Fate isn’t always a fair companion in life. Just ask my next door neighbors who walked away from their American Dream two weeks ago.
Cristobal, Gilda, their son Randy and Gilda’s younger brother, Kiki, had moved from Tampa to Spring Hill shortly after I moved into my home in July 2005. Both of our homes were investment properties, commissioned by the same attorney employed at a law firm in Hillsborough County.
Between the two homes, the investor made what to most us would be a sizable fortune, but that was pretty much the norm all those years ago, as measured by the economic timeline whereby financial institutions left many Americans with workless days, sleepless nights and shriveled retirement savings.
From the many times that Gilda and I had spoken, I knew that at some point Cristobal’s daughter and granddaughter from a previous marriage would be joining them from their native island country, Cuba, and that to accommodate their arrival Kiki would be seeking a place of his own. So, when I saw the moving truck on that Sunday morning, I assumed that was the case.
It wasn’t until the next day that another neighbor, one who is known for window-snooping from behind closed curtains, brought to my attention there had been multiple trips to and from Cristobal’s house.
That’s when I decided to take it upon myself to maintain what had been their front yard. As I was trimming the green, green grass above the septic tank, Cristobal happened to drive up in the driveway. He gave me the lowdown.
Not surprisingly, they were unable to meet their mortgage obligation. Even two years ago Cristobal had told me of their personal financial challenges due to the downturn in the economy. Among other cost-cutting measures, they had already removed sink hole coverage from their homeowner insurance.
An honest attempt had been made to refinance their home to lessen the burden of the $1600 monthly mortgage payment, but the best the lender could offer was a mere pittance of $63 in savings. Therefore, they had no choice but to walk away from their cherished dream. And yet, Cristobal was his usual cheerful self, perhaps even more so, because a large financial burden had been lifted from their lives.
As renters, their housing expenses will be hundreds of dollars less per month. Minus property taxes and insurance costs, the total savings will be more than just a few thousand dollars a year.
As in their case, with less debt, thus newfound disposable income, some analysts believe previous homeowners may be able to spur spending and help quicken the country out of the recession. But they also acknowledge that, with or without health care reform, medical cost will continue to outpace incomes and, with or without a cap-and-trade policy on carbon emissions, energy costs will also continue to rise. Therefore, people may be more inclined to save rather than spend whatever extra cash they have on hand.
Cristobal and Gilda also know that tuition costs for Randy’s continuing education will only increase over the next four years of college.
So, what used to be their home is empty and will continue to be so for what I imagine will be a very long time. All the upgrades they had made to the home, including an above ground swimming pool and cedar wood decking that Cristobal and Kiki had built, will one day fulfill someone else’s dream.
The inside of the house is a veritable showplace. Impressed with the wall-to-wall, room-to-room ceramic flooring, I commissioned Cristobal, a tile tradesman, and Kiki to replace the unsightly kitchen linoleum and the heavily soiled hallway carpeting in my home with ceramic tile. Of Cristobal’s creation, the tasteful design in the entryway accentuates the complimentary workmanship. With a couple of referrals, I was able to supplement his dwindling income but it only delayed the inevitable.
Cristobal and his family are very familiar with adversity. He came to America with but pocket change, worked day and night at whatever job he could muster to bring the rest of his family to where he started out in Miami. Two years ago this month they became naturalized American citizens.
As simple as it sounds, Cristobal doesn’t dream – he walks in the real world and reality told him to walk away from too costly a dream.
As for myself, I’ll truly miss them. I’ll also be concerned if, when and what type of new neighbors will move in next door. In the meantime, I’ll trim the bushes and mow the front yard. For neighborhood security. For neighborhood property values. For whatever time frame.
And when a peek over the fence shows the pool filled with algae and stagnant water, and creating a health hazard, I’ll contact Code Enforcement to do the rest.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Spurning Impact Fees
The Hernando County Board of County Commissioners seems to have taken a queue from Wal-Mart and unanimously voted to “roll back” impact fees to 2001 levels, a 47% decline from current fees. The preliminary approval will be further discussed during a public hearing on November 10, after which you can be fairly certain that Rollerball ink pens will be in motion with one hundred percent accuracy, albeit with poor penmanship.
Freshman Commissioner James Adkins was apparently chosen to broach the subject as his timidity inferred an initiation into a fraternity of elitists. His sense of relief for the accomplishment was evident with the quick and easy retreat against the back of his chair. Mr. Adkins proved himself a valuable team player.
Commissioner Rose Rocco charmed in with similar support, pointing out that targeted construction sites would be located in vacant lots and be of little impact to the immediate roadways. But, since when are county impact fees micromanaged? No wonder residents living on lime rock roads are always left in the dust of government spending.
Next up was another rookie player on a roster of write thinking members among the board of Hernando County trustees, John Druzbick. He effectively rolled a punt to veteran Commissioner David Russell who, with statesman-like conduct, gave nods of approval before begrudgingly gave way to Mr. October, Commissioner Jeff Stabins.
Mr. Stabins provided a slideshow pointing out that over the past few years County Commissioners had approved a glut of housing projects beyond the need of a community whose economic sustainability of growth didn’t support responsible planning with low-paying jobs being the mainstay of employment.
A well-crafted segue into the benefits of securing a loan from the county to boost his efforts to continue the Housing Enhancement Loan Program (HELP) was met with resistance but Stabins’ leverage to deliver a consensus vote on the matter of lowing impact fees was very effective and the request will be considered during the November 10 hearing. The $600,000 loan matched the estimated lost revenue from reducing impact fees but the loan would be repaid but the loss of impact fees would be forever.
Calm and collected, community activist Janey Baldwin pointed out the misguided waste of giving away government revenue to the benefit of the select group of self-serving building contractors. Former Planning & Zoning Commissioner Anthony Palmieri was less kind, chastising the Board for considering an option that will benefit very few residents and short-change the county’s need for every source of income available.
Both of these civic-minded residents had made similar comments during the October 6 board meeting when discussion included suspending impact fees altogether. As was then, board members refused to take notice of their concerns.
