I took a bit of time today to work in my shop. Brought another lawn mower back to life, saving it from the scrap heap or the dump. Buying new items may be satisfying to some, but reviving something others have given up on really gives me a feeling of accomplishment. Taking a logical, step by step, approach to solving problems works just as well for organizational issues as it does for a piece of machinery. Have a wonderful evening!!

Why so complicated? 

I saw what I thought could be better, the way our PUD helps our less fortunate neighbors. I know I have the qualifications and experience to truly make a difference. As I did the research into the operation of PUDs, and ours in particular, I found more and more issues that I felt I could help resolve through a positive, teamwork approach.

I stepped forward, ready to commit the next six years of my life, my energy, my experience, my commitment, my heart, if you will, to giving back to my community through my service as a PUD Commissioner. 

I am not a politician, never have been, never will be. I am just a person who has spent much of his life serving my community. As time passes and Election Day approaches, I must admit that, at times, I wonder if that is enough. I watch those more versed in the political arts doing what they do, knowing that at least some of their tactics are just not something I could do without compromising my ethics. They are basically good people, but doing whatever they have to do to get elected.

If you feel that I would be the one that could best represent and serve you as a PUD Commissioner, I would really appreciate your help; first, and foremost, your vote. If you agree with me on the issues, tell your friends and family.

It has always been easy for me to give help but not to ask for it. Aside from contributions from two friends, we have paid the costs of this campaign out of our savings. As the election approaches, paid advertising, which is very expensive, may mean the difference at the poles.

I need your help, every dollar would be appreciated and go a long way.

Thank you!!!!
Tony & Sherry De Leo

Please make checks out to:
De Leo for PUD
P O Box 1534
Port Hadlock WA 98339

Re the Local 2020 Power Lunch Program

I have attended several of these and found them quite informative. I would encourage the PUD Board to support this program at the full $1,000.00 level. If elected, I would vote to to fund these events so long as the organizers would submit supportive financial statements.

As for access to these presentations in other areas of the District, the programs are video recorded and links to them could be included on the PUD website so all may benefit.

This is an excellent way for the customers of our PUD to keep current on energy and climate issues, including PUD and BPA programs, and fits legally within the public education component of state law covering PUD expenditures.

(Comment from Rick Wiley, Facebook, Sept. 26 )
"An even better idea, lower the rates so those people you speak of are better able to handle. When you mandate that every body pay more to help the bottom rung you are in effect doing nothing more than raising the height of the bottom rung making it harder for even MORE "customers"."

Rick,

Thank you for raising this point
As I would like to see the PUD assistance program for our low-income neighbors, there would be two groups.
Group one would be those who would probably require assistance on a long-term basis such as low-income seniors and the disabled, those who may not recover from their current financial crisis.
The other group would be made up of those who would normally be able to pay their bill, but, due to loss of job, serious illness or injury or other similar occurrence, cannot, at this time, pay their bills and would receive assistance for a short time, until they get back on their feet..
The assistance, for both groups, would be a reduction in their power bill, the amount of which would be tied to their income level. There would be a rather extensive process to qualify these folks for the discount and they would be required to routinely provide updates to the PUD on their current financial condition, which would be confirmed by PUD staff.
For those who have, or can get, the funds to pay their bill but choose to use the money for other than necessities, would, like the rest of us, only receive power as long as they pay for it.
I would work to coordinate the PUD assistance program with the Energy Efficiency Incentive Program, offered in conjunction with the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA). This would pay for improving the efficiency of their home’s insulation, electrical devices and electric heating system. The BPA would fund part of the upgrades with the remainder to be paid by the homeowner, possibly using a special low interest loan program such as is currently offered by Clallam County PUD. This would reduce their electricity use (conservation) and would help them to be able to pay their own power bill, without assistance.
Coordination of benefits and the sharing of information sharing between the PUD and other agencies and organizations, providing aid, would result in more efficient programs and reduce duplication of assistance and abuse of assistance offered.
As to lowering the electric rates for everyone, our PUD Commissioners and staff have worked hard to keep the charges as low as possible, but, like any other business or service, they have to charge enough to cover the cost of providing power.

