As of 9 o’clock this morning life is officially back to normal in Aberdeen.
Well, as normal as can be expected in a city where the gun-toting, airplane-flying mayor is being taken on by a 19-year-old college student, the best source of potable water is straight from the Bay and a Hall of Fame baseball player has nearly bankrupt the place.
Ignoring the advice of his lawyer and legal counsel, who still believe his case to be winnable, Steve Johnson, the would-be city council candidate who may or may not live in Aberdeen, has decided to officially abandon his quest to appear on the Nov. 6 election ballot.
That’s right, I said Nov. 6. Because of Johnson’s decision to withdraw his injunction, he believes the election can proceed as originally planned instead of being postponed until February 2008 or later.
“More important than my candidacy is for this election to go off on time,” Johnson said in an interview Sunday afternoon.
After learning Friday that Harford County Circuit Court Judge Steve Waldron was leaving his candidacy up to the Aberdeen City Council itself, in its role as the Board of Appeals, Johnson decided to pull out rather than fight what would likely have been a long and costly battle – not just for him, but for the other 12 candidates running for office.
“I think that might alter the natural outcome of the election and that’s something I don’t want to be responsible for,” Johnson said.
Johnson still contends his injunction and threats of appeal weren’t about him and his personal candidacy, but were always about due process, which he doesn’t think he could or would ever get from the current city administration.
“It’s a tough thing when you know your Constitutional rights are being trampled upon,” he added.
In fact, Johnson alleged any delays in the election stem from the actions of the city council. He said he twice tried to meet with the Board of Elections regarding his candidacy and residency issues, but was never offered a meeting.
Johnson also speculated some of the incumbents running for re-election might have been banking on a few extra months of campaign time if the election were postponed.
“I think [Mayor S. Fred] Simmons knows he’s lost and he’d like nothing more than another election,” Johnson said.
Johnson has known Simmons for more than two decades, but he said it didn’t take long after Fred was elected mayor for Johnson to lose faith in his friend.
“His ego has overshadowed all his good traits,” he added.
Johnson also said other candidates jumped on his injunction as a means to launch their own sputtering campaigns. For instance, several candidates started pulling up their campaign signs Friday after the Circuit Court hearing and began complaining about how Johnson was personally delaying the election for months – which he said was all a publicity stunt.
“That was a ploy. They pulled them up in a certain area for 30 minutes,” he added.
With hope of appearing on the municipal election ballot a thing of the past, Johnson said he will focus on helping out several candidates in whom he believes.
“I’m gonna refocus my energies on backing some candidates who will bring back honesty to city hall and invite citizens back into their government,” he said.
Specifically, Johnson said he will be supporting mayoral candidate Mike Bennett, incumbent councilwoman Ruth Elliott and council candidates Bernard DeWitt and Rick Denu.
His short-lived candidacy now officially over, Johnson said he had not raised any money before the Oct. 9 campaign financing report deadline. He is also unsure of how the situation will impact his role or efficacy as the chairman of the city’s Economic Development Commission.
“This administration has a history of being vindictive, going after people and getting retaliation for things,” he said.
On that note, Johnson pointed out a worrisome item on the Aberdeen City Council’s agenda for tonight – a list of appointments, typically conducted in June, but held off for some reason until just a few weeks before the election.
“You just never know with these folks,” he said.
So, Johnson is now going to support candidates that will bring trust back into the government? How will he be supporting them? Money, truck signs, how about a few votes?
But what the loop hole in the City Charter? Doesn't Johnson (or Helton) want to address that? I thought that's what the injunction was for. Why drop it all together? Why not just drop out of the election, but continue to address the loop hole? I'll tell why, becasue he really doesn't care. He just wanted to see how far he could push. When people started pushing back, he dropped out. I'd be surprised if we ever hear from him again.
Kudos to Steve Johnson. He did what was right for the citizens of Aberdeen. As for the loop hole in the City Charter, if we get the right people elected, it will be closed! We will hear from Steve Johnson in a very positive manner!!!
Two negatives does not equal a positive. Steve Johnson backed out because he knew he couldn't win. And, to his credit, didn't want to drag out the election. I can't wait till November 6th!
He did what for the citizens of Aberdeen? He threatened to take away YOUR rights for the sake of his own. He obviously thinks he is more important than you.
