** Click *_here_* to jump back to the top of the page.

New : For those seeking to find out what "The Law" has to say about Theresa " Terri " Schiavo , please see one of the better court briefs filed in this case:

(Web page) Copy on GordonWAYNEWatts.com mirror, here or Copy on GordonWatts.com mirror

(In Microsoft Word format: 283 KB) Copy on GordonWAYNEWatts.com mirror, here or Copy on GordonWatts.com mirror

Commentary : Since this brief here is by Mr. Watts, who did better than Jeb, and since Watts claims this court filing was a slightly more updated version of the one which beat Jeb's petition in court, and that he feels it was his best court brief on this matter, we arrive at the "good" quality by this logic .

New: For those seeking to find out what the Bible has to say about Theresa "Terri" Schiavo: | In Microsoft Word format (best) | In HTML (web page) format | In Text format (smallest file size) |

Oops! Did the Word document not download properly? I don't know what that is - however, you might try hitting the web servers at The Register, whose links are listed below:

Visit the alternate site:

| In Microsoft Word format (best) | In HTML (web page) format | In Text format (smallest file size) |

**1** https://www.NotMilk.com The "long" story on why not to drink milk from animals -the "short-and-sweet" version is my health and diet research above.

**2** https://www.StarTrekNewVoyages.com Yes! The rumors are true: Star Trek, the Original Series is back with all new episodes -picking up where the series' 3rd season left off in 1969, the Five-Year Mission continues now in season 4, and starring some of the original actors, including, but not limited to George Takei (Sulu), Walter Koenig (Chekov), and Grace Lee Whitney (Yeoman Rand).

**3** https://www.AngelsOnAssignment.org Many things about Holy Angels from a man who made several correct predictions before his untimely death -and whose allegations of visits with angels is thus supported. LAST but certainly not least, this page is one of my favorite web sites.

**4** https://www.NaturalNews.com The 'Natural News' website, hosted by Mike Adams, the "Health Ranger."

**5** https://www.HealthRanger.com Mike Adams (The Health Ranger) personal website

**6a** https://www.YouTube.com/TheHealthRanger "The Health Ranger" YouTube channel

**6b** https://www.YouTube.com/user/TheHealthRanger "The Health Ranger" YouTube channel

**7a** https://www.YouTube.com/GordonWayneWatts Gordon Wayne Watts' YouTube channel

**7b** https://www.YouTube.com/user/GordonWayneWatts Gordon Wayne Watts' YouTube channel

While this seems to be a "hopeless" case, let us not forget that many others were declared "PVS" or otherwise hopeless -when they were not PVS at all -for example, Kate Adamson, Rev. Rus Cooper-Dowda, mentioned in this St. Pete Times article, and who wrote this booklet and this mini biography. -and Police Sgt. David Mack, just to take three examples. Dr. Ronald Cranford, one of the doctors who declared Terri Schiavo to be "PVS," declared Sgt. Mack to be PVS -and was wrong -as we see:

"CRANFORD: Yes. Yes, in 1979-1980 in a legal case then. I diagnosed Sergeant David Mack (ph) as being in permanent vegetative state and 20 months later he started waking up and he regained consciousness and I've never been able to explain that case." (Source: CNN Official Transcripts.)

Last, but not least, we can not forget Terry Wallis, who was declared to be PVS, hopeless, and a long list of many other bad things -yet he proved them wrong. -The moral of the story is "never say 'never'" when it comes to declaring a person to be a hopeless PVS case. --- That's all for now, folks.



Friday, 11 March 2005:

Alert! You are being asked to help impeach judges involved in the Terri Schiavo case. The online petitions method is not working, so you must invoke Art. III, Sect. 17 of the state Constitution. Please go to The Register's GeoCities Mirror and note the March 07-08 stories for details on how to do. (Time is ticking, and she dies on 18 March 2005 if no one helps, and remember, impeachments actions are both rare and possibly slow, so let's get a move on it!)

The "non-profit" newspaper, at which I am editor, has much news on the subject: https://oocities.org/Gordon_Watts32313, the GeoCities mirrors.

It would be remiss of me to not include a link to the videos of the woman they call brain dead, but others call crippled or handicapped:

At the right: Mr. Watts in action at a demonstration for Theresa "Terri" Schiavo, January 07, 2004.

Florida Supreme Court splits 4-3 on surprise last-minute filing in Terri Schiavo Case

While many parties have become involved in the Terri Schiavo case, there has been much activity under the radar, not reported by the mainstream press.

LAKELAND, FL (PRWEB) Friday, 25 February 2005 - Terri Schiavo supporters have been bolstered by a surprise, last-minute filing from an unexpected source...

~ Pr Web Mirror: Click here ~ GeoCities Mirror: Click here ~

Click **_HERE_** for links to Watts' involvement in the Terri Schiavo saga - and Education: FSU: I went to The Florida State University, in Tallahassee, Florida, and graduated with a double major with honors in Biological and Chemical Sciences. (Go 'noles!) I am class of 2000.

UEI, An electronics college: Prior to that, I went to United Electronics Institute, now doing business as Florida Metropolitan University. To clarify, UEI was at 3924 Coconut Palm Drive, in the Sable Park region of Tampa, Florida. I am class of 1988.

High School: For high school, I went to Plant City Senior High School, Plant City, Florida. I am class of 1984. (See pics to the right.)

Education in the real world's school of hard knocks: Oh, yeah: All that electronic college did me good: I'm a HAM EXTRA operator (There are three levels: Technician, then General, and then the highest, Extra: Zzzap!!) My call sign is N2GY. You can look me up on: https://www.qrz.com or https://www.arrl.org or even https://wireless.fcc.gov/uls if you know how. Here: https://www.qrz.com/callsign/N2GY and https://www.arrl.org/fcc/fcclook.php3?call=n2gy and https://wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsApp/UlsSearch/license.jsp?licKey=2702986 are my pages in QRZ, ARRL, and the FCC.

YOU ARE HERE: ~~~ www.GordonWayneWatts.com ~~~ New: Interesting Websites: https://www.HartungReport.com, whose owner has a personal website here: https://www.RobertHartung.com. He's no ANGEL, but he is a conservative: Get the "Conservative" News that matters. For REAL ANGELS , please see below:

The classic documentary of an old preacher visited by angels is finally online and at no charge -with a follow up sequel. "It changed my life," says one entranced reader who could not put the book down and alleges that he had to finish it in one sitting. One reader saved it to his hard drive just in case it was not available elsewhere.

New: Interesting Website: https://AngelsOnAssignment.org The classic documentary of an old preacher visited by angels is finally online and at no charge -with a follow up sequel. "It changed my life," says one entranced reader who could not put the book down and alleges that he had to finish it in one sitting. One reader saved it to his hard drive just in case it was not available elsewhere.

Thursday, 19 August 2004: More Help Needed for Hurricane Charley victims | The Register contacts WFLA, 8 on your side, a Tampa TV station regarding unbalanced coverage of Schiavo matter Tuesday, 17 August 2004: A short "Open Letter to the Governor" Sunday, 15 August 2004 Help needed for Hurricane Charley victims: Click Click here for where to send supplies. Commentary here on "other" types of bad weather in the forecast. Review of Mel Gibson film: The Passion. The Register get scoop on Jeb Bush reply in 'Terri's Law' dispute. ** Letters to the Editor ** New Allegations of Possible Insurance Fraud by Michael Schiavo Surface: Click Here for story. Thur 29 July 2004: TERRI'S LAW CASE TAKES BIZZARE TURN: Our fearless editor, Gordon Watts, files friend of the court brief, supporting Michael Schiavo. When contacted, Watts had no comment, but asked The Register to issue this joint statement. Documents and updates for this case here. Related: The full statement from the 23 Outraged Citizens -not edited for length | Tampa's AP Bureau's repeated embarrassments to Fla. press corps | The Register corrects Globe columnist Ellen Goodman on what law says

https://HomeTown.AOL.com/Gww1210

FLORIDA'S INVESTIGATIVE NEWSPAPER VOLUME XII, Number 6 * $1.25

*___________*THE REGISTER*___________*

________________________________________________

Copyright © 2003 The Register TUESDAY, JUNE 3, 2003 Printed in Lakeland, Fla. $1.25

