philosophy"<br />
<a href="http://www.votelorinpratt.com/#!" target="_blank">Lorin Ann Pratt</a> - (<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) Worked for Northwest Florida Water Management District, and the City's Utility Dept.<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/RyanForLeon" target="_blank">Ryan Terrell </a>- Self proclaimed activist with no real experience<br />
<br />
<b>Leon Soil & Water Conservation District 3 Supervisor</b><br />
Phyllis Basch Smith - no info<br />
<a href="http://www.vote411leon.org/images/Frazier_Tabitha_2012.pdf" target="_blank">Tabitha Frazier</a> - (<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) Current seat holder. MS in environmental engineering.<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/evanjpower" target="_blank">Evan Power</a> - MS political science. <br />
<br />
<b>Leon Soil & Water Conservation District 5 Supervisor </b><br />
<a href="http://www.vote411leon.org/images/Gomez_Blas_2012.pdf" target="_blank">Blas J. Gomez</a> - (<span style="color: red;">My Pick</span>) Current seat holder. Works for the City Utilities Dept. MS Environmental Engineering. <br />
<a href="http://www.vote411leon.org/images/Helmich_William_2012.pdf" target="_blank">William Helmich</a> - BA Military History. Owns local business consulting firm.<br />
William Howell - no info<br />
<br />
<b>The Amendments</b> <br />
In general if you don't understand and amendment it is better to vote NO.<br />
<a href="http://collinscenter.org/2012flamendments/amendment-1-health-care-services/" target="_blank">Amendment 1</a> - (<span style="color: red;">Yes, just for fun</span>) This is basically a protest vote against Obama Care. But since Federal law trumps state law, it doesn't really do much. A “yes” vote means you want the Florida Constitution to include a
provision that prohibits the government from requiring you to purchase
health insurance<br />
<br />
<a href="http://collinscenter.org/2012flamendments/amendment-2-veterans-property-tax-discount/" target="_blank">Amendment 2</a> - (<span style="color: red;">Yes</span>) OK I'm a sucker for Disabled vets and I dislike the whole idea of property tax (you never really own your property).<br />
<br />
<a href="http://collinscenter.org/2012flamendments/amendment-3-state-revenue-limitation/" target="_blank">Amendment 3</a> - (<span style="color: red;">Yes</span>) This is a measure that already passed through the Legislature but must now be voted on by the public. "<span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 16px;"> Amendment 3 really amounts to requiring a super majority vote of the legislature to pass a major tax increase."(Tax Watch) Supported by the James Madison Institute and the FL Chamber of Commerce.</span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://collinscenter.org/2012flamendments/amendment-4-property-tax-limitations-property-value-decline-reduction-for-non-homesteaded-assessment-increases-delay-of-scheduled-repeal/" target="_blank">Amendment 4</a> - (<span style="color: red;">uncertain No</span>) This is another measure that already passed through the Legislature but must now be voted on by the public. I like that it limits non-homestead property tax increases. While I agree with the premise of the amendment I think it is too complicated and involves too many parts. It could be broken down into 3 amendments. I also worry about how it would effect the budget when (not if) we start having massive inflation.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://collinscenter.org/2012flamendments/amendment-5/" target="_blank">Amendment 5</a> - (<span style="color: red;">uncertain Yes</span>)
Another measure that already passed through the Legislature but must
now be voted on by the public. Allows the legislature to veto Supreme
Court nominations and have more control over the rules governing judges.
Supported by the James Madison Institute and the FL Chamber of
Commerce. Florida Farm Bureau recommends NO.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://collinscenter.org/2012flamendments/amendment-6-prohibition-on-public-funding-of-abortions-construction-of-abortion-rights/" target="_blank">Amendment 6</a> - (<span style="color: red;">Yes</span>) Another measure that already passed through the Legislature but must now be voted on by the public. Prevents state funding for abortions, with exceptions for life of mother, rape, etc. Also makes it easier to pass laws requiring parents to be informed before minors can have an abortion.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://collinscenter.org/2012flamendments/amendment-8-religious-freedom/" target="_blank">Amendment 8</a> - (<span style="color: red;">Yes</span>)
Another measure that already passed through the Legislature but must
now be voted on by the public. This is basically a repeal of the 1885
anti-Catholic "Blaine Amendment". I agree with the premise of the
amendment. Supported by Florida Family Policy Council the Florida
Chamber of Commerce and the James Madison Institute.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://collinscenter.org/2012flamendments/amendment-9-homestead-property-tax-exemption-for-surviving-spouse-of-military-veteran-or-first-responder/" target="_blank">Amendment 9</a> - (<span style="color: red;">Yes</span>)
Another measure that already passed through the Legislature but must
now be voted on by the public. Uggh another property tax amendment for
another special group. Did I mention I'm against the whole idea of
property taxes? This allows (not requires) the Legistlature to
reduce/eliminate property taxes for surviving spouses of Veterans or
First responders. Expected to reduce state income by less than 1
million.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://collinscenter.org/2012flamendments/amendment-10-tangible-personal-property-tax-exemption/" target="_blank">Amendment 10</a> (<span style="color: red;">Yes</span>) This gives counties the option for a tax cut that can actually produce jobs for FL. It lets county governments give businesses both large and small the ability to exempt more of there office equipment like computers printers and chairs from further taxes. That businesses are taxed every year on things they already bought and paid taxes on is just wrong.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://collinscenter.org/2012flamendments/amendment-11-additional-homestead-exemption-low-income-seniors-who-maintain-long-term-residency-on-property-equal-to-assessed-value/" target="_blank">Amendment 11</a> (<span style="color: red;">hesitant Yes</span>) This gives the county governments the option (and does not mandate) to grant the 65+ crowd lower property taxes if they have been resident for 25 years. I'm for this because it gives counties more flexibility with their own tax structure. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://collinscenter.org/2012flamendments/amendment-12-appointment-of-student-body-president-to-board-of-governors-of-the-state-university-system/" target="_blank">Amendment 12</a> (<span style="color: red;">Yes</span>) This changes the pick for student representative to the University Board of Governors from an organization that does not include all FL universities to one that does. This insignificant amendment is here because the FL Constitution is full of stuff that shouldn't be in it and an amendment is required to do anything.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-88773197704400647822010-08-01T20:32:00.025-05:002010-08-23T23:25:17.182-05:00Leon County, Florida Primary Ballot BlogLeon County, Florida Primary Ballot Blog (Republican Party)<div><br /></div><div>Don't forget to vote August 24, 2010</div><div><br /></div><div>This is my take and observations on the candidates on my ballot. I include links where I can but really this is an exercise to help ME decide who to vote for. Hope it helps those others out there researching</div><div><br /></div><div><b>United States Senator:</b></div><div><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Escoffery">William Escoffey III</a>- a doctor no one has heard of, may have a website but hard to find</div><div><a href="http://kogut2010.intuitwebsites.com/">William Billy Kogut</a> - (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3333FF;">My Pick</span>) Would be a great candidate if he had a prayer and some funding. A founding member of "Judicial Watch", wants to repeal Obama-Care, focus on the constitution.</div><div><a href="http://www.marcorubio.com/">Marco Rubio</a> - (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3333FF;">Almost as good</span>) Has served in the FL House of Rep for 8 years part of that time as Majority whip. Really the only one of the three that has a chance. I have liked most of what I have heard from him in interviews etc. this past year. He is a solid conservative candidate.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>US 2nd Congressional District: (lots of good candidates hard to go wrong)</b></div><div><a href="http://www.eddiehendryforcongress.com/">Eddie Hendry</a> - I like Eddie Hendry I've met and talked with him, and listened to some interviews with him. He knows his constitution and is a strong advocate for limited government.