Good Afternoon everyone,

People have been asking more frequently for my PUD campaign signs so we just ordered more. We will have plenty, so, if you or anyone you know, would be willing to have one of these signs in your yard or property, please let us know and will come by and put one up.

Thank you!!!
Anthony F. (Tony) De Leo
360 385-6335
DELEO4PUD@gamil.com

They are all winners 
 
“As long as you do your best, give it all you have, you are a winner.”

I attended the Oyster Run in Quilcene today. The weather was beautiful, the event was festive and well organized, and there were so many winners. To me, everyone who steps up to the starting line is a winner, the only ones who do not win are those who do not get into the race.

There was a kid’s dash before the big race. Only two youngsters signed up, but, when the horn sounded, they gave it all they had. It was truly inspiring!!!

The weather, the event, so many things this morning, resulted in a bit of self-assessment. I have decided to loose some weight and start training for next season. No, I will never be in the front of the pack, at least, not after the horn sounds, but, as long as I can toe that line, do my best and keep at, I, too, will be a winner, no matter where I finish, as long as I finish.

This was a good day after all.
Thanks for your support

I have always tried to be a person with high ethical standards, one who says what I thinks while being respectful at all times.

When I interact with people, I try to see the good in them and trust that they will conduct themselves in an honorable manner, that is, until they prove otherwise.

Tonight, I have found out, again, that, my trusting nature can be taken advantage of. Someone I considered to be a friend and adviser has proved that you must not let yourself be as open and trusting as I would like to be.

I will not allow this event to change who I am or how I relate with others. It will, possibly, make me a bit more cautious when choosing whom I will call my friend.

But at what cost, and who pays?

“Great deeds can be the result of small deeds done by many.”

Later last night, the thought that many might ask how we could pay for the increase in the PUD support program for our less fortunate neighbors. In this troubled economic times, when each dollar comes harder but buys less, we should be asking these questions.

My thought, for the PUD energy assistance fund would be to add a dollar, just one dollar, to the base rate for power, raising it from the current $7.49 to $8.49. With just over 18,500 bills going out, that one dollar per month would collect around $220,000.00 a year to help those truly in need so they could stay warm and have lights this winter.

Heat and lights are what come to mind when we think of the loss of electricity. There are other impacts to consider. If the family uses a well for water, they loose water. They can no longer keep fresh food with no power for the refrigerator. If you have an electric hot water heater, there would be no hot water so personal hygiene and cleaning is nearly impossible. With no way to wash and dry clothes at home, so you would have to go to a Laundromat, but those are expensive, not in your small budget either.

The most frightening, as if the other issues were not enough, is that, without electricity, people would have to use candles for light, a significant fire hazard and limited light, especially for our seniors, presents a trip and fall concern. If they heated with electricity, other means must be used and many of them, such as portable fuel-powered heaters, can be hazardous to their health and possibly even fatal. These can also increase the chances of a house fire.

The John E. Lewis quote seems appropriate: If not us, then who? If not now, then when?”

It is barely fall but we can start to feel a bit of a chill in the night air, a prelude to things to come in the next few months. My wife and I are fortunate as we have our small, modest but warm home and enough to make our bills and pursue a hobby or two.

As winter approaches, my mind and heart go out to our less fortunate neighbors, the ones whose financial condition may result, at some time this season, in the loss of their electrical power, lights and, maybe even the ability to keep their family warm as the temperatures drop.

At times, as thoughts linger of the troubles that may lie ahead for these folks, a Garth Brooks song “The Ones the Wolves Pull Down” runs through my mind. The Power Boost program is a start but is not nearly enough to fill the needs. Our PUD, in conjunction with other agencies and organization, needs to step up and take decisive action in developing a more substantial, proactive assistance program.

Our low-income seniors, the ones who worked their entire life, should not suffer from the cold for lack of ability to pay the power bill. Those with disabilities should not fear the cold weather or being plunged in darkness due to a disconnect. Our working poor should not be forced to choose between being able to buy their children needed school supplies or being able to keep the lights on so they can do their homework.