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broke the state?s mandatory recount law by refusing to grant Democratic Gubernatorial Primary contestant, Janet Reno, a machine recount after she was defeated by less than one-half of a percent. His suit seeks a recount of the votes in that primary. The law requires an automatic statewide recount of the votes when one candidate is defeated by less than one-half percent of the votes cast -- as was done for Al Gore in the 2000 Presidential race in Florida. Tallahassee Judge P. Kevin Davey refused to grant Watts an ?immediate hearing? as state election law requires, and eventually dismissed the case. Reno, now out of the public eye, had tried to obtain a recount but eventually gave up after almost a week following the state?s decision to deny her request. She could not be reached for comment. Watts currently has two pending appeals in the First District Court of Appeal and the state?s Supreme Court. ?People shouldn't sue judges,? said George Waas, Senior Assistant Attorney General. Waas, who works directly for Attorney General Charlie Crist, is the attorney appointed by the state to represent Judge Davey, who is a defendant in Watts' suit. _________________________ Please see VOTER, Page 6A 6A/ THE REGISTER * TUESDAY, JUNE 3, 2003 * https://hometown.aol.com/gww1210 VOTER CONTINUES SUIT, SEEKS MEDIA EXPOSURE ------------------------- Continued From 1A ------------------------- The other defendant, Florida's Department of State, responsible for counting the state's votes, is represented by Jerry York. York had no comment when contacted by The Register. Watts? situation is similar to that of former Vice President Al Gore. Gore, who requested manual recounts in selected precincts, was given a statewide machine recount after he was defeated by less than one-half of a percent. Watts, a registered Republican, claims that the "rule of law" should apply to Reno as well, in spite of the fact that she has given up her request for a statewide recount. ?The law should apply equally to all, whether Democrat or Republican, and she should be given the mandatory machine recount like Al Gore was,? Watts said. ?The State Department obviously thinks that they are above the law and not bound by the rules, but who else will they trample next if left unchecked?? A survey performed by Watts claims that, with a 2.7 percent margin of error, 93 percent of voters want the election laws followed and news coverage given at any cost or, at the very least, if the costs don?t run into the millions. Nonetheless, news coverage of this has been sparse, with press choosing instead to focus on lesser lawsuits, such as the resign-to-run suit against State Representative Kevin Ambler of Northwest Hillsborough County. Even though Ambler had resigned an elected post in the Northdale Special Tax District on October 18, there was news coverage in local television and print media long afterwards, with at least two articles appearing in the Tampa Tribune on October 25 and November 9 of last year. The four Tampa voters, who brought this suit against Ambler, eventually lost and decided not to appeal. Watts is also seeking the impeachment or removal of Judge Davey: ?This judge illegally refused me a hearing, and no one is above the law. While most people have forgotten about the election or were unaware that laws were broken, nonetheless, when told of it, most reported that all people should be given their day in court, and that the election laws should be followed -- because violation of voting laws -- or denial of the right to have your grievances heard in court -- strike at the very foundation of America?s principles and hurts everybody.? The state House can impeach state judges, and, in certain circumstances, the governor or the state?s Supreme Court can remove a judge from office. ?And,? Watts added, ?since most people with whom I?ve spoken want news coverage, I don?t understand why the news media has been so slow to report on this.? The case number for Watts? Supreme Court suit is SC03-385, and that of the 1st DCA case is 1D02-5120. Both cases are styled Watts v. The Florida Department of State. ________________________________ *-_-* Gordon Watts can be contacted at Gww1210@aol.com for interviews or to make contributions to defray his lawsuit costs.

LAKELAND VOTER SAYS STATE DEPT DENIED MANDATORY RECOUNT-------------------------From staff reportsLAKELAND, Fla. -- As Governor Bush heads into his seventh month in office, one disenfranchised Lakeland voter says he wants to continue to challenge his legitimacy.Bush, popular second-term Florida Governor, easily beat Bill McBride with 61 percent of the vote back in November. Although pre-election polls had him in a tight race with McBride, he held a comfortable lead throughout election night. But still unresolved is a lawsuit filed September of last year by one voter -- Republican Gordon Watts of Lakeland.Watts claims the State Department

Outside Links

|Terri Schiavo Official Website|Blogs for Terri|Pro Life Blogs|Highway 2 Health Radio|THE EMPIRE JOURNAL: News and Issues Every New Yorker Must Know. (Even NON-New Yorkers interested in freedom are welcome and informed.) The David Allen Show on WJGR: The Patriot| talk radio|APFN: AMERICAN PATRIOT FRIENDS NETWORK| Message Boards |The Hospice Patients Alliance| Ron Panzer defends the proper use of hospice for the terminally ill who need compassion when they are near death. However, he does not approve of hospices being used to kill off patients by hastening death with substandard care.

|Jail 4 Judges national site: J.A.I.L. = "Judicial Accountability Initiative Law" - Ron Branson, Director|

|Florida Jail 4 Judges site, Nancy Grant, Director|

|Free Republic| The message board where you speak to the world. |World Net Daily| Alternative press. |Randall Terry Official Website|Save Terri's Life (Yahoo! Group)| These are the |Web Archives| of "WBF Legal" Attorney, Linda Kennedy's "Precious Time" Internet Show.

Here is | a Terri Schiavo analysis with links galore , provided by mathematician, historian and scientist, Reason McLucus & Jalexson , an interesting web paper / blog. This Vietnam vet and Ph.D. candidate has an interesting Bio. The very thorough Abstract Appeal blog / website, by Attorney Matthew J. Conigliaro of Carlton Fields, Attorneys at Law: Matt Conigliaro has an About Page , and he is helped by Attorney Hunter W. Carroll. He and Hunter Carroll have worked on the Terri Schiavo Info Page with its timeline, but he posts current Schiavo news on the front page. He has not discussed my allegations of felony violations galore yet, but has otherwise done a fine job with his legal blog. Raven1.net Freedom isn't Free! ~ Eleanor White's site on mind control and other conspiracy theories. She has also researched Multistalker Victims, that is victims who appear to be stalked by multiple stalkers in an organized fashion. Ms. White is an intelligent Ham Radio operator (call letters: VE3LKE) from Hamilton, Ontario, Canada -who has also written about Terri Schiavo.

|Glenn Beck Official Website| |The Society for Truth and Justice| |Property Rights Research| |Conservative Spirit| Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Support Pages: |Sylvie's TBI Page Sylvie's Links Karen's TBI Network The TBI Social Network: "WHO WE ARE" Karen's "Links on the Path" to lots of TBI Sites| |Liberty To The Captives| |Counsel on Domestic Relations (Sweet Liberty)| The incredible Dr. Dee Rohe and her husband Roy manage these sites: The |Rumblings and Global Rumblings twin sites. Breaking News page with links to international and Terri Schiavo related news sources. The "Mystery" Page, which changes with nearly every refresh/reload. Also, featured is the Health Breaking News| updated regularly.

If you are in Florida and can join us in demanding that Mr. McCabe do the job he was elected to do, please be there.

Mr. McCabe has also refused to investigate well-founded allegations of abuse, neglect and exploitation against Terri - even though there is evidence which supports such charges and offenses of this nature are felony crimes under Florida law.

MY COMMENTS: "We need publicity to pressure the 'high people' in government to enforce the law and follow the law, as the current laws, while not perfect are generally good. Otherwise, what happened below (see my signature) could happen here."

We had a good time, got to know one another a little better, and hopefully let people know that these abuses and denial of medical treatments &rehab could happen to them, as well as the chance that someone could try to starve them when no one's looking.

We got there earlier, stayed later, had more signs, were able to use cardboard to make the signs a little more sturdy and less "floppy," and passed out more flyers. (good) Also, after we got finished picketing &handing out fliers at the courthouse, after it closed at five pm, we moved to the bus stop and continued, picketing, talking to people, and passing out fliers that had the the facts and laws related to this matter. (I gave the Fox 13 reporter one of the newly updated information sheets and told him of my lawsuit and furure plans of more people to continue legal and picketing actions.)

Brian, a WTVT-TV Fox 13 reporter was kind enough to interview Rev Rus Cooper Dowda, myself, and a third person, a member of Not Dead Yet, whose name I didn't get. My parents, who stayed up late enough to watch FOX 13's 10-O'Clock broadcast said they *did* show footage of the protest and gave some news coverage, even though they did not air the interviews. However, they'll have the interviews as "file footage" for anything they plan to do in the future.

Almost as many people showed up to protest Bernie McCabe as yesterday, a little less media exposure, but different members of the Schindler family were kind enough to come out again and thank us for trying to help out and speak out.

The volunteers of TerrisFight.org have learned that supporters are planning a demonstration on the steps of the Criminal Court House in Clearwater, Florida to demand that Pinellas County's State Attorney, Bernie McCabe, conduct a full investigation into charges of abuse against Terri Schindler-Schiavo by her guardian. If you would like to be a part of this effort, please join us in peaceful demonstration.

The Recount Lawsuit continues without Janet Reno

More FLA Elections Problems

This just in as of Tue. 16 Dec. 2003:

The Florida First District Court of Appeals has affirmed the lower court ruling. Appeals are planned.

The Fla. 1st DCA, in the case, Watts v Florida Dept of State, case number 1D02-5120, affirmed the lower court ruling in a per curium decision, without comment or a written opinion. (Browning, Hawkes, and Polston, JJ., concurring) Appealing such cases without opinion is historically difficult, but The Register intends to continue digging for truth and avoid a "catch-22" scenario, where major media avoid coverage without an "upset" ruling - and the court refuses to look at the laws, issue an "upset," without pressure from the press.