The good thing for the citizens is he is dropping the case, because he would have won. There are many cases that have gone in the favor of a would-be candidate that does not fit the residency requirements on the local level, although the issue has not risen to the Supreme Court.
What a change of events! Only in Aberdeen can you go from one extreme to the other in the matter of a weekend.
Funny how Johnson threw his support behind Bennett, Elliott, Denu, and DeWitt. What about a fourth???? Could imagine a council like that? I think the Army would shut APG down instead of Momonth.
What makes you qualified to make that judgement?
Would everyone please take the time to read the City's Charter please. Especially Mr. Denu – your heart is in the right place but the blame lies with the City Manager not the Mayor and Council. It is the responsibility of all of the Council and the Mayor to have him do his job.
Below are the responsiblities of the City Manager taken directly from the Charter. Aberdeen's charter is such that really the City Manager is CFO and the Mayor and Council are just the Board of Directors.
Subsection IV. is where the power lies to correct the issue regarding loopholes in the Charter.
2. City Manager
a. The Mayor, with the approval of the Council, shall appoint a City Manager. The City Manager, subject to the approval of the Council, shall:
i. Be the chief operating officer of the City and as such be responsible for the daily operations of the City government.
ii. Be responsible to implement the policies of the Council to insure that the City is operated in an efficient and effective manner.
iii. Supervise all departments, offices and agencies including the Department of Planning and Community Development, Department of Public Works, Clerk/Treasurer, and Police Department; make recommendations to the Council on the appointment and removal of Department Heads.
iv. Establish policies as may be necessary for proper administration.
v. Supervise and coordinate the administrative functions of the several offices, departments, commissions, boards, and agencies.
vi. Serve as chief financial officer and supervise financial administration, preparation of budgets, expenditure of funds, accounting, and procurement.
vii. Assist the Mayor in the preparation of the annual report to the Council on the state of the City Government and in the making of such recommendations as may be proper for the public good and welfare of the City.
viii. Be responsible for the care and custody of City property.
ix. Obtain adequate insurance coverage against loss of property and liability from civil suits.
x. Assure that the ordinances of the City are faithfully executed and the disbursement of all moneys are in accordance with the budget as approved by the Council.
xi. Serve as the personnel officer, and formulate personnel rules and regulations to be approved by the Council.
xii. Award contracts and make purchases in case of accident, disaster, or other circumstances creating a public emergency; provided the City Manager files promptly with the Council a certificate showing such emergency and the necessity for such action, together with an itemized account of all expenditures.
xiii. Provide for the investigation of the affairs of the City or any City department and report any deficiencies to the Council.
xiv. Provide for the investigation of all complaints in relation to the administration of City government and in relation to services provided by the public utilities in the City.
xv. Assure the compliance of all franchises, permits, and privileges granted by the City.
The same thing that makes you qualified to run for office. I have a mind of my own and I'm fine with the fact that others don't agree me. Are you?
Very defensive "Daddy", aren't we? Taking things a bit too personal, hummm?
Go figure…when the Art Helton camp (Bennett-Johnson-Elliott) knew they were in for a fight and taking heat they jumped back. I am sure Art could care less however I think Bennett was a smart man to sit down and talk to Johnson one on one, as I saw Saturday afternoon. Too late though. The damage is done. The citizens of Aberdeen hopefully will see the campers (Bennett-Johnson-Elliott-ACT) for what they really are. Although I hold nothing personal against Mr. Bennett nor think he wouldn't be a good Mayor…the citizens of Aberdeen need to ask themselfs if games like this are worth it? Further, how long will it take Mr. Bennett to catch up with the BRAC process/meetings? On November 6th, re-elect S. Fred Simmons…committed to the City of Aberdeen, committed to the theme, Aberdeen-"The future of Harford.!"
Actually Jason, I saw more developers in the last post contributing to the campaigns of Mr. Simmons, Mr. Yansen and Mr. Hiob than I did to the campaigns of Mr. Bennett and Ms. Elliott. If the number of developers supporting a campaign is the measure of who's in who's pocket, then perhaps we should be more concerned about who's pocket Mr. Simmons is in than Mr. Bennett? To me it looks like Mr. Bennett only received $1,000 worth of support from a developer while Mr. Simmons received almost $14,000 from several developers. That's a pretty big war chest for a small town Mayoral election. It leads one to wonder what these various developers might be expecting in return should Mr. Simmons be re-elected.
