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Earlier Letters to the Editor

Common sense needed in cat issue

12/28/11 issue

Common sense needed in cat issue

12/28/11 issue

The best example for teaching

12/28/11 issue

Good leaders stand by convictions

12/14/11 issue

An economic message

12/14/11 issue

KCP&L didn't seek input

11/30/11 issue

Property will be devalued

11/30/11 issue

KCP&L wants input

11/23/11 issue

Shopping? Think local businesses

11/23/11 issue

These will be power lines on steroids

11/16/11 issue

KCP&L acting like the bully

11/16/11 issue

The forgotten fifteen

11/9/11 issue

A message sent with missiles

11/2/11 issue

Talk about what has been accomplished

10/19/11 issue

Standards must make sense

10/12/11 issue

Don't allow zoning exception

10/5/11 issue

The issue of race in the race

9/28/11 issue

Offended by views of letter writer

9/21/11 issue

When I am president. . .

9/14/11 issue

We are safer now than before 9/11

9/7/11 issue

EDITOR:

Proposed zoo sales tax is for the birds

8/31/11 issue

EDITOR:

Some thoughts on the City of Platte City

8/31/11 issue

EDITOR:

Highway reauthorization needed for jobs

8/24/11 issue

EDITOR:

The Kitty Cat Connection

8/17/11 issue

EDITOR:

My wife and I read with interest the newspaper accounts of the aldermen's meeting and the Bello Mondo cat problems.

We are both board members of Kitty Cat Connection and she is our treasurer. We live about two blocks from Bello Mondo and drive up and down it daily. We don't believe that we have ever been contacted by the people from Bello Mondo/ Florentina who are quoted in the articles.

However, over the past four years we have been contacted many times by people who live and work there whom we helped with various problems such as cats left behind when people moved, sick or injured cats, lost cats, etc. As for the lady who perhaps went overboard in her feeding program, those people who affiliate themselves with our organization are people who believe in the humane treatment of animals, but they are free to do what they think is in the best interests of those animals. They are also reasonable people and would not intentionally ignore the concerns of others.

Feral and free roaming cats are often a problem around apartment complexes. Renters may leave behind their cats when they depart, and the large volume of trash generated may attract cats, as well as other animals, from outside. We would be happy to put concerned residents in touch with trap/neuter/return (TNR) experts who could help them form a humane plan to deal with the problem long term and end the cycle of reproduction and abandonment. This takes volunteer time and money and local help and cooperation.

Kitty Cat Connection volunteers still trap and neuter in Platte City, but much less than when we were given support by the City. In 2007 and 2008 we received grants to deal with problems of Platte City cats, and we spent it well. We picked up dozens of stray and abandoned cats, treated and vaccinated, spayed/neutered, and found them adoptive homes. Effective TNR programs dealt with feral cats around some apartments north of downtown, on Ferrel Street, behind Cash Saver, behind Dairy Queen, and, yes, the Bello Mondo/Florentina area. But these programs need to be ongoing.

The city cut off the funding, and we lack the resources ourselves. We are all volunteers, we rely on donations and adoption fees, we spend a lot of our own funds on our work. Our veterinary bill alone was $26,000 for the first seven months this year.

We save, give medical treatment, spay/neuter, and adopt out 400 to 500 cats a year. We deal with multiple hoarder crises, including some in Platte City in the past. Helping cats often means helping people, too. We hope in this case both the residents and the cats are humanely treated and problems resolved.

--Tim Atchison
and Linda Robinson
Platte City

Urging people to push for progress

8/17/11 issue

EDITOR:

After a request for enforcement of Platte City codes concerning excess grass and weeds, the area at 214 Vine Terrace was attended to. Now the same property owner is letting the grass grow at the southeast corner of 2nd and Ferrel Streets also exceeding the code limits.

By the same token, has this individual continued to renew his or hers building permit? The rehabilitation of this building has been ongoing for the last five or six years at the least.

It seems to be that somewhere along the line the codes officer is not doing his job. He is furnished a city-owned vehicle and there is not much construction or rehab going on at this time. Makes it very easy for him to sit in his office and relax.

Once again, public employees drive past these sites daily. Do they report these incidents?

The city is losing its administrator after a three-year contract. During this time it included progress improvements already in place at the time of his employment. The big problem now is the finish of the sanitary sewer project that was stopped by the contractor over a year ago and is now at a standstill.

Wake up, people, Platte City has room for improvement and growth, but it cannot be done unless the public uses its influence and desires.

Look at the area east of I-29 and from HH Hwy. south to Hwy. 92, which has been annexed for years but is still farmland. Several years ago we tried to annex more area which would have been an asset to the city, but it was soundly defeated and is now dead in the water, so to speak.

Platte Valley Plaza also has problems. Only two units beside the Price Chopper are ongoing.

Leo’s Country Mart site sits vacant. Max’s site on Main St. is vacant, Shirley’s is vacant, the Platte-Clay site is undergoing renovation, and once again the barbecue joint just east of the Pool Hall is begging for someone to take it.

Platte City is not dead, but we need people to step up and voice their opinions and push for progress, definitely it is cheaper to reside in Platte City than Kansas City. Look at the tax figures.

Sure, traffic is a problem if you work in KC but it is 90% interstate travel.
Please look at my comments, think about them and form your own opinions.

--Lee Roy Van Lew
Platte City

Putting out a fire with gasoline

8/10/11 issue

EDITOR:

When Congress voted last week to raise the debt ceiling by $2.6 trillion the economic condition of our country went from bad to far, far worse. Apparently, the cut spending message voters sent to Washington last November isn't being heard.

Our elected congressmen are enablers to the Debt Junky in the White House. Republicans joined Democrats en masse to pass the debt bill, leaving conservatives back home embarrassed, shaking their heads in disbelief and asking, why? The Republicans were out-foxed once again by the Democrats, allowing Sen. Reid’s bill to be the only choice available at the 11th hour.

What motivated our supposedly conservative politicians to vote for legislation that adds fuel to the economic fire? If debt is the problem, and the recent S&P downgrade of U.S. debt proves it is, how is more debt the solution? I've heard it said by Republican leaders, “it was the best deal we could get.” That's just B.S. in my book. No deal would have been far better.

Rep. Sam Graves and Sen. Roy Blunt voted for the debt increase, putting our country deeper in debt and worsening an already bad economy. Both of these politicians claim to be conservatives. Perhaps it's time we looked around for new leadership. We all know that actions speak louder than words.

– Malcolm McCance
Camden Point

About the assessor giving bonuses

8/10/11 issue

EDITOR:

Does Jason Brown speak out of both sides of his mouth?

On the Democratic side, he stated that David Christian broke a state law that prohibits any grant of extra compensation for services that have already been rendered in whole or in part. Then on the Republican side of his mouth, he authorized two-hour lunch break for most employees working at the courthouse because they had sweated it out during the air conditioner mal-function, which was fixed by 1 p.m.

Isn't this the same compensation for services already rendered? I do not know how many employees are in the courthouse or what the average hourly rate of compensation would equate to in county dollars, but I believe since the assessor’s office is funded by state funds, there were no county funds lost by the compensation of workers doing over and beyond their appointed duties for a much longer time.

Is this another Siobhann Williams-type crusade to discredit the new Democratic assessor?

--Mary Anne Baier
Kansas City in
Platte County

Exception for emergency vehicles

7/27/11 issue

EDITOR:

I enjoyed your comments in "Between the Lines" in your July 20, 2011 edition.

Please know that it remains illegal for civilian motorists to drive 4 1/2 feet across the center line into oncoming traffic. But the Missouri legislature has carved out exceptions to certain traffic laws for emergency vehicles responding to emergency situations.

When the emergency lights and siren of an emergency vehicle are activated, the operator of an emergency vehicle responding to an emergency call can exercise judgment while responding, including disregarding "regulations governing direction of moving or turning in specified directions" that other drivers are required to follow. See Mo. Rev. Stat. s. 304.022.5(2)(d).

The legislature has exempted emergency vehicles responding to emergency calls from some traffic laws in order to facilitate a quick response by emergency personnel to potentially life-threatening situations. In my opinion, that makes sense. Even if I did not think it made sense, it is the law of Missouri, which I am obligated to follow.

