110 W. New York Ave., DeLand, FL
386-734-4622
Students should unplug, and watch out
posted Sep 29, 2009 - 7:47:03am
Editor, The Beacon:
Headline: Stetson student hit by car in front of Edmonds Center!
This could have been for real this morning, if I had not been paying attention, as the Stetson University student should have been.
This young girl did not look right or left, but stepped over the curb into the street at a fast pace. She could not hear my car as she had an I-pod plugged into her ear!
I drive the streets around Stetson quite a lot, due to where I live. This is the third time this has happened since school started this year.
It is especially bad on Amelia Avenue, even with the stop light and crosswalks.
The three encounters took place with either I-phones or cell phones being used when crossing the streets.
I wonder if other folks have experienced this travesty in the making?
John Summers
DeLand
DeLand: Haven for drug dealers?
posted Sep 29, 2009 - 7:46:06am
Editor, The Beacon:
DeLand: the drug dealers' heavenly haven.
How many parents, grandparents, spouses and siblings have a loved one hooked on drugs? How many used to have an intelligent, caring, hardworking, honest family member, who now is the family's manipulator, liar, thief, user and abuser — all because of drugs?
Some of us watch our possessions disappear, or bank accounts deplete, and our depression deepen — all because we don't know how to stop the addiction.
Myself, I have two adult sons in this position. Both are masters of their crafts. One is a mechanic and one a block mason. Both will do anything for a pill to swallow or something to inject. They never go far to find what they need.
There are only so many times you can have them committed, voluntarily or court-ordered.
I want to see more arrests. I want to see more spending their lives behind bars because they benefit from lives destroyed.
I don't want to see my tax dollars go to beautification projects or parks that are used by very few. I want law enforcement in DeLand to have more resources to hunt down and get these miserable creeps behind bars.
I know I am not alone. What I don't understand is why more good, God-fearing, honest families aren't speaking out.
— The author's name is being withheld by the editors.
Won't support anonymous comments on Beacon Web site
posted Sep 29, 2009 - 7:44:12am
Editor, The Beacon:
Over many years, I have enjoyed reading The Beacon.
The Beacon has many outstanding journalists. These talented journalists include: Pat Hatfield, Al Everson, Margie Dykes, Rick Tonyan, Jennifer Horton, and Barb Shepherd.
Also, I have written many articles that have been published in The Beacon, and these articles cover many different subjects.
As a City Council member in the City of DeBary, I was horrified when residents of DeBary attacked by innuendo a man selected to be our next city manager. As I researched this situation, I found that much, if not all, of the unfounded innuendo had been obtained from blogs.
I define a "blog" as any statement posted on the worldwide Web that is either unsigned or signed with a false "screen name." While I was researching the background on the city manager nominee, I noticed The Beacon has a blog.
In my view, no reputable newspaper should support, endorse, or sponsor a blog. A blog is the very anthesis of journalistic ethics that a newspaper should endorse.
I shall, therefore, not renew my subscription with The Beacon, as long as The Beacon has a blog.
R. "Van" Conoley
DeBary
A question for county leaders
posted Sep 29, 2009 - 7:42:07am
Editor, The Beacon:
I have a question for our county leaders: County Chair Frank Bruno, County Council Vice Chairwoman Joie Alexander, and Commissioners Pat Northey and Josh Wagner, who all recently voted for a big tax increase.
Why can't you listen to us voters and taxpayers who asked you again and again, at the recent tax-rate hearing, to please not increase our taxes. Orange County recently cut taxes; why can't we?
How can you justify raising taxes at a time when unemployment is at record high, foreclosures are rampant, and pay increases (except for county employees) are at a standstill.
Some employers have had to cut employees' work hours, and others have closed their doors. Now you increase our taxes to the tune of $158 million dollars.
I hope your response, council members, is that you are ready to be voted out of office, because we (the good, hardworking people of Volusia County), are going to do just that.
We are "mad as hell, and we're not going to take it anymore."
E.W. Harry Lawrence
DeLand
A gas-price stimulus plan
posted Sep 29, 2009 - 7:40:51am
Editor, The Beacon:
During these rough times, the petroleum companies should lower their profit margins for one year.
If gas sold for $1.50 per gallon, the money saved could be used for other things.
It might help the economy.
Joe Romano
DeLand
Time to pull out of Afghanistan
posted Sep 29, 2009 - 7:40:05am
Editor, The Beacon:
Pull out of Afghanistan
The generals should admit to the White House, the American people and Great Britain that there cannot be a total win, and it's not a total defeat to withdraw.
It's a stalemate. Why give up more lives and limbs? There are not any trophies to win. Those people will still be fighting each other way after we pull out.
The Middle East has always been that way.
Joe Romano
DeLand
Preaching on the pages of The Beacon
posted Sep 29, 2009 - 7:39:28am
Editor, The Beacon:
The editors of The Beacon are sure kind to Mr. Mentzer. They gave him a pulpit to preach from as he writes an "open letter" to me in the Weekend edition of Sept. 17-20.
If he really wanted to shower me with all the religious propaganda and factual errors contained in his letter, he could have simply phoned me. No, instead, he wanted to preach to the public.
Well, I'll now preach to his "flock." He didn't like me using a lowercase "g" when I referred to gods. The reason I deliberately do so is because gods are a dime a dozen. Man has always created gods and goddesses to suit his purposes.
Throughout recorded history, man has created thousands of them. Now as man has learned more and more about nature, man's need for gods diminishes. Some day, man will understand his natural world, and all need for gods will be eliminated.
Here's a real fact for Mr. Mentzer and his flock: Every single religion that ever existed (and will ever exist) was started by one person. That person looked around and didn't find a religion to his liking, so he conjured one up and began talking it up. They are still doing the same thing. That's why The Beacon's Religious Directory lists about 80 churches, under 25 denominational headings.
What's worse is the fact that most of those churches do not contribute one penny in property taxes, as they mooch off the backs of hardworking and tax-paying residents and businesses during these difficult times. All churches are actually businesses, and should be licensed as such and be required to pay all fees that all other businesses do. But, they continue to operate as parasites.
Lastly, Mentzer was right when he wrote that agnostics believe in a higher power. That power is not one of your fairy-tale entities. Rather, that power is totally within each individual. Agnostics take full responsibility for their mistakes and full responsibility for their achievements. They don't say their mistakes are allah's or god's will.
I still invite any of your gods to join me for a beer, and to perform a few miracles for me and my friends. Then I might pay more attention to what he/she says.
Till then, I'd suggest you preach in your church instead of in the pages of our Beacon.