</div><div><a href="http://www.ronmcneiluscongress.com/">Ron McNeil</a> - An inventor with several small businesses and patents focusing on environmental issues. Ran for this congress seat during and supported by Ronald Reagan. A solid conservative.</div><div><a href="http://barbaraforcongress.com/">Barbara F. Olschner</a> - I agree with most of what she has spoken about but I have 2 criticisms. 1. she is open to tax increases to lower the deficit. 2. she thinks that being a lawyer makes her better qualified.</div><div><a href="http://davidscholl.org/">David Scholl</a> - (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3366FF;">My Pick by a hair margin</span>) Retired Air Force pilot with a strong conservative background, good sense of humor, well spoken, has a strong understanding of the constitution and current politics.</div><div><a href="http://www.southerlandforcongress.com/">Steve Southerland</a> - Funeral Director, has lived in NW FL for a long time. I pretty much agreed with all of his issues as stated on his website. Is against off-shore drilling in FL. A solid conservative.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>FL Governor: (this is a tough decision)</b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;">Mike McCallister</span> - Ret. Colonel. Can't find a website or any real information on him.</div><div><a href="http://billmccollum.com/">Bill McCollum </a>- (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3366FF;">My Pick by a hair margin</span>) Current FL Attorney General, retired-Navy JAG corp., 20 years as US congressman. I haven't liked his total focus on negative campaigning. Very little talk of his position on the issues. On a positive note is endorsed by Jeb Bush, Dick Army and Steve Forbes. In the end I think he will have an edge over Rick in winning the general election.</div><div><a href="http://www.rickscottforflorida.com/">Rick Scott</a> - Ex-Navy, Lawyer, Founder of two health care companies. I like that he is a political outsider and a self made millionaire. I like his stances on the issues, i.e. limited government, supports Arizona immigration law. I had written off Rick because of accusations about a "Playboy" connection, but after research have realized are not true. Accused but not convicted of fraud.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>FL Attorney General</b></div><div><a href="http://www.hollybenson.com/">Holly Benson</a> - Secretary of Health Administration, Former head of Dept of Business and Professional Regulation. Was FL House of Representative for 6 years. endorsed by Newt Gingrich. Will continue State law suite against Obama Care, supports AZ immigration law. Strong 2nd amendment and pro-life.</div><div><a href="http://www.pambondi.com/">Pam Bondi</a> - (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;">My Pick</span>) Was registered Democrat until 2000. Has worked as an Assistant State Attorney for 18 years. Has served on several councils and chairs as a prosecutor. Endorsed by Sarah Palin. She is my pick because she has the most experience as an Attorney and not a politician. </div><div><a href="http://www.jeffkottkamp.com/">Jeff Kottkamp</a> - Current Lt. Governor. Was FL House of Representatives for 3 terms. Endorsed by FL Right to Life.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>FL 9th House District</b></div><div><a href="http://kirkforhouse.com/index.php">Kirk </a><a href="http://kirkforhouse.com/index.php">Headley</a><a href="http://kirkforhouse.com/index.php">-</a><a href="http://kirkforhouse.com/index.php">Perdue</a> - (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;">My Pick</span>) Long term clinical social worker, current owner of a graphic design business. Seems fairly conservative. Has a strong focus on personal responsibility. Seems "level headed"</div><div><a href="http://www.annyarko.com/">Ann Yarko</a> - A young recent FSU grad. Wants to "protect state workers." A strong conservative wants to pass stricter illegal immigrant laws and supports lower government spending and tax cuts. I like her ideas but I think she is a little too young and inexperienced.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Circuit Judge, 2nd Circuit Group 9 (Check out <a href="http://www.campaignforliberty.com/blog.php?view=37637">this Site</a>)</b></div><div><a href="http://www.evansforjudgecampaign.com/">Eddie Evans</a> - (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;">My Pick</span>) 18 years as district state attorney for Leon, Gadsden, Franklin, and Wakulla Counties, former Mayor of Sopchoppy, auxiliary state trooper. A hard choice but my pick because I tend to lean toward the Prosecutor mind set. </div><div><a href="http://www.karenforcircuitjudge.com/">Karen Gievers</a> - strong child advocate and has won several awards because of it.</div><div><a href="http://barbarahobbsforjudge.com/">Barbara Hobbs</a> - liberal judge - admits that her "life experiences" makes a difference in the quality of judge. Has had a lot of different jobs as an attorney, both as a prosecutor and advocate.</div><div><a href="http://www.leinbacklaw.com/attorneys.html">Bruce Leinback</a> - VP of Jefferson Historical Society, served as Special Assistant US attorney, US attorney working with Panama Canal, City Attorney for Monticello, Adjunct Professor at FSU, private attorney.</div><div><a href="http://laynesmithforjudge.com/about.aspx">J. Layne Smith</a> - public defender, over 22 years private practice trial attorney</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Leon County Commissioner at Large Group 2</b></div><div><a href="http://www.nickmaddox2010.com/">Nick Maddox</a> - Former FSU and NFL football player. Real estate Degree. Current VP of Development for Bowden Foundation for Ethical Leadership. Considers himself "a conservative Democrat", is OK with raising taxes, focus on affordable housing in the county.</div><div><a href="http://www.rickmalphurs.com/INDEX.CFM">Rick Malphurs</a> - Former Marine, currently works at family owned CJ Malphurs Septic Service. Has served on local citizen committees. A focus on growing and encouraging small business and limiting county spending. I like Rick definately not a politician.</div><div><a href="http://gowithmatteo.com/default.aspx">Scott Matteo</a> - (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;">My Pick</span>) Registered professional engineer. 2nd term Ochlochonee River Soil and Water District Chairman. Favors term limits for commissioners. Promised to not raise taxes. Wants to streamline County permitting. Registered Democrat. Would like a Arts center but not willing to raise taxes to build it. </div><div><a href="http://www.cliffsakeeper.com/">Cliff Thaell</a> - Has been county commissioner for 16 years. Radical environmentalist. anti-business. Pushed for a Leon County based Health Care program which of course would have had additional taxes.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Tallahassee Mayor</b></div><div><a href="http://www.myspace.com/larry4tally/videos">Larry Hendricks</a> - He wants less development and fewer roads. The video interview is entertaining. I'd pick Marks before him.</div><div><a href="http://www.talgov.com/commission/commissioners/marks.cfm">John Marks</a> - Our current mayor whose main focus has been on trying to get awards for having the "greenest" city. Works full time as a lawyer, part time mayor. Has refused to be interviewed by WFLA and avoids questions at town hall meetings. On a positive note has made Tallahassee parks a priority.</div><div><a href="http://votestevestewart.com/">Steve Stewart</a> - (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;">My Pick</span>) Electrical Engineer, realtor, business owner that does marketing and printing. Has focused campaign on reducing Utility rates, making City spending more transparent, and making doing business easier.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Tallahassee City Commissioner Seat 3</b></div><div><a href="http://www.stephenhogge.com/">Stephen Hogge</a> - Considers himself a political moderate. Silver Life member of the NAACP. Has done a lot of volunteer work for city, even won some awards for it. </div><div><a href="http://www.votenancymiller.com/">Nancy Miller</a> - (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3333FF;">My Pick</span>) I met Nancy she seemed very well informed, was well spoken, and has been active in the community and a small business owner.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">Bill Rollins</span> - Wants to focus on improving the South side of town. I met Bill, he seems like a nice guy that is fairly well informed and would be OK at this position just probably not as good as Nancy.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Tallahassee City Commissioner Seat 5</b></div><div><a href="http://www.erwinjackson.com/">Erwin Jackson</a> - (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3333FF;">My Pick</span>) I met Erwin at a debate. Not a politician, but very well informed and has a passion for saving money for himself and the city. A poor dresser (a plus in my book) and a OK speaker.