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I received your Blue Print for Change in the mail today and read most of it. And " One Kentucky " no region left behind is exactly what this state needs. There is no reason one city should be better
Linda Lanham
I WATCHED ISSUES & ANSWERS 5-14 AND WAS IMPRESSED WITH YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF THE ISSUES FACING KY. THIS CHANDLER WILL BE VOTING FOR YOU 5-22 AND IN THE GENERAL.(I AM NO KIN TO BEN AND YOUR FEELINGS MATCH
Russ Chandler
The Blueprint for Change proposals: lock-in state school tuition rates,four-year learning opportunities in rural areas,the children's kithchen cabinet and investing in pre-K students are all exciting,
Tim Marcum
I am not a political person but I am ready for change in kentucky. I have seen one thing that makes up my mind on voting for you and that is that you spend your campaign telling people what you plan to do and not on negative ads. If you want to cut back on gas used lets look at California schools, they don't use school buses, their students walk to or ride the city bus to the school close to them. there is no such thing as district lines for schools. I know that some of your plans mean raising taxes but I am willing to pay more in taxes if it means making my life better to live, but lets make sure that first their is things in place to make sure these plans are not abused and that those who do abuse it can't get away with it. I will vote for lunsford/stumbo.
Daniel Frosty
As a young independent voter, I'm personally excited for your your (Mr. Lunsford) and Mr. Stumbo's blueprint for change. You are on the right track, but I'm somewhat concerned that you might be broadly focusing on general issues of social reform, which is of extreme importance, but not in good proportion to the specific problems wrong with the more specific, individual problems with those social issues. I would like to see the leadership in our state play a more active role in individual problems of various social issues rather than pushing legislation that covers more broad, fix-all type reform. I can point to the Commonwealth Accountability Testing System as a good concept, but because of competition between schools, there is far too much teaching-to-the-test rather than actual learning and student expression. Another problem that not just Kentucky, but all Americans need active and creative leadership concerning is fuel prices. This has become a nationwide problem and none of our the leadership of our country seem to really care at all. Sure, they sue and indict various oil companies but to no real avail. Do you or Mr. Stumbo have any ideas for helping Kentuckians in this nationwide problem? Good luck in your campaign sir, we're hoping for real results.
Jeff
The cover of your Blueprint has the caption "Build One Kentucky" and says something to the tune of bridging economic and infrastucture gaps between regions. I am a firm believer that faster, safer highways and interstates are crucial for helping to lift economic
hardships in some of our eastern and western regions of the state. What if any are your intentions in this area if elected?
Paul Baker
Hi,I am from Prestonsburg. I have 2 children. My husband works and I am a stay at home mom. I wan't to know if you get in are you guys going to make preschool and head start for all children reguardless of income. Right now above income familys have a hard yime getting in they do not look at the bills that above income pays out and they also go by gross income. I do not feel that this is fair I think that preschool and headstart should be for all kids. The children that do not get to go is behind the other children when they do enter kindergarden. Above income famileys have to pay for health insurance also and they do not look at this also. Our oldest son got into headstart after school had started and it has been a great help for him he is doing real well. I would like to see all children to get to go no mater income. I saw the tv adversinment stating that you would make it available to all children. I just want you to keep your word. Thank you
Jennifer Ousley
I attended the meeting in Paducah last night & was very impressed with the ideas you have for Kentucky. I am especially looking forward to see what will be done for teachers & disabled workers from the atomic energy plant. My daughter is in the process of obtaining her Masters Degree & it is very hard financially to do on a teacher's salary. The teachers need help & they DESERVE it. Also my father worked for 42 years at the Atomic Energy Plant & is now on kidney dialysis 3 times per week & very sick. He worked in the worst buildings there & was a loyal & faithful employee. Yet, a construction worker who worked there for 1 month or more 50 years ago
dies of cancer and the family receives 150K or more. This does not seem fair.
PLEASE HELP US!!!! I will campaign for you every chance I get.
Thank you for caring about Western Kentucky!!!!
Melia Wood
I have been watching Mr. Lunsford on TV and I pray that you mean what you say. I am so tired of politicians lying and cheating and being dishonest. How are we suppose to teach our children how to respect the government when it is so corrupt. I like the fact that Mr. Lunsford is not a politician. Please give us something to believe in for our government and don't say what you do not mean. Thank you
Carol Price
I am concerned that nowhere in your plans for Kentucky is Mountain Top removal mentioned. Your blueprint mentions complying with the EPA's clean energy strategies, but that does not clear up the
crippling environmental damage that coal extraction causes the Eastern Ky region. Mountain Top removal is not a sustainable, economic practice in Kentucky, and we need a leader who is willing to take the initiative on this issue.