The recent accident involving the two Central Platte fire trucks was not caused by a fire tuck driving 4.5 feet left of the center line. It was caused by a fire truck turning left in front of another oncoming fire truck. Both engines were responding to an emergency call, and both were operating with both lights and sirens. The accident involved a split-second decision made by two firefighters driving emergency vehicles responding to the same fire.

In such a situation, the law provides a safe harbor from criminal prosecution for the operators of the emergency vehicles. Whether either driver could or should face civil liability is, of course, a decision outside my authority.

--Eric Zahnd
Platte County Prosecutor

(EDITOR’S NOTE: So to clarify, according to the prosecutor the accident wasn’t caused by a fire truck being 4.5 ft. left of center, it was caused by a fire truck making an improper left hand turn. The rest of the prosecutor’s note explains the legal justification for what is more commonly known as a professional courtesy. The end.)

'Mistakes' usually cited

7/27/11 issue

EDITOR:

I certainly agree with you about wondering why there are no citations issued as a result of this accident (involving two pumper trucks from the Central Platte Fire Department on May 9).

However, it still does not explain “why” the two drivers did not see each other. It seems to me that these fire trucks have enough lights on them to look like a carnival ride, so how could they not see each other.

Then I am left with only one other explanation --- the driver who was over the centerline mistakenly thought the other fire truck driver would stay out of his way while he made the turn into the driveway toward the fire. Outside of that explanation, it just seems to be a “mistake.” I always thought citations were issued for mistakes, especially ones that cause both bodily and vehicle damage.

So as you conclude, it must be a new traffic law that neither of us are aware of.

--Ken Martin
Litchfield Park, AZ

Landowners rights trampled

7/27/11 issue

EDITOR:

I have been following what I consider to be a trampling of landowners rights in northern Platte County.

The Platte County Planning and Zoning Commission decided to grant a special use permit for mineral extraction in the AG (Agricultural) zoning district directly south of 22005 Lamar Road between Lamar Road and Hwy. 371. The adjacent residential property owners will now have an active strip mine less than 500 feet from their property lines. The safety of the children who live in the area and the property values of the owners seem to have been discounted by county officials for the lure of a few more tax dollars.

In my opinion, the zoning ordinances have been more than stretched to accommodate this injustice.

The Board of Zoning Adjustment will hear an appeal of the Planning and Zoning Commission decision to grant the Special Use Permit on Tuesday, Aug. 2 at 7 p.m. at the county commission meeting room, Platte County Administration Building, 415 Third Street, Platte City, MO 64079.

If you live in unincorporated Platte County, you have an interest in this appeal because you may well be the next victim.

--Jon McLaughlin
New Market

Paolillo's voting record inconsistent

7/20/11 issue

EDITOR:

I find it totally incredible that Platte City Alderman Tony Paolillo could vote one week for a $10,000 gift to the local Chamber of Commerce and, then turn around and vote against a cost of living adjustment for Platte City workers.

Where are this guy’s priorities?

Whose interests is he looking out for?

Also, how does he expect local business to stay in town if people that live here are so squeezed for cash?

Wake up, people of Platte City. Look who you voted for.

--Larry W. Hill
Gardner, Kan.

A fast and furious mistake

7/20/11 issue

EDITOR:

Why would an experienced law enforcement agency like the ATF develop a program to supply guns to Mexican drug cartels, with the goal of tracking these guns, and not have exacting procedures in place to do so?

ATF agents who were very troubled by this operation recently testified to these facts before Congress. There seems to me to be only one answer. This was a cover story to hide the real intent of the operation. And what was that? To prove to the American public, through overt deception, that American gun stores were the main source of firearms to the drug cartels.

Of course, this too has always been a lie. Most of the guns used by the cartels come from Central America and other foreign countries. Only a small percent of the guns actually come from the U.S. This clearly was an effort to implement new levels of gun control in the Southwest and America.

The greatest threat to any socialist government is an armed citizenry. Our founding fathers understood this and made it clear in the Constitution that our right to keep and bear arms will not be infringed. Congress is doing the right thing by investigating this flawed operation and attempting to hold those accountable who serve at the highest levels of our government.

Two U.S. Border agents have died at the hands of cartel thugs using these transferred guns, and certainly, an unknown number of Mexican citizens. We the people demand the truth.

--Mike Stark
Platte City

Camden Point comes together

7/20/11 issue

EDITOR:

It is very inspiring to see a community come together especially when economic times are so difficult. One of the first sites in view when you travel to the town of Camden Point is the ball park and community building. As you passed by earlier this year, you couldn't have helped but notice the deteriorated condition of the field, the dilapidated concession stand and the aging roof of the community building. During the summer of 2010 you would have also noticed that the field was vacant, as no baseball, softball or T-ball was played there. In fact, the teams of Camden Point were released to play in other towns.

With determination and a plan of action, the Camden Point Athletic Association regrouped and was focused on returning the town to a place where young people and even adults could enjoy the game of baseball. The largest obstacle was to raise the needed startup amount of $5000 to pay insurance and utilities, provide field maintenance, replace missing and broken equipment, make repairs to the concession stand and purchase supplies, pay umpires, and buy uniforms. The Association reached out to the community with letters asking for donations, sponsorships and volunteers.

The community responded with amazing support! Local citizens and businesses stepped up with monetary donations, building material donations, grass seed donations and team and logo banner sponsorships. Citizens also volunteered countless hours of labor to repair the concession stand, maintain and repair the field and to mow the grass. Support was also received from the Platte County Parks and Recreation Department with a grant to replace the roof of the community building.

With the outpouring of help, the great American sport was back this summer in Camden Point. The Association had five teams ranging from T-ball to AAA boys. They hope to see this number grow next year. Many have sent compliments on the revitalization of the park. Driving by now, citizens can be proud. The Association plans to continue to make improvements to the field and ball park. They hope to work in partnership with the city to create a safe and functional facility for all of the community.
To help continue with improvements, the Camden Point Athletic Association will host a benefit hog roast and family fun night on Saturday, July 30th from 5 -7 p.m. at the Camden Point Community Center. Dinner will feature smoked pork sandwiches or grilled hot dogs, corn on the cob, fresh garden vegetables, baked beans and homemade desserts. Tickets are $7 for Adults and $5 for kids 12 and under. Games, door prizes and raffles will also be included for a fun family night.

The Camden Point Athletic Association would like to thank Everyone who has helped in any way to revitalize our ball park and bring baseball back to our city! It truly is inspiring to see a community come together and do what is right for the benefit of all!

--Camden Point
Athletic Association

The problem is the spending

7/6/11 issue

EDITOR:

Over the next month, one topic will dominate the news coming out of Washington. The debate about if and how to raise the debt ceiling will hit a fever pitch as the government runs up against a deadline.

In 1917, Congress capped the amount the government can legally borrow at $11.5 billion. The debt ceiling limit is a lot like your credit card limit. You can borrow only as much as your credit card limit allows and no more. The idea was to help control spending.

It has not worked. Instead, since 1962, the debt ceiling has been raised 74 times. It has been raised by Republicans and Democrats alike. The result is that we are now $14.2 trillion in debt.

If the debt ceiling is not raised, the Treasury Department would not be able to borrow the difference between what we spend and the money we have. In other words, we would not have enough money to pay all of our bills. That would result in a first-ever default on our obligations as a country.

I believe that we need to address not just the debt ceiling, but also its cause – overspending. We do not have a revenue problem, we have a spending problem. In 1996, the federal budget proposed spending $1.6 trillion. President Obama’s 2012 budget proposes to spend $3.7 trillion.

We should not increase the debt limit without taking real and concrete steps to stop the chronic overspending. Its time for Washington to make tough decisions.

--Sam Graves
Congressman
Sixth District

Parkville's mandated recycling idea drawing opposition

6/29/11 issue

EDITOR:

An issue in the city of Parkville needs the attention of the citizens.

Kendall Welch, a Ward 3 alderman, has determined that we must have mandatory recycling. A group from my neighborhood as well as a gentleman from another part of the city attended a little publicized work session prior to the June 21 Parkville Board of Aldermen meeting. We are not opposed to recycling. In fact, most of us already do. We are opposed to having to pay for something we already do now on our own, at no cost to us.

Welch feels there is overwhelming citizen support for mandatory recycling based on replies to a random survey mailed to residents. This survey addressed mandatory recycling as well as other issues; there were a total of 400 replies with a majority supporting mandatory recycling. Less than 400 in a city of over 5,000 doesn't seem like majority support to me. If the survey was mailed randomly, it is strange that not even one person in our neighborhood received one.