</div><div><a href="http://votejamesmoran.com/">James Moran</a> - FAMU professor of pharmacy. Served in Army. Supports lower taxes, but also a county wide Health Care Program. (how are you going to fund that).</div><div><a href="http://www.gilziffer.com/">Gil Ziffer</a> - I met Gil at a debate. The current stand in commissioner for someone that quit early. He is smooth well spoken but definitely a politician.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-23411200846218593512008-10-11T20:07:00.015-05:002008-10-22T17:49:49.864-05:00Election 2008Here we go again: this is a big one<br /><br />President (if you know me you should already know where I stand)<br />Just in case you didn't here is a few things you should know about Obama<br />- He was the only one in the Illinois state senate (that is 1 out of 100) to vote against a bill to save babies that survive abortions (they were sticking viable living children in a closet to starve to death)<br />- He kicked off his first campaign in the house of an admitted and proud terrorist William Ayers then sat on two boards with him and helped Mr. Ayers promote one of his books. Ayers is responsible for fire bombing peoples houses and the pentagon. On Sept 11, 2001<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"> Ayers</span></span> said he didn't go far enough and should have done more (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">referring</span></span></span> to the bombings)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2</span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">nd</span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Congressional District</span><br /><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.markmulliganforcongress.com/">Mark Mulligan</a> (REP) - (<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">MY Pick</span>) General conservative views/ against the recent bailout packages/<br /><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.house.gov/boyd/">Allen Boyd</a> (DEM) - blue dog Democrat, voted for both of the 800 billion dollar Bail Outs/socialist take over of our banks even though he admitted 90% of constituents called or emailed against the bill. I am tired of Allen Boyd, I voted for him before... not again<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">State Representative - 9</span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">th</span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> House District</span><br /><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.voteboulware.com/">Peter <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Boulware</span></span></span></a><span style="font-style: italic;"> (REP)</span>: (<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">My Pick</span>) General conservative views<br /><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://michelle08.com/">Michelle <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Rehwinkel</span></span></span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Vasilinda</span></span></span></a><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span>(DEM): big time liberal, I heard her say in an interview that one of her top priorities is raising taxes, her other big priority is providing more benefits to state workers.<br /><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.johnshaw.org/">John Shaw</a> (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">NPA</span></span></span>): One of his primary issues is trying to legalize marijuana<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Judges</span></span>: Unless I know of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">misconduct</span></span> by a judge I won't vote for or against their <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">retainment</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Circuit Judge, 2</span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">nd</span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Circuit, Group 7</span>, (either one sounds like a good choice fairly even)<br /><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://lisaraleigh.com/default.aspx">Lisa Raleigh</a> (<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">My Pick</span>) lot of community service work, prosecuting attorney office<br /><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.sheffieldforjudge.com/meet.html">Frank E. Sheffield</a><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.sheffieldforjudge.com/meet.html"> </a>has a more <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">experience</span> than Lisa, but has mostly just been a trial lawyer<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">County Judge, Group 5</span><br /><a href="http://tallahassee.com/article/20081008/OPINION01/810080308/1006/OPINION"><span style="font-style: italic;">Nina </span><span style="font-style: italic;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Ashenafi</span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"> Richardson</span></a>: only legal experience as staff counsel for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">FEA</span></span>. A lot of community involvement but little court room experience<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><a href="http://www.desmondforjudge.com/credentials.html">Sean Desmond</a>: </span>(<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">My Pick</span>) was Assistant State Attorney for Leon and Franklin Counties, and owned his own law firm and worked at another private firm.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">County Commissioner At Large, Group 1</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Akin </span><span style="font-style: italic;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Akinyemi</span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;">:</span> interesting guy, but leans liberal.<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Ed </span><span style="font-style: italic;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">DePuy</span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;">: </span>(<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">My Pick</span>) I'm sure you've heard commercials against him from the police union, they stretch the truth with their accusations, being that Ed is one of only 2 semi conservatives on the County commission, and the ONLY one to vote against raising property taxes I'm voting for him.<br /><br /><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.tallahassee.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008810190346"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Ocklockonee</span></span></span> River Soil & Water Conservation District 1 Supervisor</a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Brian Acosta</span> (<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">NO</span>) 23 years old, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">FAMU</span></span> student, doctors aid<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Sean </span><span style="font-style: italic;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">McGlynn</span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>(<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">My Pick</span>) 52 years old, B.S. in Biochemistry, Doctorate in Biology, Library director for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">McGlynn</span></span> Laboratories Inc<br /><br /><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.tallahassee.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008810190336">The Amendments</a><span style="font-weight: bold;">:</span> My rule of thumb if I don't understand it I shouldn't be voting for it.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Amendment #1 </span>(<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">YES or NO</span>) [it doesn't really matter]<br />Eliminates some language already in the constitution that gives the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">legislature</span></span> power to limit land ownership of people that are ineligible for US citizenship. This has been around since WWII and has never been used, Yes or No I don't think this Amendment matters.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Amendment #2</span> (<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">YES</span>)<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Florida</span></span> Marriage Protection Amendment. "Protects marriage as the legal union of only one man and one woman as husband and wife." With Massachusetts and now California legalizing gay marriage, this could help protect Florida.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Amendment #3 </span>(<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">NO/Maybe</span>)<br />Your property taxes can't go up if you put hurricane shutters or a solar water heater on your house — for example. Any storm-hardening or renewable energy source would be exempt.