Speaking of developers, what ever happened to all the development that was suppose to pay for Ripken Stadium? Remember being promised the grand "Avenue-style" plaza? What ever happened to that? I guess Simmons will get blamed for that too!
Development is good and much needed in Aberdeen. Aberdeen is getting old and run down. Elliott said herself we needed mor high-end housing. Was that developement she hinted at?
I'm ok with developers contributing to campaigns. Especially with BRAC coming. Unless everyone else wants more warehouses! (Wasn't Elliott responisible for all those?)
BENDING THE RULES AGAIN…
In the mail came today a shiny "Fred DID IT" campaign post card.
On the card are a list of "claimed" accomplishments (which should have been afforded the officers) regarding law enforcement.
Also on the card was a picture of Simmons shaking hands with the seemingly over joyed Captain who was all untucked and not wearing his hat.
On the reverse side was also another picture, this one much better of some of the R.R.T. guys, S.W.A.T. and the dog.
The rules and regulations of the Aberdeen Police Department clearly state that no officer shall engage in political activity while on duty or wearing and portion of their uniform.
So why are they on Simmons' campaign flyer? Did they or he (Simmons) use blatant disregard for the rules or is that the rules are often bent to suit their needs like we see so often in many other facets of our government operations?
Remember also, many of the Simmons campaign signs bear the City of Aberdeen logo, which is another infraction of election law.
In case you wonder why it's against election law, consider that the city spent tens of thousands of dollars (yes, really) in taxpayers' money to design those insignias.
So why don't all the candidates then just use the city logo on their signs? Because they'd all be breaking the law.
Where did the whole "seemingly over joyed Captain who was all untucked and not wearing his hat." thing come from? Is there a beef with this Captain? Just seemed a little off base and personal.
Bravo to Steve Johnson for his performance at the City Council meeting on Monday night. Not just anyone could stare down Mr Young! What is he, like 80 something years old. Good job tough guy!
* A e-mail sent to my friend, Rick Denu *
My friend Rick,
I am not sure if this letter will cause a friendship to go sour or not however I have some things that need to be said.
Many people have asked me how I balance Fred and you, knowing that you are at his throat. I have enjoyed both Fred and your friendship both personally and professionally. As I stated in one of my post, when someone attacked your family, we agree to disagree, but shake hands and move on. A true friendship.
I am becoming more suspicious however of your intentions for running for a council seat, Rick. You say you are running independently however you seem to align yourself with those who I believe are not about working with the city of Aberdeen. You continue to attack Mayor Simmons, by name however have yet to attack any other council member. In your latest post on The Dagger, entitled, “Bending the Rules Again” you question the rules and regulations of the police department. Prior to your post, during the day we did discuss this mailer sent by Mayor Simmons campaign. Although we did not discuss it in great detail I am amazed, or shocked rather how you can bring that up when you were a police officer, of supervisory rank two years ago when Fred ran for office. Other than a few words changed and a picture of RRT, the picture of the Captain is the same, as it was two years ago. Was there an issue then, Rick? I don’t recall you voicing your objection. Further, you and many police officers walked with Fred to get his message out. Fred has been good to your family and you. Fred has been good to all of the police department, and you know that. In your post you also say the policies and procedures state no officer shall engage in political activity while on duty. Don’t you think every police department in this country has the same rule however we see it all the time.
Your continued attacks on Fred and the police department are not necessary. The blog is becoming a venue to spew internal issues that if elected, you can address and attempt to fix. This is making the police department look bad, and in reality it is not. There are a bunch of great officers who work very hard and are dedicated to the citizens of Aberdeen. Rick, you know as well as I do, the policing days during the Wilson administration and the policing days under the Simmons administration are like flipping a switch. Simmons aggressiveness may not work in all jurisdictions however it is working well in Aberdeen. Go speak to the residents of Washington Street, Swan Meadows, Old Post Apartments (formerly Washington Street). Yes, it is the officers who are making the difference but without Fred’s support and push, what would the City of Aberdeen be like? Edgewood!
