I was sad to hear the news this morning that Lake County Clerk Tom Philpot's mother passed away. I met her about 30 years ago when a friend of mine introduced me to Tom. She was the coolest lady and probably the sharpest political mind I have ever met. Her and I hit it off right away, and after hearing the news this morning, I thought about the time during Doc's first campaign for Mayor when, we were both told by Doctors to quit smoking, and we would sneak out back behind the HQ's and bum cigarettes off each other. Just a couple of weekends ago Doc told me she regretted missing his fest and asked about me. I know how close Tom and his mom were and I just wanted to say a few words hear. Although I can only imagine what Tom and his family are feeling, I'm sure he can take some comfort in the fact she is no longer suffering.