Welch said that when we're doing our own recycling we're “burning $4 in gas.” I can't see how dropping off items to be recycled is a waste of gasoline when one is out doing errands anyway. Another part of this issue is the potential that we could lose our right to choose our trash hauler, which would eliminate some small businessmen.

The lifeblood of downtown Parkville is small business. Apparently, it depends on what kind of small business one has whether it's welcome in Parkville. There is also a possibility, however slight, that trash service could cost more than it does now.

Welch, prefaced many of her statements with, “I want _ _ _!” When I informed her we are in her ward, she didn't seem concerned with representing us. She also told us that the trash hauler for most of our neighbors is retiring soon. He told one of my neighbors later in the week he is not planning on to retire right away.

I voiced my concern about the lack of my publicity regarding this issue to Welch; she indicated we might be better informed if we used the Parkville website to get information. Even in this age of technology, not everyone uses the internet, as their primary source for information. At least one of my neighbors doesn't even own a computer. If the website is to be our information source, why wasn't the survey put on the website?

On June 23, open forum was postponed until July 5, at 6 p.m. prior to the board of aldermen meeting. Please come and express your opinions.

--RuthAnn Cooper
Parkville

Local doctor aids Joplin

6/22/11 issue

EDITOR:

I was thankful to have aided in the search and rescue efforts after an EF-5 tornado ripped through Joplin on May 22nd.

With the generous donations of some Platte City businesses and patients, I was able to take down some much needed medical supplies, food, water and clothing to the residents of Joplin.

With great appreciation, I would like to thank Tom Taylor with NRAD, Heartland Health Clinic, the Platte County Health Department, Goin’ Postal for the American flags and patients that have generously given supplies.

The extent of the damage that Joplin had sustained was something that I had never seen before. My son, Nate, and I assisted the Joplin Fire Department in their search and rescue efforts just days after the tornado and made a return trip the following weekend to help the residents sort through what was left from their homes and clean-up debris.

We would walk through the debris and through the neighborhoods and be in absolute disbelief of the extent of the devastation. There were people from all over the country that were there lending a hand. I met a man from New York City who drove straight through and I met members of the San Marino Fire Department from California.

The unselfish acts of people that have driven hours from home to help people they did not know in their time of need is overwhelming. There is a strong spirit of cooperation and patriotism. American flags are flying everywhere.

I am very thankful for the opportunity to help in a time like this.

--Dr. Gerald Morris
Morris Chiropractic
Platte City

Rule would harm small family farms

6/22/11 issue

EDITOR:

Some days working with my colleagues reminds me of the story of a young man from Washington who decided he wanted to become a farmer. An older neighbor farmer was so excited to have a young man entering agriculture that he gave him 10 chickens to get started.

A few weeks later, the men saw one another and the young man said it wasn’t going well. In fact all the chickens had died. The old farmer said, “Well something must be wrong.” The young man said, “Yeah, I’m not sure if I am planting them too deep or too far apart.”

Representative Scott Tipton and I sent a letter last week to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack asking him to comply with the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA)with regards to the proposed Grain Inspection, Packer and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) rule on livestock marketing practices. If this rule is adopted, it would harm thousands of small family farms.

Studies have shown that it will reduce the GDP by just over $1.5 billion and cost the U.S. economy nearly 23,000 jobs. At a time of nine percent unemployment, we should be looking for every avenue possible to create jobs. This rule would be extremely damaging to small farms, kill jobs and hamper competition across the country.

Now is not the time for more regulation from Washington. As one of a handful of farmers in Congress, I will continue to fight legislation and regulations that will hurt our farmers and ranchers.

--Sam Graves
Congressman
Sixth District

It's been a year of extreme weather

6/15/11 issue

EDITOR:

So far this year, Missouri has experienced some of the most extreme weather ever recorded in our state’s history — from two feet of snow in a single February blizzard, to the flooding of the Mississippi River, and the numerous tornadoes that have hit our state. Now, our area may experience more wrath of nature, as the Missouri River continues to rise as a result of heavy snow and rainfall to our north and west. Reports have been published that the flooding could even be worse than the infamous flood of 1993.

Although there is not much we can do to stop Mother Nature, we can educate ourselves about flood safety and how we can prepare. Please refer to the following flood safety tips, provided by FEMA, to protect yourself and your family from danger.

During a flood:

·Listen to the radio or television for information.
·Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.

·Be aware of streams, drainage channels, canyons, and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without such typical warnings, such as storm clouds or heavy rain.

·Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor.

·Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

After a flood:

·Listen for news reports to learn whether the community’s water supply is safe to drink.

·Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage.

Water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines. Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car. Use extreme caution when entering buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations. Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewage systems are serious health hazards.

·Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals.

To review more tips on how you can prepare for and stay safe during a flood, please visit the FEMA website at www.fema.gov. Another helpful resource is the Missouri Department of Public Safety website, www.sema.dps.mo.gov, which also offers storm safety tips.

Although our state has been hit hard with severe weather and devastation over the last several months, the resolve of Missourians is greater, and I know we will continue to rally together to help those in need.

Thank you and God bless.

--State Sen. Rob Schaaf
District 34

Some history of the Grand Old Flag

6/1/11 issue

EDITOR:

At various times and places we stand with others and pledge our allegiance to our nation’s flag: “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” No matter how many times we say it, the words still evoke a sense of national pride!
In 1776, the Continental Congress appointed a committee (George Washington, Robert Morris, and George Ross) to come up with a design for a flag for the new nation. A draft of the proposed new flag was drawn up and taken to Elizabeth Ross, a relative of George Ross. Betsy was an accomplished seamstress; upon looking at the design she made one change, changing the number of points on the stars from six to five. She sewed the stars and stripes together; her design was adopted by the Continental Congress on June 14, 1777: “Resolved, That the flag of the United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.” This Resolution did not allow for the addition of future states; so when Kentucky and Vermont were admitted to statehood, the flag was revised to 15 stripes and 15 stars.
It wasn’t until 1818, that Captain Samuel C. Reid strongly suggested that the number of stripes remain constant at 13, while the number of stars be increased as new states joined the Union. So it has been until this very day.
The U. S. Flag Code, adopted in 1923, prescribes how to correctly display our nation’s flag: “ 1). Always display the flag with the blue union field up; never display the flag upside down, except as a distress signal; 2). Always hold the flag carefully; never let it touch anything beneath it…; 3). Always carry the flag aloft and free; never carry it flat or horizontally; 4). Always keep the flag clean and safe; never let it become torn, soiled or damaged; 5). Always dispose of a flag properly; it should be destroyed by burning it in a dignified manner; 6). Always treat the flag with respect; never embroider it on household items or pieces of clothing.” Tradition dictates that the Flag be flown from sunrise to sunset; it is to be taken down at dusk. The Flag remains a symbol of what our nation, and we the people, stands for in a world that has lost all semblance of loyalty and respect.
Our Flag has numerous symbols; we see them, but don’t really see them!
The 13 stripes represent the 13 colonies that stood together in the fight for freedom. The 13 stars, originally placed in a circle of blue, represented a union that would not end and the equality of all the states. Red stands for courage. White stands for liberty. Blue stands for loyalty.

--Dr. Don Kuehle
United Methodist, Retired
Jackson, Missouri

The meaning of Memorial Day

EDITOR:

Memorial Day will soon be upon us this weekend.

For many, it will be a day of family reunions, cookouts, picnics, the start of a vacation. But for others it means something entirely different.

While enjoying the events of the weekend, take a moment to think of those who have served, those who have gone in harm’s way, and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

Find a soldier, sailor, marine, or airman, find a veteran, and say "Thank You.”

It will mean all the world to them.

--R. Hollis
Platte County

Thanks for help with river project

EDITOR:

What you hear from me is the truth, always the truth as I know it. Communication has always been one of our biggest problems, wouldn’t you agree?

So let’s talk:

The Platte River bank at Platte City would never have been repaired without the gracious giving of Dora B. McDonnell and my friend Don Soper giving acres of property along the river to the city at no cost to the city. Lots of people worked hard with their own chain saws, skid loaders and hours of hard work. Thank you, all.
Other people helped, too. U.S. Rep. Sam Graves walked the river and put Platte City’s name in front of the Finance Committee in Washington, D.C. for matching funds. It took four years but we did it, thank you Mr. Graves.