I ask you to please, as former co-worker, as a friend to stop attacking Fred and focus on the seat you are running for. If your goal is to unseat Fred, as it appears to me, rather than winning a council seat, I must stop supporting you. Many people, including me asked you to run for City Council some time ago. It would be great to have someone like you on city council. You are typically fair, open minded, and willing to work with others. You typically find solutions not excuses.
In closing Rick, I ask you this. When you became a police officer, how many mistakes did you make? No one is perfect. Everyone makes bad decisions. The only mistake however is the one you fail to realize, improve, and do differently.
Your friend,
Jason
Employee – Steve Johnson also made it a point to identify himself as “Steve Johnson, 1## Post Road. What a crock! Mr. Young is correct and I believe the City should ask Mr. Johnson to pay the multi-thousand dollar bill that he created knowing he resides on Fords Lane. Just another example of a person who has no ethics, morals, or integrity. Johnson said he was denied the right to run for City Council. I guess Mr Johnson forgot there are stipulations/conditions with everything we do in life. I guess he wanted to drive at age 10, is that a violation of his constitutional rights? Is there a violation when someone gets carded for alcohol in bars? Thank you Steve Johnson and Art Helton for costing the city taxpayers multi-thousands for a bogus lawsuit.
Rick
My explanation was not an excuse for their failures it was to show that by Charter it is actually the City Manager who is supposed to be driving this bus. You are well aware of that fact since you were there during Dacey's tenure.
Could it be possible that Simmon's tried to get your time off with your son waived and he was over ruled by the City Manager who is the "Personnel Manager?"
All the department heads know who they report to and it is not the Mayor.
My point is that it may not really matter who is elected on November 6th except to provide fodder for those that are engaged and the media in what has become a never ending Jerry Springer episode.
Mr. Denu
HENRI FREDERIC AMIEL: Wrote
We are never more discontented with others than when we are discontented with ourselves.
Is this a case of “take my advice, I don’t use it”?
Thanks, I’ll keep it as a reminder to keep myself in check.
Mr Denu,
You’re running for public office and your whole life is now open to the public. Can you take the heat? So far you haven’t showed that you can. What happens when you’re pressured on the City Council? Are you going to resort to name calling and vauge inuendos as you have on this blog? Public life is tough, better get some thicker skin! (Guess I’m the next one on your hit list!)
BTW – Jason, excellent post above. It’s refreshing to see someone so close to Mr Denu see his unrelenting banter. Hope finally gets the picture! (Then again it would make this blog less entertaining!)
Acrobat,
I response to your posting earlier, I have read it and not just recently.
A clip from the charter you posted:
“Be responsible to implement the policies of the Council to insure that the City is operated in an efficient and effective manner.”
Did you pass over the text that clearly states “policies of the Council” (by the way that includes the Mayor)
§ IV. THE MAYOR
[Amended 10-11-1999 by Res. No. 551-99EN]
4. The Mayor shall:
a) Establish the emphasis, direction, and vision of the City in conjunction with the Council.
b) Plan for the future, welfare, and business interest of the City in conjunction with the Council.
c) Prepare and present the annual budget for approval by the Council, in keeping with the emphasis, direction, and vision established with the Council,EN
d) Assure on behalf of the Council that the ordinances of the City are faithfully executed by the City Manager and that the disbursement of all moneys are in accordance with the budget approved by the Council.
e) Appoint officers, heads of all Departments, and all members of commissions and boards as established by this Charter, subject to the approval of the Council.
f) Report annually to the Council the state of the City government and make such recommendations as may be proper for the public good and welfare of the City.
g) Establish an Economic Development Commission, Ethics Commission, a Parks and Recreation Board, Board of Zoning Appeals, Planning Commission, and such other boards and commissions as may be appropriate, subject to the approval of the Council.
h) Have such other powers and duties as may be prescribed by this Charter or may be required by the Council not inconsistent with this Charter.
I’m sorry but I see your explanation as more of an excuse for their failures.
I believe it’s time to put the foundation back under this City.
Denu, look in the mirror – you seem 10 – 96.
Stop biting the horse that help feed you and your family. You lack leadership, discernment and integrity. Ruth Elliott for Council. Johnson at least gives her pills for what’s ailing. What’s the deal between you & Bennett, anyway.