When the time came to make the motion to schedule a public hearing, Commissioner Druzbick haphazardly attempted to verbalize a motion to put the measure up for a vote, he was prompted with the help of Russell to make residential, mobile home, commercial and industrial impact fees rolled back to 2001 levels. Adkins readily seconded the motion and before you knew it there was a unanimous decision to carry the issue to the next step – the public hearing.
Commissioners repeatedly claimed that Hernando County expenditures are “similar to a 2001 budget” and “we’re living at that level now in 2009.”
Let me display some numbers. The 2010 proposed budget is $324.7M while in 2004 the budget was $279.6M and $51.9M in that often-mentioned year 2001.
Also, from the Hernando County Government official website, “Total General Government Expenditures” were $29.5M (2001), $113.9M (2004) and $147.5M (2008).
And, Property Tax Revenue was $40M (2001), $54M (2004) and $85M (2008), a retreat from $90M in 2007.
Times have changed considerably since 2001 but we, as a nation and a county, cannot resort to living in a past economy. Otherwise, constructions workers would be working at a median hourly wage of $11.57 instead of the $13.71 last year. And Hernando County firefighter-medics earning $47,500 in 2008 would roll back to the 2001 income of $40,000.
Also, take into consideration the rising costs of construction materials.
The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) reported that between August and September of this year there were significant price increases in copper (10%), aluminum (2%), and steel (3%). All three products are essential components for the vast majority of construction projects. AGC also predicted by the end of 2009 lumber prices will drop 7% with a 4% increase in concrete and, of major concern to county expenditures, an anticipated 33% increase in the cost of asphalt.
This is not 2001. County revenue is declining as I write and will continue to do for an undetermined period of time. County expenditures will require further budget cuts. Reducing impact fees will serve no purpose to the majority of Hernando County residents.
Freshman Commissioner James Adkins was apparently chosen to broach the subject as his timidity inferred an initiation into a fraternity of elitists. His sense of relief for the accomplishment was evident with the quick and easy retreat against the back of his chair. Mr. Adkins proved himself a valuable team player.
Commissioner Rose Rocco charmed in with similar support, pointing out that targeted construction sites would be located in vacant lots and be of little impact to the immediate roadways. But, since when are county impact fees micromanaged? No wonder residents living on lime rock roads are always left in the dust of government spending.
Next up was another rookie player on a roster of write thinking members among the board of Hernando County trustees, John Druzbick. He effectively rolled a punt to veteran Commissioner David Russell who, with statesman-like conduct, gave nods of approval before begrudgingly gave way to Mr. October, Commissioner Jeff Stabins.
Mr. Stabins provided a slideshow pointing out that over the past few years County Commissioners had approved a glut of housing projects beyond the need of a community whose economic sustainability of growth didn’t support responsible planning with low-paying jobs being the mainstay of employment.
A well-crafted segue into the benefits of securing a loan from the county to boost his efforts to continue the Housing Enhancement Loan Program (HELP) was met with resistance but Stabins’ leverage to deliver a consensus vote on the matter of lowing impact fees was very effective and the request will be considered during the November 10 hearing. The $600,000 loan matched the estimated lost revenue from reducing impact fees but the loan would be repaid but the loss of impact fees would be forever.
Calm and collected, community activist Janey Baldwin pointed out the misguided waste of giving away government revenue to the benefit of the select group of self-serving building contractors. Former Planning & Zoning Commissioner Anthony Palmieri was less kind, chastising the Board for considering an option that will benefit very few residents and short-change the county’s need for every source of income available.
Both of these civic-minded residents had made similar comments during the October 6 board meeting when discussion included suspending impact fees altogether. As was then, board members refused to take notice of their concerns.
When the time came to make the motion to schedule a public hearing, Commissioner Druzbick haphazardly attempted to verbalize a motion to put the measure up for a vote, he was prompted with the help of Russell to make residential, mobile home, commercial and industrial impact fees rolled back to 2001 levels. Adkins readily seconded the motion and before you knew it there was a unanimous decision to carry the issue to the next step – the public hearing.
Commissioners repeatedly claimed that Hernando County expenditures are “similar to a 2001 budget” and “we’re living at that level now in 2009.”
Let me display some numbers. The 2010 proposed budget is $324.7M while in 2004 the budget was $279.6M and $51.9M in that often-mentioned year 2001.
Also, from the Hernando County Government official website, “Total General Government Expenditures” were $29.5M (2001), $113.9M (2004) and $147.5M (2008).
And, Property Tax Revenue was $40M (2001), $54M (2004) and $85M (2008), a retreat from $90M in 2007.
Times have changed considerably since 2001 but we, as a nation and a county, cannot resort to living in a past economy. Otherwise, constructions workers would be working at a median hourly wage of $11.57 instead of the $13.71 last year. And Hernando County firefighter-medics earning $47,500 in 2008 would roll back to the 2001 income of $40,000.
Also, take into consideration the rising costs of construction materials.
The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) reported that between August and September of this year there were significant price increases in copper (10%), aluminum (2%), and steel (3%). All three products are essential components for the vast majority of construction projects. AGC also predicted by the end of 2009 lumber prices will drop 7% with a 4% increase in concrete and, of major concern to county expenditures, an anticipated 33% increase in the cost of asphalt.
This is not 2001. County revenue is declining as I write and will continue to do for an undetermined period of time. County expenditures will require further budget cuts. Reducing impact fees will serve no purpose to the majority of Hernando County residents.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
My Wit Without Wisdom
[With regret, the following comments remain intact to demonstrate what a 'windbag' I really am for making multiple, unwarranted assumptions about the supposed intent of the topic discussed in this blog entry. If only I hadn't asked the opinions of others as to what their intepretation of the opening words of Dan DeWitt's column.
I could easily have deleted this blog. I could also attempt to run away from the inconsiderations given to one of the most prolific writers whose articles and columns have informed and entertained me for all the years I've lived in Hernando County. But... I could never hide from the fact that my knee-jerk reaction to Dan DeWitt's column didn't end up hitting me squarely in the...]