Lauren Razor
Lauren: We need to bring together all relevant parties, including the coal industry, local leaders, and the environmental community, to review mountaintop removal practices, and see what changes need to be made. Once all the parties come together, only then can we reach consensus. We need to ensure that we are complying with current laws. Mining is an important part of our economy, and we need to strike a balance between the economic developments of coal mining and protecting the environment. Thanks for your question, Bruce.
I would like to see more recycling in Kentucky. I am originally from Michigan, where there is a $.10 deposit on most pop/soda cans and bottles. You don't see trash (bottles and cans) along side the road and there are lots of jobs in recycling. Additionally, I'd like to see curbside recycling or more recycling options. We are not just residents of Kentucky but we are inhabitants of the planet earth and members of a global society. I have read your blueprint for change and I would like to see more with regard to protecting and preserving our environment - not just on a state level like "keeping Kentucky beautiful" but on a "we're all going to die without sustainable resources" level. Thanks for your time, and have a great day.
Jenna K. Dietsch
Environmental responsibility is one of my highest priorities in the upcoming election. We cannot let the greed of a few devastate our land any longer. Mountain top removal must end. If we do not value and protect our landscape, we will soon be out of luck. I did not see this issue addressed in the Blueprint for Change.
Additionally, I sincerely hope you are able to follow through with some of the environmentally sound proposals put forth in the Blueprint for Change. Some changes such as the light bulbs are so simple, yet can have such an impact. I absolutely support your plan to purchase only hybrids for state vehicles. Best of luck, I am looking forward to seeing these positive changes implemented.
Kara Cecil
It’s about time! A politician is publishing what he intends to do…it’s unheard of! You have my vote. But I would strongly suggest that you add Insurance Coverage’s to your Business Blueprint for Change. I am a small business owner operating in the field of Handyman… I have tried to get General Liability Insurance at no avail. Evidently insurance companies rate small business by net worth… if your net worth does not meet their level for the amount of insurance requested they will not insure the business. I have tried to get insurance from many different insurance companies and agents with each informing me that my business does not have the assets to back up the coverage amount (State Minimum Required). So how does a small business get the insurance required by state law? No wonder so many small businesses are operating without insurance when the bureaucracy of the insurance companies prohibit the business from getting insurance. What happened to we support small business… I don’t see it! I want affordable General Liability Insurance and can not get it… PLEASE HELP!
Ken Crow
Universal healthcare in "theory" sounds like a good idea and a tremendous "vote-getter" for your campaign, which is probably your main motivation. However, in reality any time the government (state or federal) gets involved in anything the good idea becomes "big government", out of control, inefficient and abused by the general populus that the program is designed to benefit. I am adamently opposed to any type of universal healthcare and feel this is an extremely bad idea for Kentucky.
Thomas Oster
ABOLISH PROPERTY TAX AND YOU WILL BE THE NEXT GOVERNOR. THIS WILL BE THE BEST SOLUTION FOR ALL KENTUCKIANS.WILL REDUCE STATE GOVERNMENT GIVE EVERY PROPERTY OWNER A FAIR CHANCE. EVERYONE PAYS THE 6% SALES TAX AND FUNDS EDUCATION.ONLY EXEMPTIONS FOOD & MEDICAL. INCLUDE SERVICES WITH 6% SALES TAX RATE AND EDUCATION IS PAID FOR WITH LEFT OVER FUNDS FOR THE GENERAL FUND TO FINANCE MANY NEEDED PROGRAMS. THIS PLAN WILL GET YOU OUT OF PACK IMMEDIATELY. I HOPE YOU GIVE THIS PLAN A CHANCE. GOOD LUCK.
"RUSS"
This is a great place to advertise the Blueprint for Change.
Keep up the great work!!!
KGreene
Gentlemen after watching the American Idol gives back Show tonight I felt like hanging my head in shame. Education in KY has always been a challange but to have a school system high lighted that had only $500 for books for 150 students, many years ago we were told that the Lottery was going to be 100% for education so we would become comptetative with other states. Now here we are in the year 2007 and we have kids who are stuck in the 60s, trapped in a cycle of poverty.
Why has this been allowed to go on for so long. We dump tons of money into private business's many of them large very rich corporations, giving them tax breaks. Some time even free land or arrange for the property to be paid for out of the pockets of the empoyees that work there , and when it is time for the companies to step up to the plate they move south of the border.When will we worry less about golf courses,state resort parks. and worry about our people of all ages,with the old and the young being the foremost.Ernie Fletcher has said he has made Kentucky better I guess I would have to go to Frankfurt to see where he has done it,here in south central Kentucky we are still pretty much working on it day by day. We NEED HONEST HARD WORKING MEN, don't promise me the moon just tell me what you really think you can do and then do it. Will you help those schools who need it the most, and care for the families who are sick and not looking for a free ride in the welfare line. there are many things that concern me, but after seeing those kids in eastern Kentucky with no books and very little health care. Well I guess it is going to be a project for me I am going to ask as many canidates as possible these same questions, I want to hear their responses and their plans. I have been around long enough to know a two step and snow job. Some how I am going to help those kids and for the right canidate I will do any thing I can to help them get elected. Fletcher has had his time of lies and pardons. Are you two the ones for the job? Prove it to me!! and I will be there for you.