Edward Chapdelaine
Orange City
Downtown DeLand needs more parking for disabled
posted Sep 29, 2009 - 7:37:53am
Editor, The Beacon:
I am wondering if I am the only person who has noticed that on Woodland Boulevard in DeLand there is not a single handicap parking space.
I go Downtown every week to a beauty shop, and the only handicap parking near where I go is on West New York Avenue beyond The Beacon office.
That is a bit far to walk, especially when you have difficulity walking and are using a cane. There are many of us "senior ladies" who go to the same beauty shop, and many have walking difficulties.
Did anyone notice there is a special place for motorcycles to park? I have no problem with them having a special place; however, I think we deserve the same.
Janice Babin
Orange City
To protect your rights, participate
posted Sep 29, 2009 - 7:37:04am
Editor, The Beacon:
Recently, I attended two meetings that were intimately connected, but not obviously so.
The first was a forum in DeLand on the state of our water, titled "St. Johns River: Yours, Mine and Ours." The second was a Volusia Growth Management Commission (VGMC) meeting in Ormond Beach.
The forum in DeLand was moderated by John E. Evans, who read questions from the audience for the panelists to answer.
While there was a lot of good information and revelation, one moment stood out for me the most. On the topic of conservation, both panelists representing the utilities, who obviously make money selling our resources, said conservation could not get us out of our water problems; they stated bluntly that conservation might, if everything possible were done, save us about 15 percent.
The average daily use per person under all of St. Johns River Water Management purview is 172 gallons. In a stoke of subtlety, Ann Moore, a former Water Management District board member, turned to Ormond Beach Mayor Fred Costello in the audience, and said, "Mayor Costello, the last I looked, Ormond's use was about 86 gallons per day, per person, isn't that right?"
Thus, Moore informed us, without contradicting our "experts," it is truly possible to save 50 percent of our water, not just 15 percent.
Next, I attended the VGMC meeting where they were considering many rules changes. These changes would have eviscerated VGMC's ability to play the check-and-balance role required of it by the county charter.
These rule changes — like not allowing the public to have standing to sue to protect their communities, or letting cities remove their VGMC appointees for no reason whatsoever (like a vote against their government's misguided actions) — had drawn such heat from the public and from many of the cities themselves, that the VGMC chairwoman was beating a hasty retreat and saying none of the changes had originated with her or the board.
But, on the issue of the conflict of interest of having government employees serve as their governments' representatives on the VGMC, Chairwoman Spinney spoke the most revealing words of the night.
Ms. Spinney said, "This will bring on a firestorm from our constituents!" By constituents, she meant the various jurisdictions in Volusia County.
VGMC is supposed to guard us, the public, from over-reaching by these jurisdictions. VGMC is supposed to be independent in its judgment, relying on the words of the comprehensive plan. Obviously, this lady, who has been chairwoman of the VGMC, appears to have not learned that.
The VGMC voted down all of the rule changes, except for one that actually makes it easier for an adjacent jurisdiction to file a complaint.
What is obvious is that we, the voters, need to understand everything we hear at public meetings is not necessarily true.
We need to find out for ourselves what is true, and we need to attend public meetings and set the record straight. If we are to protect our rights, we must participate.
Eric West
Daytona Beach
Urges harder look at Farmton plan
posted Sep 29, 2009 - 7:36:05am
Editor, The Beacon:
Volusia County has a long, distinguished history of reasoned reviews of major land-use changes.
We now are presented with a proposal that may forever limit the county's ability to manage development of 30 square miles of Southeast Volusia.
The county has before it a proposal to change the Comprehensive Plan so the Farmton area would have 100 times more people than currently allowed. What is missing from this picture is widespread concern and discussion that the proposed Farmton development would be a blanket change and that it would essentially be irreversible.
There has been little discussion about the vast habitat destruction that would result on the 30-square-mile tract from development as proposed.
Dramatic impacts could be predicted on the St. Johns River Basin and the Indian River. Wildlife corridors that rely on continuous, interconnected strands are at risk.
The area is known panther habitat. Other endangered species are present in Farmton.
There is no entitlement for land development. Owners can use land as it is and can apply for needed changes. The Farmton application is nothing like that.
What the Farmton plan proposes is a 50-year build-out that is new and different from anything in the Volusia Comprehensive Plan.
If the proposed constitutional amendment [Hometown Democracy] for local approval of such plans succeeds, Farmton would be grandfathered-in with no substantial control based on needs or use. Volusia would be unable to go back.
Volusia County can't predict needs and uses for a 50-year horizon. Why would any reasonable government approve a development plan that ties its hands forever? The Farmton request is premature. Ask more questions and take the long view.
Joan D. Carter
DeLand
We must remember 9-11
posted Sep 29, 2009 - 7:34:57am
Editor, The Beacon:
It is important to remember the events of Sept. 11, 2001, for the people of this lifetime.
We are the people who have lived it.
Once a new generation takes over, these events will become the history of war and terror. We must never forget how one small little upstart thought he could change the world.
Well, bin Laden, you had your 15 minutes of fame, but where are you now?
Deeds performed in a spirit of malice rarely succeed.
We, as Americans, believe in life, liberty and justice. And those are the assets that will set you free.
Cindy Carnrite
DeBary
Mixed messages for young people
posted Sep 29, 2009 - 7:33:23am
Editor, The Beacon:
I worked as a bartender at Halftime Sports Bar for two years.
I truly see how the youth of America can be confused. In one breath, the government tells them when they are 18 years old, they are legal adults. They can vote. They can fight for their country and they can leave home if they want to.
In the next breath, the government tells them they are not allowed to drink until they are 21. What’s a person to do? The government wants their cake, and to eat it, too.
They need to choose! Eighteen years old all the way, or 21 all the way. After all, fair is fair.
The government says: You are allowed in a bar if you are 18 or older, but you are just not allowed to drink.
Who can blame an intelligent businessman from cashing in on the government’s mistake? A businessman will say: I will give you the respect you deserve, but I will charge you a small one-night fee. Twenty-one and over will pay nothing, because they are expected to buy a drink.
Who is the real monster here? A business owner who is trying to make a living, or the government who regulates them? This decision will be decided by brighter minds than mine, and I leave you to it.
In conclusion: Be wary of owners who allow 18-and-over in their establishments. Some have only their own interests at heart.
This letter is from my heart. My heart and my soul are one and the same.
Cindy M. Carnrite
DeBary
Nice new car may be good investment
posted Sep 26, 2009 - 10:16:16am
Editor, The Beacon:
I bought a Chrysler Corp. product, a brand-new 1969 Plymouth Road Runner (383 cubic-inch motor).