Florida, not known for the wisest choices, even if technically legal, in regards to voting and elections, is hoping to avoid more embarrassment, but The Register believes that the laws are not solely for the rich and connected. Original Story Below:

Read background in Recount Case case

Health:

More developments on Schiavo above & below, but 1st this: Click * HERE * for a rather graphic picture (at bottom) of an overdose, not for shock value, but in hopes that all you parents will have a frank discussion with your kids about knowing their limits & when to just walk away. When you view this pic, remember: This didn't have to happen...

Click for: Killer Nurses in the news

Click for: Star Trek - The Drumhead: A critical Commentary of the Schiavo case

NEW PAGE for Updates on Court Action The Florida Supreme Court has accepted jurisdiction of Gordon Watts' racial discrimination lawsuit; Includes most briefs on the 2002 Fla. Gubernatorial Recount Lawsuit; the ongoing TERRI SCHIAVO court action to get compliance with Florida State and Federal Law; other suits listed. | HomeTown/AOL Mirror | Yahoo!/GeoCities Mirror NEW PAGE for Updates on Court Action The Florida Supreme Court has accepted jurisdiction of Gordon Watts' racial discrimination lawsuit; Includes most briefs on the 2002 Fla. Gubernatorial Recount Lawsuit; the ongoing TERRI SCHIAVO court action to get compliance with Florida State and Federal Law; other suits listed. | HomeTown/AOL Mirror | Yahoo!/GeoCities Mirror |

Click _HERE_ for a letter written to my congressmen and president. ~--> OLD: Press Release Re Schiavo Court Action ~--> For Star Trek Fans: A Critical Commentary: Modern Day Parable | Funny Schiavo dealings: Things that make you go 'Hmm...' | TUE 16 Dec. 2003: Fla. 1st DCA hands down ruling in Reno/McBride "Recount Lawsuit" | Top 10 Terri Schiavo Myths | Top 10 Terri Schiavo Myths (Hometown mirror) | UPDATE: See below -or click *_HERE_* for details about the Jan 07 & 08 CLEARWATER, demonstration, in which Terri Schiavo supporters and members of the Schindler family attended.



Click *_HERE_* to read the Register's report on two (2) other women, who were given up for dead, but who were able to hear doctors talk about starving them. Another news agency reports on one of those women: Kate Adamson, a New Zealand-native, was described by doctors as being in a "vegetative" state, but this mother of two could feel pain and hear the doctors plan to starve her to death. Original Story Here: (Note: The article initially calls her "Kate Anderson.")

Click for: Killer Nurses in the news Click for: Analysis of GAL, Dr. Jay Wolfson's Report

Deep-scan analysis of the Terri Schiavo case - with possible solutions: Click HERE for analysis of the disputed "Terri's Law" - and other violations of the current mercy-killing laws, not in dispute - not currently covered by "mainstream" media.

Register continues its legal battle to get the Florida "recount" laws enforced. Recount lawsuit decision expected soon from Florida's first district court of appeals. Read more below

Outside Links:

Florida Governor's Official Web-Site:MyFlorida.com.

Florida Speaker of the House: My Florida House.

Florida Senate President: FL Senate dot gov

Look up Florida Statutes and Constitution: https://www.flsenate.gov/statutes

|CNN|FOXNews|CyberCast News|World Net Daily|LA Times|NY Times|CBS|ABC|NBC| The Associated Press - The "AP" |

|Bud Hedinger Live|The Saint Petersburg Times|The Tampa Tribune|The Ledger - of Lakeland, Fla., a NY Times-owned company|Robert Hartung - local free media for West Central FloridaKE4JCD,a local ham, C.B., and GMRS radio operator, has related links; https://HartungReport.com has "national" news from a conservative viewpoint.

| Matt Drudge's DRUDGE REPORT |The Enterprise Mission: "To Boldly Go Where Someone Has Gone Before....." with a related page at: Formisano's Twilight Zone Part 2|Coast to Coast AM with George Noory, Art Bell|Herbal remedy Shop with Wendy Wilson and Carolyn Carpenter|

www.NaturalNews.com The 'Natural News' website, hosted by Mike Adams, the "Health Ranger."

www.HealthRanger.com Mike Adams (The Health Ranger) personal website

www.YouTube.com/TheHealthRanger "The Health Ranger" YouTube channel



"Our website is www.arthritisfoods.net. We are just starting our site so we do not have many links as of yet. I sincerely hope you are interested in our proposition!

Thank you,

Emily"

LINK: https://www.ArthritisFoods.net

You rock! Click *_here_* to jump back to the top of the page.

Election 2016: The Register's endorsements for both Primary and General Election

Complete coverage for east HILLSBOROUGH (Plant City, Brandon, Tampa), west POLK (Lakeland / Winter Haven), & parts of ORANGE Cty (Orlando) - with some surprises

Wednesday, 24 August 2016 (LAKELAND, Fla.) ; Updated: Thursday, 25 August 2016, at 05:54pm (EST)

In Polk, Hillsborough, & Orange Counties, in central Florida, absentee ballots have been mailed out, and early-voting has begun. The Register has reviewed the key races and offers recommendations, but not without surprises. While The Register is known for far-right policies, we have some good things to say about former Sec. of State, Hillary Clinton, the Democratic nominee for president (see side-pane, to the right), while eventually giving our endorsement to NY businessman, Donald Trump, for the general election, scheduled to be held on Tuesday, November 8, 2016. While some primaries (such as the presidential election) have already been held, many important primary races are still undecided, and, in particular, there's something for everybody in the Florida Statewide Primary Election, slated to be held in a week, on Tuesday, August the 30th, 2016. Helpful links, in this regard, are the following: PolkElections.org

U.S. Senator (Florida)

One of Florida's senate seats, held by incumbent, Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL), is up for grabs.

The Democratic Primary (Tue. Aug. 30, 2016) features 5 candidates: Roque "Rocky" DeLaFuente; Orlando Congressman, Alan Grayson; Pam Keith; Reginald Luster; and, Port St. Lucie Congressman, Patrick Murphy. All 5 candidates seem to be moderate to liberal, but otherwise patriotic and intelligent. Luster's website, for example, calls on increased HigherEd grants (good), but it is short-sighted in its promise that he would "Increase U.S. Department of Education funding to purchase high interest rate, private sector student loans." This, of course, would distort the Free Market, inducing college to jack up tuition to match increased borrowing abilities of cash-strapped students. DeLaFuente is vague on HigherEd issues, and Keith does not address them in her website, as of the date of publication. Grayson is mired in a bitter divorce settlement, but he is well-known for his "Co-sponsoring legislation to return bankruptcy rights to Americans struggling with student loan debt." The Register endorses Alan Grayson for the Democratic nomination for Florida Senator.

The Libertarian Party of Florida holds a primary (Tue. Aug. 30, 2016) for 2 candidates: criminal defense lawyer, Augustus Invictus, 33, and Paul Stanton, 31, a U.S. Army veteran and information technology specialist. Both candidates seem to support the 2nd amendment, oppose foreign military intervention, and both oppose the so-called U.S. Government's "war on drugs," and thus, both candidates appear to be genuine Libertarians, in that regard. While St. Peter's Blog lists Stanton ahead "22-12 percent, with 65.8 percent undecided" in the primary, Invictus has the support of well-known Libertarian advocate, Raquel Okyay, according to his official website and Audio Visual Network News related to refusal to debate and refusal to denounce alleged threats by Charles Peralo, a Stanton supporter. Okyay's concerns appear to be genuine, as she has a good reputation within the Libertarian community, if a tie-breaker is needed. However, The Register withholds formal endorsement in this primary, due to lack of additional information.

The Republican Primary (Tue. Aug. 30, 2016) features 4 candidates: Manatee County land developer and businessman, Carlos Beruff; Dr. Ernie Rivera, an ordained minister with a Doctor in Ministry in Leadership (in progress); Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL), the incumbent senator; and, Officer Dwight Mark Anthony Young, a former Detention Deputy with the Pinellas County Sheriffs Office, until having quit to run for Senate. All 4 candidates appear to be genuine Conservatives, with Sen. Rubio getting an impressive 77% Scorecard by Conservative Review, known for it's difficult standards in gauging conservative actions, votes, and stances taken by elected officials. However, with all due respect to the senator, he scores the lowest of the 4 candidates by The Register's review. While all 4 seem to be pro-life, pro-2nd-Amendment, and fiscal conservatives, there is a large amount of daylight between them on other key economic issues. Rubio, for example, has refused steadfastly to cosponsor legislation like H.R.449, which would return bankruptcy to college loans, offering a "Conservative Free Market" check against predatory lending, and resultant tuition inflation that occurs when lenders/colleges knows students have deep pockets to borrow. Beruff's campaign office was polite when The Register inquired, but never returned our press inquiry regarding either the bankruptcy issue (curative) or a proposal to reduce loan limits in the 1st place (preventative, and with the aim to get "smaller government," until the government is out of lending or guaranteeing loans with tax dollars, necessary to prevent another crash of the U.S. Dollar). Rivera was not available to speak with The Register, and his website's HigherEd section linked to the official GOP website, which, while better than average, nonetheless was OK with allowing college loans to continue. To Rivera's credit, however, both he, and Dr. Moses, who was manning his campaign office when The Register called, both seemed to be genuine moral and fiscal conservatives, and Moses, a Th.D. in theology, took time to make an excellent effort to inform this writer. Ofcr. Young, himself, was able to clarify The Register's questions, and assured this writer that he supported allowing college borrowers the same defenses afforded all other borrowers. Young, a Jamaican-American, has done well in integrating into America's culture, and supports "legal" immigration, but opposed "illegal" immigration, rightly opposing others who "jump ahead" of others who were in line earlier to become American Citizens. The Register endorses Dwight Mark Anthony Young for the Republican nomination for Florida Senator, but we give honourable mention to Dr. Ernesto J. "Ernie" Rivera for his excellent track-record in life as a genuine Conservative, whose Puerto Rican heritage and high morals are positive assets.

