Keeping the community informed of local issues is a long standing American tradition. Our most famous publisher was Benjamin Franklin. At the age of twelve, Ben Franklin first began to learn the business of printing the truth. In 1728, at the age of twenty-two, Ben opened his own printing office in Philadelphia. His most famous publications were a newspaper called The Pennsylvania Gazette and his annual Poor Richard's Almanac. He believed in the power of the press, using his printing press as a way to bring the news to all people. He used cartoons and pictures so that everyone could understand the news, even people who had not learned to read. In keeping with his ideology we bring you community news.

Florida Remains Under Quasi-Martial Law

Immediately following September 11th Governor Jeb Bush issued an executive order that in effect puts the State into a quasi form of martial law. Under the guise of terrorism Bush's order allows the National Guard to become involved in civil-disturbances. This could be extended to those who may form rallies to protest his policies. In addition he uses this executive order to enlist the service of the National Guard to counter drug operations, in effect he is turning the National Guard into a branch of the Federal Drug Enforcement Agency, a step that could place the Guard under the control of the Federal Government, thus usurping State's rights. In addition, because the executive order's sunset clause is scheduled for June 30, 2003 Bush could in effect enforce this executive order to retain the governorship until June 30, 2003. Read the full text of the executive order...

Joe Redner Reveals his True Image

TAMPA - Joe Redner, is stepping out and showing the community a portrait of himself that the general media has often neglected.

Redner produced 10 testimonial ads, featuring everyone from his water bottle supplier to mayoral candidate Don Ardell, to show that he is more than just an honest businessman. He always pays his bills on time, private eye Angel Alfonso says in one ad. He runs a clean business, Richard L'Esperance of Arctic Air and Refrigeration says in another.

"He's not afraid to stand up for what he believes," bottled-water supplier Lou Savinetti says.

"I'm trying to get some respect," Redner said. "It's important to me what people think of me. I am a public figure."

Ardell said he only recently met Redner but has admired the outspoken businessman for sometime. He was thrilled to do the testimonial. "I was flattered that he asked," Ardell said. "I think he has done some superb things in this community."

A world-champion age group triathlete, Ardell said he admires Redner's commitment to physical fitness. Redner owns Extreme Fitness in south Tampa, and he is a strict vegan, a vegetarian who eats no animal products. In his ad, Ardell describes Redner as a courageous community leader.

"While he's no saint, he certainly is the kind of citizen we all might consider emulating," Ardell says. "We need people who care about and stand for good values, and he has been a champion in that regard."

Ardell acknowledged that describing Tampa's staunchest defender of lap dancing, as an example of good values probably won't help him get elected. "I think Joe's defense of the First Amendment and personal freedom is admirable," Ardell said.

Activist Sends Letter Protesting Government Censorship

To stop funding for Public Access Television Stations due to one program is upsetting. The right of the people to be able to have Free Speech is a right given to everyone according the United State Constitution and the Bill of Rights. These rights should be supported and protected by all elected government officials.

Commissioner Ronda Storms insatiable attempt to censor public access because she dislikes one program is reprehensible. Her persistence to censor speech has brought her disdain from all sectors of the community, including local newspaper editorials; faith based organizations, free speech organizations as well as television news agencies.

Storms zealousness has even brought her with discord with the County Attorney citing that office has a personal vendetta towards her, because they cannot find any law broken is ridiculous. Storm's reactions are childish and show a lack of professionalism.

There are many more important issues that need the county commissioner's attention. The fact that code violations within the county are out of control causing families to be put out on the street with no responsibility by the Hillsborough County Administration that is suppose to protect and enforce housing codes is unacceptable. The trash and abandoned cars that litter many neighborhoods, the amount of abandoned homes left unsecured allowing drugs and prostitution to bread in neighborhoods.

Additionally, there are many programs funded by Hillsborough Country, that are required to purchases office material and supplies from companies that have contracts with the county at a higher price than on the open market is another more important problem that should be addressed.

It is my hope that Ms. Storms will stop this frivolous attack on Free Speech and begin to work with her colleagues on issues like healthcare, roads, code enforcement… issues to fix community problems that affect the entire population rather then imposing her personal religious beliefs.
(By Pete D. Johnson, North Tampa Crime Watch and Civic Association)

Rep. Chris Hart, IV Announces Retirement from Florida House of Representatives

Rep. Chris Hart IV, first elected to the Florida House in 1998, has announced he will not seek re-election in the 2002 elections. Rep. Hart also serves as chair of the Hillsborough County Legislative Delegation and will continue his duties in both capacities through the November elections.

In making the announcement, Rep. Hart indicated that his family (wife Amy with whom he will celebrate their 10th anniversary later this month, 6-year-old Maddie, and 3 year-old Charlie) were his paramount consideration in making the decision not to run. He is also involved in a 2-year-old business venture to which he wants to devote additional time.

Rep. Hart first became part of the Hillsborough Legislative Delegation when he served as senior legislative assistant to former state Senator John Grant and became the first Hillsborough legislative assistant to later be elected to the Florida Legislature.

Rep. Hart said, "It's been a great 4-year run, and I'm proud of the great people in House District 57 whom I've served as well as my record on their behalf. But, my family is my center, and I'm coming home to my family and to Tampa to stay." Rep. Hart is the son of County Commissioner Chris Hart III.