Random notes on a Monday morning before heading out the door...

--- I hate to begin on a sad note, but we lost actor Christopher Reeve yesterday at age 52. Best known for his role as "Superman", he became an advocate for spinal cord research after suffering a broken neck nine years ago during an equesterian competition. His voice, especially as the debate heats up over the pros and cons of stem cell research, will truly be missed.

And while on the subject, the late Mr. Reeve would be happy to know that according to a story in this morning's Lakeland Ledger, a detailed study by investigators at the University of Florida may serve as a road map leading to potential new treatments for spinal cord injuries.

--- Lakeland Ledger political columnist Bill Rufty focuses today on the laments of 12th District Congressional District Democratic candidate Bob Hagenmaier. While he did win the August primary, some within the Polk Democratic Executive Committee remain foursquare that they will not support this man any day, in any way. While many of his views are in line with standard Democratic party principles, some of his opinions on social issues have caused major concerns. A devout Roman Catholic, Hagenmaier is stedfast against abortion in all cases. He also opposes any type of civil unions for gays and lesbians which would give them equal protection under the law in areas such as insurance and hospital visitation.

Those opposed to Hagenmaier were so adamant, they were even opposed to printing a sample ballot with the names of Democratic candidates because it would include his name. It is a small group, but very vocal and very active within the organization.

While I have my own concerns about Mr. Hagenmaier, I can say: The other alternative is the Bush sheep dog, Republican incumbant Adam Putnam. Do we want four more years of "Red"??? HELL, NO!!!!!

--- The billboard fight goes on.

The billboard (uh, "outdoor advertising") industry is fighting tooth and nail to get back to where it was before the hurricanes, lobbying hard with local governments, the Florida Department of Transportation, and Jeb! with his band to allow those billboards that were destroyed as a result of the storms to be replaced.

The problem is that state law and many local ordinances mandate that when a billboard is damaged over 50 percent of it's worth it must be taken down. That means a LOT of billboards statewide thanks to Charley, Frances, Ivan, and Jeanne. Some smaller companies will be put out of business as a result.

On the billboard companies' side is Florida Tax Watch. The Ledger did a puff piece focusing on a Dundee billboard owner this morning.