A new future for Vermont

My name is Warren Roaf and this is my second in a series of letters I plan to write to explain my views as I run for the position of state representative in District 2.1. I am not a professional politician. I come to the race as someone who has a firm belief in democracy and faith in the citizens of Vermont.

I come to you as someone with a clear set of values, but an on open mind to new ideas as well. My values are based on my commitment to family, my belief in the value of education, and the principles set forth in the Constitution. I believe in freedom, liberty, a strong work ethic, honesty, respect for diversity, respect for property, and most of all respect for oneself.

My vision for Bennington and for Vermont is like an unfinished painting; I know where I want to go, but I know I will only get there if I have the support and ideas of my constituents to fill in the details. It should not take forever to be finished. When it is completed it will be a masterpiece created by all of us.

Some may ask, "Where do you want to take us?" There are many goals I plan to achieve, but to start with I want to hold government to the promises it makes. Ten years ago Central Vermont Public Service received a $21 million bailout with a promise that the money would be returned if the company merged or was sold. Now, the governor wants to tax the ratepayers. Instead of a repayment (about $150 per household), we are told the money will be used by the new company to invest. Every Vermonter I know understands that a promise is a promise. Why can’t the government understand that basic principle?

While I am on the subject of taxes, did you know that the tax department wants to create a 6 percent sales tax on "cloud computing services?" Can you imagine paying for the right to book a flight or reserve a hotel room? The Internet has become a life line of communication for people in our state and it must remain free. Tourism is a major source for income in Vermont; we need to create supports not obstacles to increase the revenue it can provide.

As I have said before, a representative needs to communicate and act. Please consider voting for me when you go to the polls in November and send any ideas you have to complete our masterpiece to whroaf@gmail.com

WARREN ROAF

Bennington Words and ‘Obamacare’

Well, we found out the power of words. If the word "fine" is used the issue is dead in it’s tracks. But if fine is changed to "tax" the issue is off and flying.

Justice Roberts is taking a lot of heat because of his vote on Obamacare, but his vote might just give Romney a path to the White House. If Obamacare had been shot down it would be off the radar and given Obama more time to concentrate on the economy. As it is he will be on the defensive until election day. Sixty percent of the voters do not want Obamacare. The only way it can be repealed is for the Republicans to have the White House and Congress.

Roberts’ vote will energize Republicans, independents and even many Democrats to get out the vote to shoot this monstrosity down and give Obama a pink slip.

Most business, economists and we the people agree that raising taxes in a bad economy will only make things worse. If Obama is re-elected we are in for the biggest tax hike in the history of our country. If this Obamacare stands it will be on the backs of our children and grandchildren for years to come and the tax will mostly effect the middle class.

All this after Obama promised no tax increase of any kind if his Obamacare becomes the law.

BOB WILLARD

Bennington