Dennis Wooten
I read the blueprint for change and only thing that I can say about it is that you have stated a few problems that the state has, but you really did not explain how you are going to improve upon these
problems. I noticed that you brought up that the science and math scores are not what they should be. The reason for this is the edcuational system that is in our schools today. I was in the 8th grade when the KERA program started. The only thing that I can say
that I benefited from this program was that I learned the stucture of a paper and how to BS which most politicians are good at. I wish that the leaders of our great state would review our current educational
system and review the systems of the states that are making progress to allow our children a better future than what we are providing for them today.
Michelle Bevins
I hope you have a plan to help the meth problem in Kentucky. It is affecting the younger generation as well as the environment. I have custody of my 9-year-old step-daughter. Her mother was a meth addict and from the way she acts now,even after a year of treatment, there are long-lasting side effects. Also, while on the subject of her mother, could you make the laws more strict on deadbeat mothers? They are no different than men. So, why does everyone proctect them? Thank you
Melissa Jackson
I am incredibly pleased to see that we have gubernatorial candidates in this commonwealth who are progressively working towards universal health care. As the greatest industrialized nation in the world, it is a shame that the government allows so many to go uninsured. I am very happy that Mr. Lunsford and fellow Floyd countian Attorney General Stumbo are working to resolve this issue for all Kentuckians. Thank you.
Tyler Harris
Casinos = money. I love the direction of the blueprint, but I'm afraid it may require more income for state. While some fear casinos may cause problems, the number of solutions that come with a larger income would far outweigh any problems. Let's face it, this state is loosing billions of dollars to other states every year. Many Kentuckians are a short drive from a casino at this very minute, so docking one of those riverboats on the Kentucky side will change nothing-- other than reclaiming some of the income. Yes, there will be irresponsible gamblers that have problems, but I would no sooner outlaw casinos than I would Interstate Highways because of irresponsible drivers. And I seriously doubt that a slot machine will capture the same magic found at a horse racing track. In fact, why not allow casinos at horse racing tracks and bring the two together. Kentucky's problem with the lack of funding for so many programs, roadways, etc., can be solved instantly.
I support any plan to help the environment 100%. Some tax breaks may save a little money now. Other tax breaks save nothing now, but save much more in the future. I favor the latter. Bite the bullet now to prosper later. While I'll admit healthcare is a major problem, perhaps we should look at more closely at working to turn old tobacco farms into land that can produce products for renewable fuels such as corn or sugar. The technology is there to make it and use it--we just need to supply the demand. Again, once the land is made useful, the income starts to come in. Now when we try to overhaul the healthcare problems... it might be easier.
I'm selfish. I have to throw my two cents in about one of my personal issues, although I'm sure it affects others. My condo association is small... it's only for a few units. We have to pay the new KY Alternative Minimum Income Tax of $175 each year. We collect a few bucks each year to pay the electric bill. It's a wash--we have NO income, yet this minimum tax puts a serious dent in our budget. If we had an income, I'd understand, but we have none.
Of course, I'm no pro... these thoughts are only an opinion.
In the end, I like what I've read in the Blueprint. I hope these goals are met. In any event, it's good to see someone put it in writing!
Troy W.
Bruce: Troy, thanks for your thoughts. The Blueprint has several sections devoted to the importance of bringing in revenue, and I have said that the people deserve an opportunity to vote on expanded gambling. But that revenue is only a part of the solution. We can't wait for casino revenue to solve our financial problems. We spend nearly $1 billion on health care for those without insurance, money that would be better spent on providing universal health care.
I am not a single issue voter but if I were, I think the single most important issue facing our world is the destruction of the environment. I would like to see more effort made to address this issue, not just with "clean energy" proposals but with some sort of
recognition that a comprhensive plan needs to be in place to educate citizens about the crisis and to get government involved in finding solutions.
Judith Tuggle
I was hoping to see something in the Blueprint on stem cell research. I know that there is a limited amount of tax dollars to go around but this is something very important to me and many others. Otherwise, I loved the detail in which you laid out your plans if elected. I'm still undecided but admit I'm now "leaning" towards a Lunsord/Stumbo ticket.
