The Ed Wilson Experience

I have been amused lately by some candidates who state that the way to break the Democrat logjam in the West Virginia Legislature in Charleston is to send more Democrats to the Legislature. Somehow, the logic of this suggestion escapes me.

Fortunately for the residents of the Eastern Panhandle, we have an alternative to the “we’ve always done it this way” mentality that dominates our legislative body in the capitol.

Larry D. Kump of Falling Waters, W.Va., is a candidate for the 52nd District seat being vacated by Del. Craig Blair. I have known Larry since I first moved to Berkeley County more than 11 years ago. I know him to be a thoughtful, creative and dedicated public servant who, given the opportunity to serve, will bring a breath of fresh air to our delegation.

Larry has experience as a legislative staffer in the Pennsylvania state Senate, has assisted in drafting legislation and has lobbied in both Indiana’s and Maryland’s state capitols. During his many years of employment in the Maryland correctional system, Larry served as a trainer, mediator, facilitator, mentor and therapist. All of these skills, polished during his career of public service, will well-serve Larry and the citizens of our district in Charleston.

I am thankful that Larry is willing to make the commitment of time and talent necessary to be of further service to the community and our state. I urge my fellow citizens to support Larry’s candidacy for the West Virginia Legislature. We need his clear-thinking ideas, incorruptible ideals, and persuasive manner to tackle the many challenges facing the Eastern Panhandle in the years to come.

Edward Wilson
Falling Waters, W.Va.

No Finger Wagging, Please

The following appeared as a letter to the editor in the October 13, 2010, edition of the Martinsburg Journal.

Delegate should not wag finger and judge voters
October 13, 2010 - By Sarah Daniels:

I had the opportunity to listen to the discussion on WEPM Radio 1340 AM between delegate candidates for the 52nd District, Mike Roberts and Larry Kump. As a liberal Democrat and young professional woman, I was not only offended but insulted repeatedly and on various levels.

Mike Roberts' balance of mudslinging and patting himself on the back was quite the achievement of acrobatic skill. His description of family values as "having meals together daily, preferably in the evening and attending church every Sunday" is out of touch and archaic. Many of us do not have the luxury of making or choosing our work schedules, and that does not equate to not having family values.

It is not the role of our delegate to wag their finger at us in judgment without knowing the plight of the single or working parent. Furthermore, I am not interested in continuing the "good ol' boy" system of who knows whom and ignoring the concerns of working- class citizens. Playground tactics and juvenile verbal assaults are not the characteristics that I seek in a candidate.

I commend Mr. Kump for not participating in such off-putting behavior and maintaining the integrity one should have while addressing those of opposition. I'll be more specific ... I was impressed with Mr. Kump's determination to ignore the ongoing jabs from Mike Roberts while addressing actual issues.

A Soldier for You

To Whom It May Concern,

Having known Larry D. Kump, who is running for the West Virginia House of Delegates for portions of Morgan and Berkeley Counties in West Virginia, for many years - I offer this personal testimonial on his behalf:

Larry Kump is offering his good governance and knowledge to the people of Morgan and Berkeley Counties, West Virginia.

He is the type of man who will always stand up for what is right-a soldier for the working man who possesses honesty and integrity and who will not let you down.

I personally can attest to his perseverance for doing what is right-never bowing to pressure from anyone.

If elected, he will work to better the life of the people in these counties.

Larry Kump, no lies, no BS.

Please vote for Larry D. Kump in the next election.

Sincerely,

Lana Welch

An edited version of the above appeared as a letter to the editor in the October 20, 2010, edition of The Journal newspaper of Martinsburg, WV; and in the October 22, 2010, edition of the Hagerstown, MD, Herald-Mail.

Counting the Votes

There's an old pun that tells us that, "In a Democracy, your vote counts, but, in Feudalism, it's the Count that votes.".

So, what about the representation (or lack of it) that we receive in our national and state capitols?

Is ours a Democratic Republic or simply modern day political feudalism?

All of which much reminds me of another entry herein, "Mouseland, a Fable for Our Times".

(The above appeared in edited form as a letter to the editor in the October 13th, 2010, edition of the Martinsburg Journal newspaper.)

A Coworker's Confession

Letter-to-the-editor printed in the March 18, 2010, edition of the Hagerstown, MD, Herald-Mail, and in the March 28, 2010, edition of the Martinsburg, WV, The Journal.

