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Leaders' tax surplus vote belies their views

Re: Commissioners cut property tax millage rate, Sept. 17 Times:

It is difficult for me to understand the votes by Commissioners Dennis Damato and Jim Fowler to keep taxpayers' surplus funds.

We have higher electric rates, higher water rates, higher phone rates, increases in Medicare premiums, the county gas tax, etc.

I believe the two dissenting commissioners say they are Republicans, but they are acting like Democrats. I will vote against them in the next election.

Rally participant gives thanks, offers thoughts

Re: Rallying around the troops, Sept. 19 Times:

To the many citizens who came: Thanks for your outstanding support.

To the tens of thousands of Citrus County residents who chose to ignore the rally, do three things: First, when you go to bed tonight, say a prayer for our military personnel in harm's way. Second, enjoy your good night's sleep. Third, upon awakening, repeat the prayer for those you could not give an hour of your time to remember by simply attending the rally.

You were able to have that peaceful night without bombings, anthrax attacks, airplanes flying into buildings and other terrorist acts because our military was doing its job for you.

To the veterans organizations that participated: Thank you for continuing to remember and honor our military personnel.

To the veteran organizations that did not participate: You need to hang your heads in shame and reevaluate your commitment to America's heroes.

To the ladies who brought their children to the rally to learn what it means to praise our military: Thank you for being great parents.

To the VFW Post 4252 Young Marines: Thanks for coming and being our future.

To the lady identified to me as a "doughnut dolly" veteran of Vietnam and one sharing tears with me in front of the courthouse: Thank you for being at the rally. And thanks for serving with us in Vietnam. I will never, ever, forget your kindness and personal suffering in our little war.

Finally, to the media: Most of you asked me whether we were rallying for approval or disapproval of the war. My answers were unsatisfactory. The answer I tried to convey was that the rally was to show American troops we cared. We were there to show their families our appreciation for their suffering and heartache. We were there simply to show our patriotism. Nothing more, nothing less.

Again, thanks to the participants. May God bless each of you and may he continue to bless this great nation of ours and her wonderful troops.

[Last modified September 22, 2005, 01:03:19]