The need is here, all around us, and I want to be your next PUD Commissioner so I can be the voice of those who cannot make it without our help and work toward making the lives of these people a bit better, showing the spirit that makes this place, our home, so special.

Thank you and may you stay warm tonight, and all nights.
Tony

Turn you back, count to ten...

"What works well in some situations doesn't, necessarily, work as well in others"

Tonight was the League of Women Voters / AAUW / Leader candidate forum in Port Townsend.  There was a large turnout and lots of great questions.  I, unfortunately, was still feeling the effects of a rather nasty tummy bug I awoke with yesterday morning.  Of all nights to be off my game.

While serving as Fire Chief for Port Ludlow, many years ago, I attended Command School, presented by Washington State Fire Service Training section of the State Fire Marshall's Office.  During one session, a rather crusty old chief, with many years experience, told us that, at least once in your career, you will arrive upon the scene of a  large working fire or mass casualty incident and you will find yourself totally overwhelmed.  His suggestion, turn your back to the scene, count slowly to ten, then turn and take command of the situation.  This will give you the opportunity to refocus your thoughts.

That suggestion flashed through my mind this evening as the mild illness-induced fog took hold.  I quickly decided that the audience would probably not understand if I turned my back to them and started counting.  Fortunately, about half way through the question and answer section, the fog cleared or, at least, I was able to refocus and push onward.

To those attending tonight's forum, I apologize for being, at least to me, a bit disorganized in my answers.  I hope you will be able to attend another forum when I am more my focused, quick witted, self.

Thanks for your support
Tony

Taken during the recent Quilcene parade.

The cost of the campaign

"When you are fully committed to a quest, no sacrifice , other than your ethics and honor, is to high a price to pay."

As the days since I filed for PUD Commissioner pass, I feel the changes in me that this pursuit has caused.  Before the campaign, I would drive down the road, enjoying the roadside scenery.  Now, instead of seeking nature's beauty, I find my self searching for good places for yard signs.

As the date for a candidate's forum approaches, I run my mental tapes of past debates, wondering why I said this or didn't say that.  My mind toggles between what I have said in the past and what I will say during the next opportunity to speak to a gathering of voters.

I balance the perceived need to spend more on such as newspaper ads, better handouts, all the other expenses of a campaign, against how much of our savings I am willing to invest (or risk) to win the opportunity to serve you, my neighbors, family and friends, as their new PUD Commissioner.

What has not changed in me is my commitment to retaining my honor and ethical standards, regardless of how this may affect my chances for election.  I will not make promises I cannot keep nor will I attack my opponent.  After all, he may have his faults and weaknesses, but so do I!

At times, during the night, instead of sleep, I find myself working on how to better provide for the needs of our neighbors in financial crisis.

In addition to the campaign, I attend all meetings related to the PUD operations to assure that I will be able to be effective on my first day in my new position with the PUD.  I continue to do research on issues related to power and water utilities, climate change and its potential impacts, as well as related state and federal laws.

I still continue of perform my duties as a Hospital Commissioner, as committed to Jefferson Healthcare's success as ever.  I continue to work toward making sure that all of our county's residents receive the highest quality, safest medical service possible, while assuring that our less fortunate neighbors can still receive needed medical care.  In these efforts, I find fulfillment.

Regardless of the choice the voters make in November, I will continue to serve as your Hospital Commissioner, which if find to be as challenging and, at the same time, rewarding, even after 40 years.   Should you choose me to represent you on the PUD Board, I will commit to this position as I have to my current hospital position.  Being retired, I have the time and energy to do both successfully. 

I must admit, I will be glad when the votes have been counted and I can, hopefully, get to the work   with the other commissioners and PUD staff, to build on what has been accomplished, and make our PUD the best in the state.
Thanks
Tony

An evening on  the road

"Take advantage of  every opportunity to present yourself to those you wish to reach"

Last night was the candidate forum in Brinnon, sponsored by the Brinnon Booster Club.  It has been some time since I had been in their building, in fact, last time I was there, the volunteer fire department was still based there.  As was in so many small communities, when you needed the hall for a function, just park the trucks out front.   Now, where aid cars and fire trucks once waited, ready to respond, a theater has been set up for local productions.