Eric Tackett
I think that free pre school should be avalible to all children in Kentucky, I mean not just for the ones with a disablility or for parents with low income. there are people that work and can't afford to pay for a private pre school, plus day care. the no child left behind program left my grandson behind. Last year we had him tested to be able to attend pre school and he was boarder line on being accepted into the free public pre school. so he stated Kindergarten this past fall and was way behind, (and now has to repeat kindergarten next year) His parents could not afford to send him to a private pre school. So there needs to be a change in the pre school program in the schools of Kentucky. Make it avalible to all children. Not just to the special needs children or low income. If there is some one that I could write to or call about this matter please let me know.
June Foster
I am a devout Republican federal, state and local finanical supporter but was very impressed with your delivery and points of contention in the debate. I generate $3M annually in tax revenue for the state each year.
All else (education, healthcare, revenue shortfalls) will fall in line if the State can out compete surrounding State's for corporate jobs and corporate dollars. Mr. Lunsford, we need the commonwealth to be a business friendly enviornment and not a Casino bailout. That
is only a short term solution to an ailing system. Stand behind your business savvy and embrace those standards. You have my support.
p.s. - I was embarrassed for Jodi Richards hot headed rebutals
SF, Louisville
Bruce: Thanks, SF. I think I bring a different perspective than professional politicians. I have created jobs, and the Blueprint is a plan to solve Kentucky's problems.
It is about time Kentucky is in line for changes.
Great plan if you can just deliver.
We support you wholeheartedly.
Wilma and Herman Calmes
I believe that you have definately addressed many important concerns in your blueprint. I am a college student trying to finish my degree in elementary education with a math emphasis along with a minor in psychology. My husband is a graduate of EKU and we have recently moved back to our home town in Southeastern KY. It has really been difficult for him to find a job, even with a degree down here because of the lack of businesses. (Not to mention the student loans we are paying back and will be continuing to pay back for a very long time). I am really excited about all of your ideas and I am extremely hopeful that you will succeed in implementing them.
Tara Engle
Bruce: Tara, I'm from northern Kentucky, and Greg is from eastern Kentucky, so we know about the issues facing rural Kentuckians. We need to build One Kentucky, so that no region is left behind. Our plan calls for expanding distance learning opportunities for higher education and expanding programs to help small businesses grow in all parts of the Commonwealth.
Teacher salaries should be increased and ridiculous, unfunded laws like the No Child Left Behind Act should be abolished. "Clean Energy" should mean you put a stop to valley fills, which have horribly degraded streams in Kentucky, and mountaintop removal mining,
which is turning Eastern Kentucky and Appalachia into one huge scab. Nobody I know in this part of the state will vote for anyone who fails to actively oppose mountaintop removal.
Bob kaercher
TO START OFF ,I WATCHED YOU AND THE OTHER CANDIDATES ON KET LAST NIGHT 4/16/07 AND LIKE ALL THE REST OF THE PEOPLE WHO HAVE LEFT COMMENTS ON YOUR WEBSITE I TOO WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHERE YOU AND MR.STUMBO ARE GOING TO GET THE FUNDS TO DO WHAT YOU ARE GOING TO
DO.BEING A STATE EMPLOYEE FOR THE LAST 12YRS. I`VE SEEN ENOUGH WASTE ACROSS THIS STATE TO LAST ME A LIFE TIME(GOLF COURSES, I DON`T PLAY GOLF CAN`T AFFORD IT, BRIDGES THAT GO TO UNUSED LAND(RT.180 BOYD CO.)AND THE SAME CONTRACTORS(BIZZACK,WALKER SHWARTZ MOWING) DOING ALL WORK ALL ACROSS THIS GREAT STATE. MR LUNSFORD DON`T GET ME WRONG BUT WASTE ACROSS THIS STATE IS NOT JUST DONE JUST BY REPUBLICANS BUT DEMOCRATS ALIKE. AND AS FOR THE RUMOR ABOUT DISMANTLING THE MERIT SYSTEM (IF THIS IS TRUE) ASK YOUR RUNNING MATE THAT IF HE IS IN AGREEMENT WITH YOU ON THIS ISSUE THEN WHY IN GODS GREEN EARTH DID HE SPEND TAXPAYERS DOLLARS TRYING TO DEFEND THE MERIT SYSTEM EMPLOYEE THAT WAS WRONGED,TALK ABOUT WASTING TAXPAYERS DOLLARS,I GOT A IDEA TO STOP WASTE IF THE LEGISLATORS CAN`T PASS A BALANCED BUDGET NEXT YEAR SEND THEIR SORRY BUTT`S BACK HOME WITHOUT THEIR PAYCHECKS AND SEE HOW LONG IT WOULD TAKE THEM TO BALANCE IT THEN.BY THE WAY DON`T POKE FUN AT THE LITTLE MAN (OTIS HENSELEY) AT LEAST HE HAS SOME IDEAS ABOUT HELPING THE POOR IN THIS STATE.