<br />I agree with the idea I just don't think this should be in the Florida Constitution, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">legislature</span></span> should do this on their own. I'm OK if you want to vote Yes.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Amendment #4</span> (<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">NO</span>)<br />Basically land set aside for conservation (by counties or individuals) get tax breaks.<br />This sounds nice until you realize everybody <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">elses</span></span> taxes will be increased to make up the difference. There is a lot of conservation land in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Florida</span></span> (est 9.6 million acres)<br /><br /><a href="http://eyeonmiami.blogspot.com/2008/10/vote-yes-on-floridas-amendment-6-by.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Amendment #6</span> (<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Yes</span>)</a><br />Basically changes the tax law so that marinas and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">oyster slips</span></span> are taxed based on what they are being used as instead if the lands potential use (high rise condos). This will help Florida's boating and fishing industry as they are currently being taxed at the lands highest potential. It is like you owned a 10 acre lot with a 3 bedroom house but were taxed like a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">Walmart</span></span> because a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">Walmart</span></span> "could" fit on your property.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Amendment #8</span> (<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">NO</span>)<br />This would allow counties to vote on increasing county sales taxes to support their local Community College.<br />I just don't want Leon County adding more taxes for one more thing.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-17134245865351087142008-09-17T20:01:00.005-05:002008-09-17T21:13:41.587-05:00Wallstreet Blue Light Special<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-yxJEM8p2kODqvJJpb5mcXfFU5nW7gsgWUnC2KBxe76XL4d-rl3QjI8CLmdroVB8IxyEUAYbpuDgZe02W0X9rqCDWsqzB5zvrGZa5Ksygjvx5__FWc0qz_M-j4jyWFNllNLl4A/s1600-h/untitled.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247176943582026562" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-yxJEM8p2kODqvJJpb5mcXfFU5nW7gsgWUnC2KBxe76XL4d-rl3QjI8CLmdroVB8IxyEUAYbpuDgZe02W0X9rqCDWsqzB5zvrGZa5Ksygjvx5__FWc0qz_M-j4jyWFNllNLl4A/s200/untitled.bmp" border="0" /></a><br />The Market is Down way Down... Should I pull all of my $ from the 401K.... NO, I'm bargain shopping.<br /><div>Today I scaped together what little money I could find to buy a few shares of an S&P 500 ETF index fund. Specifically <a href="http://finance.google.com/finance?q=rpv&hl=en">Rydex S&P 500</a>(RPV). The S&P 500 is down 16% for the year. On average (except for this year) is has gone up 8 - 10% a year. Unless you think that our country will totally collapse it is going to go back up. I would not be suprised if the stock market continues to go down, even for a few months, but at this level the S&P 500 is "cheap".</div><br /><br /><div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-77831409330147401722008-06-18T22:41:00.002-05:002008-06-18T22:53:14.546-05:00Birds of a Feather<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAzd9mv5dAh0XUeTQdaJGZgPgTbuMn4KMABZtufNcIoqj8dLzRoNZYxoRUbhhwJLUAO8v79Am2yj3VibGyPtuq_XPpe0v66aGQDVNzl20HAXej3MbAcCif-TScS_GayDWAoQpjAA/s1600-h/IMG_1918.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5213432936598422770" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAzd9mv5dAh0XUeTQdaJGZgPgTbuMn4KMABZtufNcIoqj8dLzRoNZYxoRUbhhwJLUAO8v79Am2yj3VibGyPtuq_XPpe0v66aGQDVNzl20HAXej3MbAcCif-TScS_GayDWAoQpjAA/s320/IMG_1918.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>For the <strong>third </strong>time, my friend Sandra and I are pregnant--at the same time. Our daughters were born 2 weeks apart, our sons 2.5 months apart, and now we are about 3.5 months apart. I wanted to take this picture for posterity as it will probably be the last time we have this kinship. She is 38 weeks and I am 23 weeks. She is beginning to have prelabor symptoms and I am nostalgic for this fun bond. I have loved having someone to share this time with and hope we always stick together...even outside of pregnancy. </div>Carey Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15172740609153559929noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-817233834128154252008-03-25T21:17:00.005-05:002008-03-25T21:43:13.407-05:00One thing we haven't talked about....About 6 weeks ago, just after we found out we were pregnant, Ellie (who did not know we were expecting unil 4 days ago) asked me if she could name one of the babies in my belly. I laughed and said "What?" She said, "There's two babies in your belly, can I name one of them?" This was amusing, although slightly alarming since she had foreshadowed my pregnancy with Clark a few days before we found out. She has since mentioned either "twins" or "the babies" many times in last 6 weeks, including this morning at breakfast where she said she had decided to name the boy-Darren and the girl Dorrie. Spencer just chuckled.<br /><br />Well, at about 9:30 this morning we had our first appt. and ultrasound. Dr. B put the wand on my belly and turned the machine on. The first image that came up on the screen was a perfect shot of two sacs and he quickly moved the wand, looked at us with a startled face and started to say " Well...one thing we haven't talked about..." . Now this may have worked for some first timers, but we've seen a few ultrasounds in our day. He looked at our huge eyes and mouths agape, and said "Shoot...I was going to try to prep you...but... Congratulations! You're having twins!" We looked at each other and started laughing. We filled him in on our 5-year-old prophetess and he got a big kick out of it and started telling nurses in the hall. He also requested I bring her in on my next visit so he could meet her and possibly get some lotto numbers :-) Spencer says her spiritual gift shall only be used for good, not state-regulated gambling.<br /><br />Needless to say, we are shocked, thrilled, scared and excited about having twins. All I can say is God's plans are bigger than ours!Carey Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15172740609153559929noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-30184773285982267132008-03-12T20:13:00.003-05:002008-03-12T20:57:30.518-05:00California FacismReason number 324 why I don't want to live in California. Here is a good way to make sure your kids don't get taught crazy things like religion or unbiased history.<br /><br /><strong>California Court Rules Parents Must Have Teaching Credentials to Home School Kids, Friday, March 07, 2008 </strong><br /><strong></strong><br />read the <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,335948,00.html">Full Story </a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Facism:1 : a political philosophy, movement, or regime (as that of the Fascisti) that exalts nation and often race above the individual and that stands for a centralized autocratic government headed by a dictatorial leader, severe economic and social regimentation, and forcible suppression of opposition (Websters dict.)</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-62669117835370635432008-03-03T23:05:00.007-05:002008-03-04T13:12:08.451-05:00Long Overdue<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPRyxbkQoPEWMT9J4ZtQjvWCiKGA3cHV2_J63xO_FUsn9BDJOmrwWXg3tZUFy8WfZCUhjP6CMsYs3iyw1xAjDhtAmiy-t3rMrNOjTVEugrJO48WGVA7wToqntaZ359F0Rv1PdVeg/s1600-h/IMG_1415.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPRyxbkQoPEWMT9J4ZtQjvWCiKGA3cHV2_J63xO_FUsn9BDJOmrwWXg3tZUFy8WfZCUhjP6CMsYs3iyw1xAjDhtAmiy-t3rMrNOjTVEugrJO48WGVA7wToqntaZ359F0Rv1PdVeg/s320/IMG_1415.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173950836373914082" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ETl8l7cbmQrNioTwtbfxpA_KQCymaNXdt0_UfnWH0lzfRRX23XWYfm5cknwzF6T9J8bSboxW2F1mBIbAiq4a-vAiwUik9wEmQDBToe7ty692v8tinPxwVIH8kOe-bPrVd1ZXqA/s1600-h/IMG_1465.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ETl8l7cbmQrNioTwtbfxpA_KQCymaNXdt0_UfnWH0lzfRRX23XWYfm5cknwzF6T9J8bSboxW2F1mBIbAiq4a-vAiwUik9wEmQDBToe7ty692v8tinPxwVIH8kOe-bPrVd1ZXqA/s320/IMG_1465.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173913083611382194" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />I can't believe its March already....especially since I'm getting ready to post Christmas pictures :-) Ellie's class had a very sweet Christmas party. Then there was the Christmas play...which, thanks to Sandra, Ellie had the standard uniform for (no shedding of the sheep this year).<br /><br />We spent Christmas with all the Mitchells' in Ocala. We decided to be very brave and try to get a group photo of the cousins. The best option was after the Christmas Eve service when they were all still dressed up. By the way, if you've ever won<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9zZvrjdYQxxAtV_egu4fs_AMBoLCi_fZA8XhhcNP4jncAHy6Bo24VPpjSX__Vcy1QRlYhC083pHcgY47VlSL7NyI9olqSMkl3NWyKiRwzC6uylMZzQFOsv5et8Gdk74qjHzmJXQ/s1600-h/IMG_1508.