*** Click here to jump back to the top of the page. ***

U.S. House of Representatives (Florida)

There are other races for Congress in the lower chamber (the House, as opposed to the senate) in central Florida.

The Tue. Aug. 30, 2016 primary for U.S. Representative (Dist. 9) will feature 4 democrats: Kissimmee businesswoman & college instructor, Valleri Crabtree; Dr. Dena Grayson (the wife of Rep. Alan Grayson, D-FL-9th, who just recently concluded a lengthy and ugly divorce to Lolita Grayson); anti-gov-Rick-Scott grassroots activist, Susannah Randolph; and Fla. State Senator, Darren Soto. All 4 seem to be intelligent and well-intentioned, but Dr. Grayson seems to have the slight edge on intangible, but real, abilities to actually fix the problems for the middle-class. The "coat-tails" effect works in her favour, as we have already endorsed her husband, Rep. Alan Grayson, who is a solid advocate for the middle-class and college student. Moreover, Heavy.com reports that: "[Alan] Grayson Was Married to His First Wife for 25 Years; the Couple Had 5 Children Together." This obvious integrity on his part only helps the coattails effect for his new wife. While they are both surely not as Conservative as we would like, nonetheless, The Register endorses Dr. Dena Grayson for the Democratic nomination in this primary.

This primary also features 2 Republicans: St. Cloud FL businessman, Wayne Liebnitzky; and, Kissimmee FL, vice-mayor, Wanda Y. Rentas. The campaign websites of both candidates seem vague regarding Higher Education, and this is troubling, as Higher Education is the "backbone of America." (America presently has a "broken back," by this definition.) Both candidates seem to be genuine Conservatives and responsible neighbours; however, this writer, when attending the recent "Puerto Rican" political hobnob (hosted by the Puerto Rican Hispanic Chamber of Polk County), saw Rentas in attendance (and Democratic primary opponent, Soto, discussed above), but Liebnitzky was absent. This writer also spoke with Rentas, and while we did not have a chance to go into great detail, she seemed amenable to responsible economic policies in higher education. The Register endorses Wanda Rentas for the Republican nomination in this primary, which is slated for Tue. Aug. 30, 2016, the same day as the above.

U.S. Representative (Dist. 12)

Rep. Gus Michael Bilirakis (R-FL-12th), the incumbent Republican congressman; and, criminal defense attorney, Robert Matthew Tager, are the only 2 candidates in this race, slated to be held on Tuesday, November 8, 2016, in the GENERAL ELECTION, since, in the Primary Race, both candidates "Qualified" and also were "Unopposed" in the Primary. - Atty. Tager opposes H.R.25, the Fair Tax bill, which Bilirakis supports: This is troubling (since the Fair Tax would simplify the tax system, since the government would have to police only large retailers, and not every citizen), but Tager seems genuine in his attempt to see both sides of the bill: "Some how this just does not seem fairer. Not to mention, I see no tax on the purchase of investments and none on the sale so this is a freebie for the super rich...Anyone who reads this different and interprets it differently, let me know." Source: "Tagerforcongress" on FACEBBOK post This writer is not an expert on the Fair Tax, but one rebuttal to this argument has been that Big Business already gets tax breaks, and so this would do little, if anything, to give the rich additional breaks. Also, neither candidate is clear on HigherEd economic policy. Republicans are traditionally more reluctant to support bankruptcy for college loans (which is bad, since Bankruptcy is a 'Conservative Free Market' check against predatory lending), but Democrats are typically more willing to allow huge College Loan Limits to increase (which is dangerous, as this induces skyrocketing tuition inflation). The Register withholds endorsement of either candidate pending further investigation of both the Fair Tax and the HigherEd issues. NOTE: This race will be held on Tuesday, November 8, 2016, in the GENERAL ELECTION, since, in the Primary Race, both candidates "Qualified" and also were "Unopposed" in the Primary.

UPDATE on Wed. 24 Aug. 2016 - Mr. Tager provided The Register with a detailed answer to clarify his views on the "Fair Tax" matter, yesterday, and I'm just now updating this news item. Click here to see his reply, corrected only for spelling, format, etc., and with minimal editorial comments to define terms. He has said he needs more time to study the HigherEd matter. Rep. Bilirakis' office was good enough to take our questions, but they have not replied as of press time. ~Editor, Gordon W. Watts

U.S. Representative (Dist. 13)

This race features 2 Republicans [Mark Bircher and incumbent Congressman, Rep. David W. Jolly (R-FL-13th)] in a primary, held Tue. Aug. 30, 2016. The winner will face former Gov. Charlie Crist, the Democratic nominee, in the general election on Tue. Nov. 8, 2016.

U.S. Representative (Dist. 14)

This race had no primary challenges, and thus, incumbent Congresswoman, Rep. Kathy Castor (D-FL-14th) will face Republican challenger, Christine Quinn, the Democratic nominee, in the general election on Tue. Nov. 8, 2016.

U.S. Representative (Dist. 15)

In District 15, there this writer lives, Lutz businessman, Jim Lange, a Democrat, is challenging incumbent Republican Congressman, Rep. Dennis A. Ross (R-FL-15th). Since neither drew primary challengers, they both get a first-round "bye" and sit out the primaries. They are on the general election ballot, scheduled for Tue. Nov. 8, 2016. Both are fairly conservative on key issues, with Lange being vehemently opposed to partial birth abortion, even if a bit less opposed to abortion as a legal right. Lange, an expert consultant in the private sector, is also fiscally conservative, and supports the aforementioned Conservative solutions to the higher education Bubble mess, including bankruptcy for college loans. Lange is also very concerned with excess spending in our budget, which makes him a tough challenger for Ross, in POLK County's District 15, a 'Red State' right-leaning Conservative district. Ross, while he has espoused support for bankruptcy options for college loans (curative) and reducing obscene college loan limits (preventative), has yet to act upon these beliefs by introducing or cosponsoring bills to this effect. Both candidates appear very Conservative to this writer on many key issues. Both men are truly men of integrity with excellent listening skills, genuine integrity, and decent respect for all persons, whether poor or rich, straight or gay, and either would be responsive to their constituents; but, in a 1-position race, only 1 person can win the office: While Lange is not as 'Conservative' as this writer would like him, he is close enough to Ross that the higher-ed issue will be a referendum (read: tie-breaker) as to which way this writer will vote come November, and regarding editorial endorsements whereof. See the front-page news of The Register for further details on this issue.

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State Attorney (Cir. 10)

Brian Haas, a Republican candidate for this partisan office, to replace POLK County, State Attorney, Jerry Hill, who is retiring, ran unopposed, and is considered "automatically elected" by Florida State Election Law.

State Attorney (Cir. 13)

State Atty. Mark Ober, the Republican incumbent in this race, will face Andrew Warren, the Democratic challenger in the November general election, as neither drew primary challengers.

Public Defender (Cir. 10)

Public Defender, Rex Dimming, the Republican incumbent in this race, will face Democratic challenger, Flora "Tonya" Stewart, in the November general election.

Public Defender (Cir. 13)

State Atty. Julianne M. Holt, the incumbent Democrat, was unchallenged in her bid for reelection as 13th Circuit Public Defender.

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Fla. State Senator (Dist. 10)

The Aug. 30, 2016 primary for this race features 4 Democratic challengers, Edwin "Ed" Narain; Betty Reed; Augie Ribeiro; and, Darryl Ervin Rouson. The winner of that race will face John "Mr. Manners" Houman, the Republican candidate, in November.

Fla. State Senator (Districts 20, 21, and 26)

Republicans, Tom Lee, Bill Galvano, and Denise Grimsley all ran unopposed in these races, respectively, and are considered automatically elected to office.

Fla. State Senator (Dist. 22)

Republican incumbent, Sen. Kelli Stargel, will face Democratic challenger, Debra S. Wright, in the November election, and both will sit out the primaries next week, as neither drew a primary challenger. This writer has known Senator Stargel for years, since he lives in her Senatorial district, and was also a constituent when she was in the State House of Representatives. This writer also got to speak with Ms. Wright at the recent "Puerto Rican" political hobnob (hosted by the Puerto Rican Hispanic Chamber of Polk County), and Wright was kind enough to confirm that she was not only totally pro-life but also totally pro-marriage. (I.e., while we most certainly don't hate gays, many of us are against so-called 'Gay Marriage.) I add this to clarify a popular misconception: Many Democrats are, indeed, very, very Conservative, and this is important for them to share with voters, especially in the right-leaning Polk County region of Central Florida. While Wright felt that she could be more responsive to constituents, she said that she agreed with some of the legislative acts that Stargel had done. This writer found both of them to have excellent communication skills and willingness to listen and act. Both candidates seem qualified to represent Polk County in the Fla. State Senate, and so The Register will withhold formal endorsement in this race.