John Dillingham and his group, the Pioneer Sons, spent several thousand dollars to give us the sign for Mr. Paxton. Senator Charlie Shields brought the state parks people to Platte City and they agreed to help build a walking trail around to I-29.

From what I can find out, none of these people were recognized. Thank you all.

And of course, thanks to the Army Corps of Engineers, who did the work.

P.S.: The river should have been repaired long before I was mayor.

God bless.

--Dave Brooks
Former Mayor
Platte City

12/29/10 issue

EDITOR:

As we approach the New Year, it might be time to take a look at some glaring truths with respect to taxing and spending at the local level, where taxpayers have the best chance of doing the most good. The Park Hill School District (PHSD) estimates it could lose up to $5 million from state funds and, according to a link on their web site, now wants to involve 'stakeholders' (I assume that means taxpayers) in a budget reduction process.

I'll start: PHSD could still elect not to install public gravity-fed sewers in a little-inhabited area of southern Platte County. At the time the project was approved, other options existed that could have saved from $400,000 to over $1 million.

For example, PHSD administrator Paul Kelly knew of one proposal to repair/upgrade the current system that could have saved from $400,000 to $700,000. It was given to him by Timber Creek Sewer Company in February of 2009. However, he chose to ignore it, and in a later email to me, confirmed he chose not to tell the board about this option. In April of 2009, SK Design put forth a study showing that repairs were simply not feasible. That study made its way to the board. Isn't a half-truth the same as a lie? Isn't withholding information as bad as outright misinforming?

There were two other sewer options as well, one in particular would have saved about $1 million over the gravity-fed option. These options were dismissed based on fear, ignorance, and innuendo about how pumps work, and whether or not future development would force them to abandon the selected solution. “Stakeholders” had already disproved these concerns and documented the true facts. It was ignored.

It's a joke to say that PHSD wants “stakeholder” input. “Stakeholders” tried desperately to get the school to see reason on this project and it fell on deaf ears. Consider that when “stakeholders” go to board meetings, they are allotted exactly five minutes. The board members are not allowed to ask questions for clarification; the 'stakeholder' will not get any answers to questions put forth. The board has no input into the agenda, and individual board members cannot deviate from the agenda. The entire process is tailor-made to rubber stamp whatever Paul Kelly puts forth.

There are four members on the board right now, three of them new, who would like to see some balance of power restored to the elected officials. Like the 'stakeholders' that fought against the sewers, however, they are being hamstrung. The “board,” as an entity, has been so afraid of being called “micro-managers” that they refuse to perform their elected duty of ensuring good stewardship.

Call it what you will. Frankly, Paul Kelly needs to be managed. The discrepancies found in this one very costly project were all uncovered by 'stakeholders'. If we were able to discover these falsehoods from vendors, sewer district representatives, and so on, he certainly could have discovered them too. He didn't want to. He did not research anything; and he hired contractors and consultants for deniable culpability. For whatever personal reason, he wanted a gravity-fed sewer in a little-used area and he was determined to make it happen. With the help of a board that had little knowledge of the facts (and even less desire to know the facts), he has succeeded in getting it through. Meanwhile, other projects will fall prey to that estimated $5 million shortfall. They shouldn't have to, though. This poorly timed and unnecessary sewer project should be canned.

This project alone is an indication of the very need for more involvement by our board. Board members are elected by the constituency to see to it that the educational needs are met in an efficient (cost-effective) manner. That means board members should be serving on committees, and meeting with vendors, and discussing issues and (horror of horrors) asking questions and investigating answers. If some board members find this repugnant, then they should resign. If Paul Kelly can't stand up to scrutiny going forward, then he should resign.

I haven't lost sight of all the accolades and awards given to this district and its personnel. Flying high causes one to become sloppy, feel they are invulnerable, incapable of making mistakes. The sewer project is one big colossal waste of money and should never have happened. Very likely other projects have been handled the same way. As a 'stakeholder,’ I'd like to see the board step in and start fixing some of this.

--Sue Lange
Parkville

12/24/10

EDITOR:

As Christmas quickly approaches, I find myself thinking about events that happened 66 years ago this week. Fighting Nazis in Belgium, members of the 101st Airborne found themselves in perilous danger. Freezing, short on provisions and hopelessly out-gunned the 101st held on to achieve one of the seminal moments in World War II.

The Americans had fought their way into the town of Bastogne ahead of the German offensive known as the Battle of the Bulge. The advancing German Army had surrounded them. A message from the German Commander to the American Commander advised them to surrender in 48 hours or face total annihilation. General Anthony McAuliffe scribbled a note and had it delivered to the German Commander. His reply, “Nuts.”

The next day the skies cleared and American Cargo planes and P-47 Thunderbolts were able to aid them in their fight. Exhausted, they repulsed attacks from the Germans until troops under the command of General George S. Patton arrived to relieve them of defending the town.

This year, many American servicemen and women remain overseas during Christmas. They are fighting terrorists in Afghanistan and Iraq in order to keep us safe at home. Though it is certainly difficult to have them away from home for the holidays, we can be proud of the outstanding job they do everyday.

On this Christmas, I ask for everyone to say a prayer for those in our military who are away from their families. We all should thank them for their service. And for everyone else, I wish you a very Merry Christmas.

--Sam Graves
Congressman
Sixth District

Professional education doesn't matter?

11/18/10

EDITOR:

So as a long distance subscriber and reader of The Landmark and particularly your column, I see an indication from the results of your recent election.

Your comments about the county auditor elections in both Platte and Clay counties seems to indicate two things -- 1) that Republicans were elected to the auditor offices as a part of the “sweep out the incumbents” across the nation, and 2) having professional qualifications for the position, like a CPA license, is of NO importance.

Based on these indicators, perhaps we should be asking for political affiliations when we see our doctors, dentists, and other professionals, instead of checking to see if they are professionally educated in their field.

--Ken Martin
Former Platte Countian
Now of Arizona

Message has been sent to spenders

11/18/10

EDITOR:

I’ve gotten a few questions about the “lame duck” session of Congress and what it means going forward. A lame duck session takes place during the time between an election and when the new Congress is seated in the new year. Between 1940 and 2008, there have been 15 lame duck sessions. However, Congressional leadership sometimes decides to forgo a session following an election altogether.

This week the current 111th Congress will begin a lame duck session. It will be the last work period before the new 112th Congress is seated on January 3, 2011. There is much work to be done. The national unemployment rate remains well over nine percent; millions of Americans are still searching for full-time employment; and the federal government is still spending trillions of dollars it doesn’t have.

Many of the annual spending bills have not yet been agreed upon and passed by this Congress. While there are many important programs that do require funding this year, the American people sent the big spenders in Washington a clear message on Election Day. Congressional leaders should not use this lame duck session to ram through more bloated spending measures and more deficit busting legislation.

Elections do have consequences. We can do much better than the policies of the last several years. I will continue to work with my colleagues to ensure that the will of the American electorate is respected in the time before the new Congress is seated.

--Sam Graves
Congressman
Sixth District

Extend unemployment benefits

11/18/10

EDITOR:

As Congress prepares to return this November, they will immediately face a crucial decision: whether to extend unemployment benefits.

It is estimated that two million Americans--including more than 44,000 people in Missouri--will lose unemployment benefits by early December if no extension is granted. Congress should make restoring the economy their number one priority. The best way to achieve at least some success would be to extend unemployment benefits immediately, in time to save what otherwise will be another dismal holiday season for retailers.

Economists and the National Employment Law Project note that unemployment benefits stimulate growth. Why? Because unemployed people spend their benefits on necessities – mortgage payments, utilities, food, items at the discount store. NELP says this spending may have created 1.15 million jobs in 2010 alone.

We don’t know when the economy will improve. But government can speed up the process--especially as we enter the holiday season. The retail industry accounts for 13.4 percent of the nation’s private sector workforce. Department stores, electronics chains and discounters count on holiday sales for more than one-fifth of their total annual revenues. Fewer sales mean fewer jobs. Fewer jobs mean a sluggish economy and more extended unemployment.

--Amy Moore Harris
Regional Organizer
Missouri ProVote.

No more apologies needed

11/12/10

EDITOR:

I remember a while back as the Republican Central Committeeman in Sub-district 32-3 I felt the need to issue an apology in The Landmark for having a Democrat state representative who acted like the back side of his party’s mascot while attending a Nebraska football game.