W.Va. candidate is not about politics as usual

To the editor:

This year, West Virginia voters have a wonderful opportunity to elect a delegate who is more concerned for the citizens than politics as usual.

His name is Larry D. Kump.

Larry has been a longtime friend and a former Maryland co-worker who has lived in West Virginia since 1989. He has always been available to his friends for help and advice.

Larry's quest for workplace justice and the protection of citizen rights has always been his longtime priority.

In these trying times, the country desperately needs a representative who is directed by moral and ethical values. As a Maryland citizen, it is unfortunate that Larry refused my invitation to move across the Potomac and run for a seat in the Maryland House of Delegates. Nevertheless, I continue to be thankful that Larry remains dedicated to good governance and that I can still consider him my good and faithful friend.

My hope is that West Virginia voters, concerned for their future, will take advantage of Larry's expertise with the knowledge that he will always be available for good advice and leadership.

West Virginia voters, please support and vote for Larry D. Kump for election to West Virginia House of Delegates District 52.

Roy Gilleo
Hagerstown

Would You? David Woods!

To all West Virginia voters fortunate enough to be able to vote for Larry D. Kump for state delegate:

Just do it!

Voting for Larry is neither illegal, immoral, nor fattening!

Yet Larry offers a rather rare opportunity to support a candidate who is far more interested in the rights & welfare of his fellow citizens than in serving as a professional politician.

Larry knows and understands government at the state level from a lifetime of being a working part of it.

He notes "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" as one of his favorite films. It is a fine choice; also one of mine!

I can see Larry starring in a re-make we could call "Mr. Kump Goes to Charleston."

Unlike Mr. Smith (whom you may have forgotten was appointed, not elected), Larry, like Smith, also believes in all principles he advocates, and like Mr. Smith -- Mr. Kump lives by these self-same principles!

I'm convinced Larry will do a similar job for all of us as the fictional youth leader, Mr. Smith, did for his constituents.

But Larry also has two critical strengths Mr. Smith lacked: Larry is not naive about politics nor about politicians, and Larry listens to his fellow citizens!

There can be no clearer guide to Larry's aims than his stand on the Martinsburg City Library.

A bill was proposed to re-name this fine site as the Martinsburg-Berkeley County Library, and also broaden its directorial board to include the entire base it serves. More importantly, this large base pays for most of what keeps this library going.

All Larry asked was that ALL county citizens (not just city residents) be credited, & given an opportunity to help direct this vital county-wide institution!

A review of Larry's stands on past & current issues makes clear this is a typical stance from an atypical guy.

For Larry D. Kump is not only a great individual, but a man who all his life has made good things happen!

And the Lord only knows, we out here in West (by God) Virginia need all the good things to happen to us that are possible.

So let's elect a man who can help us live better lives in the future, a man with open-minded judgement on all public issues, and a man who can make this happen!

A vote for Larry D. Kump appears to this Navy Department retiree, retired USN captain, & holder of both an MBA & Phd plus serving as an adjunct university professor more than 40 years (Marshall the last 16) as a vote for progress, prosperity, & progress!

Some folks watch what happens, others wonder what is happening -- but Larry D. Kump makes it happen!

David L. Woods, of "The Woods"
A proud supporter of Kump for West Virginia Delegate

An edited version of the above appeared as a letter-to-the-editor in the October 6, 2010 edition of The Journal newspaper of Martinsburg WV.

Footnote: Campaign contributions will be put to prudent use, and should be sent to "Friends of Larry D. Kump", c/o Treasurer Robert B. Griffith, P.O. Box 1322, Hedgesville, WV 25427.

Roger on Larry

An Open Letter to West Virginia Voters:

I encourage you to vote for Larry D. Kump to serve in the West Virginia House of Delegates.

I've known Larry for many years and know him to be a man who, above all else, carries the courage of his convictions.

In his previous years of public service (1978-1989) in Indiana, he was a credible and effective voice with the Indiana Legislature.

He never was afraid to tackle difficult problems.

In today's political environment, it's always easier to do the popular thing.

That's why it's so refreshing to have someone like Larry, who will provide leadership grounded in core beliefs.

He's not another political "follower", who makes decisions based on current political winds.

As an Indiana resident, why do I even care about an election in West Virginia?

I truly believe that our country is facing a period no less daunting than previously faced by Abraham Lincoln, and I pray that our country now is waking up.

We need LEADERS, not only at the Federal level, but in all fifty states. This will require a tremendous amount of courage of principle.

We can do this together, one leader at a time.