Mike
Bruce: Mike, our plan addresses how we'll pay for our programs. We know we can't wait for casino revenue, because even if it gets on the ballot and passes, we won't see revenue until 2009. We spend nearly $1 billion on health care for those without insurance, money that would be better spent on providing universal health care. I have advocated a performance audit for all of state government, which has the potential to save millions of dollars.
I am excited about the Blueprint for change. I am a Registered Nurse that has recently started a business. Vision Realty LLC. I would like to know the candidate you support for the Democrated primary.
Elaine Banerjee
First,our family will give you all the support. I have served in the grass roots for 40 years,first as a union rep, all so rep.as iue conferance board in ohio. retired to Ky.10 years ago.served as Chairman of county ethics board in Trimble co.
Now my concerns--
catering to the broken education system,the rambo law inforcement and the elected good o boys of 120 countys.this is nothing more then un-American Socialistic action of many in Frankford.The education system in our state is one of the worst in the fifty states.Law inforcement(rambos) has forgotten they serve and protect not to shot/maim first and ask questions later.Local elected good o boys in smaller countys in cohoots with land contractors AND OTHERS,making new laws and raising taxes to help them SELFS and pay for make up jobs for thier
buddies.
If by chance you are the new gov.you and Mr.Stumbo needs to start with the clean up with the crooks in each county then clean up Frankford.Failor to do so you will be no better then the rest that is destroying america. (OUR ROME).
WE PRAY YOU TWO ARE THE NEW HOPE FOR A BETTER KENTUCKY,A NEW SHOW CASE FOR OUR AMERICA!!
Bob Scott
Your blueprint is good but leaves out a good deal of the people. Medicaid and Human Services do alot for the parents with children but what about the middle age disabled, unemployed without children at home and the elderly. My husband is disabled and I have been unemployed for two years because of illness and am currently waiting for Social Security disability. He is on fixed income and I am receiving no income. We went to the social services office because his check is eaten up by cost of housing, medical because medicare
covers little, utilities, and food. I have no insurance and no income. We were told that because I have a claim pending for social security and have no minor children living at home they couldnt help me with medical. They also said he doesnt qualify for help paying medicare part A because they cannot count me in the household because of my pending social security and he can only get 801 dollars a month to get help. With the cost of living in Kentucky you are considered just a hair above poverty at 1500 a month. Auto insurance and House insurance is extremely high in Kentucky and expecially in Southeastern Ky. Then you pay personal property tax every year on top of that. What are you going to do for the people who's children are grown and they are left with hardly enough to keep a roof and get medicine and who may not have enough for food for the month. Your human services dont help them and the state has the limits set far below what medicare says they should be. We dont need anymore rhetoric from politicians who get in and give everything to Lexington Frankfort and Louisville and the people in eastern Ky who by the way dig and deliver that coal get nothing! Come to Breathitt county and see what we see everyday and then work a little more on that Blueprint for Change
Jacqueline Allen
The blueprint's section on energy and coal omits an extremely important issue for Kentucky's future: mountain-top removal. I'll need to hear a strong voice on this issue before giving you my vote.
Emily
Nobody like to hear it but have we ever thought about raising the state sales tax? This money is quaranteed and can boost our educational system. Other states are paying up to 3% more than KY in sales tax. Being a struggling single mother of 3 children, I would much rather fork over an extra few dollars now and have my children succeed in the learning than to sit back and wait for someone to come up with a better idea. Lets focus our attention on better education and better assistance to those who struggle to make ends meet.
Melissa
I like your blueprint for change.I am a state worker and I know people that worked for the state for 20 years and have not had a raise in 12 years other than their annual raise,and I know people in so called click that have had many raises,ace awards, recertifications with raises.These are merit people.There needs to be a better system.people already working inside should have first choice of a job .there is so much more I could say . thank you for reading .
Pat Caudell
I just finished reading your blueprint it looks like the same ole stuff that polticians say everytime that they want to be elected throwing around a lot of promices without telling how that expect to accomplish it and how it will be paid for. I've been disabled for over 14 years now. I had a good paying job with a future and great insurance. I went a year without a pay check trying to raise 2 small children so deep into debt I went after I received my disability I lost over $100.00 a week. the great insurance I had that covered my wife and children only to be replaced with medicare that only barely covers me. Since I was disabled working for a company that I was covered under there insurance policy why didn't the State require the company to continue to pay fir my insurance. As far as raising the
trachers pay I against it. I'll start off by saying that there are a lot of great teachers in Kentucky but I've seen so many that couldn't care less if a child understood the subject or not. The teachers would
pass off their work to teachers assistant or the parents and want to blame the parents if the child lags behind. I say make sure the teachers are doing their jobs to the fullest then think about a pay raise. Instead of writing a form that most people really don't understand spell it out so we understand exactly what you want to do, how you are going to achieve it, and how will the tax payers of Kentucky pay for it. I am a strong Republician but you political ads have not offended infact this is the first time I have ever taken the time to inquire how a Dem. will get anything done.
