Here’s an interesting shot from the Daily Herald Editorial Board in last Sunday’s paper:

And Utah Democrats can also be heavy-handed. For example, a new Democratic radio ad intones: “Bribery, intimidation and corruption. These are the words of spy novels. Now they’re being used by the local media to describe Utah’s legislative leaders.”

That’s slimy. The media are only reporting on charges made by Democrats — charges that often turn out to be flimsy or politically motivated. Democrats have tried to deny that their ethics drive is politically motivated, but this new ad calls that into question.

Democrats have also been harping on the vouchers battle of last year. That issue is over and done with. At the very least, it was the Republicans’ effort at bringing more money into the education system. Going on about vouchers may just prod voters into asking Democrats, “What would you do better?”

It’s not clear they have a good answer for that ­– on education or anything else.

Republicans have powerful arguments on their side, including a good track record running the state. Utah has been ranked the best-managed state in the country in its fiscal management. With many other states running billions of dollars in the red, Utah has balanced its budget and still has money in the kitty as we head into a rocky economic time.

At such a moment, voters might be willing to overlook some of the things that irk them in better times and focus on the talents, experience and toughness needed when the economy stumbles. If the GOP can convey such a message, it might be able to keep its dominant role in Utah Valley.

For the full editorial…click HERE.

It’s true!  I’m an options guy.  I like to have choices.  KitKat…no…Snickers…no…hmmm…Almond Joy!  Ya that’s it, that’s the ticket.  I’m like that with most things in my life.  Including the ability for my wife and I to make the best decision for my children when it comes to their educational opportunities.

My oldest daughter attends USU.  She could have made it into BYU no problem…but she, and we, decided USU.  My oldest son attends at the PG High School.  He’s getting a great education!  3.9 GPA this last term (update: 10-29-08 kevin said his grade is actually a 4.0 now)…that’s my boy!  Son number two…Lincoln Academy, a public charter school in north PG…he loves it there.  And, our not so much “baby” any more,  John Hancock Charter School.  Four kids, four schools.  Phew!

Lots of choices and parental decisions.  Whether you’ve chosen a private school, home school, traditional public school, or public charter or on-line school, I’ll support you.   These are your decisions.  And, Utah’s educational system has them ALL!

That’s why I’m a little confused when people (my opponent) go around my neighborhood telling people my legislative record is “non-supportive” of Public Education.  What?

Let’s review the facts:

• I voted FOR teachers’ pay increases in 2008 to the tune of $1700 per teacher.  In 2007, I voted FOR the $2500 per teacher raise and the $1000 one-time bonus.  These budget increases represent a two year salary increase of $4200 per teacher (on-going).
• I voted FOR increased compensation for teacher’s supplies and materials reimbursement.
• I voted FOR a number of proposals giving teachers who are looking to increase their earning potential, merit and differential pay tracks.
• I voted FOR increased public education spending by $240M in 2006, $489.5M in 2007, and $440M in 2008.  That’s $1.17B (Billion) in new money for public education over a three year period.  Total price tag in 2008 for the State’s portion of public education was $2.686B (Fed + State = $3.681B)
• I voted to hold public education “HARMLESS” during the 2008 Special Session.  Every other department and division of state government recieved 4%-6% budget cuts.
• I voted FOR student enrollment growth, I voted FOR new technology upgrades throughout the state’s 40 districts (41, including the new Canyons District) and charter schools.
• I have carried the legislation (School Fee Amendments) for the last three years that would eliminate parents’ need to pay academic related fees for classes reuired for graduation.  Link HERE for YT video.  This legislation has been supported by the Utah State School Boards’ Association and the State School Superintendants’ Association.
• I have actively participated in the further development and support of Public Charter Schools throughout the state.  (Remember…I’m an options guy?!)

Come to think of it…I can’t remember if I’ve ever voted AGAINST a significant public education proposal (worth considering).  So, why is it the UEA hasn’t endorsed me?  Link HERE.

My guess…I’m an options guy!

“Ethics Reform” appears to mean different things to different people…as indicated by a number of conversations I’ve had with constituents over the past several weeks.  Some constituents are concerned about the “back stabbing” often reported in the media, while others believe reform should be limited to “gifting” to elected officials.

Whatever the case, the legislature has made a number of attempts to “tighten” the reigns on definition and disclosure.   SB246 (2007 General Session) made more restrictive financial disclosure and reporting requirements for both contributors and elected officials.  Link HERE to SB246…sponsored by two Republicans.

Also, interesting to note is that “Ethics Reform,” commonly referred to as a “republican problem,” seems to be a bi-partisan issue according to some news outlets.  Link HERE for Deseret News article. 

Even Senator Patricia Jones (D-SLC) was reported by the Deseret News to have taken “unreimbursed tickets” to a Billy Joel concert (she later commented in the article that she would pay the full ticket price back to the provider).  $388 to see the piano man…are you kidding?!  Good thing…Pat Jones put her “John Hancock” on the new ethics reform pledge with several other reformer lawmakers.  Click HERE for Deseret News article.

Ultimately the People decide whether their elected officials are living up to their expectations.  If your elected official is screwing up…vote the bum out!  You’ve got seven days to make up your mind.

Link HERE for Lt. Governor’s Financial Disclosure site.  Afterall, you’ll want to make an informed decision…right?!

For those of you wondering about the Ballot Amendments for next Tuesday’s Election…

Here’s a great link to the Senate Site for a two sentence explanation of “B” thru “E”

Click HERE

Embedding a Picasa web album to see what it will look like on the site.