Back then, General Motors offered several models (396 c.i.) as did Ford Motor Corp. (390 c.i.) and American Motors (390 c.i.).
My car cost less than $2,900. Many of today's senior citizens still own and have maintained their purchases from back then. A well-preserved Road Runner easily brings $75,000 today, as many seniors have other priorities.
Gasoline back then cost around 30 cents a gallon, so getting around 10 miles to a gallon wasn't a financal concern.
(I wonder who owns the 1956 Plymouth two-door hardtop with a V-8 that I first heard, then saw, cruising on Grand Avenue in Glenwood a little over a month ago.)
Little time may remain for you 20-somethings to invest in one of today's models. Personally, I love the new 2010 Camaro, but Mustangs are more likely to be in ongoing production with ongoing, available service into the future.
Our inevitable nanny-state will soon halt the manufacture and sale of these dream machines. When you're ready to retire in 40 or 50 years, you can reasonably expect to get well over $1 million for today's $30,000-plus investment. Plus, you'll have all the in-between years to cruise in it on weekends.
Ray Lord
DeLeon Springs
Obama doles out some rope
posted Sep 26, 2009 - 10:15:33am
Editor, The Beacon:
Can you say "rope-a-dope"?
Many of us who elected President Obama have been wondering where he has been all summer while the whackos and crazies, who seem to be the primary voice of the Republican Party, have been spreading lies and gross distortions about his attempt to finally do something about the atrocious situation our health-care system is in. Well, maybe he was just giving them enough time for the general public to see how ridiculously self-serving and obstructionist they really are.
Obama's address to the joint session of Congress was powerful, to the point, and answered a great many of the questions many of us had. The Republicans looked like a bunch of middle-school bullies who were forced to sit in an assembly they didn't want to be in.
The lack of maturity, and bankruptcy of ideas, of those on the right has never been more apparent.
Look out! The president is off the ropes, and, maybe (if there really is a God in heaven), we will finally get something done about the disaster we currently have for a health-care system.
Russ White
Orange City
Predatory investors just need a little help
posted Sep 26, 2009 - 10:14:53am
Editor, The Beacon:
An open letter to the County Council:
We have met many times, in private and in council, dealing with rezonings and other land-use changes over the years.
Before I ventured into developing, I bought and sold single-family houses in West Volusia for 10 years or so.
I guess you could say I was a predatory investor, waiting for someone else's financial failings to create an opportunity to swoop in and take their house away, fix it up cheap, and make a big profit in a very short time.
Because so many out-of-town investors are now swarming Volusia County again, the supply of cheap houses is shrinking fast.
The weakest homeowners, those on the entry level, have been culled out. Any increase in mortgage rates, property taxes, homeowner's insurance, or lessening of either one of a couple's paychecks, caused them to go down quick.
This next level, the ones with at least one white-collar job in the family, some money in their 401K, or relatives they could borrow from, has proven to be a little tougher to wrestle their homes from.
All we investors need is a little less cooperation from the banks in modifying their present mortgages and another increase in homeowner's insurance rates, along with the county's back-door way of finally cracking that absurd "Save Our Homes" tax cap, and we should be able to make a lot of money for at least the next three or four years.
This is why I need you to vote for the increase in millage rate, because that is all that's needed to push those last few holdouts over the edge into foreclosure.
My three children are all around 20 and don't own homes yet, so I don't really care about the heartache these families will suffer. I just want every possible financial pressure to be put on these last few homeowners who are barely hanging on.
So, remember, don't listen to those "tea party" crazies; vote for the increased millage rate. Thank you for your help.
Bill Marotte
DeLand
A native's case for Florida Hometown Democracy
posted Sep 26, 2009 - 10:11:13am
Editor, The Beacon:
Hometown Democracy, a proposed amendment to the Florida Constitution, serves a bona fide Florida need. To those who've been ignored — even disdained — by the very officials they elected to safeguard their life-quality, ecology, and wildlife, it shines like a lodestar in the night sky.
What our Founders might have called "Providence" seems to have channeled it to the right time and place. Hometown Democracy Amendment 4 is crucial now that the state growth oversight we had in the Department of Community Affairs is so iffy as to not be assured survival of the next legislative whim or developer lawsuit.
There really is no recourse for citizens suffering from local rubber-stamping other than voter referendum. For too long, the decks have been stacked against us and the survival of our slender peninsula. Greed looms to consume her like a black hole.
We've been thrown a lifeline in Amendment 4, and if we don't grab it, we'll drown. Besides its obvious conservation value, Florida Hometown Democracy restores to residents the right to help shape their community's future — a right long trampled by what Harry Truman once called "the favored classes of the powerful few."
The goal of salvaging Florida's native landscapes remains largely unmet. Our natural communities, among the oldest on Earth, stand to be extirpated by hopscotch growth patterns. Fragile species like the scrub jay and panther are unique to this state.
With the loss of biological integrity flows the poetry — the very heart and song — from the "Land of Flowers." Our ecology ties directly to life-quality; once Eden is gone, even if growth-drunk officials don't notice (or care), we will. Annihilation can't be undone.
A week in Washington, D.C., reviewing the trials and sentiments of our nation's Founders, and rereading Thomas Jefferson's letters, convinced me America's principles not only support, but mandate, that power revert to us in such pivotal matters as land use, when government fails to express our will.
In Florida, the idea of "representation" has become a farce. Though this may sound grandiose to its foes, Hometown Democracy, for me, seems to rise from those same sparks that fired Washington to defeat Cornwallis and Jefferson to pen the Declaration. These greats held a never-flinching trust that the people are their country’s (or state’s) own best watchmen.
Preserving Florida and our way of life lies with us.
In 2010, Amendment 4 would let voters veto projects that overstep their local growth blueprint, thus help curb "hostile" urbanizing of rural zones.
Though called “mobs” or “NIMBYs” by Amendment 4 detractors, residents voting on their communities’ fates would have a welcome moderating effect. Building will still occur, because comp plans already allow for it, but at a rate our wildlife and infrastructure can bear.
Guarding quality of life is a chief role of government. Developers currently steer land-use policy, but government is meant to represent all citizens. In 1816, Thomas Jefferson wrote to John Taylor: "Your Enquiry into the Principles of Government ... settles unanswerably the right of instructing representatives and their duty to obey." It simply is not right for those we elect to dismiss us — especially to the detriment of our state's survival.
A land-use change to densely develop is not a “property right." Under Amendment 4, we all have a vote (not just those who would slow growth or over-accelerate it).
The referendums provided by Amendment 4 would reflect the people's will — a founding precept sorely missing from the development process.
— Eagan is a portrait artist, a wildlife conservationist, and a third-generation Florida native.