I’m happy to say that thanks to a lot of hard work from a lot of folks, an outstanding candidate, and my fellow voters in the 32nd district, I won’t have to do that again. Ron Schieber is a man of integrity, a man that I’m honored, like many voters, to have had visit my home.

And yes, just to be sure, I did attend a football game with him, Park Hill vs. Park Hill South, and did not observe any drunken tirades, f-bombs, or other inappropriate behavior. It was a pleasurable experience.

I believe Ron will be the first true representative of the 32nd District has had since Susan Phillips. I’m predicting no apologies necessary from the 32nd District.

I’d like to also mention that we in the 32nd District have joined our neighbors in the 30th District who have continued to elect a true representative by electing Nick Marshall. Nick took criticism from his opponent for not attending “meet and greets” held by “special” interest groups. He instead chose to spend that precious time meeting and discussing issues with the people of the 30th district and handing out business cards with a phone number not to some answering service or campaign staffer but to the phone that he carries in his pocket. Raising the bar of expectations of politicians!

Finally, looking back on Russ Purvis’s election predictions as posted in The Landmark, I might suggest he stick with his discussions on chronic and maybe talk about hydroponics. Prop 19 could have used his help.

--Timothy J. Thompson
Platte County Republican
Central Committeeman 32-3

Betty White scared voters

11/12/10

EDITOR:

How many of you who live in Platte County had a phone message from Betty White saying how bad Missouri treats its puppies before we voted on Proposition B? (I did).Do you think the National Human Society paid for that?

How many of you asked farmers and veterinarians what was true on those TV ads? We in Missouri need to make our own laws without outside interference. When our farmers are doing good so is the rest of the nation.

--F.E. Schlueter
Platte County

Conflicts of interest, unqualified candidates

10/29/10

EDITOR:

Can you say “conflict of interest” and “not qualified?”

This Platte County Republican will be voting against those candidates that either have a conflict of interest and/or are not qualified for the elected office they seek, even if they are from my own party. Namely, Kevin Robinson (R) who seeks the office of county auditor, Joan Harms (R) who seeks the office of county clerk and Bobby Kincaid (D) who wants to be presiding commissioner.

Kevin Robinson, in my opinion, fails the “conflict of interest” and “not qualified” test for this Republican voter. Most loyal Landmark readers will remember James K. Robinson, aka Kevin Robinson. Not sure why he isn't using his “legal” name. Robinson, which to this voter raises more than just an eyebrow, is the part-owner of PeopleWise, the firm hired by the current Platte County Commissioners to do an “independent audit” of the troublesome findings regarding the Human Resources Department by our current County Auditor Siobhann Williams (D).

It was the first time, in a very long time, the citizens of Platte County actually had a qualified Auditor to make sure the departments within the County had their books in order and refused to look the other way when she found something wrong. I voted for Ms. Williams four years ago because of her qualifications, integrity and the reason she sought the office in the first place, to assure checks and balances were followed with taxpayer dollars.

What happened as the result of our current county auditor Ms. William's findings? An “independent audit” directed by the county commission and conducted by Mr. and Mrs. Robinson aka PeopleWise? Well as a result of the “dynamic duo's” so-called audit, Mrs. Robinson landed herself a cushy job as the new human resources director at a tax-payer salary of $55,000 per year. To my knowledge, Mrs. Robinson did not have to compete with anyone for the $55,000 salaried position because, to my knowledge, her position was not posted internally nor advertised so that other Platte County citizens might have submitted their resumes. In these economic times, I am fairly certain we wouldn't be paying such an outrageous salary that basically audited herself into a $55,000 gig for the Robinson family.

Now the other half of the “dynamic duo”, Mr. Robinson, wants the taxpayers to pay him a salary of $65,000 per year to audit his own wife's department and for both of them to be trusted with the county's most sensitive financial information? Not only does it not pass the smell check, it is just downright rank to this taxpayer.

Mr. Robinson isn't even a certified public accountant and to say he doesn't need those credentials is a slap in the face to the CPA profession and the taxpayers of Platte County, in my opinion.

The other result of the Robinsons’ “independent audit” was a campaign orchestrated by the “powers that be” and they know who they are, to destroy the life of the messenger, county auditor Siobhann Williams, when she shed light on the fact that things were not right at the county.

According to Ms. Williams, Platte County is facing major deficits in the coming years and so what happens with her warning? $82 million in parks taxes, which won by the narrowest of margins and a ton of taxpayer money being billed to Platte County in the name of legal issues and “independent audits.”

I believe in having checks and balances in our government and have never been afraid to speak my mind, nor has Ms. Williams. No wonder it is difficult to get honest, hard-working people to serve in government. Expose the truth and you will have your life destroyed.

The second candidate, Joan Harms (R), wants to be our county clerk, several weeks after she filed for office was still trying to find out, “What does a county clerk do?” I know this firsthand, as we both sat at the same table for a “campaign school” put on by the Missouri GOP and she clearly didn't have a clue about the office she is seeking. In my opinion, she still doesn't have a clue as to what that office is all about and I am fully confident in the skills and experience of Sandy Krohne (D) to remain our full-time county clerk.

Some “career politicians” promised being full-time public servants and have failed miserably but Sandy has delivered on that promise, knows what she is doing and therefore she has my vote.

The third candidate is Bobby Kincaid (D) who wants to be Platte County's Presiding Commissioner. Puhleeze! (emphasis added). As the co-chair of the Southern Platte County Ambulance District Initiative, this taxpayer witnessed first-hand how Mr. Kincaid bloated the first budget for the district after being elected and voted in as chairman. As an active participant to make sure what we created wouldn't be abused by power-hungry folks, I have first-hand knowledge that Kincaid's bloated budget included $20,000 for the Platte County Sheriff to use for “weather radios.” However, when I made inquiry to our Sheriff, Sheriff Richard Anderson knew nothing about it and never made such a request of the district. I believe Shrriff Anderson as he is a man of integrity.

So what did Mr. Kincaid do? Passed a resolution making it impossible for the public to question their actions or face arrest (aka the Deb Hammond rule) and asked for twice the amount of a levy needed to start the district. All of the numbers prior to the passage of the district showed us no more than .07 was needed yet under his leadership, the board set the levy at .14 and he wants to be our presiding commissioner? I think not.

All I have to do is look at Mr. Kincaid's previous actions with the Southern Platte County Ambulance District and what the “Kincaid regime” has done to the town of Farley, and in no way do I see Mr. Kincaid as qualified to be our presiding commissioner. Therefore, the candidate to get my vote for Presiding Commissioner is Jason Brown. (R) My only hope is that when Mr. Brown becomes our presiding commissioner he will inject some common sense into how Platte County does business, stop the wasteful spending and demand that every officeholder, no matter their political affiliation, be treated with respect. After all, it is the taxpayers of Platte County that put them there.

--Deborah (Deb) Hammond
Parkville

Stealth political terrorist tactics

10/29/10

EDITOR:

As voters go into this final week of midterm elections, they should look at the many indices recently hitting new highs under the leadership of the Obama administration: poverty ratio; number of Americans on food stamps; gold; unemployment; federal spending; federal deficit; federal debt. Only a political terrorist would hail these accomplishments.

The stealth political terrorist tactics of Obama are plainly visible. They have brought us to a precipice and have exposed not only this president, but everyone who supports his agenda. Consider the forced closing of profitable auto dealers, forced TARP funding to banks, verbal assaults on and unsubstantiated accusations against the US Chamber of Commerce, ignored invasion of Arizona by illegal immigrants, selective enforcement of voter rights laws, secretive development of a redistributive health care bill, intentional spending to bankrupt the treasury, and on and on.

Meanwhile, Missouri Senator McCaskill, a self proclaimed moderate and cheerleader-in-chief, threatens to scold and shame us with a mother's voice, as if I and others voicing opposition were extremists. Average Americans, those who supposedly aren't very smart, have it right: they have figured out that Obama, purportedly the smartest president ever, is skilled only at lying, bribing, extorting (think BP), and cheating. If only he and Senator McCaskill were on this ballot.

The American people fell for the deception of Obama two years ago. They have been deceived for decades by dishonest politicians. What will they do this time? In my view, there are only two choices. Support Obama's stealth terrorist attack on America or defend individual liberties and the Constitution.