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9zZvrjdYQxxAtV_egu4fs_AMBoLCi_fZA8XhhcNP4jncAHy6Bo24VPpjSX__Vcy1QRlYhC083pHcgY47VlSL7NyI9olqSMkl3NWyKiRwzC6uylMZzQFOsv5et8Gdk74qjHzmJXQ/s320/IMG_1508.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173913053546611106" border="0" /></a>dered what Christmas would look like with 6 children <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgycCPTcJOZ3W2MfZocVE8s1lTJuT3esPVh3LFyb8zOFqxTDQE8vsOYXqivUEiJOxl3RGW_xk6FcWY-hzzPFz3XC5ZmZiFhwD_31qrYMVRrGKlYlv-WQLACJi7POKGv6vAZA_dFTw/s1600-h/IMG_1469.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgycCPTcJOZ3W2MfZocVE8s1lTJuT3esPVh3LFyb8zOFqxTDQE8vsOYXqivUEiJOxl3RGW_xk6FcWY-hzzPFz3XC5ZmZiFhwD_31qrYMVRrGKlYlv-WQLACJi7POKGv6vAZA_dFTw/s320/IMG_1469.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173912533855568210" border="0" /></a>receiving gifts (from many families, check out the MOUNTAIN of gifts behind the kids. It's hard to tell in the picture, but it comes out about 6 feet or so...it was so much fun on Christmas morning. Jay, Jo, Spencer and I all slept on air mattresses in their play room and were totally free game for pouncing early in the morning.<br /><br />For New Years', the Ocala Mitchells' and Mary's family all came to our house...which was CRAZY FUN! Ellie & Clark got an easel for Christmas and Thatcher and Rylee decided to try it out. Joanna was reminded of why she doesn't ha<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1IlTgP7DMOi1NDMN7d_xb7YZlf8LZwPTRxEFCTQnzonoVo-PLF3d9ejQcL1ntx-DB8pLQFGUgUufouB5UJvAmLOdJPKcemvKAceXLQG3hJ5A-gt_OxPm_-UkhcIOH7kRQvy1W-w/s1600-h/IMG_1543.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1IlTgP7DMOi1NDMN7d_xb7YZlf8LZwPTRxEFCTQnzonoVo-PLF3d9ejQcL1ntx-DB8pLQFGUgUufouB5UJvAmLOdJPKcemvKAceXLQG3hJ5A-gt_OxPm_-UkhcIOH7kRQvy1W-w/s320/IMG_1543.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173912933287526786" border="0" /></a>ve such an <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4NwIUPcycXcQh5_WYGEHdXqOgRAYYUWnaUW0RAutLLii0zmP3n1KErsq-4_YIm6G5oAiXzgyCgjzu4zsq0cTGPnQScCw9u2IYmSezoxhnZ7Zx38e-mce7nyfiDvzOhUmokemHgA/s1600-h/IMG_1528.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4NwIUPcycXcQh5_WYGEHdXqOgRAYYUWnaUW0RAutLLii0zmP3n1KErsq-4_YIm6G5oAiXzgyCgjzu4zsq0cTGPnQScCw9u2IYmSezoxhnZ7Zx38e-mce7nyfiDvzOhUmokemHgA/s320/IMG_1528.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173913023481840018" border="0" /></a>easel with paint at the ready. ;-) We also had a very hard freeze while the Keels' were still here and Spencer left the mister on all night to make icicles for the kids. They loved eating them.<br /><br />Ellie has really enjoyed her easel and for about the first 10 paintings, they all looked the same as in the picture. They <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiffbh-ATalEntEpWD6_d8e1IlgUOErstVt7pYkpaQrESVKHytucFvbwt6ppdOMUNA4vOoIQAoNkHn9rRWnyosTVXRCzyBPeNr-mGLhcpSQDd2R9Ym7h3HTZpC5WZ_JKjJvCkZ5w/s1600-h/IMG_1597.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiffbh-ATalEntEpWD6_d8e1IlgUOErstVt7pYkpaQrESVKHytucFvbwt6ppdOMUNA4vOoIQAoNkHn9rRWnyosTVXRCzyBPeNr-mGLhcpSQDd2R9Ym7h3HTZpC5WZ_JKjJvCkZ5w/s320/IMG_1597.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173915621937054162" border="0" /></a>were variatio<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0jU2Fnqzw410jrwILSiCWgkDHX5eMW30s0wBDFo96gaAQAXmfUN3gWT4ZK9Nh2ROUcoBVmzw_yTsjQ2nUnKzTOJgOMmprfNaYh74z-pp5BZi-_an_Qstu9KCLJNTQ1NeS5XBJgg/s1600-h/IMG_1535.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0jU2Fnqzw410jrwILSiCWgkDHX5eMW30s0wBDFo96gaAQAXmfUN3gWT4ZK9Nh2ROUcoBVmzw_yTsjQ2nUnKzTOJgOMmprfNaYh74z-pp5BZi-_an_Qstu9KCLJNTQ1NeS5XBJgg/s320/IMG_1535.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173912555330404722" border="0" /></a>ns on a princess with very long hair. She's very comtemplative as she paints and studies her work often. Clark likes the chalkboard side which we put lower at his height, and try to keep him from eating the<br />chalk.Carey Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15172740609153559929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-22590152322697843512008-01-09T22:05:00.000-05:002008-01-22T17:15:50.398-05:00Presidential PrimariesThe Republican Primary ... as I see it.<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />It is a hard pick between all of the Republican Candidates. Most have good qualities that if cobbled together would make a great president. Because of the number of candidates and huge number of issues this is oversimplified. <a href="http://youdecide08.foxnews.com/">Fox News</a> gives good overviews for more info.<br /><br />Because the Florida Primary is so early this year (Jan 29) it will <span style="font-weight: bold;">really</span> make a difference in who gets elected!!!<br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;">In Alphabetical order:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"> <a href="http://www.fred08.com/Index.aspx">Fred Thomps</a></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://www.fred08.com/Index.aspx">on</a> <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">DROPPED OUT of Race </span>(aka. the guy on Law and Order, my #1 pick)</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC3r6axEj4OC2NwmnixVpU2Z1BOj989-jRecbBWt_TFLpAOEZwxqPDqi-waH9MT88K213YWGujt3m8ABmF2JgS52qR68JKE3qrs1IvtpPLWTguBvp0eW6uBTrLvlALVV_NqO-5jw/s1600-h/fdtfeatured.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 56px; height: 57px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC3r6axEj4OC2NwmnixVpU2Z1BOj989-jRecbBWt_TFLpAOEZwxqPDqi-waH9MT88K213YWGujt3m8ABmF2JgS52qR68JKE3qrs1IvtpPLWTguBvp0eW6uBTrLvlALVV_NqO-5jw/s200/fdtfeatured.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5153688282505596514" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Experience: </span>Assistant US Attorney in Nashville, TN, private attorney, council on Watergate committee, actor (18 films), 8 years in the Senate, (</span>Chairman of the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee)<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Positives:</span> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">has 100% Pro-life voting record, </span>strongest conservative in the bunch, <span style="font-size:100%;">Good ideas on Social Security, strong stance against illegal immigration, strong supporter of less government spending and lower taxes.</span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Negatives:</span> Got in the race late, Has a hard time expressing his opinions on TV<br /><br /><a href="http://www.johnmccain.com/">John McCain </a>(aka the Maverick)</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh76t4hAlQKvB0XRAcOevs54k2o0zk5VtEX7VReBzvh4zkn0hn5GtNb5DvFocOp8mRTmmMSU30ghKyd2haaovYS5w7llI1M-IgEZC7XNnQAYO2gej0KD-O-tW0V0pUemwGdRy5X_g/s1600-h/issues-mccain.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 69px; height: 83px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh76t4hAlQKvB0XRAcOevs54k2o0zk5VtEX7VReBzvh4zkn0hn5GtNb5DvFocOp8mRTmmMSU30ghKyd2haaovYS5w7llI1M-IgEZC7XNnQAYO2gej0KD-O-tW0V0pUemwGdRy5X_g/s200/issues-mccain.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156243092262014594" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Experience:</span> 22 years as Navy pilot, Arizona rep. US House of Representatives</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> since 1982-1986, US Senate 1986-present</span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Positives:</span> Strong supporter of Troop Surge and finishing work in Iraq, Strong anti-pork/earmarking. War Hero former POW</span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Negatives: </span><span>Voted against Bush Tax cuts, Wrote McCain-Finegold which limits free speech possibly more than any other bill ever. Supports radical changes to policy to prevent Gorebal Warming (not misspelled). Wrote McCain-Kennedy would have basically given amnesty to illegal aliens (bill did not pass)</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Personal Note:</span> I don't like McCain, he loves the press and will say stuff just to get on camera<br /><br /><a href="http://www.mikehuckabee.com/?FuseAction=Home.Home">Mike Huckabee </a>(aka the Southern Baptist Preacher)</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixRvsICwvydv950MfYRQZflAVxeXIC4Df7ptOWdz7O677YQXTU3e1fRacAhOXGVzCdgmaEePb9U6R4hgFQjcXpw02th562RiyS3dR7RABB40wfMD-_rC-RWlv8Is4x5blo1UihfQ/s1600-h/news.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 71px; height: 58px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixRvsICwvydv950MfYRQZflAVxeXIC4Df7ptOWdz7O677YQXTU3e1fRacAhOXGVzCdgmaEePb9U6R4hgFQjcXpw02th562RiyS3dR7RABB40wfMD-_rC-RWlv8Is4x5blo1UihfQ/s200/news.