Is this what our forefathers envisioned?
posted Sep 26, 2009 - 10:09:17am
Editor, The Beacon:
Conservatives continue to throw mud into the gears of democracy and free speech by disrupting every public forum and the time-honored tradition of the constitutional process.
By placing policy above people, they ignore the struggle of the majority of Americans.
Shame, shame, shame! The emerging generations will grow up believing that lying, bullying and innuendo are acceptable professional and political practices. Is this what our forefathers sacrificed to protect?
What has become of truth, honor and dignity? Examine yourself before you act!
Intimidation to prevent freedom of expression in any venue is cowardly. In the 1800s, guns were collected from those attending public forums to prevent intimidation and violence.
If carrying weapons in all public gatherings is not illegal in the U.S., it should be. It has a chilling affect on individual rights to free speech.
"'Freedom from fear' could be said to sum up the whole philosophy of human rights." — Dag Hammarskjöd
Nan Smith
DeLand
Budgetary common sense
posted Sep 26, 2009 - 10:07:54am
Editor, The Beacon:
An open letter to all Volusia County Council members, with regard to the budget for 2009-10:
Again, another year and a very bad economic one, but the county continues its spending habits. I haven’t seen any real budget cuts, and of course my taxes continue to go up.
My property taxes have gone up for the past 23 years, in good times and in bad times as we are facing now. If it is not the assessment value, then it is a millage increase.
Government does not know how to budget and there is always waste in government.
When people are losing their jobs and leaving the State of Florida (68,000 at last count), do you really think people and business can afford to stay in Volusia County?
Raising taxes does not foster quality job growth. You continue to raise our property tax and other hidden taxes (like the 50-cent charge on our cell phones for 911 calling).
Money is tight, and the budget should be set for spending only the necessities. Instead of a 2 percent raise for county employees, how about freezing all salaries? My husband has not had a raise in three years. Many other companies have frozen salaries and have had pay cuts. Better to cut your pay than lose your job.
Many companies have also eliminated those at the top (managerial jobs that are not needed). Somehow government always has a way of expanding these jobs.
The county should focus on funding essentials like police, fire, emergency services, roads, water and sewage.
I have a problem with the libraries getting so much funding. My experience at Volusia’s libraries is that it is a baby-sitting service for children; plus, I have seen the deadbeats sitting at the computers (funded with our tax money) searching the Web for pornography.
Please look again at the budget monies for trail projects, dog parks, bike paths, library funding, grant funding, Volusia Forever and Volusia Echo. Funding for these perks should be frozen until we recover from the economic crisis facing this state and county.
Fund No. 115, the E-911 emergency fund: These funds should be coming from the 50 cents the county voted to add to our cell-phone bills.
What about that grant money (which is really taxpayers dollars) given for an agriculture junket to promote business with Europe? I didn’t know we grew anything here. All the food in the stores comes from Mexico or Central America.
Where’s all the tax money we pay on our water, electric, phone, gasoline, and just about every service provided that the county can get a tax from? What do you do with that?
I don’t have a degree in finance or economics, but I do know if there is not enough money in the county coffers, cuts have to be made, and you have to live without the perks.
I am sure there are plenty of services we can live without in this county.
Editor's note: At the end of the Sept. 17 budget meeting, the County Council did vote not to give county employees any raises this year.
Unsung hero in story of Orange City hospital
posted Sep 26, 2009 - 10:05:45am
Editor, The Beacon:
Your recent article on the 15th anniversary of Florida Hospital-Fish Memorial omitted any reference to the crucial role played by the West Volusia Hospital Authority and, specifically, my mother, Bernice Fishpaw, in establishing the hospital in Orange City.
Bernice Fishpaw was elected to the West Volusia Hospital Authority in 1986. The board at that time was tasked with building and operating hospitals in West Volusia.
There were two hospitals. West Volusia Memorial (now Florida Hospital-DeLand) was operated by the Hospital Authority and Fish Memorial, also in DeLand, had been built and operated by the Fish Trust, until it was bought by a group of doctors in the early 1980s.
At the time of that sale, the contract included a clause requiring the owners to operate a "general hospital." The doctors' group sold Fish Memorial, with its property and license, to the West Volusia Hospital Authority for $9 million dollars.
In 1988, it became apparent to the Hospital Authority that the operations of two hospitals in DeLand was unaffordable, while there was a major need for a hospital in Southwest Volusia because of major population growth.
John Marshall had donated the current site of Florida Hospital-Fish Memorial to the Hospital Authority. My mother and Mark Van Fleet, then CEO of West Volusia Memorial, met with Dr. Schildecker, president of the Fish Trust, and explained the need for a hospital in Southwest Volusia.
He agreed, with two stipulations. No beds would be transferred to the West Volusia Memorial (DeLand) campus, and the new facility would be known as Fish Memorial.
After Bernice Fishpaw's defeat for re-election in 1990, the Orange City facility was completed in a co-venture with Florida Hospitals.
Without the vision and efforts of Bernice Fishpaw and the West Volusia Hospital Authority, Florida Hospital-Fish Memorial would not exist today, and the courthouse would not be located on the old Fish Memorial grounds.
B. Virginia Fishpaw Comella
DeLand
Is new park only for tea parties?
posted Sep 26, 2009 - 10:04:51am
Editor, The Beacon:
On July 4, 2009, (a national holiday) a "tea party" was held on the lawn of DeLand City Hall to rally against health-care reform. It was well-attended. The new, nearby Volusia County Chess Park was wide open, and all the tea-party attendees were able to use the "facilities" there.
On Labor Day, 2009, (a national holiday) a rally in support of health-care reform was held on the lawn of DeLand City Hall. It was well-attended. The new, nearby Volusia County Chess Park was locked shut, and all the rally attendees were not able to use the "facilities" there.
I attended both events, and witnessed the unavailability of facilities for the supporters of health-care reform. Does that make those who don't have health-care insurance second-class citizens in the eyes of the powers that be in Volusia County, and therefore unworthy to use the very expensive facilities at the newest Volusia County park?
This seems to me to be a new set of Jim Crow laws. Those who have, get more; those who don't have, get screwed.
Elizabeth Camarota
DeLand
Don't be fooled
posted Sep 26, 2009 - 10:04:10am
Editor, The Beacon:
I am a member of AARP, and have grown to trust AARP. So, when special-interest groups started trying to scare me and other seniors with horrible things that would happen to my Medicare if health-care reform passed, it touched a nerve.
People need to hear the good things that will happen when we pass real reform.
For people on Medicare, health-care reform will close the Medicare Part D "doughnut hole," protect your choice of doctor, keep your premiums fair, hold down your health-care and prescription-drug costs, eliminate waste, fraud and abuse, and improve the care you receive.