NOTE : The Register is not providing details or endorsements in all races, as a practical matter of limited time/money/energy resources, for the sake of brevity. The reader is encouraged to study the candidates and issues in your races, and obtain "Sample Ballots" from your polling place to aid you in so-doing. ~Editor, Gordon W. Watts

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Fla. State Representative (Dist. 39)

Incumbent Republican, Rep. Neil Combee, will face Democratic challenger, Victor Sims, in the general election in November, as neither drew a primary challenger.

Fla. State Representative (Dist. 40)

Republican incumbent, Rep. Colleen Burton, will face Democratic challenger, Dr. Shandale Terrell, in the November election, and both will sit out the primaries next week, as neither drew a primary challenger. This writer has known Representative Burton for years, since he lives in her state house district, and is, therefore, a constituent. This writer got to speak with Dr. Terrell, who has a Doctoral Degree in Education, at the recent "Puerto Rican" political hobnob (hosted by the Puerto Rican Hispanic Chamber of Polk County), and he was kind enough to confirm that he was not only totally pro-life but also totally pro-marriage. (I.e., while we most certainly don't hate gays, many of us are against so-called 'Gay Marriage.) However, unlike Ms. Wright, Dr. Terrell informed me that he reluctantly supported the so-called "Gay Marriage" ruling which the Supreme Court recently handed down, even though Dr. Terrell was adamantly against the moral concept of 'Gay Marriage,' itself. When I asked him why he supported so-called 'Gay Marriage,' even against his moral beliefs, Terrell he said that he felt that, in this political climate, this was the only way to prevent gays from being mistreated. While I would have taken a different route (one that did not formally offer Government endorsement of gay marriage), nonetheless, I whole-heatedly agree that we must fight tooth-and-nail to prevent gays (and, for that matter, anyone) from mistreatment, bias, or hatred. I add this to clarify a popular misconception: Many Democrats are, indeed, very, very Conservative, and this is important for them to share with voters, especially in the right-leaning Polk County region of Central Florida. This writer found both Burton and Terrell to have excellent communication skills and willingness to listen and act. Both candidates seem qualified to represent Polk County in the Fla. State House, and so The Register will withhold formal endorsement in this race.

Fla. State Representative (Dist. 41)

Bob Doyel faces Nicolas Garcia in the Democratic Primary for this race. Charles Davis faces Sam Killebrew in the Republican Primary for this race. The winner of each primary will face off in the November general election.

Fla. State Representative (Dist. 42)

Mike LaRosa (REP) and Benny Valentin (DEM) were both 'Unopposed' in their primaries, and they will sit it out until they face off, in the November general election.

Fla. State Representative (Dist. 56)

Rep. Ben Albritton, the Republican incumbent, will face David C. Poulin, the Democratic challenger, in the November general election, as they both were unopposed in the Primaries.

Fla. State Representative (Dist. 57)

Jake Raburn (REP), the incumbent, was unopposed and is considered automatically reelected.

Fla. State Representative (Dist. 58)

Republican incumbent, Rep. Daniel D. Raulerson, representing Plant City, FLA, in the state house, will face Democratic challenger, Jose N. Vazquez-Figueroa, in the November general election, as neither drew primary challengers.

Fla. State Representative (Dist. 59)

Rep. Ross Spano, the Republican incumbent, who had no primary challenger, will face the winner of the Democratic primary race between Democrats, Rena Frazier and Naze Sahebzamani.

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(Fla. State) Supreme Court Justice

Florida State Supreme Court Justices, Charles T. Canady; Jorge Labarga; and, Ricky L. Polston, will be up for a "retention" vote in this nonpartisan race, as will numerous state appellate court judges, in the 5 State Appellate Courts.

County Judge Group 4 (Cir. 10)

Incumbent Judge, Mary Catherine Green; and, Polk Attorney, L. Mark Kaylor, were set to face off in this race, but Kaylor dropped out, making Green the automatic winner. You will receive the following notice if you try to vote: "NOTICE: A candidate in the race for the office of County Judge Group 4 has withdrawn. A vote cast in this race will not change the outcome."

County Judge Group 8 (Cir. 10)

Long-time, incumbent Judge, Susan Lee Barber-Flood faces former assistant state attorney, Carson Bassett, who currently is a Geico (insurance company) lawyer, in the civil litigation division. This may prove to be the most interesting race of the election. The Ledger had previously reported that "The Florida Supreme Court has ruled that Polk County Judge Susan Barber Flood should receive a public reprimand for her relationship with her courtroom bailiff, James "Bubba" Maxcy III." [source: 'Court: Publicly Reprimand Polk County's Judge Susan Barber Flood: Justices call Flood's "inappropriate relationship" with bailiff "unacceptable",' By John Chambliss, THE LEDGER, Published: Thursday, November 6, 2014 at 11:26 p.m.]

While a close friendship (in this case, a romantic relationship) with an employee -over whom the judge exercises supervisory authority- is clearly inappropriate, nonetheless: it would not be a "Federal Matter" (or preclude her from serving) if the judge avoided ruling on any case where the employee was in court. And, while "bias" is a legitimate complaint, it was a one-time offense; therefore, so long as judge removed herself from being his boss (one of them would have to 'transfer' or quit), and if she then apologised (which she did in her Supreme Court review), we don't see why she should be fired or forced to step down.

However, The Ledger went on to report that "Maxcy retired from his job with the Polk County Sheriff's Office in November 2013, citing a medical condition," and that "[Circuit Judge Beth] Harlan [who was accused of approving false time cards for her judicial assistant, Alisha Rupp, who had reported the romantic relationship between Barber and Maxcy] retired March 26 in exchange for prosecutors dropping criminal charges against her."

It gets worse: The Ledger also reported that "A complaint filed with the Florida Elections Commission states that county judge candidate Carson Bassett violated state statutes when his wife attended a fundraiser for State Attorney candidate Brian Haas in April," in what some called a disguised attempt to evade Florida Statute 105.071, which prohibits partisan political activities from judicial candidates, but Brock Mikosky, Bassett's campaign manager disputed this, claiming that Carson wasn't even a "filed candidate" for this position when the invitation went out and that "He had nothing to do with the formation of the host committee or the distribution of the invitation." [source: 'Complaint filed against Polk judge candidate with the state elections commission,' By John Chambliss, The Ledger, Published: Wednesday, June 15, 2016 at 9:59 p.m.] Nothing sustentative ever came of this, and the campaign progresses: The Ledger just reported that: "The Florida Elections Commission has rejected a complaint that county judge candidate Carson Bassett violated state statutes when his wife attended a fundraiser for state attorney candidate Brian Haas in April." [source: 'Election 2016: County Judge  Complaint against Bassett rejected: Elections Commission says it does not have jurisdiction over judge's races,' By John Chambliss, The Ledger, Published: Tuesday, August 9, 2016 at 9:26 p.m.]

To further complicate matters, "A prominent Lakeland lawyer [Ron Clark, a founding partner of Clark, Campbell, Lancaster & Munson] has sent a letter to some circuit and county judges in Bartow asking them to contribute money to the campaign of Carson Bassett, a candidate for county judge," according to The Ledger: "Lakeland lawyer mistakenly sends letter asking for campaign donations to judges," By John Chambliss, The Ledger, Published: Friday, August 5, 2016 at 10:33 p.m. This was a mistake on the part of Clark, and all parties admitted that Bassett had nothing to do with this: Clark reported that he instructed an assistant to send "the letter to 1,000 friends whose addresses he has saved for events he may hold, such as barbecues," but which should not have included judges, who are not allowed to participate in political events or give endorsements, such as to Bassett's candidacy.

But the alleged misconduct didn't stop there: While the final investigation did not prove any sexual relationship had occurred, as some accusers had alleged, nonetheless, Judge Susan Barber-Flood almost certainly lied to investigators about alleged conversations with four (4) other judges:

'"Several circuit judges recalled speaking to Flood because they were concerned about her behavior, investigators wrote, but Flood denied any judge had come to her with concerns. [line-break] "Either Judge Flood is being dishonest or four circuit judges conspired to concoct a story that they were each concerned about Flood's behavior  something that is just not believable," the report states.' [source: "State Attorney Criticizes Polk Judges After Investigation," By JASON GEARY, THE LEDGER, Published: Friday, September 13, 2013 at 10:17 p.m.