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156261702355308178" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Experience: </span><span>1996-2007 governor of Arkansas, </span></span>past chairman of the National Governors’ Association, Southern Baptist Preacher<span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Positives:</span> Very Strong Pro Life (as Pro as you can get). Personality, has a great wit and is very likable. Supports the Fair Tax plan, supports Marriage Amendment,</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> Strong 2nd Amendment supporter. </span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Negatives:</span> Immigration (supports scholarships and instate tuition for illegals), End</span><span style="font-size:100%;">orsed by the NEA (national teachers union), Raised taxes a lot more than cut taxes while governor. Very little foreign affairs experience<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Personal Note:</span> Jimmy Carter was a Pro-life Southern Baptist too...<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://www.mittromney.com/">Mitt Romney </a>(aka the wealthy Mormon, my #2 pick)</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6EXgmk3PLI0OMjOmPPApBMQv9sSGrtZxCoCrUyXc1VlfF30hXn5aZ60faTsCg4pHw9XD1NcDXF9LkGbA6NxVRWnZyV7dIf2cK9zm9yDGhLL4c5MqrvlPL6qJjrB5JxhfQFJCDtw/s1600-h/meet_mitt_romney.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 73px; height: 66px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6EXgmk3PLI0OMjOmPPApBMQv9sSGrtZxCoCrUyXc1VlfF30hXn5aZ60faTsCg4pHw9XD1NcDXF9LkGbA6NxVRWnZyV7dIf2cK9zm9yDGhLL4c5MqrvlPL6qJjrB5JxhfQFJCDtw/s200/meet_mitt_romney.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5157583809253133986" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Experience: </span><span>Former CEO of venture capital firm (Domino's, Staples, and Sealy) </span><span>Governor of Massachusetts (2002-2006), Credited for turning around Utah winter Olympics from near failure to a success, </span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Positives: </span><span>lowered taxes and helped to balance budget in Mass., claims strong pro-life stance, successful businessman, strong health-care plan</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Negatives: </span>Is longtime member of the Mormon faith, was once pro-choice, has implied</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> possibly increasing taxes on rich.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://www.ronpaul2008.com/">Dr. Ron Paul</a> (aka the Libertarian)</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHRh2aXU2a5_8aCzu65N-_3L_4ODFAfyHH4lQC457BdX5PkpH0HM0gcknRs2qry2cwF6kzospLzcGrc8cjHoYHsnVTlFl3pOIX94Mg_kJTz-fhnWYGnG5mAlXUeFZSzkTTlDUYYA/s1600-h/2111556496_cff564b92e_s.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 70px; height: 70px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHRh2aXU2a5_8aCzu65N-_3L_4ODFAfyHH4lQC457BdX5PkpH0HM0gcknRs2qry2cwF6kzospLzcGrc8cjHoYHsnVTlFl3pOIX94Mg_kJTz-fhnWYGnG5mAlXUeFZSzkTTlDUYYA/s200/2111556496_cff564b92e_s.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5157589787847610034" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Experience:</span> Air-Force flight surgeon, several years in </span>specialist in obstetrics/gynecology, US congress for many years,<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Positives: </span>Anti-government control, wants to lower taxes and decrease spending, a federalist, strong Pro-Lifer, wants to reduce the size of government, good health-care ideas<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Negatives:</span> Is a nut job. An Isolationist, Wants to take ALL of our troops around the world</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> back to US soil. Basically said Israel is on their own and he wouldn't help if they were attacked.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.joinrudy2008.com/">Rudy Giuliani</a> (aka the country's Mayor)</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYElki0OJkXjGwC9farlEc-JDuvezelhKR4MbcXZuxfINv3CTey5-36r45OzejCEha39rI25aEZjdBX_GeQZyx1FdjJzOwrAG2cloDnGfMxT0BeWZRI1IJuuTZsN8KrcUFPWYfYw/s1600-h/rudy-giuliani_200.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 82px; height: 82px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYElki0OJkXjGwC9farlEc-JDuvezelhKR4MbcXZuxfINv3CTey5-36r45OzejCEha39rI25aEZjdBX_GeQZyx1FdjJzOwrAG2cloDnGfMxT0BeWZRI1IJuuTZsN8KrcUFPWYfYw/s200/rudy-giuliani_200.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5157594782894575298" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Experience: </span>assistant attorney general under Regan, US prosecuting attorney n NY, Former two term mayor of NYC <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Positives: </span>Turned NYC from a dirty crime-ridden city to clean and low crime, A strong leader during the 911 tragedy, is now strongly against illegal immigration, wants to lower taxes, strong supporter of reduced gov. spending, strong on anti-terrorism<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Negatives: </span>weak on 2nd Amendment (outlawed guns in NYC), pre 911 was soft on illegal immigration, strong supporter of gay "rights", use to be pro-choice<br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-39225346471665227552008-01-04T22:28:00.000-05:002008-01-04T22:51:59.781-05:00Financial Geek continues....<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:130%;">I hate when I miss opportunities.<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />Last night after checking my email I did some of my homework on the two stocks I own <a href="http://finance.google.com/finance?q=RF">Regions Financial (RF)</a> and <a href="http://finance.google.com/finance?q=TM">Toyota (TM)</a>. Both stocks have been knocked down due to the housing market troubles, but I'm in it for the long term esp. with Regions since it pays a good dividend.<br /><br />Anyway I saw two articles on Regions Financial that both had just been published after the stock market closed that day. I new in my gut that Regions was headed for a big drop the next day. Being by nature lazy I decided not to do anything and went on to play video games.<br /><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The next day it dropped about 3 dollars per share.<br /><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">What I should have done is sold Regions after reading the news, so I could have bought it back the next afternoon or following trading day after it had taken the major hit. Even if it had continued to drop I would have saved myself 3 dollars a share (minus the trading costs). I could have sold the shares and invested in something that I knew wasn't plunging the next day. Either way I should have sold.<br /><br />Lesson to Self: Don't be afraid to cut your losses and run. As Jim Cramer says "worry about the downside of a stock the upside will take care of itself"<br /></span></span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-29509684878151280262007-11-29T19:20:00.000-05:002007-11-29T21:50:24.129-05:00Our multi-ethnic familyI saw <a href="http://myheritage.com">this fun link</a> on the Walworths' blog that takes your picture, decides which celebrity you most resemble, then morphs your face into theirs. Sounded pretty fun...Darcy and Madeleine were Reese Witherspoon, Nena - Lindsay Lohan, and Jeremy - Bill Gates....pretty good matchups, I thought. Then there's our family. Here's who they thought we most resembled (no joke):<br /><br />Carey - Lacey Chabert (who?)<br />Ellie - Rebecca Romijn (Dutch model actress)<br />Clark - Ai Otsuka (a <span style="font-weight: bold;">female</span> Japanese pop-singer)<br />Spencer - Usher (African American rap/R&B singer)<br /><br />Our family is bound by neither ethnicity, nationality, race or gender...apparently.Carey Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15172740609153559929noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-55317036517100791432007-11-06T20:53:00.000-05:002007-11-06T22:33:24.441-05:00For the financial GeekWARNING!!! Boring financial blog Only read if you care about stocks.<br />OK so I like looking at stocks. I don't really have money to buy stocks but I like to learn and play.<br />One if not the hardest thing about picking stocks is determining <a href="http://www.investopedia.com/terms/v/valuation.asp">valuation.</a> (how cheap or expensive is a particular stock).<br /><div style="text-align: left;">Looking at the ratio of a company's <a href="http://www.investopedia.com/terms/m/marketcapitalization.asp">market capitalization</a> (total value of all the company's stock) to its <a href="http://www.investopedia.com/terms/b/bookvalue.asp">book value</a> (total value of a company's assets) is a good starting point for determining the proper price of a stock. The price determination is more valuable when you also include the total liabilities of a company in the comparison.<br />I calculated the ratio of the market capitalization to the book value minus the total liabilities for several car companies (compare).