"If you don't want to read what a blowhard columnist thinks about Brooksville's red-light camera program, at least pay attention to Bill Eppley."
The comment was made in reference to The Rae Way column printed in Hernando Today on October, 7, titled "Red-light cameras generate lots of green, few laughs".
This is the first sentence in an article printed in the Hernando Times on October 9, 2009, aw written by Dan DeWitt.
As a response to the statement, an email has been sent to Paul Tash, President of The St. Petersburg Times:
To:
timespresident@sptimes.com
Mr Tash,
I wish to express my dismay and concern about a column printed on Friday, October, 9th, in Hernando Times.
Dan DeWitt made a simple comment in the column "Is red-light program for safety or income?" that I felt was, at first, amusing but has become of personal concern as to the intent and purpose for writing:
"If you don't want to read what a blowhard columnist thinks about Brooksville's red-light camera program, at least pay attention to Bill Eppley." The full context of the article isn't important.
There can be no doubt the comment was in reference to The Rae Way column, "Red-light camera generate lots of green, few laughs" that was printed in the Wednesday, October 7, edition of Hernando Today.
Mr. DeWitt's calling me "a blowhard" could easily be intepreted as a derogatory remark in reference to my being gay, of which I wrote about in Hernando Today when Amendment 2 was a voter issue. I don't lisp, I'm not limp-wristed. Therefore, no one would otherwise be aware of the fact.
I know this is an assumption on my part, but I imagined words such as "queer" and "faggot" being thought or spoken as the "blowhard" was being typed.
But I cannot assume there should be no concern on my part that homophobic people are in every community and that, as in the case of Matthew Shepard eleven years ago this Monday, October 12, crimes of hate are a reality. I admit this thought is way out their in rightwing field but the possibility cannot be ignored.
What makes me more livid than anything else it that, as a follow up to last Wednesday's column, this week's column will take the topic of red-light running a step further, centering on those who have lost loved ones and the organizations that support stricter laws above a mere traffic citation with a fine that doesn't necessarily change people's driving habits.
Since there are times that my research on subjects lead to thoughts that go beyond the 800 words alloted. So, when the subsequent column is printed, it will appear as though I was baited by Mr. DeWitt's comment.
I'm not the degreed jounalist as a assume Mr. DeWitt is. I have no degree in any field. But, going back three years now, I have submitted letters to numerous newspapers, including the Times, the Tribune, the Tallahassee Democrat, the Miami Herald and most recently, The Baltic Times! It's been fun, more so when I had graduated to having full columns printed in both Hernando Today and Hernando Times.
Jeff Webb was very supportive of my contributions but the interest from Hernando Times ebbed when Jeff retired. Therefore, I devoted my efforts to Bob Nolte and subsequently Chris Wessell who, a few months ago, offered me to have my own column.
Anyway, what I request of you is to remove my name from the Time's website search engine. It's a pity but, by the time you recieve this way-too-long email, I will have canceled my newspaper subscription but will continue to read the Times either through a neighbor's kindness or, primarily on Sundays, purchase newstand issues. The Wall Street Journal will replace the St Petersburg Times for delivery.
The innocent victim to this action is the delivery person. Fortunately, he/she will continue to place The New York Times at my front door.
Please, no apologies from any source. I just want this to be behind me.
Ron Rae
The Rae Way column "Red-light cameras generate lot of green, few laughs" can be viewed at:
http://www2.hernandotoday.com/content/2009/oct/06/red-light-cameras-generate-lots-green-few-laughs/columnists/
[Even now, I'm still tempted to hit the 'Delete' button on the Edit page of this blog. As if I could actually allow self-righteousness to overrule my admission of guilt and sincere remorse for my reactions.]
I could easily have deleted this blog. I could also attempt to run away from the inconsiderations given to one of the most prolific writers whose articles and columns have informed and entertained me for all the years I've lived in Hernando County. But... I could never hide from the fact that my knee-jerk reaction to Dan DeWitt's column didn't end up hitting me squarely in the...]
"If you don't want to read what a blowhard columnist thinks about Brooksville's red-light camera program, at least pay attention to Bill Eppley."
The comment was made in reference to The Rae Way column printed in Hernando Today on October, 7, titled "Red-light cameras generate lots of green, few laughs".
This is the first sentence in an article printed in the Hernando Times on October 9, 2009, aw written by Dan DeWitt.
As a response to the statement, an email has been sent to Paul Tash, President of The St. Petersburg Times:
To:
timespresident@sptimes.com
Mr Tash,
I wish to express my dismay and concern about a column printed on Friday, October, 9th, in Hernando Times.
Dan DeWitt made a simple comment in the column "Is red-light program for safety or income?" that I felt was, at first, amusing but has become of personal concern as to the intent and purpose for writing:
"If you don't want to read what a blowhard columnist thinks about Brooksville's red-light camera program, at least pay attention to Bill Eppley." The full context of the article isn't important.
There can be no doubt the comment was in reference to The Rae Way column, "Red-light camera generate lots of green, few laughs" that was printed in the Wednesday, October 7, edition of Hernando Today.
Mr. DeWitt's calling me "a blowhard" could easily be intepreted as a derogatory remark in reference to my being gay, of which I wrote about in Hernando Today when Amendment 2 was a voter issue. I don't lisp, I'm not limp-wristed. Therefore, no one would otherwise be aware of the fact.
I know this is an assumption on my part, but I imagined words such as "queer" and "faggot" being thought or spoken as the "blowhard" was being typed.
But I cannot assume there should be no concern on my part that homophobic people are in every community and that, as in the case of Matthew Shepard eleven years ago this Monday, October 12, crimes of hate are a reality. I admit this thought is way out their in rightwing field but the possibility cannot be ignored.
What makes me more livid than anything else it that, as a follow up to last Wednesday's column, this week's column will take the topic of red-light running a step further, centering on those who have lost loved ones and the organizations that support stricter laws above a mere traffic citation with a fine that doesn't necessarily change people's driving habits.