--Gordon Cook
Parkville

About money and attendance

10/29/10

EDITOR:

I just read an interesting letter to the editor (last week’s Landmark) from Bob Ott, Chairman of the Buchanan County Republican Central Committee. To quote him, "....knowing who is spending money to get a candidate elected is an excellent indicator of who that person will listen to and work for as an elected official."

This statement was regarding funds raised for Bill Caldwell, who and where they were from, versus the monies raised for his opponent Galen Higdon. They are running for election to the 29th District. According to Mr. Ott, less than 8% of Mr. Caldwell's donations came from within the 29th District.

I wonder if Mr. Ott has ever checked where the funds come from that Congressman Sam Graves uses in his campaign. According to the Center for Responsive Politics, Sen. Graves has accepted donations from many sources outside his district. American Bankers Assoc., American Crystal Sugar, IAFF, NECA, Union Pacific, AT & T, Honeywell International just to name a few.

NOTE: There are only three three individual donors out of the top 20. These are Bryan Cave, LLP for $3,888; Mail Solutions for $9,200 and $7,425 from J. E. Dunn. Everything else is attributed to PACS. By the way, this is a total of 180 contributors totaling $150,858 in the current cycle. As I said before, this information is taken from The Center for Responsive Politics.

Now, I have a question that hits me closer to home. Jason Brown, candidate for presiding commissioner, is in the Army Reserves. At least I haven't read or heard any news that he isn't. Jason was my representative in Jeff City for a number of years; however, during some of those years, he was not in Jeff City -- he was in (the Middle East) leaving me without any representation.

Now, if he is elected as presiding commissioner, and gets called away again to war, will that leave my county in the same situation--no presiding commissioner? Can two people be expected to "run" the county? I hope not.

I hope people think about this before Nov. 2.

--Sharon Aring
Platte County

Proposition B deserves a no

10/29/10

EDITOR:

The real reason to vote no on Prop B is in the middle of the Kansas City Star Oct. 17 article “Issue Breeds Contempt.” It states that if this law passes, good breeders that follow the 22 pages of state regulation will go out of business. This unfortunately, means the unlicensed breeders will flourish. Why do people think duplicating the rules will make those that don’t follow the rules become good breeders?

The Humane Society of the United States knows this will not stop or effect unlicensed breeders. If they really wanted to help stop puppy mills, they would be working for greater funding for the Missouri Department of Agricultural to police this industry.

Instead, out of every $1 they receive, $0.28 goes for more fund raising. About that much more goes for salary. Five times what they actually spend on animal care is spent on their own pension fund. They spend nothing on educating or helping producers. In fact, the Humane Society of the United States is on record of wanting to do away with hunting, fishing and pure bred animals, including your pets.

Do not be swayed by the tug of your heart strings. Vote no on Prop B and show that we prefer the Humane Society spend more than just 1% of the $132 million that people have given them this year for true animal care.

--Hal Swaney
Platte City

Limited government is the answer

10/29/10

EDITOR:

We relocated our family from out-of-state over seven years ago and deliberately chose to move to Platte County. When we sold our Platte City home earlier this year, the decision to remain in Platte County was never in question. The conservative, common-sense values have appealed to us since day one.

That’s why we’re supporting Jason Brown for Platte County Presiding Commissioner. We know that Jason’s selfless record speaks for itself – he’s been an extraordinary state representative, he’s a war hero, and he knows how to run a business. Most importantly, Jason Brown is good for the citizens of Platte County.

Jason’s record is full of accomplishment, not tax hikes. He takes challenge head-on and is a man of action. He’s not a career bureaucrat and knows the best solutions come from the private – not public – sector. He stands for freedom – freedom from onerous government regulation, freedom from excessive taxation, and freedom for families and businesses to grow and thrive.

The choice is crystal clear. Either you elect a presiding commissioner whose record suggests that bureaucracy, tax hikes, and liberal ideology will be the order of the day, or you elect a proven leader who understands the opportunities that are only possible with limited government. Jason Brown is the logical and intelligent choice for Platte County Presiding Commissioner.

--Chris & Erica Kirk
Edgerton

Focus on creating jobs in county

10/29/10

EDITOR:

Both my husband and I are supporting Jason Brown on Nov. 2 for Platte County Presiding Commissioner.

We have known Jason and his family for many years. He is a fiscal conservative who has the passion and ability to lead this county in the right direction.

As a small business owner, he understands that we need a business climate in Platte County that supports and attracts business. This is important to my family and should be to all of Platte County.

We need a Presiding Commissioner to be focused on creating and preserving jobs in the county, and we believe Jason understands the importance of that.

We are proud to support Jason Brown and hope you will join us in voting for him next week.

--Tamara Ivy
Platte City

Suit against auditor is bogus

10/29/10

EDITOR:

The bogus lawsuit filed last week by Leanna Fannon against Siobhann Williams was solely intended to damage Ms. Williams' re-election campaign. In July the State of Missouri rejected Ms. Fannon's claim and she had 90 days to file a civil suit. She chose, however, to wait until two weeks prior to the upcoming election.

Ms. Williams had notified the Platte County Commission of the irregularities in the human resources department but they did nothing to correct the problems until it became pubic knowledge.

Now it has become a political issue instead of a county internal issue. Siobhann Williams is a highly qualified auditor with a CPA degree and years of auditing and tax experience. After being elected in 2006 she made many changes and corrections in the way the county was conducting its accounting and reporting procedures. The present system insnow efficient and professional and the public now has access to the county's budgets and reports online.

Her opponent for her re-election just happens to be the husband of the current head of the HR department and the supervisor of Ms. Fannon. This alone reeks of questionable ethical practices.

--Mary Anne Baier
Kansas City

Bad parking experience at Irish Fest

10/29/10

EDITOR:

When I drive through the neighborhoods of Johnson County, Kansas, I see signs inviting us to the Irish Festival in Weston.

Last year I camped at Weston Bend State Park and attended three days of the festival in extremely cold weather. This stay included meals and shopping in several Weston area establishments. This year I attended all day on Saturday, Oct. 9 and was seated listening to music on Sunday when a most regrettable incident happened that has soured me on The Irish Festival, Weston, and one Platte County business in particular.
I was parked illegally in front of 420 Spring Street, an honest mistake given the number of other cars parked very similar to my vehicle. I thought that I was on a city easement and not on private property. Although there were no signs indicating a tow zone, my car was towed. No effort was made to contact me about this towing while I was in the festival, if my friend would not have seen the tow vehicle with my car attached I may have not discovered this troubling fact until much later in the evening.

As it was, I was forced into a position of dealing with the very unpleasant owner of a Platte City towing outfit. Although there are many details that made this a very uncomfortable and stressful business transaction, the end result was that I had to pay $535 to retrieve my vehicle. Estimates I received from other towing services in Platte City all are $120 or less. Although I have praise for the Irish Festival and for O’Malley’s restaurants and pubs, I cannot in good faith recommend that anyone from Johnson County ever visit Weston unless they are prepared to spend $500 on a tow simply because of the county they live in. For this is exactly what the tow owner expressed to me, that because I was from Johnson County, Kansas my price was $535. Indeed as I left Weston to retrieve my vehicle, there were plenty of cars parked in exactly the same locations as mine (none of them towed) – all of them with Missouri license plates.

While I admit my fault in this initial poor choice of a parking spot, the message from this property owner in Weston and this tow operator in Platte County is that I, my friends and family are not welcome (although the tow operator was more than happy to take my Johnson County cash). While it is unfortunate that Weston and Platte County will lose my business, it is even more troubling that such provincial attitudes still remain in Platte County, for it is those attitudes that will continue to hinder any economic benefits that the community at large may bring them.

--David P. Mesh
Overland Park, Ks

9/29/10 issue

EDITOR:

9/15/10 issue

EDITOR:

I thought I would share with you my editorial that was published in the Springfield News- Leader this week:

It is remarkably sad that so few opinion makers and politicians understand why hundreds of thousands of people rallied with Glenn Beck at the Restoring Honor Rally. James Freeman's Wall Street Journal analysis was pleasantly surprised by the fact that there was no leftover trash. Howard Dean was clearly insulting which happens when you don't understand people's motivation by calling the crowd "lost souls" and Glenn Beck "not right in the head.” Charles Lane of the Washington Post contemplated why Obama just doesn't get Glenn Beck and he neither understood Glenn Beck nor Obama. The National Review gave a cursory review. Even my home state favorite, Bill McClellan the folksy, gutsy, provocative St. Louis Post Dispatch columnist called the rally "a dark comedy" in politics and religion with baseball mixed up in the middle rather than trying to understand why hundreds of thousands of people show up in Washington DC to restore honor.