Frank Parrigan
I am a state employee and a registered Democrat. Last election I made the mistake of voting for Fletcher enough about that. I have heard that if you was elected you would dismantle the merit system. I have been considering voting for you but I'm concerned about the merit rumour. Don't get me wrong I read part of your brochure and agree with alot of the things regarding state gov. I believe in saving money not wasting it on contractors just getting any price they want due to politics/no bid contracts nor do I agree with the appointees coming in and geting huge salaries for doing nothing. If you want to save the state money don't pay these outlandish salaries to the cabinet heads and appointees, most are already retired and don't need the money anyway.( at least with this admin) But some people the more they have the more they want. I'm undecided at this time as to whom I will vote for but you're in the running. Certainly Fletcher will not get my vote if he survives until November. Any way thanks for listening and any comment would be appreciated.
Glen
Bruce: Glen, thanks for your response. Ernie fooled a lot of Kentuckians. My running mate Greg Stumbo worked hard to protect the merit system, and I assure you we will continue to protect it. Part of my Blueprint is to conduct a state performance audit, which will save us money. And since I'm not dependent on special interests for financing my campaign, you can be sure that my administration will not be beholden to the special interests.
Your section on an open and responsive government seems rather vague. What needs to be addressed is the number of Undersecretaries it now takes to do the same job ONE cabinet secretary was doing. The impact of the expanded payroll has hurt the efficiency of every cabinet especially the (merged, new & improved) cabinet for health and family services. That's a cabinet with a bloated payroll, no discernable improvement in services, and employees not being given the tools to do their jobs properly. You talk about performing an audit, well I think CHFS is a good starting point.
Lois Horner
Bruce: Lois, thanks for your question. I've said that I wish we could make the walls of government out of glass, so the people can see the work we're doing. I'll make sure we operate efficiently and save money.
Sounds like a good overall program. How do you plan to handle David Williams? Jimmy Higdon? Vernie Mcgaha?
It's going to take a lot of legislatig to get these progrms off the ground.
Education: Stop teaching our children to take tests.
UK: Why are we paying so much for the person runing the university? And the too large salary for sports coaches.
Tommy Charles Ellis
Bruce: Tommy, I'm not a professional politician, but I'm looking forward to working with other state officials to implement the policies in the Blueprint. We'll be re-evaluating KERA and will make recommendations that are in the best interests of our children.
I have been unable to work for about 3 years now. I have been waiting for SSDI for 2 years now while having no income. I lost my insurance coverage so I investigated the KY CARES insurance program. It would cost me nearly $800/month, which obviously, I don't have. I investigated Medicaid but they wanted my house! Universal Insurance? Perhaps but your plan won't help many people if it will cost this much. Can you develop a reasonable cost, fair, realistic insurance program? I will need to see a more definitive plan before deciding my vote. Thank you for listening.
R. Lynn Boyd
Bruce: Lynn, providing universal health care to all Kentuckians is the most important issue on my agenda for state government. Everyone is entitled to quality health care, and my plan will make it possible for you and others in similar situations to get it.
This sounds like every dream come true. I wish at least some of these would be done. The main thing I base my vote on is the contaversy on gambling. you did not address this. I will not vote for ANYONE who says they will increase gambling
Larry Lassiter
Bruce: Larry, I think it's time to give the people an opportunity to vote on the expanded gambling issue. If it does pass, I will insist that the Governor's office be able to place restrictions on where gambling is allowed and have oversight of it. Unlike some of my opponents, I don't see it as the be-all-to-end-all solution to our government's financial problems, but I do think the people deserve an opportunity to vote on it.
As a retired teacher in Kentucky, I have been to Frankfort expressing how unfair it is for teachers to not be able to collect their spouse's Social Security. Only 13 other states have this law. My twin lives and teaches in Indiana and will be able to collect her spouse's S.S. Many teachers are not aware of this until their spouse dies. Those I have talked to in Frankfort agree that this is unfair. What would you do to change this law?
Shirley Lakes
I HAVE READ THE BLUEPRINT FOR CHANGE AND HAVE A FEW QUESTIONS.
1)THE IDEAS LOOK GOOD ON PAPER BUT WHERE DOES THE MONEY COME FROM TO PAY FOR THESE CHANGES? WE HAVE SEVERAL AREAS THAT NEED TO BE ADDRESSED BEFORE WE TAKE ON NEW SPENDING.