Since there are times that my research on subjects lead to thoughts that go beyond the 800 words alloted. So, when the subsequent column is printed, it will appear as though I was baited by Mr. DeWitt's comment.
I'm not the degreed jounalist as a assume Mr. DeWitt is. I have no degree in any field. But, going back three years now, I have submitted letters to numerous newspapers, including the Times, the Tribune, the Tallahassee Democrat, the Miami Herald and most recently, The Baltic Times! It's been fun, more so when I had graduated to having full columns printed in both Hernando Today and Hernando Times.
Jeff Webb was very supportive of my contributions but the interest from Hernando Times ebbed when Jeff retired. Therefore, I devoted my efforts to Bob Nolte and subsequently Chris Wessell who, a few months ago, offered me to have my own column.
Anyway, what I request of you is to remove my name from the Time's website search engine. It's a pity but, by the time you recieve this way-too-long email, I will have canceled my newspaper subscription but will continue to read the Times either through a neighbor's kindness or, primarily on Sundays, purchase newstand issues. The Wall Street Journal will replace the St Petersburg Times for delivery.
The innocent victim to this action is the delivery person. Fortunately, he/she will continue to place The New York Times at my front door.
Please, no apologies from any source. I just want this to be behind me.
Ron Rae
The Rae Way column "Red-light cameras generate lot of green, few laughs" can be viewed at:
http://www2.hernandotoday.com/content/2009/oct/06/red-light-cameras-generate-lots-green-few-laughs/columnists/
[Even now, I'm still tempted to hit the 'Delete' button on the Edit page of this blog. As if I could actually allow self-righteousness to overrule my admission of guilt and sincere remorse for my reactions.]
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
The Great White Horse
Commissioner Stabins,
As you sit in you highchair in front of your constituents this fine morning (with a 30% chance of afternoon showers) please keep in mind that regardless the intentions of homebuilders requesting a break by eliminating impact fees to spur their troubled businesses, there are a good number of existing new homes that have yet to be occupied which means no property tax revenues. There are even more homes that remain empty due to foreclosures with back-taxes mounting and little chance to be paid anytime soon, if ever.
If builders can’t find work locally, there are regions outside Florida that have an up-beat economy. Besides, I don’t like the idea of anything that will hinder my plans to leave the state for where there are “42,145 square miles of scenic beauty” in the Smoky Mountains. Think of me as a future right-wing, gun-totin’ Second Amendment Patriot of The Volunteer State. Seriously.
Please, don’t give away the “store” of $12.5-million in “rainy day” reserves to benefit the Teamster Unions’ newly acquired card-carrying members. What a buffoon was the business agent for the Local to suggest these funds be used because “… it’s pouring outside” and that employees are living paycheck to paycheck. My retort would be, even more people are not able to live with no paycheck after no paycheck and that the government employees should look at themselves as being very fortunate to have a paycheck at all on top of all kinds of health benefits that the unfortunate unemployed must do without.
(I ain’t touchin’ anything to do with the sheriff office’s budget for fear I’d find myself handcuffed behind bars that don’t serve beer and pretzels!)
Take note that the Teamsters rep has said, as reported in Hernando Today (September 13), that the county staffers have “their management rights to layoff if that’s what they (feel) they need to do”. May I suggest to take that very suggestion and in fact make efforts to do so. You should make demands that department heads dig deeper and cut more jobs (money, money and more money) from their ranks. Government workers and residents must feel the dire straits that the county will continue to endure until the economy can right-side itself from this belly-up position. Reality sucks, don’t it?
But we must face head-on the challenges that are before us. (This is not a quote from what might sound as though it came from an Obama speech.)
On the matter of the Florida Association Counties: as you must know, the county needs to tighten its belt in any way it can. Unless the Association can specify the monetary benefits of rejoining its ranks, and guarantee a positive cash intake, it’s my opinion that taking a further dip into the rainy day finds should be avoided.
Keep in mind that generally speaking I don’t know what the heck I’m talking about!
Well, Commissioner, you have a great day. Sincerity intended.
Be the white stallion, rear up on your hind legs, and give a resounding “Nay!” to what may become too great a cost to the county.
Be assured that anything that sounds derogatory to you personally is meant in jest. Chuckles!
Your constituent and steadfast follower (please don’t lead me astray).
Ron Rae
As you sit in you highchair in front of your constituents this fine morning (with a 30% chance of afternoon showers) please keep in mind that regardless the intentions of homebuilders requesting a break by eliminating impact fees to spur their troubled businesses, there are a good number of existing new homes that have yet to be occupied which means no property tax revenues. There are even more homes that remain empty due to foreclosures with back-taxes mounting and little chance to be paid anytime soon, if ever.
If builders can’t find work locally, there are regions outside Florida that have an up-beat economy. Besides, I don’t like the idea of anything that will hinder my plans to leave the state for where there are “42,145 square miles of scenic beauty” in the Smoky Mountains. Think of me as a future right-wing, gun-totin’ Second Amendment Patriot of The Volunteer State. Seriously.
Please, don’t give away the “store” of $12.5-million in “rainy day” reserves to benefit the Teamster Unions’ newly acquired card-carrying members. What a buffoon was the business agent for the Local to suggest these funds be used because “… it’s pouring outside” and that employees are living paycheck to paycheck. My retort would be, even more people are not able to live with no paycheck after no paycheck and that the government employees should look at themselves as being very fortunate to have a paycheck at all on top of all kinds of health benefits that the unfortunate unemployed must do without.
(I ain’t touchin’ anything to do with the sheriff office’s budget for fear I’d find myself handcuffed behind bars that don’t serve beer and pretzels!)
Take note that the Teamsters rep has said, as reported in Hernando Today (September 13), that the county staffers have “their management rights to layoff if that’s what they (feel) they need to do”. May I suggest to take that very suggestion and in fact make efforts to do so. You should make demands that department heads dig deeper and cut more jobs (money, money and more money) from their ranks. Government workers and residents must feel the dire straits that the county will continue to endure until the economy can right-side itself from this belly-up position. Reality sucks, don’t it?
