COMMENTARY

“I’m stuck over your making a motion to allow them (short-term rentals) but now saying you have no position and I don’t’ want to write about that. I respect you too much…” Hardy wrote to Solari.

MARK SCHUMANN

Recently, the website Bea-Isms, published by Bea Gardner, a long-time blogger and commenter on Vero Beach and Indian River County politics, was hacked. Though I do not always agree with Gardner’s commentary, or with her use of nick names, I willingly posted her latest column, given that hackers had blocked her access to the internet. (Gardner’s website, Bea-Isms.com, is now back online.)

Indian River County Commissioner Bob Solari, a self-described defender of personal liberties, appears to only support a style of free speech with which he agrees. In an ongoing and collaborative communication with blogger Thomas Hardy, Solari wrote the following:

Hardy, who publishes a blog titled Vero Communiqué, seems to agree with Solari that Gardner’s voice should not be heard.  He sent out a broadcast email forwarding Solari’s criticism of my decision to post Gardner’s commentary.

Hardy has apparently become a real fan of Soliar, and has turned to the county commissioner for advice on how to cover the short-term rental issue.  In a July 20 email (presented below), Hardy assured  Solari that he “admired” him too much to write a story pointing out that the county commissioner, who now claims to want to address the short-term rental issue, also had a leading role in surrendering the county’s right to regulate vacation rentals. “I’m stuck over your making a motion to allow them (short-term rentals) but now saying you have no position and I don’t’ want to write about that. I respect you too much…” Hardy wrote to Solari.

Solari can criticize those with whom he disagrees, and those who would point out when his positions are less than consistent, and he may even recruit Hardy and others to join him in attempting to stifle free speech, but the truth will be heard.  And if the truth comes mixed with a little sarcasm, then so be it.  That is the price of free speech.