In this weeks edition:

Not unexpected....
As predicted, the County Commission approved the purchase of vote tabulation equipment at their meeting last Friday. As mentioned in my previous writing I oppose the idea on a number of fronts. During the discussion, Lisa Godwin stated that she had received a few calls opposing the move, but more in favor. Ron Facemire stated that he had received two calls both opposing the move. George Skidmore stated that he did not receive any calls in opposition to the move.
I told them that was certainly not what had been reported to my office. I had numerous conversations and no one I spoke with was in favor of the change. I encouraged everyone who I discussed the matter with, to convey they feelings to the County Commissioners. Without exception, they all commented something to the affect that it wouldn’t do any good. The common thread was those I spoke with don’t think the Commission listens to the people. I conveyed those thoughts to the Commission on Friday. George said that if that’s the case, it’s a sad state of affair. I couldn’t agree more.
I am the first to say that, as an elected official, I know you can’t please all the people all the time. However, I see even a more disturbing trend that has always been aloft, but gotten more prevalent in recent years. The public thinks their elected representatives only pay them lip service. I know there are exceptions but it’s hard to argue for elected officials as a group. I believe the Commission could work harder to build public confidence. I am fully aware that they don’t have to listen to me. But, the people did elect them, and history will show that the voters will eventually get fed up…
I believe history will prove me right in regards to these machines as well. I am not convinced of their accuracy which is a major concern. If an elected official is corrupt, who has control over these machines? Now I’m certainly not making any accusations here, but I think we need to keep the “what ifs” in mind when we set a course of action that will affect us for years to come… And then there is the cost. Admittedly, the upfront cost is substantial. I don’t think the county will reap much if any savings down the road either. In fact, I imagine I will get to pull out my little card that says… “I told you so!” Time will tell.

Graduation…
On a more positive note… One hundred and forty-four young adults stepped out in a new direction of their life last Friday when they received their diplomas. It’s an exciting time for them and the rest of us as we grow older. They will be the leaders of tomorrow. They will shape the world we live in. I find optimism in that future. Knowing how many of these young people think and feel gives me hope. I have every reason to believe that our future is bright. In a world like we live in, seeing some light at the end of the tunnel is certainly a good thing.