But we must face head-on the challenges that are before us. (This is not a quote from what might sound as though it came from an Obama speech.)
On the matter of the Florida Association Counties: as you must know, the county needs to tighten its belt in any way it can. Unless the Association can specify the monetary benefits of rejoining its ranks, and guarantee a positive cash intake, it’s my opinion that taking a further dip into the rainy day finds should be avoided.
Keep in mind that generally speaking I don’t know what the heck I’m talking about!
Well, Commissioner, you have a great day. Sincerity intended.
Be the white stallion, rear up on your hind legs, and give a resounding “Nay!” to what may become too great a cost to the county.
Be assured that anything that sounds derogatory to you personally is meant in jest. Chuckles!
Your constituent and steadfast follower (please don’t lead me astray).
Ron Rae
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Where's Estonia?
Wanted: Whereabouts of a college student who spent the summer in Spring Hill peddling for dollars to help pay tuition costs.
In the previous blog, ‘Watch Where You Tread’, I related an incident that occurred while driving in an adjoining neighborhood to where I live in Spring Hill.
On the way to Lowes to pick up various plants in an effort to beautify the blandness of the front yard, I came upon an emergency-flashing Jeep driven somewhat erratically, followed the rule of the road and came to a complete halt at a stop sign, concerned that a young man riding a bicycle going around the Jeep may be in danger of a pedestrian-motor vehicle collision.
The man came within about ten feet of the front bumper of my truck. Since he proceeded with a steady pedal, I assume he felt no present danger. Still, the look on his face could have been to judge my next action. Once he was securely beyond the intersection, while still eying the Jeep that had by then come to a complete stop on the side of the road and the coast was clear, I went on my way.
As explained in the previous blog, I came to believe our eye-to-eye contact was one of recognition – he of me, not me of him.
When the encounter happened between the Jeep, the bike rider and my truck, I had no thoughts of our previous meeting. But on the way down Mariner to the intersection of Elgin, my mind came to wonder if there wasn’t something about the rider that I should have noticed. Ah, the bag strapped from the right shoulder to a secure position under the left arm should have signaled a moment of acknowledgement.
We had casually conversed on July 1st or 2nd when he had visited my home offering educational assistance programs to parents whose children may need assistance in righting some shortcomings in learning so they would successfully graduate with a high school diploma.
What I remember of our brief exchange of words centered on his age: 20 years old. Since he had a pleasant demeanor and his accent was presumably of Slavic origin, I joked, “You talk funny – where ya from?” His answer was “Estonia.” As if to challenge my knowledge of world geography, he questioned if I knew where it was. Giving a nod of awareness, my mind searched for a definitive answer. I knew it had been a satellite country under the iron-fisted control of the now defunct Soviet Union, so I gave a simple, “Yes.” I’m sure he picked up on my uncertainty but he let the subject drop without further comment.
I asked his name to which I didn’t understand so I found myself asking, not once, but twice to repeat. Even then I still couldn’t get it – isn’t that the way of us Americans who are less than worldly and seem to have this attitude that they should learn our language and not question our economic and military dominance in the world?
Since I don’t know his name, let me call him “Will” as in the movie “Good Will Hunting”. Unlike the character portrayed by Matt Damon, I’m sure his path toward higher education will prove him a successful intellectual.
Will said he’d be spending the summer in Spring Hill to help his mom with tuition fees. Not only was I a losing proposition for his product, I advised him that my immediate neighbors would be of no better source for the sale of his product.
Will suggested I give him a wave if our paths should cross over the remaining weeks that he’d be in the area. Wishing him good luck, he was on his way to whatever fate had in store. Out of sight, out of mind, I proceeded with my life with no further thought of him.
If I had recognized him, a conversation would have led to a barrage of questions of sincere interest.
Have you been successful at reaching your goal? For what age group is your material directed? Your perception of Spring Hill and its people? What of the number of vacant homes, overgrown lawns and For Sale signs? Any confrontations? Made any friends? Any thoughts on Obama? What of Toomas Hendrick Ilves, President of Estonia, and his 20% approval rating? Where will you attend college? USF, UF, elsewhere in the U.S. or back home at Concordia International University Estonia? Your major? Many more questions would have followed.
The final inquiry might have been, “Would you be willing to write a Guest Column for the readers of Hernando Today?”
It would be helpful, too, to once again ask his name.
In the previous blog, ‘Watch Where You Tread’, I related an incident that occurred while driving in an adjoining neighborhood to where I live in Spring Hill.
On the way to Lowes to pick up various plants in an effort to beautify the blandness of the front yard, I came upon an emergency-flashing Jeep driven somewhat erratically, followed the rule of the road and came to a complete halt at a stop sign, concerned that a young man riding a bicycle going around the Jeep may be in danger of a pedestrian-motor vehicle collision.
The man came within about ten feet of the front bumper of my truck. Since he proceeded with a steady pedal, I assume he felt no present danger. Still, the look on his face could have been to judge my next action. Once he was securely beyond the intersection, while still eying the Jeep that had by then come to a complete stop on the side of the road and the coast was clear, I went on my way.
As explained in the previous blog, I came to believe our eye-to-eye contact was one of recognition – he of me, not me of him.
When the encounter happened between the Jeep, the bike rider and my truck, I had no thoughts of our previous meeting. But on the way down Mariner to the intersection of Elgin, my mind came to wonder if there wasn’t something about the rider that I should have noticed. Ah, the bag strapped from the right shoulder to a secure position under the left arm should have signaled a moment of acknowledgement.
We had casually conversed on July 1st or 2nd when he had visited my home offering educational assistance programs to parents whose children may need assistance in righting some shortcomings in learning so they would successfully graduate with a high school diploma.