The format for the forum was a bit different last night.  Usually, the candidates for each office introduce themselves, then field questions from the audience, finally closing with a few remarks.  Last night, all 12 candidates, in turn, introduces themselves and made opening remarks, after all had made their presentation, the floor was opened for questions to any of the candidates.  There were no closing statements.

Last night I tried something new.  During previous forums, I said what was on my mind and in my heart, but thought I was running out of allotted time before I covered everything.  I tried using notes last night, won't do that again, just not me, not the free flow that, I feel, better allows people to see the real me.

Tonight, I will be attending the Jefferson County Democrat general meeting at the Rec Center.  I am running for a non-partisan office and have not party affiliation.  I see this as a room filled with voters, not members of either party.  I have been  told that I will not have the opportunity to speak, but I will be there to meet and greet those attending.

Wednesday evening, 7PM, will, again, be at he Rec Center for the League of Women Voters, Leader and American Association of University Women sponsored candidate forum.  This will be for District 24 state legislature and Jefferson County PUD candidates.

I hope to see you at one of these forums.  If you cannot attend one, please give me a call and we can meet and talk about the future of our  PUD.
Thanks
Tony
360 385-6335 (home)

Good evening,

I participated the the Quilcene parade today.  It was a lot of fun though quite short.  I walked with my push cart displaying my campaign signs, equipped with duel air horns.  I enjoyed the morning and afternoon, the small town sense of community reminded me of the Port Townsend in which I grew up.

Lunch was served by the students from Quilcene vocational cooking program,.  This seems to be a well run portion of the curriculum for their school system.  Congratulations!

I met some wonderful people in this part of our county and saw some old friends.  Tomorrow, back to on the campaign trail.

Have a wonderful evening!
Tony

What is the difference between...?

"If you do not like what is going on, either do something about it or keep quiet, don't just sit there and gripe!!!"



As we were returning home this evening, I asked myself a question:

What is the difference between me and a politician?

The list is quite lengthy.  I have known some in politics who have managed to maintain their grasp on reality and have kept their personal ethics intact.  Far too many who pursue a career in politics, unfortunately, lose both.

Many start with lofty goals and plans to make this world a better place.  To initially gain office, most will make campaign promises, occasionally stretch the truth, and frequently loose focus on the issues, instead homing in on their opponent's weaknesses and mistakes.

After they win the election and take office, one of the first things on their political To-Do list is start campaigning to get re-elected or, it they are truly ambitious, start working on moving up the political food l chain to a higher office.

I have served as an elected Commissioner for Jefferson County Public Hospital District No. 2 (dba Jefferson Healthcare) since 1973, now over 40 years.  During that time, I have never considered the idea of running for an office higher in the political mechanism and the only time the idea of my re-election comes to mind is the shortly before I need to file to keep my office.  I choose, instead, to direct my attention to the business of the District.

Actually, in retrospect, many, MANY, years ago I did run for Jefferson County Commissioner.  This was not motivated by political ambition, but by one of my basic philosophies:  If you do not like what is going on, either do something about it or keep quiet, don't just sit there an gripe!!!  In case you were wondering, I did not win.

And that mindset, my friends, is why I am now running for the office of PUD Commissioner.  I saw the frequent articles in the local press about our less fortunate neighbors having their power disconnected and I felt that there must be something that could be done.

To those who may ask, I am as committed to the health of our citizens, and the provision of the highest possible quality healthcare within our county, as I have ever been.  Part of that commitment is to assure that even our most financially disadvantaged neighbors will still receive needed healthcare.

Whether you, the voters, decide to give me this new opportunity to serve you as your new PUD Commissioner or not, I will continue my duties as a Hospital Commissioner.  Now that I am retired, I have the time, commitment and energy to devote to both!!

