Some people have misconstrued statements I made in past blogs as denigrating hillbillies. It was never my intention to offend hillbillies or imply that they are less educated, less diligent, or less intelligent than other people. I sincerely apologize for offending hillbillies, some of whom I count as dear friends and close relatives. I also apologize in advance to my children, neighbors, fellow church members, Sunday school students, distant relatives, and anyone else whom I may have influenced, however slightly. Should they seek elected office, I hereby absolve them of any complicity in offending hillbillies through having known me or having known of me yet having neglected to denounce or renounce me for my alleged anti-hillbilly sentiments. I look forward to continuing effectiveness with my hillbilly friends and partners.