None of the health-care reform proposals being considered by Congress would cut Medicare benefits or increase your out-of-pocket costs for Medicare service.
As you can see, those who say health-care reform will hurt Medicare are just plain wrong.
If we do nothing, more and more people will fall into the "doughnut hole," fewer doctors will treat Medicare patients, and the wasteful spending will continue to threaten the financial security of the program.
Don't be fooled by scare tactics.
Jeanne V. Mauk
DeLand
Mac thanks supporters
posted Sep 23, 2009 - 8:17:07am
Editor, The Beacon:
I'd like to thank all the merchants and citizens that supported me during my time of recuperation.
Words cannot express how grateful I am, and how truly blessed I feel. I thank the Lord for these people.
You don't realize how much you are appreciated until you are in need, and they come through, without being asked, with their help.
They came voluntarily, without hesitation, especially in these hard times with the economy the way it is. What an amazing contribution they have made.
I ask the Lord to bless everyone who participated, no matter how small the deed. It was, and still is, extremely appreciated.
I would like to personally thank The West Volusia Beacon, FOX 35 News, and The Daytona Beach News-Journal for getting the word out to all my supporters. Words cannot express how grateful I am.
Thank you.
— McBride is the City of DeLand "beat" cop who patrols the Downtown DeLand area. He was sidelined recently with health problems, and had to have a pacemaker installed. He returned to his beat Sept. 16.
Caring has a ripple effect
posted Sep 23, 2009 - 8:15:20am
Editor, The Beacon:
One thing shall always remain true, as seen in the United Way "Day of Caring."
When one hand reaches out to help another, a ripple effect happens, and many lives are affected in a powerful and positive way.
Votran, one of the participating organizations in United Way's "Day of Caring," has proven to be a big part of that ripple effect. Votran has come together to help Community Outreach Services Inc. celebrate a "Day of Caring" featuring the hidden talents of our clients.
Community Outreach Services is a nonprofit alcohol- and drug-treatment center that has been serving clients in West Volusia for almost 40 years.
We asked our clients to celebrate recovery by expressing one of their talents, such as music, art work or poetry, to assist our clients to feel empowered in their circumstances. These clients are right in the middle of letting go forever the lifestyle of abusing alcohol and/or drugs.
Community Outreach Services' goal is to help our clients to be strengthened in the areas of their family life and education, and to once again become contributing members of the community.
In enabling our clients to showcase their hidden talents, we enable them to present their lives as role models for those who follow in their footsteps to be free from the addiction lifestyle.
With the help of United Way and Votran, this event will be memorable for all involved, as we bring our hearts and hands together for the purpose of one goal: strengthening one another in unity.
Votran has been instrumental in the preparation, planning and service for this event, as they have provided their unique gifts and talents of themselves while caring for our clients and staff.
Thank you to United Way and Votran for reaching out.
— Epley is executive director and Haase is outreach coordinator for Community Outreach Services.
On a hunt for health care for a child
posted Sep 23, 2009 - 8:13:55am
Editor, The Beacon:
I am on a hunt for something more elusive than the Florida panther, the snail darter or clean water here in Central Florida.
This hunt has been ongoing for three weeks, and has encumbered hours of research, phone calls and dead ends. I even expanded my search outside Central Florida with no luck.
I fear this hunt will get the best of me.
What am I hunting? A pediatric dermatologist who takes Medicaid! Why, you may think, that sounds simple! Just look in the phone book or call Medicaid and get the number — wrong!
There is not one, I repeat, not one pediatric dermatologist in Central Florida who takes Medicaid!
Doctors? No. Hospital? No. Clinics? No. Nemours? No. Arnold Palmer? No. Shands? No.
Oops, there is a doctor in Volusia County, but his office takes patients only from Edgewater, Oak Hill or New Smyrna.
I was told there may be a clinic in Miami that may take Medicaid, but I haven't been able to confirm that. That hunt is for another day.
So, here I sit with a 5-year-old who has been referred by her pediatrician to see a dermatologist who does not exist.
OK, so let's expand our search to find a pediatric dermatologist — almost as elusive, but not quite. Many offices were put off that I even asked if they saw children. I guess face lifts, tucks and Botox are more profitable and satisfying than helping children.
To be fair, I have found a few that will take pediatric patients. Office calls start at $150 just to walk in the door!
This has been an eye-opening experience for me. I shudder to think what would happen if this were a life-threatening situation.
If it escalates to that point, I was told by the receptionist at Area 7 Medicaid to go to the ER. Sure, have the State of Florida spend five times what it would cost to see a doctor.
So, my hunt continues, halfheartedly. I am disappointed in the medical profession. I thought doctors took an oath to help people, and not be in the profession for the money! I must be wrong!
Maybe that concept, like a pediatric dermatologist who takes Medicaid, is totally elusive!
Gretchen R. Venn
Deltona
We should be ashamed
posted Sep 23, 2009 - 8:13:07am
Editor, The Beacon:
In recently listening to a TV commentator, I learned our inept "leaders" in Washington have accomplished nothing toward construction of the Freedom Tower at the 9/11 murder site in New York City.
I could not believe my ears. This is a complete embarrassment, and an insult to the more than 3,000 Americans who died, and to their families who suffered after this attack by a bunch of insane Arabs.
What is the matter with us?
The commentator displayed a series of pictures taken each of the past eight years, showing nothing has been done to honor those who died.
We should be ashamed that, once again, the White House and Congress have failed to meet their obligations and promises.
Dick Westervelt
DeLand
Attorneys the only winners
posted Sep 23, 2009 - 8:12:13am
Editor, The Beacon:
I would like to thank The Beacon for its excellent coverage of the shortsighted plans to withdrawal water from the St. Johns River, and Seminole County's unscrupulous legal action against our organization.
The St. Johns Riverkeeper has consistently presented legitimate concerns regarding the potential impacts to our river from the Yankee Lake withdrawal project, and we clearly demonstrated this to be true during the administrative hearing.
In fact, during the hearing, a special condition was placed on the Yankee Lake permit by the Water Management District to address our valid concerns that withdrawals will lead to an increased likelihood of algal blooms in the river.
After being forced to spend a significant amount of our limited resources defending the river and the best interests of the public, we are now facing outrageous and unsubstantiated claims from Seminole County, calling our actions into question.
This is clearly an attempt to intimidate and discourage citizens from challenging their actions, and could have a chilling effect on public participation in this important process.
What makes this more appalling is the fact Seminole continues to authorize and pay a high-priced law firm to seek retribution on its behalf against a small nonprofit citizen group, while the county is facing serious budgetary concerns.