Thank you for bearing with me through this long blog!!!
Tony

There is hope

 "Our youth are the hope and the promise for tomorrow."

Long day for PUD related meetings; Energy lunch from 12-1:30, then a session with the "Students for Sustainability" from PT High School.  These motivated, concerned young people expressed themselves and their commitment to the environment so well that they restored my faltering opinion of the younger generation.

Then an extended PUD Board meeting started at 4 for a "meet and greet" session for questions and answers.  The regular meeting started at the regular time, 5PM, running until nearly 7.  Topic of discussion, for the most part, was the initial report on the cost of service study done by EES, a consulting firm hired by the Board, and its possible impact on our PUD.

I raised my concern that the companies, hired by the Board,  to manage the energy conservation incentive programs, seemed to not be producing as specified in their contracts.  Jim Parker, PUD manager, said he would look into it.  I know he already has, like most of the PUD staff, too many duties, but I know he will follow through on this, he always has.

Sleep comfortably tonight, knowing that our PUD will make sure you have electricity and water for you when you awake!

Tony

We now have yard signs!  If you would like to support my efforts to serve you as your new PUD Commissioner, let me know and I will drop one by.  I will even, personally, install it.
Thanks for your support!
Tony & Sherry

Good Evening all

Tonight was the candidate's forum for Marrowstone Island residents.  Great turnout and great food (potluck prior to forum).  This was well attended and some great questions were answered.

Due to one question, I will have to do some additional research and confirm some numbers I had.

Tomorrow is Power Lunch, noon @ PT Rec Center.  PUD Board meeting will be there as well, part of their "road trip" meeting plan.  It will start at 4PM for a meet and greet followed by the regular meeting at 5PM.

Come and learn how your PUD is run.
Thanks
Tony

Preparing for tomorrow evening

"No matter how much you may prepare your presentation, the best still comes from your heart, unscripted."

Tomorrow evening (Monday), I will travel to Marrowston Island to take the opportunity to speak before the Marrowstone Island Community Association, 7PM, at the Nordland Garden Club. 

I am still going over the initial cost of service report from EES, the consultants hired by the PUD Board.  It appears there are some items of concern have been identified.  I will work on this more and maybe meet with Jim Parker for his take on the it.

I will speak, wherever and whenever, to share something of myself and my concerns about and my ideas for improvement of our PUD.

If you or anyone you know, would like to meet with me and discuss PUD, please, just let me know and we can pick a time and place.

Thanks
Tony
360 385-6335
DeLeo4PUD@gmail.com

The cool night air

 "Concern and conversation can make ourselves and others aware of an issue, but it takes action to resolve it."

As fall approaches, the coolness of the evening air reminds us that winter is approaching.  When we turn on the lights to push back the lengthening darkness and crank up the heat for our comfort, we must keep our less fortunate neighbors in our minds and hearts.

The Energy Boost program is a start, but I do not feel that the voluntary donations from a few caring individuals will provide the needed support to prevent the suffering created last winter by the power disconnects due to not being able to pay.

Action needs to be taken, now, to build up the level of funding that will be needed to help those who have truly fallen on hard times.  Help should be available for those to whom fate has dealt a loosing hand, whether it be due to illness, injury or loss of a job.  I do not support giving assistance to those who find better uses for their money than paying their bills or those who won't try to help themselves.

The support should be short term, allowing those receiving it a chance to catch up.  There will be a few cases in which circumstances will require longer term help, such as low-income seniors and those with disabilities.

If elected, I would work toward a coordinated, efficient assistance program, managed by our PUD, one of my highest priorities.

Thanks and stay warm!
Tony

A sign (actually several)

I now have my yard signs.  These have  just arrived from the printer.  These are new, the lack time and their low cost  guided me in this decision.  I still hope to recycle the pre-used signs at a later time, but, I need to get my name out there in front of the voters.  I have a couple of people who want the signs and I will get them distributed.  Anyone who has a good location for signs, please let us know.
DeLeo4PUD@gmail.com

I priced pre-made four foot long stakes against purchasing the lumber and making my own.  Do it yourself won out so I spend part of the afternoon ripping and pointing stakes.  After all, "a penny saved..."