<br />Prices are from 11/4/07<br /><br /><table str="" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 347pt;" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="459"><col style="width: 64pt;" width="85"> <col style="width: 38pt;" width="50"> <col style="width: 35pt;" width="46"> <col style="width: 43pt;" width="57"> <col style="width: 46pt;" width="61"> <col style="width: 37pt;" width="49"> <col style="width: 40pt;" width="53"> <col style="width: 44pt;" width="58"> <tbody><tr style="height: 12.75pt;" height="17"> <td class="xl26" style="height: 12.75pt; width: 64pt;" height="17" width="85"><br /></td> <td class="xl24" style="border-left: medium none; width: 38pt;" width="50">HMC</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-left: medium none; width: 35pt;" width="46">TM</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-left: medium none; width: 43pt;" width="57">NSANY</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-left: medium none; width: 46pt;" width="61">VLKAY</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-left: medium none; width: 37pt;" width="49">DAI</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-left: medium none; width: 40pt;" width="53">GM</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-left: medium none; width: 44pt;" width="58">F</td> </tr> <tr style="height: 12.75pt;" height="17"> <td class="xl26" style="border-top: medium none; height: 12.75pt;" height="17">market cap</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">67</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">180</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">47</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">29</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">111</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">21</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">18</td> </tr> <tr style="height: 12.75pt;" height="17"> <td class="xl26" style="border-top: medium none; height: 12.75pt;" height="17">Assets</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">105</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">285</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">108</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">194</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">270</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">186</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">278</td> </tr> <tr style="height: 12.75pt;" height="17"> <td class="xl27" style="border-top: medium none; height: 12.75pt;" height="17">assets/cap</td> <td class="xl25" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="1.5671641791044777" fmla="=B3/B2">1.57</td> <td class="xl25" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="1.5833333333333333" fmla="=C3/C2">1.58</td> <td class="xl25" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="2.2978723404255321" fmla="=D3/D2">2.30</td> <td class="xl25" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="6.6896551724137927" fmla="=E3/E2">6.69</td> <td class="xl25" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="2.4324324324324325" fmla="=F3/F2">2.43</td> <td class="xl25" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="8.8571428571428577" fmla="=G3/G2">8.86</td> <td class="xl25" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="15.444444444444445" fmla="=H3/H2">15.44</td> </tr> <tr style="height: 12.75pt;" height="17"> <td class="xl26" style="border-top: medium none; height: 12.75pt;" height="17">liabilities</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">66</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">182</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">78</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">156</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">221</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">191</td> <td class="xl24" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="">282</td> </tr> <tr style="height: 12.75pt;" height="17"> <td class="xl27" style="border-top: medium none; height: 12.75pt;" height="17">Compare<br /></td> <td class="xl25" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="1.7179487179487178" fmla="=B2/(B3-B5)">1.72</td> <td class="xl25" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="1.7475728155339805" fmla="=C2/(C3-C5)">1.75</td> <td class="xl25" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="1.5666666666666667" fmla="=D2/(D3-D5)">1.57</td> <td class="xl25" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="0.76315789473684215" fmla="=E2/(E3-E5)">0.76</td> <td class="xl25" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="2.2653061224489797" fmla="=F2/(F3-F5)">2.27</td> <td class="xl25" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="" fmla="=G2/(G3-G5)">-4.20</td> <td class="xl25" style="border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none;" num="" fmla="=H2/(H3-H5)">-4.50</td> </tr> </tbody></table><br /><br />The results are interesting. It looks like the lowest number (that is not a negative number) would be the best stock value (the cheapest).<br />First off both GM and Ford have more liabilities than assets would lead me to not buy their stock (how can their stock be worth anything??).<br />It may be important to look at the companies in there respective regions.<br />Out of the 3 Japanese companies it looks like Nissan has the cheaper stock<br />Out of the 3 US companies Daimler Chrysler with less liabilities than assets is the clear winner.<br />Volkswagen being a European company is kinda by itself and the clear winner out of all of them. Even after subtracting for liabilities the companies assets are 1.3 times the market capitalization. Meaning that if the company ended today and sold off all its assets and paid its debtors first, the stock owners would still make a 30% profit.<br />I may be selling my TM stock to by VLKAY soon.<br />I know there are problems with this method as with all valuation methods but it seems like a good starting point.<br />What do you think? Criticisms and suggestions welcome. I'm still learning.<br /><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-57612181521178885502007-11-05T10:19:00.001-05:002007-11-05T10:48:07.594-05:00Halloween Party!Some pictures of the Halloween party with our fun friends. They had a great time bobbing for apples, jumping in the "hay" (pine straw) and eating Spencer's delicious homemade caramel apples and white chocolate "ghosts" strawberries. Oh, and I knew I was too busy with hostessing duties when 45 minutes into the party, I noticed Ellie had forgotten to put on half of her costume-the bloomers and shoes. Of, course this was after all the pictures were taken :-) Oh, and isn't Julie creative with her belly? Penelope Jane was born 6 days later!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi966Tz1817eWg84jFEOYeAgDEb4mA0joF5jPUK3-5585tO55asNW-244Wt95H4Om-2yKEUR3OAFiUbQCvueGg4JijFFoqzZZGDe0p-njTLk4tu407rRmRl23CrgQUmmb1G7JLIYQ/s1600-h/IMG_1252.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi966Tz1817eWg84jFEOYeAgDEb4mA0joF5jPUK3-5585tO55asNW-244Wt95H4Om-2yKEUR3OAFiUbQCvueGg4JijFFoqzZZGDe0p-njTLk4tu407rRmRl23CrgQUmmb1G7JLIYQ/s320/IMG_1252.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5129380709914212002" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQhQ6VFxOgKPcgRhJ_c2WeMyWL1dwDAKjkAkJAnREygN2aotxt9Veu5l1PP78Rs97cIELPMg5FQpdzw6yWKdrpHi86WV_eIGJMoSL4M8mpsv_bzAcSEx158rkVR7-jLg9yAR81kw/s1600-h/IMG_1250.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQhQ6VFxOgKPcgRhJ_c2WeMyWL1dwDAKjkAkJAnREygN2aotxt9Veu5l1PP78Rs97cIELPMg5FQpdzw6yWKdrpHi86WV_eIGJMoSL4M8mpsv_bzAcSEx158rkVR7-jLg9yAR81kw/s320/IMG_1250.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5129380005539575442" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUEQp-nmMuCbCz-i-H0karwpcOWJ0r_8NsXNrlEoKG7dPoNd6K4KXE8_gQW2q97nEPOD4My0iiKR4dcaV32EmbIGhTA9VkB58WXwpjCrxZohwoZI-U2amYjMH51MOcOIFpUXE-XQ/s1600-h/halloweenkids.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 3px; height: 2px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUEQp-nmMuCbCz-i-H0karwpcOWJ0r_8NsXNrlEoKG7dPoNd6K4KXE8_gQW2q97nEPOD4My0iiKR4dcaV32EmbIGhTA9VkB58WXwpjCrxZohwoZI-U2amYjMH51MOcOIFpUXE-XQ/s320/halloweenkids.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5129379812266047106" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeEtg3HJfGrJ8r0zipuC9LWD4rEzK54rIY5sUTK43CchIA6a7a0Ybkt__kcpEDNLFIWy8uZuddJwBl_KibQqfbL6YUxEavDoLBntgR3r386J1bDIB-Cnyf70O8eEFZGs5r95G23A/s1600-h/halloweenclark.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeEtg3HJfGrJ8r0zipuC9LWD4rEzK54rIY5sUTK43CchIA6a7a0Ybkt__kcpEDNLFIWy8uZuddJwBl_KibQqfbL6YUxEavDoLBntgR3r386J1bDIB-Cnyf70O8eEFZGs5r95G23A/s320/halloweenclark.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5129379739251603058" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDg00ux3I7MPO-tb7T_QRr-S_dyyoiHwxgCN1TZyvOePww3CmSj1vAbwiGiPeDidOJjW5aUjoHW2lbAxBH-XTpxb14ROM4xRaWPy9pMCh-rXCNEEt7Zx8xyiaTouuZ9JUoO4xLKg/s1600-h/halloween+dunking.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDg00ux3I7MPO-tb7T_QRr-S_dyyoiHwxgCN1TZyvOePww3CmSj1vAbwiGiPeDidOJjW5aUjoHW2lbAxBH-XTpxb14ROM4xRaWPy9pMCh-rXCNEEt7Zx8xyiaTouuZ9JUoO4xLKg/s320/halloween+dunking.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5129379640467355234" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3nBGa4BLevXnkFlXaYdudqFEkj7Y-La6gdc7NSU1JykSIF4j8SxRpCxLsB-t3THPCzrK7Bs1UycCdPDmtNSFpDeEUt2y6mmk9HUUA8Dp8gaSZzzCoQ4hlfzNvPuUGckecUcoI0A/s1600-h/IMG_1258.