[Mark Padgett]

Just like most states, Oregon has some statewide elections coming up this November 3 (my birthday, btw). One of our state senators, Rick Metzger, is running for Secretary of State. He used to be a sportscaster on the local CBS television station. In today's newspaper, there was a story that Rick has asked his old buddy, Bill Walton, to come up here from San Diego and campaign for him. The two worked together broadcasting some games back in the 80s. Walton said he can't wait to get back into politics.

Yikes - just what we need up here. Some ex-jock from California telling us what's best for our government positions. As much as I admired Walton as a player, I'm not sure I give him any credibility on these types of issues.

Maybe I'll send Senator Metzger one of those bumper stickers that are so popular up here - "Don't Californicate Oregon".