Unfortunately, the only winner in this situation is the attorney. He and his firm continue to pocket thousands of taxpayer dollars going after a credible nonprofit group and pushing through an expensive and unnecessary withdrawal project that could further degrade the health of our river — which is already sick.
— Orth is executive director of the St. Johns Riverkeeper, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the health and natural beauty of the St. Johns River.
Don't drink the Kool-Aid
posted Sep 23, 2009 - 8:10:00am
Editor, The Beacon:
I find the letter written by C. Osborne, titled "Race card in use," to be funny.
The Republican platform has rested on the outright blind obedience of two very large groups: gun owners and the religious right.
They took it so far as to win the election over John Kerry by convincing people that if you believed in God, you had to vote for George W.
They had convinced everyone who owns a gun that as soon as a Democrat took office, they would have the local police raid their homes and take away all of their personal firepower.
Of course both lines of thinking are ignorant, as anyone who can think for himself or herself can see. Somehow, however, they managed to find enough people to drink the Kool-Aid.
Now we have conservatives coming out fearing the obedience of people to ideals that agree with the Democratic platform. They are crying out for individuality and for people to think for themselves!
Are these the same people who felt we should blindly follow our president into Iraq? Are these the same right-to-lifers who conveniently picked up that opinion when the Republican Party told them to? Are these the same people who bought into Rush Limbaugh while he was hooked on drugs? Are these the same people who will not admit the damage their guy did to this country for the past eight years?
Todd Carpenter
DeLand
Remembering who is really in charge
posted Sep 23, 2009 - 8:09:22am
Editor, The Beacon:
Thank you, John Walker.
I made a comment on a letter John wrote condemning one I wrote responding to a political statement of his.
It got under my skin, for eight years from the liberal side (with cooperation from the biased press) blaming President Bush for everything that happened bad in the whole world.
The common statement was: "It's Bush's fault."
John made a statement in this condemning letter to me that he thought I was a pastor, which I am. The No. 1 truth I forgot is, no matter how bad things get in this world, and no matter how others criticize, God is still in control.
You can waste billions on the truth of global warming or the fallacy of the subject, but God loves his son so much that he will not let the planet he created be in danger.
The battle men present to this world, about what direction it should go, belongs to the Lord, not Walt Mentzer or any other mortal.
Someday, and I believe it to be soon, every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus, the Christ, is Lord. That is the only truth a pastor, or anyone else must believe.
I will not waste my time any longer in word battles in this paper or any other. Please forgive me for my prideful thinking that I could make a difference in what I felt was unjust commentary on various political subjects.
Walt Mentzer
DeLand
Seminole lawsuit reveals extreme arrogance
posted Sep 23, 2009 - 8:08:31am
Editor, The Beacon:
I am appalled by the recent actions of the Seminole County government.
Instead of them taking the necessary steps to stop ignorant irrigation practices, such as watering wasteful lawns of St. Augustine turf and landscaping with exotic vegetation that doesn't belong in Florida, they arrogantly want to contribute to the further degradation of the St. Johns River by siphoning off our precious water to maintain their wasteful practices.
Now they are apparently willing to sue anyone who dares try to get in their way.
Have they no sense of shame or common decency? I hope and pray that they fail miserably in their perverted efforts, and wake up from their profound environmental insensitivity.
Robert Sitler
DeLand
Don't let fear make your decisions
posted Sep 23, 2009 - 8:07:41am
Editor, The Beacon:
Why is it, when it comes time for a change, whether it is at work or elsewhere, there are always people who fight it tooth and nail?
Fear of the unknown, that's why!
Yes, we all have a natural instinct to protect our lives, and many of us become complacent and want everything to stay the same, because we know what to expect day to day. But without change, our world would not have evolved to where it is today.
As for health-care reform, there are some possible realistic solutions, but people need to educate themselves — and not by watching FOX News or listening to commentators who have been bought and paid for out there spreading ridiculous rumors. They have there own personal agendas: greed!
If we turn our heads and keep looking the other way, nothing will ever change. Our national debt will continue to grow, and more and more people will lose everything they have worked so hard to get because they either can't afford health care or don't have a good-enough policy.
God bless President Obama, and God bless America!
Carolyne Robbins-Pagel
Pierson
Do health-care reform right
posted Sep 23, 2009 - 8:07:02am
Editor, The Beacon:
After watching the long, drawn-out speech about health care, I stand in awe; the communicator did not convince me that acting in a rush manner about so crucial issue is definitely the way to go.
I agree there is definite need for health-care reform, but to make it meaningful it must be tied in with tort reform. If not, then the issue is moot.
With the left-wing socialists in the House and Senate, I hope there is enough resistance to stop such madhouse ideas, and that the Congress comes to its senses and knuckles down to getting something done for the people, not their parties.
The Tea Parties started with a revolt on Congress (all parties included), and was expanded with the town-hall meetings. Even my own representative backed away from a one-on-one in favor of a telephone meeting.
Where are the congressmen with backbone to handle the issues instead of kowtowing to their party’s whims and throwing the people under the bus?
Like the vet had on this sign: “If you shove it down our throat in 2009, we’ll shove it up your a— in 2010.”
I think he speaks for the majority of the MOB and the Astroturfers and brown shirts, if that is what they call the grass-roots movement.
Who does the Congress speak for? The SEIU, the auto unions and the trial lawyers? For them, time grows short.
Let’s us see if they have the nerve to do what is right.
Don Howell
DeLand
Time for the people to take back government
posted Sep 23, 2009 - 8:06:16am
Editor, The Beacon:
All those taxpayers who spoke their minds at the Volusia County budget meeting on Sept. 3 found out what Volusia government thinks about its taxpayers.
It is time to restructure our county government and the workers' pay rates. It is no longer government for people, by people.
The Sept. 3 meeting with nothing more than a dog-and-pony show. I want the county manager to go over the budget line by line and explain why we need each item. After all, we are paying the bill, and have the right to know. Budget meetings need to be held at the Ocean Center, where everyone can attend, and they should be in the evenings.
I want each item in the budget explained, line by line and if it takes all night so be it. County government can't seem to roll the taxes back 20 percent, so I guess its time for the taxpayers to do it. I am over government doing what it wants and expecting me to pay for it.
I also want to see a plan outlining cutting back all salaries of managers. If they want their jobs they will take the cutbacks; this will include the county manager. There will be no more golden parachutes for anyone — period.
I want all county-owned vehicles left at the office every night. No more driving them home. It is cheaper to pay someone mileage if they need to be called out. Cell phones, Blackberries, etc., are not needed by all the people who have them.