Barber-Flood also took a peek into confidential files, an action that may constitute a violation of State Laws and/or professional codes of conduct:

"Flood was unaware she was being video-recorded in her interview, and the report states she was recorded getting up during a break and looking at the "confidential case files" of an investigator who had been questioning her," The Ledger reports. '"It has often been said that character is what we do when we think no one is looking. The judge's actions speak volumes about her character and it exemplifies how she handled the issues surrounding the investigation," the report states. [line-break] "She ignorantly thought that as a judge, she was free to do what she wanted, when she wanted and believed that others should not be concerned with her conduct and actions. She seemed unconcerned and indifferent about the respectability of her behavior."' Ibid.

These allegations were backed up by Tampa Bay's WFTS-TV-28, ABC Action News: '"At one point during the interview with investigators, Judge Flood is caught on camera looking at confidential documents when the others leave the room. [line-break] "She ignorantly thought that as a judge, she was free to do what she wanted, when she wanted and believed that others should not be concerned with her conduct and actions," [POLK COUNTY, State Attorney, Jerry] Hill wrote.' [source: " Polk judge arrested, while another is accused of "inappropriate behavior" with bailiff: Judge Susan Flood admits to kissing bailiff," by Ryan Raiche, ABC Action News (WFTS-TV-28), POSTED: 7:37 PM, Sep 16, 2013; UPDATED: 4:24 PM, Mar 4, 2015. Copyright 2013 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed -except as permitted by FAIR USE, for research, commentary, etc.]

In all seriousness, this writer thinks both candidates are probably qualified to be a judge, and, indeed, the 'experience' argument is bandied about by some to support Barber-Flood's candidacy for reelection in a rare challenge to her seat. However, some critics have a point being concerned about this argument: Should we have left Pres. Nixon in office (during the infamous 'Watergate' scandal) due to his "experience?" - Oh, really?

Lastly, when I (political writer, Gordon Watts) got a chance to interview both candidates at the recent "Puerto Rican" political hobnob (hosted by the Puerto Rican Hispanic Chamber of Polk County), I asked Bassett why I should vote for him, and he informed me that Barber peeked at confidential files, apparently not enough to get her arrested, but certainly enough to raise the ire of State Atty., Jerry Hill, whom I've almost never known to go after the 'Establishment' types (as is sitting-judge, Susan Barber). However, I had not had the benefit of seeing the ABC or Ledger news reports. When I asked Barber about the allegation that Bassett made regarding her peeking into the files, she informed me that I was misinformed. Later investigation found that she had tried to deceive me with her answer. Granted, it is possible she may have misunderstood me - but I did not misunderstand her: she could have as easily admitted the truth. That she did not.

Am I making too much hay over being lied to once? I don't know, but how would you like to be lied to? She was on shaky ground after calling four (4) sitting judges liars, and this after the courthouse affair (which I think has been overblown by nosy outsiders - a mistake on her part, but not necessarily a disqualifying mistake). She made repeated mistakes, four (4) mistakes, by my last count (1.inappropriate relationship ; 2.calling four judges liars ; 3.peeking into confidential files ; and, lastly: 4.herself lying to my face: This sitting judge lied to my face when she said that I had been misinformed in response to my question about Bassett's comments to me that she peeked into a file. - I have my doubts, it's safe to say, about her qualifications.

Based on the foregoing, The Register endorses Carson Bassett for the 10th Judicial Circuit (Polk County), County Judge Group 8. But, as human as Judge Barber is, many of us might have 'peeked' into a file that had our name on it; and, so we should not be too harsh on her, in our thoughts, words, or deeds. "However, a line was crossed when she lied about 4 other sitting judges, and then lied to to my face about about her curiosity to peek into the forbidden file." (Editor, Gordon W. Watts, speaking for himself)

County Judge Group 3 (Cir. 13)

In the 13th Judicial Circuit (Hillsborough County), another nonpartisan race to elect circuit judges, Robin Fernandez Fuson and Carl Hinson face off in the primary election.

County Judge Group 24 (Cir. 13)

In Group 24, another 13th Circuit judicial race, Isabel "Cissy" Boza-Sevelin; Gary Dolgin; Melissa Polo; and, Lanell Williams-Yulee compete for your vote this primary election.

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Sheriff (Polk County)

In the nonpartisan race for Sheriff in Polk County, Fla., Sheriff Grady Judd, the incumbent, faces, Michael Lashman, who qualified as a Write-In candidate. Both men have work experience in Law Enforcement.

Sheriff (Hillsborough County)

In the nonpartisan race for Sheriff in Hillsborough County, Fla., Sheriff David Gee, the incumbent, will apparently be reelected automatically: As of press time, his only potential opponent, Kevin S. Carrier, appears to have not qualified to run.

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POLK County Commissioner District 3

Bill Braswell and J.C. Martin, both Republicans, face each other in a Primary, which will be held on Tue. Aug. 30, 2016, but, unlike most other primary races this day, all voters will be allowed to vote: since no other parties put forth a candidate, this will be a "Universal Primary Contest," and open to all registered voters in this district. Due to a recent change in the Fla. State Constitution, Florida, which is normally a "closed-primary state," will allows all voters to participate in this primary. Both candidates are genuine Conservative Republicans and appear qualified, but J.C. Martin gets the nod, as there is an intangible outsider, anti-establishment quality. The Register endorses J.C. Martin for County Commissioner.

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POLK School Board Member District 1

Hunt Berryman, the incumbent; Dr. Franklin Edward "Mr. Ed" Shoemaker; and, Billy Townsend, a former Ledger assistant News Editor, are vying for this school board position. All 3 candidates seem qualified, but Townsend takes issue with the incumbent for alleged lack of oversight in the recent incidents related to former Superintendent, Kathryn LeRoy, which eventually resulted in her being replaced. Moreover, Townsend's campaign was recently seen with a huge banner sign on S. Fla. Avenue in south Lakeland, and then this writer discovered a small business card on his vehicle after a trip to the local southside Wal-Mart. While some may find this annoying, I (speaking only for myself) was impressed with the efforts that Townsend has put into his campaign. (And, he had a huge billboard to explain various tests that he claimed were excessive, in his speech at the Polk hobnob, discussed above.) Townsend has an intangible extra quality of effort & momentum, and would no doubt keep a watchful eye on the district (and has said he is OK with testing, so long as it is productive and not overdone), but Dr. Shoemaker, who has just recently completed his Ph.D in Psychology, and is a well-liked counselor, gets the nod: Ed has been a veteran of many political races, often running as an underdog or 3rd-party candidate. Not only has he, too, put in an impressive effort, but he has paid his dues, and gained much-needed experience for this often difficult job. The Register endorses Dr. Franklin Shoemaker, Ph.D. (aka Mr. Ed) for this school board position.

POLK School Board Member District 2

Rev. Ronnie L. Clark; incumbent, Lori Cunningham; Dr. Tim James; and, Dundee, Fla. businessman, Kevin J. Kitto, are are all 4 competing for this position. All four seem very qualified. Cunningham, the incumbent, has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering from USF, among other accomplishments. Dr. James, superintendent at New Direction Academy, a state-certified private school in Haines City, Fla., has his doctoral degree in education from Northcentral University. Kitto feels that he can use his business skills to keep the Polk School system running smoothly. However, Rev. Clark, who presides over Hurst Chapel AME Church, in Winter Haven, Fla., gets our endorsement: Not only has Clark previously been a school board member, but he seems to have the most compelling case: He has his Bachelor of Science in Education from FAMU, and he is working on his Masters in Theology at Payne Theological Seminary. More-importantly, Clark, who spoke with this writer, has excellent speaking & listening skills, and a solid grasp on deep theological subjects. But the most impressive things was the fact that Clark didn't mind discussing subjects (such as theological issues) that were undoubtedly a bit off-topic. He also has an impressively good grasp on the predatory lending system that will face his Polk School students once they reach higher education. As stated earlier, all the candidates seemed motivated & talented, but there can be only one: The Register endorses Rev. Ronnie Clark for this school board position.

POLK School Board Member District 4

The POLK County, Fla., Dist. 4 School Board races features 4 qualified candidates: Sara Beth Reynolds; Rebekah Ricks; County Commissioner, Ed Smith; and, Becky Troutman. That seat is being vacated by Dick Mullenax, who is currently serving his second four-year term (which expires 11/14/16) and is unable to run again because of term limits. Reynolds is a recent graduate from U.F.'s College of Journalism and Communications, has participated in many civic activities related to public education, and seems motivated & sincere. Ricks is a homeschool teacher and founder of The Homeschool Connection, which provided a physical location for teachers to tutor students. Troutman, a local businesswoman, is a school psychologist, and has public-ed experience, as a teacher and guidance counselor. Smith is a current Polk County Commissioner, and would no doubt try to "streamline government, create efficiencies and consolidate efforts without comprising service," in the school system, like tries to do in his current job. All 4 candidates are qualified, and a slight edge might go to Smith, who will have free time when his current job ends this November. However, Ricks' appearance as a higher-ed advocate is bolstered by her husband, whom this writer knows somewhat: Since he is known to be a genuine Conservative in all regards, the "coat tails" effect, here, effectively breaks the tie. This "non-traditional" means of breaking a tie is not without support from the actual record: Rebecca Ricks not only tutors students, but has also been a therapy aid to special needs children; has also done volunteer work for a local juvenile detention centre; and, with 15 years of experience as a teacher, Ricks has a solid Public Education record. All 4 candidates are solidly qualified, but the edge goes to Ricks: The Register endorses Rebekah Ricks for this school board position.