What I remember of our brief exchange of words centered on his age: 20 years old. Since he had a pleasant demeanor and his accent was presumably of Slavic origin, I joked, “You talk funny – where ya from?” His answer was “Estonia.” As if to challenge my knowledge of world geography, he questioned if I knew where it was. Giving a nod of awareness, my mind searched for a definitive answer. I knew it had been a satellite country under the iron-fisted control of the now defunct Soviet Union, so I gave a simple, “Yes.” I’m sure he picked up on my uncertainty but he let the subject drop without further comment.
I asked his name to which I didn’t understand so I found myself asking, not once, but twice to repeat. Even then I still couldn’t get it – isn’t that the way of us Americans who are less than worldly and seem to have this attitude that they should learn our language and not question our economic and military dominance in the world?
Since I don’t know his name, let me call him “Will” as in the movie “Good Will Hunting”. Unlike the character portrayed by Matt Damon, I’m sure his path toward higher education will prove him a successful intellectual.
Will said he’d be spending the summer in Spring Hill to help his mom with tuition fees. Not only was I a losing proposition for his product, I advised him that my immediate neighbors would be of no better source for the sale of his product.
Will suggested I give him a wave if our paths should cross over the remaining weeks that he’d be in the area. Wishing him good luck, he was on his way to whatever fate had in store. Out of sight, out of mind, I proceeded with my life with no further thought of him.
If I had recognized him, a conversation would have led to a barrage of questions of sincere interest.
Have you been successful at reaching your goal? For what age group is your material directed? Your perception of Spring Hill and its people? What of the number of vacant homes, overgrown lawns and For Sale signs? Any confrontations? Made any friends? Any thoughts on Obama? What of Toomas Hendrick Ilves, President of Estonia, and his 20% approval rating? Where will you attend college? USF, UF, elsewhere in the U.S. or back home at Concordia International University Estonia? Your major? Many more questions would have followed.
The final inquiry might have been, “Would you be willing to write a Guest Column for the readers of Hernando Today?”
It would be helpful, too, to once again ask his name.
Watch Where You Tread
Since I don’t twitter, does that make me less of a twit? Not necessarily. Since I don’t use a cell phone while driving, does that make me less of a danger to others on the road? You can bet everyone’s life on it.
When people talk of traffic, most often it’s about tailgaters, speeders and drivers whose sense of maintaining a constant speed is elusive, including those traveling too far below the posted limit.
Since my radio antennae is out of commission, cds are played on repeat or, as backup, the tape player is primed to waft some illegally copied tunes to provide a preferred variety of favorites. There’s over two hours of listening pleasure that keep me entertained as I sing out of harmony with talented artists.
To some, just listening to music while driving might be considered a distraction of sorts but, believe me, contemplating my next column would pose more of a hazard. I know my priorities behind the wheel.
A group of roadies that deserve extra caution from operators of a machine that poses a death threat to anyone meandering residential streets are pedestrians and bike riders.
Many residential areas are void of sidewalks so when I see an adult pushing a baby stroller, or walking with children tagging alongside and taking up a full lane of the road, it’s extremely disturbing. I don’t just slow down, I come to a complete stop until I feel assured a little tyke won’t jut out from the side of the road. There must be no regrets.
My next-door neighbor’s 16-year old son, Randy, with a future career in engineering, frequently skateboards with his friends with a makeshift ramp. In my opinion, they’re not very good but at least they keep a watchful eye out for traffic and immediately moves to the side. Not all kids are as respectful as some do a stare-dare out of insolence to the driver. An alternate route is safest.
The neighbor on the other side has three young children, the oldest of which is 7 years old, who also play in street. I was really impressed when little David demonstrated the creative maneuvers he can make with his skateboard that swivels in the middle, called The Wave. He’s pretty cool squatting down on it as he shows off, but I make sure to mention the precautions he must take to keep him and his siblings from getting hurt. Fortunately, I’ve seen him looking out for cars, always moving out of danger.
Recently, I remained motionless at a stop sign. The erratic behavior of a Jeep with emergency lights flashing was a concern, but the bike rider going around it was altogether too scary. The rider looked me straight in the eyes, for what was an assumed precaution to make sure I wouldn’t send him sprawling on the pavement.
Later, I realized the look was of recognition from when the young man had stopped at the house to sell enhanced educational services for kids. He probably thought me rude for not waving as he had requested since he’d be pedal-pushing his wares in Spring Hill the summer to assist mom with college tuition.
Imagine the determination of this young man to pump those pedals all day long, for what must have been days on end with the sun beating down on him in this land of heat and humidity?
Although a truly needed service, with high unemployment in Hernando County the rationale of sending someone to this deprived area fails my understanding. I doubt he achieved his goals. If only he had taken the initiative to offer a greeting of some nature, it may have led to an exchange of words between us that would have told me tales of his travels.
Alas, being from Estonia, a unique opportunity was missed for a conversation that would surely have provided myself, thus the reader, a unique perspective of a foreigner in this land of strange Americans. Hopefully, he had no ‘incidents’.
Still, an experienced bike rider such as he is no less subject to the failings of a driver. When I see anyone on a bike, of which there appear to be few, I fear for their safety. Untrusting of all drivers, I haven’t ridden a bike on a road in decades.
I’m also oblivious to recognize or even acknowledge a friend who later wonders why I didn’t wave as we traveled along the same street. Keeping my eyes on traffic doesn’t allow for socializing while driving.
Two happy-go-lucky amputees who traverse neighborhood streets brighten the road with a hearty wave and an exchange of smiles. Having had conversations with each while exercise-walking, their joy of having motorized mobility enhances their lives immeasurably. I worry for their safety, too.
Cautious me, when I turn off Mariner onto the street where I live, on more than one occasion there may have been a fender bender because the corner house is ‘right there’ and the poor souls who have lived there (it’s changed owners at least three times in the past three years) have no choice but brave backing out of the driveway
My scariest road encounter was when, after using the turn signal, I rounded the curb off Mariner onto the street where I live at 10 mph, an action that kept two young girls walking on the side of the road from being sent to an emergency room with broken bones, or worse. At fault or not, guilt would have been at my side. For life.
