Is Pat McCrory gaming the election law system?

Myers Park Pat wants to have his cake and eat it, too:

“We have every intention of running, we just don’t plan to make our formal announcement until the beginning of next year,” he said of the elephant in the room. “The election period is far too long and expensive. This allows me to have the flexibility to travel the state without spending a lot of money and continue to make a living, like most people have to do.”

Translated: "After watching what happened to Easley and others about misreported campaign travel spending, by not announcing until later, I can get people to pay for my travel and pocket money under the guise of speaker's fees, and not have to worry about those pesky campaign finance laws!"

Yeah, that's what North Carolina needs. Someone who brazenly violates the spirit of the law, if not the letter. Could this be one example of such?:

The Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce is honored to announce Pat McCrory as guest speaker on Tuesday, Oct. 11, as a part of its Business Service Program. During the program, McCrory will share and discuss current topics on energy issues, economic development and strategic initiatives.

$50 per person. Must RSVP and receive payment by Oct. 6 to attend.