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Lake Region Lakes, Management District Seat 2

L. Tracy Mercer and Mark Remmel are competing for this nonpartisan position. [Note: Only voters who live in the Lake Region Lakes Management District can vote in this race.]

"Constitutional Amendment:

Article VII, Sections 3 And 4

Article XII, Section 34" Yes

No Solar Devices or Renewable Energy Source Devices; Exemption From Certain Taxation and Assessment Proposing an amendment to the State Constitution to authorize the Legislature, by general law, to exempt from ad valorem taxation the assessed value of solar or renewable energy source devices subject to tangible personal property tax, and to authorize the Legislature, by general law, to prohibit consideration of such devices in assessing the value of real property for ad valorem taxation purposes. This amendment takes effect January 1, 2018, and expires on December 31, 2037.

This would add a section to the Florida State Constitution to exempt taxation on the increased value that solar devices would add to personal property. (In other words, the tax assessor would have to treat the assessment as if the device did not exist.) This is good in 2 ways: First, it removes a penalty from those who would 'go solar' to protect the environment. Secondly, we are taxed way too much, as it is. The Register strongly recommends a 'Yes' vote on this popular proposed amendment.

REPUBLICAN State Committeewoman

Debbie Hannifan; Linda DeLozier Ivell; and, Tonya A. Sharrett-Shoemaker are running for this partisan position. Only registered Republicans can vote in this race. All three (3) candidates seem very qualified and genuine Conservatives. Hannifan's online posts suggest that she is strongly supportive of Conservative and Republican candidates, and is, herself, a true-North conservative. This writer personally knows Ivell, a local realtor, and knows of her dedication and commitment to making sure we do our job down to the fine details. I do not know Sharrett-Shoemaker, but I do know her husband, Dr. Ed Shoemaker. While Shoemaker may lack a bit of experience in political matters, I trust that she is a genuine Conservative. This is yet another example of the "coat-tails" effect, reputation by association, where Shoemaker benefits from her husband's good name & reputation. Shoemaker also has public-ed experience as a school teacher, which suggests that the coat-tails-effect tie-breaker is not without justification. While all 3 candidates are qualified, there can be only 1: NOTE : This race, and the one below, will both be on the Primary, not the general, election ballot. The Register endorses Tonya A. Sharrett-Shoemaker for REPUBLICAN State Committeewoman.

REPUBLICAN State Committeeman

J.C. Martin and Dr. Ed Shoemaker, both of whom are concurrently running for other positions (risky in the view of some, as it may be too much work) are also running for this partisan position. While both are certainly qualified, Dr. Shoemaker has the slight intangible edge in outsider, anti-establishment quality. The fact that his wife, Tonya, is also politically-involved, has a 'coat-tails' effect on his reputation, as well, giving him another slight, additional edge. The Register endorses Dr. Ed Shoemaker for REPUBLICAN State Committeewoman.

NOTE : In "Primary" day races in which there are 3 or more candidates seeking a nonpartisan position, the winner will be the person who gets a majority (at least 50% 'plus 1') of the vote. If no candidate receives the required "50% + 1 vote," a runoff election will be held on the General Election ballot. - Now, study the candidates, the issues, get plenty of sleep, and then go out and vote: Someone paid the price for this privilege. ~ Gordon Wayne Watts, Editor-in-Chief, The Register

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ADDENDUMS :

Below is Mr. Tager's response to my press inquiry about his views on the 'Fair Tax' and on the Higher-Ed issues discussed herein regarding his race for U.S. Representative (Dist. 12) against incumbant, Rep. Gus Bilirakis:

In a message dated 8/23/2016 11:41:54 A.M. Eastern Daylight Time, {Robert Tager} writes: When do you need a response by? I appreciate your credentials and your openness on your conservative views. I am asking about when you need my response by because I would like to provide you with a full answer and why the rationale, that businesses already get all the tax breaks, is incorrect. I am not against the entire bill. I can see the benefits of a flat tax, one that is fair. Please let me know when you need my response.

Thank you

Tager

In an undated response by Facebook, he clarified as follows:

Gordon Wayne Watts I understood that was not your rebuttal, but rather the rebuttal of the supporters [of the fair tax]. Just because it cuts red tape, does not make it good. I can find a way to cut the red tape from the IRS, simplify the tax code, and make it so the government collects the revenues it needs. It is not hard but there must be courage enough by everyone else to stand up to the special interests.

And, he followed up with a "regular" email:

In a message dated 8/23/2016 1:47:34 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time, {Robert Tager} writes: First let me say I do not oppose modifying our tax system, and I am not opposed to a flat tax. My objections to this bill are several. First, In response to the following , "This writer is not an expert on the Fair Tax, but one rebuttal to this argument has been that Big Business already gets tax breaks, and so this would do little, if anything, to give the rich additional breaks" I say this: The rebuttal fails because it presupposes that the Big Tax breaks given to "Big Business" and the "rich" are good for the economy, middle class, and the Country. If big tax breaks for Big Business and the Rich created jobs, as supply side economics, (a/k/a trickle down economics, voodoo economics), claims, [then] we would be a booming country right now. Look at where we are. Profits are at all time highs, Profit margins at all times high, CEO and Executive Salaries at all time highs, big business's are sitting on the largest pile of cash on hand as any time in history. Tax breaks are not needed for corporations to create jobs. They have plenty of cash. Interest rates are the lowest in history, and financing expansion is easily affordable. Financing is great because debt on company books has traditionally been seen as good and as a means of cash flow control, maximizing profits, as the interest is deductible, and they can keep their cash on hand to take advantage of new opportunities. Rather than borrow money, at no real expense, to expand and/or hire, Big Corporations with their activist Rich board members choose instead to borrow money for stock buyback. This does not create jobs, but it increases the Rich and Institutional Investors positions in companies without having to spend their own money. Anyway, the idea that by giving huge tax breaks, or allowing them to not pay any taxes at all or minimum taxes, is absurd and is one of the big drivers of our huge deficit. Aside from supply side economics, this position is fostered by the mistaken belief that taxes are punishment. If I hear one more time, "We should reward success and not punish it," I will puke. The reward from success is 1) the satisfaction of the accomplishment, and 2) the rewards wealth brings including multiple homes, homes on other continents, multiple cars, vacations, private jets, the best food, medical care, best education for children, ability to leave in death security for your family, the ability to allow money to work for them for income so they can pursue other interests, influence, and all the other things wealth brings. I am very successful and wealthy. I am alive, have great family, great kids, I love and am loved, and enjoy life, and I usually make enough to pay my bills and have some savings. I would argue that I am as successful as a billionaire that is miserable, but I still have to pay taxes. Tax avoidance or forgiveness is not a reward for success; it is the product of being rich and buying politicians. It is the product of bribery. So, the presumption that because they are now able to pay almost no taxes or minimal taxes because of the their influence, does not mean this supply side economic nightmare should continue or survive a new tax plan. As to what I dislike about the Fair Tax Plan I answer this way. It is not fair and is very, very dangerous. It eliminates Payroll tax, which means that social security and medicare is over. Now the plan that businesses report income and the amount for social security will be set aside from the consumption tax, is a joke. First hiccup in the economy, and consumption slows, social security will end, or the EPA and OSHA will end or other necessary programs, such as military spending will be affected. I can not help but wonder, if in 2008, when our economy tanked, if we were on such a plan, what would have happened? Tens of Millions lost their jobs, consumption shrank, and we crashed. Republican leadership voted against jobs bills which would have immediately kick-started the economy. On a flat tax, there would be no money for this in case of an emergency or unemployment extensions, and our deficit would explode. It also ends medicare. The Rich currently have to pay taxes on interest, capital gains, and dividends. This necessary income to the Government would end. I object to the Rich and Powerful, who make huge amounts of money from interest, dividends, and capital gains would pay ZERO taxes on that income, that currently they pay. There is no consumption tax on purchasing stocks, bonds, options, commodities, rental, and commercial real estate. The rich and powerful would be completely excluded from having to pay any taxes on their investment vehicles of choice. The only cost they would have would be the few dollars, ($5.00 at E-Trade), and, for this, they get a $10,000 credit. Now lets look at what everyone will be taxed on. Purchase of personal residence, (imagine 23% being added to the cost of a home). If they don't buy they, get to pay 23% tax on rent. There will be 23% tax on groceries, medicine, cars, gasoline, insurance (including health insurance), bus, taxi, trains, mass transit, plane tickets. Also electric, cable, water, gas, heating oil, propane, and all the necessities of life will be taxed at 23%. Imagine, each and every single thing that is bought day to day by the bottom 98% being taxed at 23%. We can barely make ends meet now, and now we are expected to pay 23% on top of everything. Who do you think this negatively effects more? Rich or Middle Class? This will also destroy the restaurant and entertainment industry. A meal at Chick Filet costs around $20.00 now. After this, it will cost $24.60. Oh, and lets not forget the extra taxes added to almost everything from Florida, and the extra penny here and penny there tax each county has. This 23% tax combined with Florida's 7% sale tax brings the actual tax to 30%, without including any of the other taxes. I also object to this plan because there are no caps in spending, so Congress can just keep spending, our rates just increase, and the rich only pay on what they buy. This is as regressive a tax as can be.