Vehicle-to-vehicle fender benders are less apt to cause serious injury. Vehicle-to-person encounters can be killers.
When people talk of traffic, most often it’s about tailgaters, speeders and drivers whose sense of maintaining a constant speed is elusive, including those traveling too far below the posted limit.
Since my radio antennae is out of commission, cds are played on repeat or, as backup, the tape player is primed to waft some illegally copied tunes to provide a preferred variety of favorites. There’s over two hours of listening pleasure that keep me entertained as I sing out of harmony with talented artists.
To some, just listening to music while driving might be considered a distraction of sorts but, believe me, contemplating my next column would pose more of a hazard. I know my priorities behind the wheel.
A group of roadies that deserve extra caution from operators of a machine that poses a death threat to anyone meandering residential streets are pedestrians and bike riders.
Many residential areas are void of sidewalks so when I see an adult pushing a baby stroller, or walking with children tagging alongside and taking up a full lane of the road, it’s extremely disturbing. I don’t just slow down, I come to a complete stop until I feel assured a little tyke won’t jut out from the side of the road. There must be no regrets.
My next-door neighbor’s 16-year old son, Randy, with a future career in engineering, frequently skateboards with his friends with a makeshift ramp. In my opinion, they’re not very good but at least they keep a watchful eye out for traffic and immediately moves to the side. Not all kids are as respectful as some do a stare-dare out of insolence to the driver. An alternate route is safest.
The neighbor on the other side has three young children, the oldest of which is 7 years old, who also play in street. I was really impressed when little David demonstrated the creative maneuvers he can make with his skateboard that swivels in the middle, called The Wave. He’s pretty cool squatting down on it as he shows off, but I make sure to mention the precautions he must take to keep him and his siblings from getting hurt. Fortunately, I’ve seen him looking out for cars, always moving out of danger.
Recently, I remained motionless at a stop sign. The erratic behavior of a Jeep with emergency lights flashing was a concern, but the bike rider going around it was altogether too scary. The rider looked me straight in the eyes, for what was an assumed precaution to make sure I wouldn’t send him sprawling on the pavement.
Later, I realized the look was of recognition from when the young man had stopped at the house to sell enhanced educational services for kids. He probably thought me rude for not waving as he had requested since he’d be pedal-pushing his wares in Spring Hill the summer to assist mom with college tuition.
Imagine the determination of this young man to pump those pedals all day long, for what must have been days on end with the sun beating down on him in this land of heat and humidity?
Although a truly needed service, with high unemployment in Hernando County the rationale of sending someone to this deprived area fails my understanding. I doubt he achieved his goals. If only he had taken the initiative to offer a greeting of some nature, it may have led to an exchange of words between us that would have told me tales of his travels.
Alas, being from Estonia, a unique opportunity was missed for a conversation that would surely have provided myself, thus the reader, a unique perspective of a foreigner in this land of strange Americans. Hopefully, he had no ‘incidents’.
Still, an experienced bike rider such as he is no less subject to the failings of a driver. When I see anyone on a bike, of which there appear to be few, I fear for their safety. Untrusting of all drivers, I haven’t ridden a bike on a road in decades.
I’m also oblivious to recognize or even acknowledge a friend who later wonders why I didn’t wave as we traveled along the same street. Keeping my eyes on traffic doesn’t allow for socializing while driving.
Two happy-go-lucky amputees who traverse neighborhood streets brighten the road with a hearty wave and an exchange of smiles. Having had conversations with each while exercise-walking, their joy of having motorized mobility enhances their lives immeasurably. I worry for their safety, too.
Cautious me, when I turn off Mariner onto the street where I live, on more than one occasion there may have been a fender bender because the corner house is ‘right there’ and the poor souls who have lived there (it’s changed owners at least three times in the past three years) have no choice but brave backing out of the driveway
My scariest road encounter was when, after using the turn signal, I rounded the curb off Mariner onto the street where I live at 10 mph, an action that kept two young girls walking on the side of the road from being sent to an emergency room with broken bones, or worse. At fault or not, guilt would have been at my side. For life.
Vehicle-to-vehicle fender benders are less apt to cause serious injury. Vehicle-to-person encounters can be killers.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Where's The Ditropan?
My hands are shakin’ and my knees are weak. I’m so upset my words are much too black and the mood too bleak. And I’m so pissed off there’s not enough Ditropan in Spring Hill to stem the flow of steamy grief.
Three headlines on the front page of Tuesday’s Tampa Tribune announced ‘GM NOW IN BIG 4’… ‘Vast Atlantic deters search for lost jet’… and the one that momentarily got my interest was ‘Water bill mistakes not drops in bucket’ with the story continued on Page 6. But I never got there because on Page 5, the Metro section, the antithesis of responsibility headlined right before my eyes ‘Crist OKs bill to manage growth”.
It was no consolation whatsoever that just below the big black letters read ‘Critics say measure backed by business will only encourage urban sprawl’. Say what they may, it won’t change the result of the idiotocracy in Tallahassee.
As I stomped along the tile flooring toward the Dell, there was one dude who was surely in a Blaze of Glory. Mr. Politico of the Hernando County GOP had his wildest of dreams come true.
As the Trib’s Metro article read, “Critics said the exemption [from transportation concurrency] will force county commissioners to approve development in areas where roads are clogged”. You can bet your dwindling dollars that a certain number of the Hernando County Board of Commissioners is just as ecstatic as is everyone in the construction industry.
The commissioners might want to begin dialogue on meeting the future roadwork needs of the community. Never mind you people on lime rock roads, give up your cause to eliminate the dusty mucus clogging their nasal passages and the grit that lines the inside of your lungs. Wish you may, wish all you might, nothing good will come from the blight to follow the passage of Senate Bill 360 – a 360-degree circle of ineptitude.
Tweedledee and tweedledum and any other dumb-dumb in support of uncontrolled residential growth are probably rejoicing along with every contractor, subcontractor, real estate broker and real estate agent within the 37 miles east to west and 18 miles north to south that make up the 506 square miles (323,700 acres of land) within the confines of Hernando County.
