News-Record.com

By Elizabeth Olson

I am writing in response to various criticisms expressed concerning Rep. Laura Wiley's participation in a "State-sponsored Party Cruise."

This whole issue has become quite the tempest in the teapot for some folks. From what I understand, Rep. Wiley and a whole host of other representatives were invited by the North Carolina Ports Authority to travel at their own expense to witness a special event at the North Carolina coast, tour the Port of Morehead City's facilities and meet with local officials to hear their concerns, all at the cost of approximately $27,000.

The Ports Authority budget is fully funded by the revenues that it derives from fees from users, not the general taxpayers of North Carolina. Many state agencies spend more than this on brochures — that may or may not be read. Gov. Easley has now directed the Ports Authority to reimburse the Department of Transportation for its cost from these revenues and said that he did not think that people who had boarded the ship — including members of his cabinet – had any responsibility to pay for their portion of the trip.

Rep. Wiley has already paid $365 to the Ports Authority. In my opinion, there certainly are more important issues for folks to make a fuss over.

My husband and I are Democrats and we firmly support Rep. Wiley, a Republican. Why? Laura Wiley dedicates her heart and soul to her district. She was a strong advocate to procure state funds for the High Point market. She works tirelessly on community issues that do not even concern her position as a state representative — such as the Guilford County school system. When there is a problem, her door is open.

I urge those who have lambasted Rep. Wiley to reassess the issue at hand. High Point is fortunate to have a representative who works so hard for our interests. And, as the polls have shown, the majority of High Point is behind Laura Wiley 100 percent.

The writer lives in High Point.