Supporter puts holiday spin on political signs

Gene Stock has found a way to post signs for candidates ahead of the usual date: He wishes them happy birthday. THE BLADE/ANDY MORRISON Enlarge | Buy This Photo

Bedford Township prohibits residents from posting political signs on their lawns until 30 days before the township elections, the law has no specifications regarding signs that wish candidates a happy birthday.

Resident Gene Stock has posted "Happy Birthday" signs in his front yard for his favorite candidates.

He posted signs for the elections earlier than the allowed date several years ago, and the township asked him to remove them until the legal date.

This year, he has four signs on his front lawn wishing a happy birthday to 12 politicians.

They include Greg Stewart, city administrator for Luna Pier, who is running for township supervisor, and Laura Collins, president of the Bedford Business Association, who hopes to be elected township treasurer.

Township Supervisor Walt Wilburn said he and other township officials are aware of the signs.

"There is nothing we can do about them. We are not going to do anything," said Mr. Wilburn, who is Mr. Stewart's opponent in the primary.

Mr. Stewart said he has known Mr. Stock for a number of years.

Mr. Stock said, "I wanted to get the word out as soon as possible about some of the people running. People have asked, 'Why are you supporting so-and-so?' and then I can explain it to them."

Mr. Stock said he has received only positive reactions regarding the Happy Birthday signs. He said that although he has not seen any similar signs yet, he has encouraged others to post their own signs to support their candidates.

Mr. Stewart agreed that the signs are an innovative way for Mr. Stock to demonstrate his support for the candidates, but he doubts the idea will have a lasting effect.

"Novelty is neat and there may be some great variation and I'd love to see that," he said.

"But as far as something that sticks it is probably going to be a one-time thing. And that's fine, that's what makes it creative."

Contact Mel Flanagan at: mflanagan@theblade.com or 419-724-6087.