I  received my second campaign contribution and I cannot say thank you enough.  Those dollars will go a long way help pay the growing expenses for my run for the PUD Commission seat.

I also ordered buttons, but, due to a shipping label error, they are now somewhere in Bremerton, the victim of Fedex "Smartpost".  I have been assured that they will eventually arrive here, hopefully before the election.

I will have to miss the PUD budget workshop tomorrow (Wednesday) as I had a previously scheduled meeting for the same time.  I have arranged to receive a briefing on the material at a later date.

Thanks for your support!
Tony

Quick update

"Sometimes, the doing is more important than the telling."

A special PUD Commission meeting was held on Tuesday for a presentation by the team from NoaNet, the organization that is responsible for fiber optic lines being installed in our county.  It was quite interesting and now I understand a bit more about the relationship between NoaNet and our PUD, but, I must admit, there are a couple of details I still need to research further to understand.

Our PUD can provide fiber optic service, together with NoaNet, such public facilities such as schools and libraries.  They can also sell wholesale service to commercial ISP (internet service provider) companies who can then sell service to local businesses and residences.  Our PUD cannot provide service directly to you.  Whether you can have high speed fiber optic internet service to your home or business depends on the business plan of your ISP provider, such as Wave, CenturyLink, etc.

There will be many candidate forums over the weeks as the November General Election approaches.  I am actually working to increase that number by working with organizations and communities so the voters in all areas of the county can hear from my opponent and me.  I will be in the Quilcene parade on September 20, so hope to see you there, should be fun.

Today was a work at home day.  Many Honey-DO projects have had to take a back seat to the campaign.  Between projects, I worked on a couple of campaign issues. 

A few blogs back, I mentioned that I purchased a used "fixer-upper" metal lathe which needed much TLC.  Finally, that is off of my to-do list and it is up and running.  This project became quite involved, requiring me to dismantle most of the machine, clean, lubricate and make adjustments, then reassemble.  Guess What!!  It works as advertised and, even better, no spare parts!!

I will list the upcoming PUD candidate forums when the plans are finalized.

I still need your help!  I offer my time, experience, commitment and can-do attitude, but that will not win the election.  Unfortunately, a campaign is quite expensive and we can only do so much and still pay our bills.  Like you, we must live within our budget.

Your contributions will go along way toward me being elected and having the opportunity to serve and represent you as your new PUD Commissioner!

Please make checks payable to "De Leo for PUD" and send to:
De Leo for PUD
P O Box 1534
Port Hadlock  WA  98339

Thank you!!

Tony & Sherry De Leo

On showing respect

"During an election campaign, is it necessary to ignore basic courtesy toward others?"

"Common" courtesy and respect toward others was has always been an important part of my nature.  Those "in the know" on how to get elected tell me that you should take every opportunity to spotlight the weaknesses in your opponent and that, when needed, speak negatively about nearly anything, as necessary, whatever it takes to get elected.

One of the courtesies I have been advised to ignore is referring to someone by their name as a sign of respect.  This was drilled in to my consciousness throughout my youth.  I am told "never use the other candidate's name, only refer to them as "my opponent".  They explain why, to avoid putting their name in the voters minds, but, really??

Somehow, this reminds me a routine from the Harry Potter series where they refer to the ultimate evil as "He who must not be named".

I will consider their advice, but there are values that I am not willing to sacrifice, no matter how much I want the opportunity to serve as your next PUD Commissioner.

Thanks
Tony

"There is nothing wrong with American that cannot be cured by what is right with America."
Bill Clinton

This Sherry, Tony's wife, and that is one of my favorite quotes about our country. Yes, there is plenty wrong in our country as a whole right now, from the huge issues at the top of the political scale on down to the smaller issues at our local government level. But there are also so many things that are right at all levels, and some that could be made much better. Things only get better when individual's take action to make them better. How many people complain about politics all the time but never even cast their vote, let alone take further action to make things better?