[[Editor's Note: An EpiPen®, described below, is an auto-injector of epinephrine, used by people with certain medical condition, and, for the emergency treatment of anaphylaxis, a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction, and, severe allergies , etc.  And, the 'CBO,' also mentioned below, is the Congressional Budget Office, a nonpartisan Federal agency within the Legislative branch of the United States government that provides budget and economic information to Congress.]]

The CBO has not scored this because the Republicans have not requested it be scored. Why don't you ask Bilirakis, who supports this to request his leadership have the CBO score it. Let's look at the business side. I will use the EpiPen as an example. It costs the company $1.00 to make. They gouge us with a price tag of $300.00. Currently they are supposed to pay tax on the profit, which considering nothing else would be taxable income of $299.00. Even at a 10% tax rate, that is $22.90 in taxes for the pen. Compare this with the consumption tax. [E.g., the Fair Tax] Under the consumption tax, the corporation would have to pay 23% on the $1.00 of consumables purchased to make the pen. (This assumes the consumables cost that much.) That is $0.23 per pen. Their profits are now $299.77, and that is after taxes. They still will not create new jobs or new industry. Let's look at the consumer side. Lets see, a house with two school age children. One pen for each, (300 x 2) $600.00 plus one pen for each to have at school, (300 x 2) another $600 for a grand total of $1,200.00. Now, let's add on the consumption tax. $1,200.00 (Four pens) plus $276.00 (23% tax equals $1476.00 total. That extra $276.00 in tax, keeps that family from saving, paying a bill, eating out, consuming. This family with two kids gets to pay an extra $276.00 for the pens so their kids won't die from an allergic reaction, but meanwhile the rich pay nothing on their earnings, and the corporation that made the pens paid $0.23 cents. Who does this tax plan benefit? Does it benefit the rich family, where an extra $276.00 in taxes for medicine will not effect their life style, or the middle class, where this tax of $276 is the equivalent of 27.6 hours of work at $10.00? It is just one more scam in a long line of scams, compliments of our congressman and the rest of the Party elites, who just do what they are told by their special interests rather than actually looking at the consequences. I am all for a simpler IRS code, and favor making it so small it can be billed by post card. But this is not the way to do it. This will destroy our economy, will destroy social security, medicare, the VA, and many of our necessary programs. I hope this answered you, and if not, please feel free to ask any more questions. There are many other problems with this bill, but this is just a snapshot. I am curious to see what your thoughts are. Oh, I am also not a tax expert, but it is obvious what this bill does, who it benefits, who it harms, and some of the many consequences. Robert M. Tager, Esquire

Tager Law Firm, P.A.

26133 U.S. Highway 19 N

Suite 202

Clearwater, FL 33763

(727) 723-1616

Editor's Note: Since Mr. Tager was kind enough to give The Register such a detailed answer, I owe him my analyses, thoughts, and feedback/suggestions as to what (if anything) should be done. * 1) First off, he made a superb effort, and this is impressive in light of the fact that he is busy working as an attorney (to pay bills) and running a campaign (which deals with more than just one press inquiry). * 2) Secondly, while he is an avowed liberal in many areas, Atty. Tager is willing to listen to other views, and work with us Conservatives, such as his willingness to admit that the Tax Code needs to be greatly simplified. He admitted that he is not entirely against H.R.25, the 'Fair Tax' bill, and admitted he "can see the benefits of a flat tax," a similar, if distinct topic, but another preference of many Conservatives. [The "Fair Tax" is a tax on consumption aka spending, whereas a "Flat Tax" is a flat-rate Federal Income tax, with the aim to make the I.R.S. much less complicated.] * 3) Now, let's look at the merits of what he says: a) He claims that it is false to assume that tax-breaks on Big Business & the rich are good things. While I am not a big fan of increasing taxes, he does make a good point. Even tho I am an avowed 'Conservative,' I do know for a fact that there is a widening wealth-gap, that is, the rich really are getting richer, and the poor really are getting poorer . So, is correct that a small increase in tax would not necessarily be deadly for the economy. However, my main beef (complaint) is not with the taxation, but rather with both spending excesses, as well as the protection the rich have. (They can repeatedly file for bankruptcy, get corporate welfare, aka bailouts, and then file for bankruptcy again, whereas the poor college student can not obtain bankruptcy discharge for an already-inflated principle cost of Tuition, not even counting interest & any late fees, except via "Undue Hardship," a nearly impossible standard.) I contend that if we reduce spending; reduce 'loan limits' for taxpayer-dollar-backed College Loans; and, finally, allow college borrowers to wield the 'Economic 2nd Amendment,' the sword of bankruptcy, a Conservative Free Market *check* against Predatory Lending, then -without a shadow of doubt- college tuition will drop to values that the Conservative Free Market can sustain. b) He says: "Tax avoidance or forgiveness is not a reward for success; it is the product of being rich and buying politicians." CORRECT, and the poor and unconnected College Student can not "buy" Loan Forgiveness, or even Bankruptcy rights that any drug-using Credit Card holder can enjoy! This is messed up. c) He then voices this concern: "First hiccup in the economy, and consumption slows, social security will end, or the EPA and OSHA will end or other necessary programs, such as military spending will be affected." ** This seems to be a valid point, but I would ask, is it not possible that a "hiccup" in the economy would not likewise affect income? (Consumption, e.g., spending, and income are tied together, since one must earn income in order to spend it.) Since both spending and earnings may "fluctuate" in different ways, it makes sense to me to have a combination of these 2 forms of taxes; therefore, maybe a combination 'Fair Tax' and 'Flat Tax' would be simpler and require less Bureaucratic Red Tape? d) Mr. Tager complains of 'added' taxation: "A meal at Chick Filet costs around $20.00 now. After this, it will cost $24.60," he says. Actually, I believe that H.R.25 has a sunset clause, in which it will "sunset" (cease to be law) if the 16th Amendment is not repealed to stop Income Tax. So, I respectfully dissent from Atty. Tager: The Fair Tax would *replace* (not supplement) the income tax. See also point 'c' just above: perhaps both Flat and Fair taxes could be used, but with each one being cut in half, so as to avoid overtaxing us. (Better yet, reduce spending, and be less greedy, all you rich, Establishment "fat cats" in both Democratics & Republican parties!!) e) Next, however, he raises a valid point about an illegal monopoly on the EpiPen, which is not unlike some prescription medications being sold at huge (obscene) profits, simply because the company holds a monopoly on the product. I have 2 things to say: First off, whether or not a company engages in an illegal monopoly (like U.S. Colleges are doing, in an unrelated higher-ed matter), what has this to do with the method or means of taxation? Secondly, last time I checked, U.S. Case Law held that a monopoly was quite illegal, and so this needs to be checked into. f) Lastly, he is honest enough to admit that he's not a tax expert (and neither am I). I appreciate his honesty, humility, & proper respect. But, it is possible that the Fair Tax might possibly be rather 'neutral' on changing the tax rates of the super rich and/or Big Business. (Perhaps, we should consult Tax Experts -on both sides of the issue- to get to the bottom of these concerns: Do the 'Fair Tax' or 'Flat Tax' benefit the rich any any extraordinary way) g) Mr. Tager is quite intelligent, and I'm surprised he doesn't have many thoughts on the higher ed mess; however, I admit that it took Alan Collinge several tries before I could "get" the concept that removal of bankruptcy for college loans resulted in higher tuition. (It does, since lenders prey on the weak, helpless, & defenseless, and price-gouge college students just trying to better ourselves -just trying to avoid being a McD burger flipper for the rest of their life.) I am interested to see Mr. Tager's thoughts on my replies above; and, I also hope Mr. Bilirakis replies; as well, I hope my own Congressman, Rep. Dennis A. Ross (R-FL-15th), acts on his stated beliefs, as described in the other, related, news story in the links below: * "A Polk Perspective: Fix our bankrupt policy on student debt," By Gordon Wayne Watts, Guest columnist, The Ledger, August 04, 2016 [Scanned image of print version: PDF * *.jpg image * Screenshot: PDF * *.png image * Cache: *.html webpage * PDF] * "Republican Congressman breaks with party, admits college loans deserve bankruptcy," By Gordon Wayne Watts, The Register, Published: Wednesday, April 13, 2016 at 12:34 p.m., -UPDATED: Wednesday, July 27, 2016 at 07:41 a.m. (EST-EDT) * mirror 1 cache * mirror 2 cache * mirror 3 cache * mirror 4 cache ~Editor, Gordon W. Watts