This rally wasn't about politics. It wasn't about Obama. It wasn't about the almighty dollar or the economy. It wasn't about baseball. It wasn't about Glenn Beck's political future. Nor was it about promoting public relations.

This rally was about self-determination and individual freedom. It was about individuals taking control of their own spiritual lives and choosing to make an individual difference in the world. It was about giving meaning to the phrase "I have a dream" because all individuals have big dreams about their God-given purpose in life - dreams that really can come true in America because we are free.

It was about restoring honorable behavior as individuals who know the difference between right and wrong and don't need a law to govern their behavior. It was about reminding people how one person can make a positive difference and change the world if they persevere. They don't have to hold an elected office to do that. They don't have to wait on government. One need only look to examples like Martin Luther King or Frederick Douglass or Susan B. Anthony or Rosa Parks or the soldiers who were honored or Albert Pujols . . . and the list goes on. In America ordinary people with a strong faith in God can do extraordinary things because we are free to follow our hearts.

President Obama's reaction was predictable because he believes government provides "hope" to Americans. This is simply not true.

Historically, this has never been true. Hope is found in faith in God (for me it is Christ, but for others it is their God). Government is imperfect and will always be imperfect. The founders did understand this simply by referring to our unalienable rights from our Creator and protecting those rights from the institution of government. The Creator - whatever your interpretation - gave us free will to both succeed and fail - which we all do as we stumble along our spiritual journey. America reflects that same notion - at least it use to.

There is a great hunger and thirst in this country for righteousness that cannot and never will be found in government. Americans want to believe again in our own self worth as individuals. Americans still believe in our founding fathers' revolutionary idea of individual freedom, self determination and limited government. Self-government begins with governing self. And for the majority of Americans it takes faith, God's generous mercy and grace, and a lot of prayer to govern one's self. That is what the rallying cry of hundreds of thousands of people on the DC mall was all about:

- Restore America's Honor and let it begin with me. That's America.

--Sarah Steelman
Former State
Treasurer of Missouri

8/18/10 issue

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7/28/10 issue

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7/28/10 issue

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6/30/10 issue

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6/30/10 issue

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6/30/10 issue

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6/9/10 issue

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6/2/10 issue

EDITOR:

Dear Pauli Kendrick:

I was dismayed to see the letter to the editor you have written on behalf of the Democrat Central Committee. I take offense at some of the statements you had made in your letter regarding the Rusty Humphries show held at Park Hill South School.
Firstly, as you say you only “heard' of the event's content, you probably took your opinions from someone else, and regurgitated what you heard without checking the facts. Alas, it sounds like judgment rendered without investigation. Or, the familiar, “I didn't read it, but I am totally against it.”

To say that the event could not have inspired students or local residents is stunning.
Remember what happens when one assumes. Here is part of what you apparently condemn:

Mr. Humphries narrated the words of John Wayne spoken with the Pledge of Allegiance. (Of course, some would cringe at the Pledge of Allegiance being recited on any school property. Is this what you mean by negative influence?) Please see http://www.werismyki.com/lyrpo/john_wayne.html if you aren't sure.

Could it have been that you were offended at the thought of young Republicans having Mr. Humphries present certificates of appreciation to the many veterans and active-duty military members asked to come on stage and be lauded for their service to this country? By not being there yourself, you missed seeing a tremendous standing ovation from the hundreds in the audience. You could have shown your “Hate the war, but support the troops.”

I think you would have enjoyed the show, standing with all the others in the crowd singing, “Proud to be an American”-- singing those words with feeling and love of this great country.

Mr. Humphries recited quotes of America's Founding Fathers. I would argue that even your central committee would agree that these men were worthy of appreciation. As a matter of fact, they were ones who cherished the idea of a nation in which citizens could have the freedom of speech without retribution.

As for doing this on school grounds, there is nothing stopping you from using school facilities after school hours, paying a fee for building use, and putting on your own show. Your choices would be limited, however, per your standards. Headliners, such as (liberals) Jon Stewart, Bill Maher, David Letterman, etc. also make jokes of today's government.

Should you decide to also put together a show in the future supporting America and its fine military men and women, I and the Young Republicans would be honored to show you how it can be arranged, promoting togetherness rather than divisiveness.

--Rebecca Rooney
Weston
Republican Central
Committeewoman
Taxpaying citizen
Unabashed lover of
These United States

(Editor's Note: For more on the controversy surrounding the Democrats' protest of the Rusty Humphries show in Platte County--including to hear an audio recording of Rusty Humphries interviewing Landmark publisher Ivan Foley about the topic, see the Between the Lines column by clicking here)

6/2/10 issue

EDITOR:

Like a weed that just won’t die, the Senate recently rolled out its latest version of climate change legislation. You may recall the House passed its cap and trade bill last year – against my strong disapproval.

Unfortunately, the provisions in the Senate bill still amount to nothing more than a national energy tax. They will hurt small businesses, farmers and rural Americans in particular.

Farmers rely heavily on energy. On average, 65 percent of farmers’ variable input costs are fuel, electricity, fertilizer, and chemicals. All of these resources will be more expensive under both the House and Senate versions of this bill. There is simply no way for farmers to pass all the additional costs on to consumers. Therefore, they will have to absorb most of them.

The increased costs imposed by this bill will make it even harder for small businesses to make ends meet. They will be hurt by the same fuel and electricity price increases as the agricultural sector. Many small businesses will shed jobs to save money or simply close up shop altogether.

This legislation all but guarantees American jobs will head overseas to countries like China and India. At the same time, all Americans will pay more for virtually everything they buy.

It seems to me Washington should be doing everything it can to help America’s farmers produce the food our nation needs, while simultaneously helping our small businesses create the jobs that will pull us out of this recession.

--Sam Graves
Congressman
Sixth District

5/26/10 issue

EDITOR:

I’m writing in response to the editorial cartoon you printed on May 5, which has President Obama telling Mexicans climbing over the border wall, “Now this is an immigration policy I can support!” with Democratic donkeys handing out “welfare” and “health care.”

I get that this newspaper is conservative--with three staunch right-wing columnists, and your fourth columnist (whose column used to say “Democrat”) now claiming to be “independent.” And you’re entitled to do that--use your First Amendment rights as you see fit. However, since your paper won’t find a liberal columnist, even to be outnumbered 3 to 1, I hope you print this letter.

Way too many conservatives are pounding the table, screaming about how much “illegal aliens” cost the American taxpayer due to welfare. I worked in public aid for over 10 years, and people need to understand the truth, which is that applicants for public assistance have to prove they are U.S. citizens in order to receive aid. What’s more, one needs to understand it would take a rare undocumented person to be brave or foolish enough to apply for aid, given today’s political climate. So don’t believe those pundits when they scream about illegal aliens on welfare---that’s a bunch of garbage.

I know that an editorial cartoon is just that, but it would be nice if you printed cartoons that were at least based on facts, not falsehoods.

--John Heller
Columbia

5/12/10 issue

EDITOR:

4/21/10 issue

EDITOR:

Thank you, Chris Stigall, for your shrewd column on the “flash mob” issue.
Although I’ve enjoyed myself on the Plaza on the few occasions I’ve been there (I’m a couch potato guy), I rarely go there.

Please, on your radio show, keep us informed of the unfolding situation on the Plaza, in terms of the possible driving away of business.
Just what we need now--punks killing business, right?

--Dave McAninch
Kansas City

EDITOR’S NOTE: When you’re not reading Chris Stigall’s columns in The Landmark, catch his weekday morning show on radio station KCMO 710 AM. It’s on from 5-9 a.m.

4/7/10 issue

EDITOR:

I have enjoyed reading Eddie Clay's many letters to the editor in the past, as he has always challenged the reader to look at different perspectives and he has promoted thought. I even enjoyed his most recent letter to the editor in the Red Star discussing the status of the Tea Party as a viable, legitimate, political movement. His latest letter to The Landmark, though, and its characterizations I read with great dismay. I would like to respond.