Why does the Sheriff's Department need Nextel push-to-talk cell phones and radios? These all cost the taxpayers money. The car radios and handheld radios can make phone calls; use them.
Why do we see pickups pulling trailers with mowers and other equipment on the road late at night and on the weekends when these people are not working? Are they using this equipment at their homes or side jobs?
There is no reason — other than to waste tax dollars — to have 10 or more fire and police departments in Volusia County. Consolidate them and get away from this "it's mine" mentality. You wouldn't have to worry about mutual aid, it would all be one. Stop with buying all these new vehicles; we have the best vehicle maintenance department in the state. Use them.
I also want a complete breakdown on what the county spends printing items in Spanish. This is an English-only state and country. I also want to know how many of my tax dollars are spent on illegals; what part of the word illegal do you not understand? They only have the right to leave or get deported. They don't have the right to go to the Health Department, hospitals, schools, etc., and stick me with the bill.
Next question: Why are our prisoners not growing their own food? It's time they get treated like prisoners, and not like they're on vacation. Marion County does it. Need more room? Put them in tents; they are not in a hotel. If they can do it in Arizona, we can do it here.
Drug treatment? Why is that the taxpayers' responsibility? I didn't give them drugs; that was their choice and should be there responsibility, or their family's.
Why are Spanish business not required to have business licenses? Why does Volusia government turn its head to the illegal taco stands when others who have hot-dog carts, and other food vendors have all these rules and licenses, and pay taxes?
Why do we need these fancy buildings? Like the waste of money for the Beach Patrol; what a waste.
It is long past due for government to come into the real world and understand, we don't have the money, jobs and income to afford them anymore.
Before I let government take my home and property for not paying, I will give it away to a not-for-profit, and you won't get any tax money.
Each taxpayer in Volusia County should call the county manager's office and demand a line-by-line explanation of the budget and a 20 percent rollback of all taxes.
Remember, you trim the tree from the top, you don't cut it off at the base. And remember, it's government for the people, by the people. Volusia County will not be part of socialism.
Walt Rubin
DeLeon Springs
Calls for cutting city workers' wages
posted Sep 17, 2009 - 5:35:29pm
Editor, The Beacon:
In light of the contracted economy, it is proposed that the City of DeLand initiate a municipal-wage reduction of 5 percent for all employees who make more than $40,000 a year.
Wages are down among the people, hours have been cut, volume at retailers and restaurants is down 15 percent to 30 percent. A 5-percent cut would still leave the city workers in a much better position than most.
If the story you tell your grandchildren about how you made it through the "Great Recession" is that one year you had to take a 5-percent pay cut, you will definitely be one of the lucky ones.
I am in no way here trying to paint the leaders of DeLand as the out-of-touch governmental tax monster. To the contrary, I believe Mayor Apgar and the commission have shown they are deeply concerned with the economic situation of the people, and have worked very hard and made very tough decisions to try to keep taxes low while maintaining an acceptable level of services. They have done everything they can do.
A 5-percent cut in wages for the city workers has got to be the job of the people. This action is not done by the leadership. Their employees are their most important constituency. Good leaders will defend their people.
A wage cut has not even been mentioned at the county, state of federal level. This is something the citizens have to do.
The issue is not that taxes have gone up, but that our ability to pay the taxes has been reduced.
DeLand is an exceptional city. It may have a stronger sense of community than anywhere in the State of Florida. If an idea like this can be started anywhere, I think its best chance is here.
This proposal is not a silver bullet. It will not solve the tremendous problems we face, but it's something. Something to bind the community. Something that will put us in this together. Something that will help avoid further layoff of city workers, help avoid a reduction of services, and help ease the tax burden we bear.
The final City of DeLand budget hearing is 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21, at City Hall.
Call to help organize during the evening at (386) 734-5663. E-mail your support to municipalwagereduction@yahoo.com
Chris Lagi
DeLand
Government health care would be costly
posted Sep 17, 2009 - 5:32:54pm
Editor, The Beacon:
Recently, a letter-writer expressed his views on the proposed Obama administration health-care reform. He said the inclusion of the public (government) option would be OK, because no one would lose. I say all Americans will lose — badly!
Incrementally, our freedoms, choices and independence will erode, and the American standard of health care will dissipate. Long waits for appointments, and much longer waits for tests and surgeries — provided Washington bureaucrats approve — will become the norm. Rationing of health care, especially for seniors, will be a given.
Nationalizing health care is but a foot in the door for government control of the other five-sixths of our economy. The government's training period was the forced takeover of selected financial institutions, car manufacturing companies and insurance companies.
This is the real objective of the Obama administration — not only to socialize medicine, but ultimately to effect the demise of our private-enterprise, free-market economic system, which has been the engine for the greatest economic success story in the world.
Is this great country ready to give way to a socialist government and economy, with coerced "spreading of the wealth," as suggested by President Obama, in spite of the fact that it has been a colossal failure worldwide when tried?
The Independent Congressional Budget Office stated the proposed health-care reform will increase taxpayer costs significantly more than current runaway health care costs.
The reasons enumerated by the Obama administration as to why government (public) insurance is needed are bogus:
1. "Forty-seven mission uninsured Americans must be covered; they have no insurance."
Fact: Uninsured Americans are closer to 10 million. Approximately 20 million citizens can afford coverage and choose not to purchase insurance. And, 10 million to 15 million illegal immigrants are included in the estimated 47-million number. Another 5 million to 7 million don't know about available Medicaid coverage, or choose not to seek it.
2. "We need to create insurance competition."
Fact: Currently, 1,300 insurance companies are sufficient. The government option will eventually eliminate all competition.
3. "We need to keep the insurance companies honest."
Fact: This is truly laughable, considering the political corruption, dishonesty and deceit in Washington.
4. "We need to reduce the cost of health care, with a focus on preventive care."
Fact: The cost of preventive care on a large scale tends to exceed savings from averted illnesses. Proposed health care reform would increase the deficit by an estimated 239 billion over the next decade, and cost from $1 trillion (1,000 billion) to at least $1.6 trillion.
Paul J. Sharpe
DeLand
Mentzer questions writer's lack of judgment
posted Sep 17, 2009 - 5:32:08pm
Editor, The Beacon:
This is a "Dear John" letter. The John's last name is Walker.
I wrote a response to a letter John wrote, in which he blamed me for judging him without even knowing him. The judgment came with my stating he must be a diehard liberal.
I, my good friend, am a diehard conservative, and am proud of that title. If you are not proud of yours, you shouldn't clutter the columns with liberal positions.