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3nBGa4BLevXnkFlXaYdudqFEkj7Y-La6gdc7NSU1JykSIF4j8SxRpCxLsB-t3THPCzrK7Bs1UycCdPDmtNSFpDeEUt2y6mmk9HUUA8Dp8gaSZzzCoQ4hlfzNvPuUGckecUcoI0A/s320/IMG_1258.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5129379305459906130" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoVMIx6E31cDECVh31DFI5qk6UejZ3F62XFr3JA0ZlLrYN5TGQ-ufiHkSSIgaagwpEczRqzXY_jwQ7apCCePLtbI_D548LNXeV9ZzsdYCXr9N-rRllIj2Suo2LzjhHN1qLqOXAmQ/s1600-h/IMG_1247.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoVMIx6E31cDECVh31DFI5qk6UejZ3F62XFr3JA0ZlLrYN5TGQ-ufiHkSSIgaagwpEczRqzXY_jwQ7apCCePLtbI_D548LNXeV9ZzsdYCXr9N-rRllIj2Suo2LzjhHN1qLqOXAmQ/s320/IMG_1247.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5129376535206000194" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiGaW6O404UlhcB_veO8UvakfAbvlMA2S-rZOYzFjoShtC2eB0lBbFL3_U8o0K3zw6qKwiVhno0O19KHTATqH9zmuR30wEmklsK_czESaHQVXwmFSChg_0L6AksGrIFDxeOxwFkg/s1600-h/IMG_1266.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiGaW6O404UlhcB_veO8UvakfAbvlMA2S-rZOYzFjoShtC2eB0lBbFL3_U8o0K3zw6qKwiVhno0O19KHTATqH9zmuR30wEmklsK_czESaHQVXwmFSChg_0L6AksGrIFDxeOxwFkg/s320/IMG_1266.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5129381014856890034" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiGaW6O404UlhcB_veO8UvakfAbvlMA2S-rZOYzFjoShtC2eB0lBbFL3_U8o0K3zw6qKwiVhno0O19KHTATqH9zmuR30wEmklsK_czESaHQVXwmFSChg_0L6AksGrIFDxeOxwFkg/s1600-h/IMG_1266.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 2px; height: 3px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiGaW6O404UlhcB_veO8UvakfAbvlMA2S-rZOYzFjoShtC2eB0lBbFL3_U8o0K3zw6qKwiVhno0O19KHTATqH9zmuR30wEmklsK_czESaHQVXwmFSChg_0L6AksGrIFDxeOxwFkg/s320/IMG_1266.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5129381014856890034" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-49197619182690343052007-10-29T23:14:00.001-05:002007-10-31T12:02:40.255-05:00These are the days...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ0joDk8eaAsSxWS8sCYyzUfytibkORfCTxIxamnq03RDhoqMqIrHfSd883y4WnTOn0FiPQXbNNPuznp7SvEnben09NJuYjff8eUGJ3MHsxyt8QvdpOLmNjYQ1JSs43bYMf0eQCQ/s1600-h/IMG_1265.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ0joDk8eaAsSxWS8sCYyzUfytibkORfCTxIxamnq03RDhoqMqIrHfSd883y4WnTOn0FiPQXbNNPuznp7SvEnben09NJuYjff8eUGJ3MHsxyt8QvdpOLmNjYQ1JSs43bYMf0eQCQ/s320/IMG_1265.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5127546638619735602" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGy8qNjlsLTtrLhyxGvVN639tBSDzSufuRwkX9Jgy8ZKaEd49NKwVkjpnyLcQpDCfONnU9d-dc5xhc6o9ToqV2hT1GsohZ61XbL2309v2bgRZgs5TmbGmKsEDY6j9Y_7Nj0TRidw/s1600-h/IMG_1133.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGy8qNjlsLTtrLhyxGvVN639tBSDzSufuRwkX9Jgy8ZKaEd49NKwVkjpnyLcQpDCfONnU9d-dc5xhc6o9ToqV2hT1GsohZ61XbL2309v2bgRZgs5TmbGmKsEDY6j9Y_7Nj0TRidw/s320/IMG_1133.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5127541446004274722" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX2PEyX_2o5m6uvCv6uNp3S1rqZVEBMRAI8cnrSzE-kh2u9AmBxSED7zxQiGPl4EbnG049cBL8J1v5gFtFnrcnsdTfU73LP5yZOiT4ttLDc9PZi9wIjOk-oxt7y7s2p40OkDG1Mw/s1600-h/IMG_1237.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX2PEyX_2o5m6uvCv6uNp3S1rqZVEBMRAI8cnrSzE-kh2u9AmBxSED7zxQiGPl4EbnG049cBL8J1v5gFtFnrcnsdTfU73LP5yZOiT4ttLDc9PZi9wIjOk-oxt7y7s2p40OkDG1Mw/s320/IMG_1237.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5127530150240286194" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7T8FgzATZp0/Rya3jzwtddI/AAAAAAAAAIg/bMQeFv1CiDY/s1600-h/IMG_1237.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7T8FgzATZp0/Rya3jzwtddI/AAAAAAAAAIg/bMQeFv1CiDY/s320/IMG_1237.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5126987051625706962" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7T8FgzATZp0/Rya2njwtdcI/AAAAAAAAAIY/hQcrw-KEMNM/s1600-h/IMG_1133.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7T8FgzATZp0/Rya2njwtdcI/AAAAAAAAAIY/hQcrw-KEMNM/s320/IMG_1133.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5126986016538588610" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7T8FgzATZp0/Rya1dTwtdbI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/HkBsWDJrvpg/s1600-h/IMG_1225.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7T8FgzATZp0/Rya1dTwtdbI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/HkBsWDJrvpg/s320/IMG_1225.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5126984740933301682" border="0" /></a><br />Working in the environment I do, I am often reminded by patients (usually after they find out the ages of my children) that these are the most wonderful years. Their eyes light up and this wistful smile spreads across their face as I see them going back in time to the memories of the days when their own children were young. Sometimes, they ask what new milestones mine are accomplishing, or their favorite activities. This usually leads to what their own children are doing now, but its different somehow. I'm grateful for this frequent reminder of how preciously short this phase of my children's lives will be, and that one day a wistful smile will fall on my face.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-32214573515546629052007-09-22T22:49:00.000-05:002007-09-22T23:37:13.901-05:00"...Your right hand will hold me fast"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBzOCQy60NrwLGVOwcnzxId5DemQsbXYar8iyHNDAwiVPdvEhaL_h8DW2n0wZVGqw_VyjuleriOQ890UYbij-6yWmmGe-2p0jo2VD5es0Nbx7eL3u_oZm7d0YgsDmOuJBNM8uCDw/s1600-h/IMG_0895.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBzOCQy60NrwLGVOwcnzxId5DemQsbXYar8iyHNDAwiVPdvEhaL_h8DW2n0wZVGqw_VyjuleriOQ890UYbij-6yWmmGe-2p0jo2VD5es0Nbx7eL3u_oZm7d0YgsDmOuJBNM8uCDw/s320/IMG_0895.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5113253250838433346" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Our niece, Rylee Mitchell (Jay and Joanna's daughter) is scheduled for open heart surgery on Tuesday 9/25. They are going to correct a congenital hole at the top of her heart. Please pray for her, her doctors and her family. The doctors anticipate she will be in the ICU for about 5-6 days, then going home.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />O Lord you have searched me<br />and you know me.<br />You know when I sit and when I rise;<br />you perceive my thoughts from afar.<br />You discern my going out and my lying down,<br />you are familiar with all my ways.<br />Before a word is on my tongue<br />you know it completely, O Lord.<br /><br />You hem me in--behind and before;<br />you have laid your hand upon me.<br />Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,<br />too lofty for me to attain.<br /><br />Where can I go from your Spirit?<br />Where can I flee from your presence?<br />If I go up to the heavens, you are there,<br />if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.<br />If I rise on the wings of the dawn,<br />if I settle on the far side of the sea,<br />even there your hand will guide me,<br />your right hand will hold me fast.<br /><br />If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me<br />and the light become night around me,"<br />even the darkness will not be dark to you;<br />the night will shine like the day,<br />for darkness is as light to you.<br /><br />For you created my inmost being;<br />you knit me together in my mother's womb.<br />I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;<br />your works are wonderful,<br />I know that full well.<br />My frame was not hidden from you<br />when I was made in the secret place,<br />When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,<br />your eyes saw my unformed body.<br />All the days ordained for me were written in your book<br />before one of them came to be.<br /><br />How precious to me are your thoughts,<br />O God!<br />How vast is the sum of them!<br />Were I to count them,<br />they would outnumber the grains of sand.<br />When I awake,<br />I am still with you.<br /><br /> Psalm 139:1-18Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28017768.post-8651882729675959202007-08-30T09:12:00.000-05:002007-08-30T09:44:31.158-05:00Good News!It's a funny thing when a parent realizes that their children are actually listening. Sometimes, this may be worrisome, sometimes inspirational. We had this experience last week. Our friends, the Walworths', came to visit, which is always fun. One afternoon, the conversation turned to making mistakes and what we should do about them. I was in the middle of an explanation when this happened:<br /><br />Madeleine : Yeah...if you spill something, like juice or Sprite, you can't go be with God.<br />(I start to say something about God always loving us....)<br />Madeleine : Yep...if you spill rootbeer or coffee, you can't go be with God.<br />(At this point, Ellie who was sitting nearby listening jumps in...)<br />Ellie: No, no, that's not true! God still loves us even if we do bad stuff. Jesus took the bad stuff away on the cross so we can be with God. Isn't that great?<br />Madeleine: Oh yeah, that's great!<br /><br />Simple message. Genuine response.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2