2)UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE WAS TRIED ONCE BEFROE WHEN A CERTAIN DEMOCTATIC GOVERNOR DECEIDED TO POOL ALL OF KENTUCKY'S NON INSURRED AND UNINSURABLE INTO A POOL CALLED KENTUCKY CARE INSURANCE, THE STATE RUN INSERANCE PROGRAM FOR STATE EMPLOYEES KENTUCKY CARE WENT BELLY UP IN TWO YEARS.
3) AS A RETIRED STATE EMPLOYEE I WONDER WHAT IS GOING TO BE DONE ABOUT THE STATE EMPLOYEE'S AND TEACHER'S RETIREMENT PROGRAMS? THERE ARE CALLS TO SELL BONDS IN THE AMOUNT OF OVER 900 MILLION DOLLARS JUST TO GET THOSE PROGRAMS BACK TO WHERE THEY ARE SUPPOSED TO BE.
I HOPE YOU WILL BE ABLE TO PROVIDE ME WITH SOUND ECONOMIC ANSWERS TO MY QUESTIONS.
THANK YOU VERY MUCH
Bill Bowen
I am a retired state employee, the merit system is in bad shape today, Your blue print looks good, I hope you do get the merit system fixed, I have seen people not get there promation because the person with the last word didn't like the staff member who has do
his/her job and had the best interview, or they didn't get the promation because someone else knew a high raking goverment person. I am with you all the way, and I will be talking to other state workes, and make sure they read you blue print. I have worked at 4
institutions, so I know a lot of works.
Thank you
Cindy L. Harper
Great ideas. But can they truely happen? I didn't see anything about senior citizens, they need affordable dental care. What about the all the money that's being wasted? Like the monies that was paided to have the bridge painted twice and it was never done. That is theft in my booked. Those people need to be in jail. Kentucky residents should be able to see exactly where their tax money is going. I don't have a problem with the taxes I pay as long as I know the money is being spent like it should be and not going in some goverements pocket. Like the big parties they have. For once lets be honest.
Bonnie
I have been waiting for over a month for a response to my mailing on your position on hog barns and the environment and about a week for my second inquiry made to your info website.
If we kill our environment, all the jobs/money in the world will be for naught. The tides are shifting and I see no strong plan from Lunsford/Stumbo to push Kentucky forward in this arena.
Gene Nettles
Lofty goals! I would be happy if you were successful attaining a 50% success rate. One question before I cast my vote: What was the reason for Bruce dropping out of the last race at the twelfth hour? I have concerns that he may do the same again this time.
Anthony O'Connell
We've been to the immediate care clinics a couple times. My husband has had diabetes since he was 12. I have self diagnosed diabetes. I watch my sugar and when it gets too high I take my husbands insulin. I also have high blood pressure. I take aspirin and water pills and hope for the best. I would so love to be seen by a real doctor. Thanks for thinking of the people. I really appreciate it.
Tamara Sutter
Some items that need addressing in my opinion are: 1) Replacing archaic Bell South phone lines so that one can subscribe to Broadband etc. I tried reading your Blue Print For Change but gave up because it was taking so long to download. 2) Get rid of the No Child Left Behind so teachers can teach, and students can learn. 3) By dictionary definition Evolution qualifies as a religion. Get rid of it. State supported religion is a no-no. 4) Place a limit on insurance premiums of all types, using current, or past lower cost, premiums. 5) Put a limit on property and other taxes. 6) Put a limit on medical provider costs, including drugstores. 7) Place a limit on suit amounts against medical providers. 8) Cut out pork barrel spending. These are some things that need addressing in my opinion.
Paul Mobley
I am subtly impressed with the words written in the blueprint for change, We are supposed to be the land of milk and honey, land of the free and home of the brave, Countries of this wide World look to us for financial support and most often they get it. You are right in posing healthcare as the number 1 priority for the uninsured Kentuckians, Children and Adults as well. It is a shame that Germany and other Foreign Countries can furnish citizen's with universal health care and this great Country of the United States can't figure out how to do it. I am a self employed individual , I am a productive citizen of this great Commonwealth of Ky but I cannot afford health insurance for myself nor my wife of 30 years who is chronically ill with rheumatoid arthritis and desperately needs health care, but we do without, I believe that if Tn and other states can provide citizens with health care for $50.00 a month then so could Ky, I would be glad to pay that for insurance. I sincerely hope that this is not just words written in a scheme to get elected but a team that will help the blue collar working people of Ky, we definitely need it. It is time for a change and this blueprint is a prime example of
what could be done for all of us Kentuckians. Of the People, By the People and For the People. Phillip
Phillip Justice
Finally, A team for Governor of Kentucky that cares about the working men and women of this state. The plan is great and a first. When you read it you know that we will finally get leadership and honest government. Keep up the good work.