Mr. Clay, sarcasm and opposing views are part of political discourse. You have used it yourself in your letters. Some of the language in political discourse gets pithy, as it has in past protests against former President Bush and the Republican controlled congress as well as Democrat controlled congress of his tenure. It is getting pithy now, though one has to wonder why it is suddenly receiving such emphasis when in the past it did not. Nonetheless, people, both liberal and conservative, are concerned. You say word and deed have gotten out of hand. I am not sure if that is due to a wacko fringe element as you say or if it is due to the liberal left's use of Saul Alenski tactics. Could it be both?

And, yes, I've read "Rules for Radicals.” A person taken into custody during the "spitting" incident was released because the victim chose not to press charges. Was that because the victim was taking a moral stance or protecting an instigator? I guess we will never know. There are plenty of reports of right wing wackos doing things and there are plenty of reports of liberal left instigators doing things and then putting the blame on conservatives (Very Saul Alenski). We are always left to question the validity of each situation, like the death threats, to wonder how much is true and how much is contrived. And sometimes people make much ado about nothing to further their agenda. But to think that the majority of people condone such conduct is foolish.

If you look back at the coverage of the tea party events, the participants were quite peaceful, though some of the media commentators were less than courteous. Oh, that gun carrying guy in Arizona, liberal left plant. That came out afterwards and didn't exactly capture the headlines. Why? Yes, the town halls got raucous with Tea Party members and bussed-in Union Operatives. The political process continues.

Anyway, Mr. Clay, I've enjoyed your letters and wish you would continue to write. You might be surprised how much we actually have in common. We share many of the same concerns: economy, jobs, education, social welfare, security, energy. We have both been profiled. You are supposedly a thug and a criminal. I'm supposedly a potential right wing terrorist and a Nazi. None of which is remotely true about either of us.

You were stopped for "driving while black,” if I recall one of your letters. I was damn near blown up by a car bomb. I'll trade you that one for your "driving while black.” Then you might fully understand what it is like to be targeted each and every day and to really have your life and the lives of your family threatened.

By the way, I helped a friend clean up the remains of a cross which was burned in his front yard so I know about that kind of threat, too. In the meantime, Mr. Clay, we can certainly agree to disagree, which I am sure we do, and we can certainly do it without becoming disagreeable.

Please keep writing. The Landmark letters to the editor just wouldn't be the same without you. How about a beer at the next Landmark Christmas Party?
With greatest respect.

--R. Hollis
Platte County

Director has broken MoDOT's bank

4/7/10 issue

EDITOR:

MoDot's Director Pete Rahn along with his chief financial officer and chief engineer have found a way to financially break MoDOT's bank (EDITOR’S NOTE: Rahn has resigned since the time this letter was written).

How could they do this? Very simple, get out the credit card and start deficit spending. They'll tell you the legislature made them do it, but MoDOT's leaders were the designers and strongest promoters of the highway bonding program bill. Now the bonds come due and there'll barely be enough money left in another year to maintain the existing highway system.

Where will they make cuts in the budget? As usual, by slicing through the MoDOT staff like a safari guide with a sharp machete. First they've evicted all the MoDOT credit unions and fired their 27 employees without cause. This may not help the budget, because the credit unions pay all of their expenses including salaries and benefits. However, it shows the employees what's to come. The Highway and Transportation Commission supports this action even in the face of strong opposition by elected officials and the MoDOT employees.

Next they plan to eliminate several hundred jobs without layoffs. They say this will be done by eliminating "low performers.” I ask why are low performers on the payroll anyway? Keep in mind the MoDOT staff has been reduced by over 2000 positions in the last 20 years. That number would be even higher if they had not created many additional layers of bureaucracy in middle management along the way. I'm sure none of the middle management "low performers" will be chopped---that will be restricted to the real workers only.

The director came to Missouri from New Mexico where he was the cabinet secretary of their Highway and Transportation Department. When he left New Mexico in 2002, they were financially broke and still suffer from the overspending. Director Rahn seems more concerned with the well being of the "contractor community" than the " MoDOT family.” He has been the recipient of many awards but fails to remember the MoDOT staff earns them. He's allowed the commission to underfund the MoDOT retirement system, resulting in drastic action to bring it up to a minimum. Guess where this money ($5.2 million/year) is coming from---the salary budget.

I hope the citizens of Missouri remember all these issues in a year when there is barely enough money and people to maintain the roads. There'll be no more highway improvements, no projects to reduce congestion or improve safety.

--Norm Beeman
Parkville

Climate has soured, he'll step away

3/31/10 issue

EDITOR:

Over the last few years that I’ve sent letters to The Landmark, my views have, as expected, been met with sarcasm and opposition. I sincerely felt that it was up to me to be the dissenting voice since no one else seemed willing to assume that role.

Unfortunately, with the passage of the President’s health care bill, things have gotten way out of hand. Some Republican leaders (Sarah Palin’s bulls eye, for example), have called for, or insinuated that, their followers should resort to violence. Black leaders have been spit on and called the “N” word, gays called the “F” word, and Democrats in general who supported the bill have been harassed and threatened to the point that they are in fear for their lives and the lives of their loved ones.

As I read last week’s opinions from Congressman Sam Graves, Paul Hamby, Chris Stigall and the other Landmark opinion writers, they all, as expected, railed against Obama and the passage of the health care bill. I’m sure all of them, including Mr. Foley, have read or heard of the violence and death threats aimed at Democrats. Unfortunately, nobody associated with The Landmark, was willing to even mention it, let alone come out with any strong condemnation of these violent acts.

This letter will be the last one I write The Landmark. (I’m sure many will say “good riddance”). I cannot, in good conscience, continue to write opposing views that may put me or my family at risk of any sort of reprisals from those who feel that resorting to violence is acceptable behavior when they don’t get their way. It’s sad that the political climate has soured to such a point that dissent is no longer tolerated but such seems to be the case.

I’m still a firm believer that no matter what the subject is, we can still agree to disagree without becoming disagreeable. When we do become disagreeable, it is incumbent upon all of us to step up to the plate and restore sanity and civility; because if we don’t do this, everyone loses.

--Eddie Clay
Grandview

Vote for fiscal conservatives

3/31/10 issue

EDITOR:

Health care reform?

Ah yes, here's the best testimony to our new health care legislation from the AP writer Paul Haven on March 25, 2010, "Cuban revolutionary leader Fidel Castro on Thursday declared passage of American health care reform ‘a miracle’ and a major victory for Obama's presidency, but couldn't help chide the United States for taking so long to enact what communist Cuba achieved decades ago."

It was almost a unanimous choice of Americans prior to the enactment of this health care reform that they hop on a plane and head to Cuba in order to receive the best health care! Have we lost our minds? NO! With the inability to secure enough votes to pass health care reform, Obama stoops to bribery. Some would call it negotiating, but they were "pay offs,” pure and simple.

Currently 17 states have joined in a suit to have it declared illegal. Why? Because so much of the burden will be shifted to the individual states through mandated Medicaid funding.

For those not familiar with the difference between Medicare and Medicaid, let me explain, Medicaid is jointly funded by the states and federal government, and is managed by the states. States provide up to half of the funding for the Medicaid program. In some states, counties also contribute funds. On the other hand, Medicare is funded entirely at the federal level.

Medicaid beneficiaries are low income families and individuals. These states see and are willing to stand for what they see as the largest shift in liability for medical costs in history. States can't print more money unlike the federal government. They MUST balance their budgets. So, where do they get more money? Well, you already know the answer to that one. At least Mary Landrieu from Louisiana saw that coming and walked away with more federal money for her state. And McCaskill? She got a ride on Air Force One with this president into St. Louis.

As we understand more and more of this legislation it will become clearer how it got passed. IF this was such a good idea, don't you think that at least one Republican would have voted for it? The "Louisiana Purchase,” water rights in California, the Connecticut connection, and the biggest sellout for the smallest reward was Bart Stupak from Michigan's 1st District who got about $700,000 for three airports in his district for his vote. Was that worth the life of your child? And in return Obama signed an executive order that no federal money would be used for abortion. Really? So the president can issue an executive order and countermand law? If this were the case, why not issue an executive order and enact health care that way? Stupak knew this but it provided some cover.

I know you, the majority of Americans, are awake and you are as angry with the system as I am. Elections are coming soon. Vote for fiscal and social conservatives and then hold them to their promises.

-- Jim DeJarnatt
Weston

Earlier Letters to the Editor