May God bless Larry and all of you.

Please vote for Larry D. Kump on election day.

Roger McNeill,
Larry's "Hoosier" Friend in Fort Wayne, Indiana

A Personal Postscript from Larry-
Regardless of where you live, your individual campaign contribution will help further the cause of increasing jobs and prosperity, enhancing personal liberty and family values, and returning government back to the people.

Send your contribution to:

Friends of Larry D. Kump
P.O. Box 1131
Falling Waters, West Virginia 25419-1131

And Johanna Endorses...

Having known Larry D. Kump for years, I highly recommend him for election to the West Virginia House of Delegates.

His honesty and integrity are above reproach.

He always will choose the best path for all of us, even if it's not in his personal best interests.

The good of West Virginia, the good of the people, and the good of the nation constantly will be paramount in his every decision.

Voting for Larry D. Kump is the smartest and best choice you can make for the betterment of West Virginia.

Johanna 

Keys of Good Governance

It is not uncommon in these political times to hear folks say, "Politics as usual". We've almost become accustomed to poor behavior from those we've voted into office.

Why do so many public servants forget the very fact that they are public servants? They were elected to represent their constituents and should act always with their best interests in mind.

If you are looking for a true public servant, and not the run of the mill politician, then I urge you to cast your vote for Larry D. Kump.

I have known Larry for more than 20 years and can attest to his moral integrity, honesty, and genuine love and concern for our state and country. He is a true patriot.

At a time when he could be enjoying retirement, he has chosen to serve the citizens of West Virginia.

Larry D. Kump will be an excellent Delegate in the WV legislature. If you are tired of "politics as usual", then Larry is your candidate.

Dorothy F. Keys

(The above appeared as a letter to the editor in the August 31st, 2010, edition of the Hagerstown Herald-Mail, and the September 2, 2010 edition of the Martinsburg Journal.)

Footnote: Your contributions on behalf of good governance will be put to prudent use. Send them to "Friends of Larry D. Kump", c/o Treasurer Robert B. Griffith, P.O. Box 1322, Hedgesville, WV 25427.

Gwen's Guarantee

I highly recommend Larry D. Kump for election to the West Virginia House of Delegates.

He is honorable and truthful in his dealings with people as well as in his business.

He is respected and honored by all who know him.

His Friend,
Gwen Clarke

(The above appeared as a letter to the editor in Martinsburg's The Journal, August 17, 2010.)

Footnote: Your contributions to good governance will be put to prudent use. Send them to "Friends of Larry D. Kump", P.O. Box 1131, Falling Waters, WV 25419.

Stamp of Approval

I appreciate the comments made by Dick & Jane in their www.LarryKump.us entry and ditto their endorsement encouraging all to get out and vote for Larry Kump.

I would like to add that as a seven year resident of the Panhandle, I first noted the name "Larry D. Kump" in letters to the editor in West Virginia's Martinsburg Journal, that I found on point and inspirational.

Then a few years ago, when I met Larry in person, I found an intelligent, insightful, and often humorous individual who does not hesitate to speak out about what is right, backing up what he says with facts.

And, then he goes beyond his words and follows up with his actions.

I am proud of him for being willing to accept this challenge and to be willing to serve the residents of the district and all of West Virginia.

Larry Stamps
(The above, in edited form, appears as a Letter to the Editor in the August 15, 2010 edition of the Herald-Mail, and the August 18, 2010 edition of the Martinsburg Journal.)

Footnote: Please help promote good governance by sending your personal contribution to "Friends of Larry D. Kump", c/o Treasurer Robert B. Griffith, P.O. Box 1322, Hedgesville, WV 25427.

Hoosier Homage

While I live in Indiana, I would like to be a West Virginian when Larry D. Kump rises to his full potential as a member of the Legislature.

He will use his common sense, wisdom, and integrity (which he polished in Indiana) to "shake 'em up!".

If you want to change the atmosphere of politics and provide good government, Larry D. Kump can do what many promise.

I worked closely with him while he was a fellow Hoosier, and have followed him on the Internet ever since he left a big hole in Indiana (in 1989)

If West Virginia voters do not realize what a gem they have with Larry D. Kump, he will be brought back to Indiana where his practicality and deep thinking will be appreciated.

We miss him and envy West Virginia's good fortune.

Noel Duerden
Indianapolis, Indiana

(The above appeared as a letter to the editor in the August 18, 2010 edition of the Martinsburg Journal.)