Tom Gatewood
I applaud the job attorney general Stumbo and his staff did in regard to the Hiring Investigation. Though I would have loved to see Fletcher go to court, I know that there was no way he was ever going to stand trial. I think considering the alternative, state employees should be very appreciate the AG's office got the concessions they did, and they should feel much better about the future of the Merit system as a result of General Stumbo and his courage to stand up for what he thought was the right thing.
I believe Lunsford and Stumbo will continue to make state employees a priority when elected.
Brian Scott
tell me how you are going to solve the ky. employment retirees system problems have been building over the years and if they are not addressed soon the system is in danger of collasping
Ray Roberts
I am in agreement with your recognition and solutions to the issues addressed in the Blueprint for Change and support you. However, I believe one of the biggest issues facing the next administration is unlawful immigration and its impact on jobs, payroll taxes and healthcare costs. How will you address this issue?
Jerome Parham
I think it's a great idea to have a businessman and someone who knows the ins and outs of government on a ticket. Both of these men bring equally important and appealing aspects to the ticket. Their views on health coverage really impress me. I have a friend who pays $1500 a month for single coverage health insurance with a $10,000 deductible because she had skin cancer. Who can afford that? Please do something to help her and those facing the same problems.
Jenny Adams
I am much impressed with the Blueprint For Change. I am much impressed with your track record in industry. My question is, how you duplicate this record of achievement in the highly political, fragmented government sector?
Dan Fusting
I was thinking about your blueprint for change. How are you planning on improving infrastucture in our state to allow for better jobs. I am from Wayne County were we have been trying to get a bridge or two bridges actually built across lake cumberland to connect both parts of Wayne County and both parts of Russel County connected to each other since 1960. There are parts of the counties in question that are cut off because of Lake Cumberland. Economic growth is inevitable if this project was initiated. Yet it costs too much money for years they have been saying this, and yet many more projects are being completed year after year without any regard for our communities. Year after year the communites of Southern and Eastern Kentucky are left out and have to survive without the support of the State. What are your plans here. We have missed out on many many large companies in Wayne County because we did not have a four lane highway leading in and out of Wayne County. Plus there was only one main highway leading in and out. Yet we are told year after year this costs too much, but yet other cities to the north and west are getting four lanes highways year after year. So again what are your plans to fix this. If you notice on your map the majority of the poverty in Kentucky is in Eastern Kentucky. How will you deal with this. I am very aware of the poverty and inforamtion contained in your report. I have researched for years on the very topic, but people in Frankfort and Washington do not care. You talk about change for the better, but what if that change meant going cross party lines, and going against your own party to do what is right. Will you do this? Many say they will, but fail to do so when in office. See you can talk and talk about your plan, but until you become a man of your words then you not achieve any goals in this PLAN. The past has been filled with promise after promise, and year after year promises are broken. The people of Wayne County are sick and tired of wasted promises. We have proven that in our last election. So please tell me what are you promising that many others before you have promised? Will you be the same person? Will you be a good upstanding person until you get in office, or will you stand up for what you believe in?
Clifton New
This is an excellent plan for growth and change.
Diana Peters
This communication technique is a leap in the right direction. Now we'll see how you respond to my comments, because I certainly will read your blueprint.
M Kleier
What are you going to do for the state employees? We need a raise. We work hard for little pay. We all love what we do.Thank you
Noelle
You are on the right track with me but I wish I had more confidence in the "follow-up" of politicians. We get a lot of promises and little action.
Joanne Sturgeon
Hello I was born in Kentucky , I left here in in 1980 for a better a job and now i work off shore, We need better jobs here that pay well. All I see is jobs promoting tourism, which is good but they hardly help the local people here. I have two daughters that are 10 and 12. I want them to stay close by and not go away to find better jobs. The health care you receive is awful here. They will not accept the insurance you have. I pay almost $4,000 a year for health insurance and no one will take it. So I have to pay all my children visits. It about bankrupted me for medical bills. The schools here in Paducah are the same ones my parents went to and then the same one I went to. But they can find the money to improve everything else. The income tax is way too high. Why can't you guys do something about that?
Anthony Moore
I looked over your blueprint and from what I can tell, things look good on paper but the truth will not be revealed until the plan becomes action and then set in stone. As a single mother of four children, 24, 20, 18 and 16, I am struggling. I work full-time but still cannot afford health insurance because of the price. I also attend school on a part-time basis. With my take home pay, I can barely afford the expenses aftern I pay out the house payment, utilities, etc. I am the sole provider for my children and everyday is a struggle. My children at the present time do not have healthcare because I cannot afford it. So please, on the behalf of all single working moms help us to help our children. Thank you,
Ellen Strode
I am an independent voter and I like Lunsford, but I am not a fan of Stumbo based on the Fletcher investigations. However, I like what is in the plan. All these things are good ideas. But I have major questions that I did not see addressed. How are you going to pay for these ideas???? and Are you going to raise my taxes further ????
Aaron Moore
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