You took me to the woodshed for my statements, then turned right around and totally judged me, calling me "holier than thou." Why is it OK for you to judge me, but I can't judge you? You said my letter to you was not worthy of comment, then you go on and rant about me being a pastor. Yes, I am a pastor, but when I see injustice, I must comment on it in as loving a way as I can.
I just spent four years on the West Volusia Hospital Authority. Each one of those four years, the vote came up to tax those hardworking elder folks, who worked diligently all their lives to get their houses paid off so they would grow old in peace and the comfort they deserve. (I guess these are the "rich" you referred to in your nonjudgmental letter to me.) The point I would like to bring home is the fact we must be responsible for our actions. Those senior citizens should not be held accountable for the actions of those who did not keep their noses to the grindstone.
There are those who, through no fault of their own, find times difficult right now, and we should do all we can to help them. That is why we support people like James Robinson, who digs wells for people who do not even have a cup of uncontaminated water. My wife and I paid to dig one of these wells that cost us more than $5,000. We had to sacrifice to do this, but it was our decision; the money was not taken from us by demand of our elected officials.
When you say liberal phrases like "the rich get richer" that is resentment of those who worked to attain what they now have. I will ask you once more: Is your grass in the back yard cut?
Walter J. Mentzer
DeLand
Who's the wacko?
posted Sep 17, 2009 - 5:31:10pm
Editor, The Beacon:
What was that again? Russ White of Orange City said "Hooray for Barney Frank!"
Is he not the same member of Congress who said the bank regulators — who tried to tell the congressional investigating committee about the bank officers who took millions in bonus money for the fine work they were doing — didn't know what they were talking about. These same bonus-taking ($90 million) officers put Fanny Mae and Freddy Mac in bankruptcy.
The gay guy, as Mr. White called him, had the balls to stand up to the "wackos." I guess the "wackos" in this case were the regulators who thought, with all the evidence they showed the committee, it would not get swept under the carpet.
Thanks to Congressman Frank for saying these good democratic officers are doing a fine job, and the regulators should be investigated. Oh, yes, "Hooray for the gay guy."
Walt Mentzer
DeLand
Cheney just keeps going
posted Sep 17, 2009 - 5:30:32pm
Editor, The Beacon:
The Energizer bunny has a new face, and it's Dick Cheney. He just keeps going, and going (wish he'd just go!).
In his defense, I guess if I was facing a prison term for war crimes, I'd be doing everything I could to obfuscate the issue and deflect the investigation.
It's illuminating that he won't speak to, or allow questions from, anyone but the right-wing toadies at FAUX (FOX) News. Any real journalist would show him up for the amoral, ends-justify-the-means egotist he is.
His EITs were reverse-engineered from what was done to American POWs in the Korean War. These acts were carried out by the Communist Chinese, and, to a lesser degree, the Russians.
This means Dick chose as his role models, for how to respond to 9-11, Mao Tse-tung and Joseph Stalin. I will never forgive him for what he has done to my country.
Russ White
Orange City
More fear-mongering from GOP
posted Sep 8, 2009 - 5:50:24pm
Editor, The Beacon:
First, Florida GOP chairman Jim Greer screams to his base that he is "absolutely appalled that taxpayer dollars are being used to spread President Obama's socialist ideology."
A few days later, he states, "It's a good speech; it encourages kids to stay in school and the importance of education" and blah blah blah.
Does Jim Greer think we are supposed to excuse him for his misinformation and hate-mongering because he changed his mind? Probably not, as he did not issue an apology.
He does not care that he went too far, and nothing he says can excuse his actions and words. He got what he wanted. He trumped up another lie to promote fear and hate among those who can't bear the thought that their guy lost the presidential election.
It is unfortunate that Greer's base will probably never figure out how the Republican Party controls them through spreading fear and lies such as this.
This was no mistake or misunderstanding on Greer's part. This was deliberate.
Christé Ashley
DeLand
Urges people to show up for budget hearing
posted Sep 8, 2009 - 5:49:40pm
Editor, The Beacon:
I was at the County Council budget meeting last week, and I am astounded that, in spite of the majority of people begging them not to raise the millage, the majority of the council still voted to do just that.
I listened to a teacher who took a second job to pay his taxes, a young couple who had just moved here and cancelled five services after they got their tax bill (cable, pest control, etc.), and a disabled man who said he has cut back in every way possible and doesn't know how he will pay the tax increase.
There were a lot of people from the various charities that the County Council supports present to speak and to ask the council to go ahead and pass the proposed budget.
It almost makes you feel guilty for asking them not to raise your taxes. Who doesn't want to help the handicapped and veterans?
I want this council and the community to understand that most of us are squeezed to the max. I know that in my house, we have already cut back on everything we can. We have not taken a vacation in two years; we very rarely eat out anymore, we try not to drive unless necessary, and so on. It is just enough to squeak by.
All of this was before the rest of the increases headed our way: trash up 47 percent, possibly electric up 30 percent, percent, car tag doubled, driver license doubled, real estate taxes up 20 percent — all the while, my income is down 25 percent.
Where is all of this money to support our government's way of life supposed to come from? Who is going to support all of these charities and this county when we are out of business and our homes are gone?
I heard the other day there are 2,300 fewer occupational licenses in this county this year than last. Each one of those represent a business gone! Isn't it better to have a little less in tough times and keep people here and in their homes for the future?
I had read the Rich Dad Poor Dad books a few years ago, and it sticks with me that he said he never hires anyone from the government sector because they have no motivation to economize. If you give them $50,000, that is what they will spend because if they don't, next year they only get whatever they spent (paraphrased).
All of this leads me to believe our County Council does not live in the same place the rest of us do, and that I need to get on the bandwagon that has called for voting out all incumbents!
I urge everyone to attend the last budget hearing at 6 p.m. on Sept. 17 at the Thomas C. Kelly Administration Center in DeLand, to let your voice be heard!
We have to know we have done the best we could to save our county from itself.
Pat Wilson
DeLand
Why would Mica support an illegal tax?
posted Sep 8, 2009 - 5:48:56pm
Editor, The Beacon:
I was troubled by U.S. Rep. Mica's support for a new federal mileage tax.
It may be true the current gasoline tax is insufficient to fund our highway system, but it would be relatively simple to just increase the gasoline tax until it meets the need, and then we would maintain the tax incentives for fuel economy.
The most important reason our representative should be against this new tax is that it is illegal. The Constitution specifically prohibits direct taxes, with the 16th amendment's income tax as the only exception.
I cannot imagine why would we want to amend the Constitution to allow the federal government to install expensive monitoring equipment in every private vehicle.
The only coherent explanation is coming from conspiracy theorists.
Scott Moe
DeLand
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