That is how Tony decided to run for P.U.D. Commissioner-to make things better. He was complaining about the things that were lost when the P.U.D. took over from Puget Sound Energy. Then he looked at me and said, "Well I guess I can keep complaining or I can try to do something to make it better." At that point he had no idea what the pay was, if any, or any other benefits of being a P.U.D. Commissioner. He felt in his heart that he could make a difference in our local P.U.D. and I believe he can.

I have seen first hand the amount of work and thought he puts in as a hospital Commissioner and I have seen him put in many, many hours already researching our local P.U.D. and what can be done to make it better for everybody. For the current Commissioners, for the employees,and for the public. The voter's who approved the P.U.D. takeover, and the Commissioner's had a vision at the time. They surely didn't plan on taking over and then shutting off the power for hundred's of people who couldn't pay their bills. They may have bit off more than they could chew but surely their intentions were good at the time.

So here comes the hard part. Many of you have expressed the feeling that Tony is the man who can get in there and make a difference at the P.U.D. First he has to get elected. We are being told from all the "experts" and those who have a lot of experience in politics that we must raise money. So far we have been paying for everything out of our own pocket and it's been difficult. I take care of my elderly Mom, and her roommate who is also 80 and has no family to help her out. I work from home some but taking care of them keeps me from getting a regular decent paying job. This is a sacrifice Tony and I have made to keep Mom and her friend of 35 years in their own rental home with their pets for as long as possible.

When Tony first decided to run for election we opened an account at Kitsap Credit Union so we could fund the campaign and keep track of everything. Tony didn't want to ask for money because he didn't want people to "invest" in him until he made it through the primary election. So now he has made it and he still doesn't want to ask for money. :) It is not an easy thing to do for either of us but I'm going to give it a try.

We can use any size of donation. Any size is wonderful. Five bucks is great! There have been many times in life where I wanted to donate to something but thought the small amount I could donate ($5.00 or $10.00) dollars wouldn't be of any help at all.  Then I heard on the news about the million's of dollars that were raised for victim's of the Oso mud slide and they said most of that came in the form of donations of $25.00 or less. So it all adds up. I am not by any means comparing a tragedy like the Oso land slide to a political campaign but am saying any amount a person can give, for any cause, is worthwhile. It also lets Tony know that somebody out there wants to be a member of what I  call "Team Tony".

Checks can be made out to DeLeo for P.U.D. and mailed to:

Tony or Sherry De Leo
P.O. Box 1534
Port Hadlock, WA  98339

Let's show some support for Tony! Of course-the most important support you can offer is your vote so please make sure to cast your ballet when the time comes. Thank you for reading my long post.

Questions to be answered

"When asked a question of substance, research the answer to assure that your response is complete, accurate and appropriately detailed."

 Questions have been posed to my opponent and me, the answers to be used in preparing a newspaper's voters guide and the Voter 411 on-line guide developed by the League of Women Voters.

Opportunities to share my concerns, about and suggestions for, improving our PUD are much appreciated, not only by me, as a candidate preparing the responses, but also by the voters seeking information upon which to base the decisions on the ballot. 

I am proud of our voters!!  Over 50% of registered Jefferson County voters let their voices be heard through casting their ballots the the August 5 primary.

I am still learning the details about the important activities of, and services provided, by our PUD.  Our PUD plays a crucial role in our daily lives and the future of our county.  When the new PUD Commissioner takes  office in January, that person should be ready and able to hit the ground running, from the first day, ready to conduct the business of the PUD Board and face the many issues that will be on the table at their first meeting.  This is no place for on-the-job training.

I have served as an elected Hospital Commissioner here in Jefferson County for over 40 years, a position very similar to that of a PUD Commissioner.   I am familiar with the applicable laws and regulations and how they affect the workings of a municipal corporation, be it Hospital District or Public Utility District.  Through my experience, I have learned how the duties and responsibilities  of of a Commissioner differ from those of staff and have seen the negative result when members of the Board of Commissioners cross the line into operational issues.

More to come later, hope you have a great holiday!
Tony