Roger Bone

I just wanted to take advantage of this forum to say a few words about Roger Bone, who passed away today.

Some BlueNC readers will recognize the name. Roger was for many years, right up to the end, ranked one of the top lobbyists at the North Carolina General Assembly. I knew OF him for years and years before I had the chance to work with him, and boy did I dislike his clients! Argh. Oh YUCK did I dislike 'em. When a common issue did bring us into a working relationship, I had the chance to tease Roger about them, and did. He made no apologies, and I didn't either, but I have to say that I never met with a more frank, honest, straight-shooting person in the hallowed, hellish halls of the state legislature. I keep wanting to write that he charmed me, but the word is wrong; it connotes some bit of manipulation, and that's just not how Roger operated.

Or maybe he did, and I was blind to it. Maybe he sized me up pretty fast and knew that direct was the best approach. But I never saw him treat anyone else any differently, and it's no surprise to read the comments from others who knew him posted at the Dome article reporting his death.

Anyway, given the interest that so many who participate in this forum have in the politics and personalities of our state capital, I thought it fitting that there be some mention of Roger Bone. I can't do justice to him, but some of you readers know what I'm talking about, and like me, you're going to think about him and miss him for many years to come.