“More than 300,000 residential units sit empty across Florida, 64,588 properties were in foreclosure last month, second only to Nevada, and real estate prices are still plummeting. State figures show that since 2007, permits have been granted for more than 630,000 new residential units and 480 million square feet of nonresidential space. In most cases the projects are still not built.” That was part of ‘All the News That’s Fit to Print’ in The New York Times on May 20.
In Hernando County, Hickory Hill, Sunrise and Like Hideaway subdivisions were given approval of over 10,000 housing units in 2007.
So now it’ll be up to taxpayers to foot the bill for the building of new and upgraded roads. You can be assured that come January 2011, just after the 2010 General Election, the three-penny Local Option Fuel Tax that was just voted down by the HCBOCC will be approved post haste. The estimated revenue of $1.8M will be desperately needed. Hopefully, the era of a paid county commission will soon come to an end and the savings of over $60,000 (plus benefits) per county commissioner can be redirected toward fulfilling the funding needs of the infrastructure. Any volunteers?
Where does that leave Florida Hometown Democracy, or has it already left the building of responsible, voter-approved growth all dried up in the empty water reservoirs throughout the state? In January I visited the official website just to see what’s up with the cause and found the initiative has a deadpan issue. Their efforts were, and are, needed but what are the chances of voter approval with fat-pocketed lobbyists ready to rehash the mistruths the first time around.
I can foam and froth and exhaust my fumes all day and all night but it’ll be for naught. The death of Florida’s natural wetlands, and the endangered species therein, is a forgone conclusion. The Southwest Florida Water Management District may as well hang up its soggy towel – it’ll dry up as quick as the water table of the Florida Aquifer.
Governor Crist’s bid for the U.S. Senate? Good luck with his efforts, but his signing of SB 360 creates a just cause for Marco Rubio to gain support to thwart Charlie’s seemingly assured nomination for the Republican Party.
The article on Ralph and Diana Salgado’s $21,600 bill for the 3.5 million gallons of water? I have not, and foresee no need to, flip to Page 6 to read more on the situation. It’s not important and the vision of my future in Florida is much too hazy.
Three headlines on the front page of Tuesday’s Tampa Tribune announced ‘GM NOW IN BIG 4’… ‘Vast Atlantic deters search for lost jet’… and the one that momentarily got my interest was ‘Water bill mistakes not drops in bucket’ with the story continued on Page 6. But I never got there because on Page 5, the Metro section, the antithesis of responsibility headlined right before my eyes ‘Crist OKs bill to manage growth”.
It was no consolation whatsoever that just below the big black letters read ‘Critics say measure backed by business will only encourage urban sprawl’. Say what they may, it won’t change the result of the idiotocracy in Tallahassee.
As I stomped along the tile flooring toward the Dell, there was one dude who was surely in a Blaze of Glory. Mr. Politico of the Hernando County GOP had his wildest of dreams come true.
As the Trib’s Metro article read, “Critics said the exemption [from transportation concurrency] will force county commissioners to approve development in areas where roads are clogged”. You can bet your dwindling dollars that a certain number of the Hernando County Board of Commissioners is just as ecstatic as is everyone in the construction industry.
The commissioners might want to begin dialogue on meeting the future roadwork needs of the community. Never mind you people on lime rock roads, give up your cause to eliminate the dusty mucus clogging their nasal passages and the grit that lines the inside of your lungs. Wish you may, wish all you might, nothing good will come from the blight to follow the passage of Senate Bill 360 – a 360-degree circle of ineptitude.
Tweedledee and tweedledum and any other dumb-dumb in support of uncontrolled residential growth are probably rejoicing along with every contractor, subcontractor, real estate broker and real estate agent within the 37 miles east to west and 18 miles north to south that make up the 506 square miles (323,700 acres of land) within the confines of Hernando County.
“More than 300,000 residential units sit empty across Florida, 64,588 properties were in foreclosure last month, second only to Nevada, and real estate prices are still plummeting. State figures show that since 2007, permits have been granted for more than 630,000 new residential units and 480 million square feet of nonresidential space. In most cases the projects are still not built.” That was part of ‘All the News That’s Fit to Print’ in The New York Times on May 20.
In Hernando County, Hickory Hill, Sunrise and Like Hideaway subdivisions were given approval of over 10,000 housing units in 2007.
So now it’ll be up to taxpayers to foot the bill for the building of new and upgraded roads. You can be assured that come January 2011, just after the 2010 General Election, the three-penny Local Option Fuel Tax that was just voted down by the HCBOCC will be approved post haste. The estimated revenue of $1.8M will be desperately needed. Hopefully, the era of a paid county commission will soon come to an end and the savings of over $60,000 (plus benefits) per county commissioner can be redirected toward fulfilling the funding needs of the infrastructure. Any volunteers?
Where does that leave Florida Hometown Democracy, or has it already left the building of responsible, voter-approved growth all dried up in the empty water reservoirs throughout the state? In January I visited the official website just to see what’s up with the cause and found the initiative has a deadpan issue. Their efforts were, and are, needed but what are the chances of voter approval with fat-pocketed lobbyists ready to rehash the mistruths the first time around.
I can foam and froth and exhaust my fumes all day and all night but it’ll be for naught. The death of Florida’s natural wetlands, and the endangered species therein, is a forgone conclusion. The Southwest Florida Water Management District may as well hang up its soggy towel – it’ll dry up as quick as the water table of the Florida Aquifer.
Governor Crist’s bid for the U.S. Senate? Good luck with his efforts, but his signing of SB 360 creates a just cause for Marco Rubio to gain support to thwart Charlie’s seemingly assured nomination for the Republican Party.
The article on Ralph and Diana Salgado’s $21,600 bill for the 3.5 million gallons of water? I have not, and foresee no need to, flip to Page 6 to read more on the situation. It’s not important and the vision of my future in Florida is much too hazy.
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