On Election Day, Rhode Islanders will have the opportunity to vote on 4 questions .  Here's a look at each question:


Question 1: Getting rid of Providence Plantations

     Voting yes will change the name of the state from Rhode Island and Providence Plantations to just Rhode Island.  I plan on voting no, since I refuse to surrender to the P.C. police.  The word "Plantations" has been in use since the 1600's when it was just a reference to farms, with no relation to slavery.  Supporters of the effort to change Rhode Island's name readily admit this, but still want the name changed for no reason.

     By the way, Rhode Island is a pretty stupid name for a state that isn't an island.  Of course, when you find out that the actual name is Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, and that Rhode Island referred to Acquidneck Island, while the Providence Plantations referred to the area on the mainland, it makes sense.  One more reason not to abandon our history.


Question 2: Higher Education

     This is actually a tough one for me.  I graduated from Rhode Island College (1998 and 2001), and want to see both institutions excel.  Unfortunately, I'm going to have to vote no on this one.  With high levels of debt and a poor economy, I'd like to see this on the ballot in 2012.  Hopefully, things will be better then.


Question 3: Transportation Bonds

     This one is easy: An emphatic no.  I know you might think I'm crazy, since the money is needed to match federal funds, and the infrastructure needs to be repaired and maintained.  I agree with the goals of the bond, but I disagree with the way it is being funded.  It seems like we have a massive transportation bond on the ballot every two years.  We're being asked to borrow money to maintain this infrastructure, then in two years, we'll be asked to borrow more money.  Of course, this question will end up costing us substantially more than $80 million once you add in fees and interest.  Wouldn't it make more sense to add these transportation expenses into the annual budget?  If we did, we would save money on fees and interests, and the reduced debt levels would ensure higher bond ratings for the state's debt.  It makes sense to me.


Question 4: Open Space

     I'm voting yes on this one.  Rocky Point is a historic location that should be preserved for future generations.