Acrobat,
I can’t answer the middle part of question.
You do make an excellent point about the Charter and where authority is legislated.
I do believe that a change in the charter to transfer authority back to the Mayor and Council whom represent the Citizens is in order.
Thanks for making that excellent point.
HELLO – STICK TO THE ISSUES!
Or he's just not stupid enough to do something as blatantly stupid as you propose.
Let's not discount the behind-the-scenes power struggle between city manager Doug Miller and mayor Fred Simmons. It's real and it's at times palpable.
Mr. Acrobat,
How is it remotely possible that the City Manager is the person all department heads report to? How can that be? This runs counter to the entire purpose of an elected Mayor & Council form of government. This makes absolutely no sense that an "appointed" employee such as a City/Town Manager has more authority than the entire board of people (City residents) whom appointed him. Does this person (City Manager) live in town and if not, that makes it worse? And if our town charter is written in that fashion then I totally disagree with that. It is my opinion and belief that only the elected Mayor & Council can and should make those decisions about personnel, not an appointed employee. That makes no sense at all. How can a subordinate employee over-rule a higher authority? It goes against all reason and logic not to mention for lack of a better explanation, "chain of authority." An employee in that position should have some authority but limited to the will and direction of the aggregate Mayor & Council. This concerns me…
The orignal City Charter gave the power to the Mayor and Council. However, after Ruth Elliott's term as Mayor, the charter was changed with HEAVY influence from Peter Dacy (City Manaqger at the time). You see the Mayor and City Council are considered PART TIME.
Just a little information Aberdeen Town Crier! BTW, I agree it should be changed back to give the elected officials back the power.
JASON: Is that close enough to the issues for you?
Daddy and Aberdeen Town Crier: First, daddy…yes. After Ruth Elliott was Mayor the Charter was changed. I must agree and I am sure you do too Daddy at what ATC is saying. I believe the Mayor and Council are elected by the people for the people, not the City Manager. The City Manager should be carrying out the will of the Mayor and Council. The Mayor and Council should be carrying out the will of the citizens.
A perfect example. I wonder if the City Council was consulted prior to hiring an Annapolis lawyer for the Steve Johnson suit or if the City Manager just hired him (as he stated, he worked with him-the lawyer-when he was in La Plata.)???
mr denu: 1) can you please tell me how you plan to carrying the mission of the police department? i have heard the term hug a thug prior to mayor simmons. you critique his ways of policing. as a resident of the city, in an area that was gang and drug infested, i like the new policing. how would you support the mission? would the police go back to hug a thug or remain aggressive? 2) what is your take on growth? did you support or vote for the annexation of wetlands? 3) tell me and the citizens what your feelings are about the tax/water issue?
Mr Denu,
If Mr. Simmons was this egotistical person you and your allies say he is, wouldn’t he have already changed the charter to transfer authority back to the Mayor ? I mean according to you, he would have had votes on the Council to do so, right? But he didn’t, did he?
That’s interesting. I guess he’s not quite the power hungry animal he’s made out to be.
Yes, ATC it is true. Ask those who have been around if today's administration is more open and transparent than Wilson's? The Dagger knows.
Why do you really think we are in this mess with Ripken Stadium. The previous administrations basically rubber stamped what was put in front of them twenty minutes before a Council Meeting because they put all their faith in the previous City Manager.
I will never forget the night Councilman Hansen questioned the Nottingham contract. He asked if there was a penalty phase in the contract if they did not build. He was told very disrespectfully no, that should not concern him and this was their last offer. He was the lone no vote.
Captain Cox:
Gosh another philosopher, I don't know how many more I can take…..
Henri Frederic Amiel action is coarsened thought; thought becomes concrete, obscure, and unconscious. … is this what you believe–because it contradicts the Mayor's Atlas Shrugged?
Anyways, since you quoted the Swiss Philosopher, let's discuss….
Good to read that you know your history. I'm still debating whether the quote that your wrote was one that you searched or one from your superior or your superior's superior.
Anyways, I'm going to give you the benefit of the doubt because I would assume that if you are going to quote a person–you would know their history and what they stand for AND that you would believe in that person–RIGHT Captain?
So here it is–History: Henri-Frédéric Amiel was born in Geneva in 1821, and descended from a Huguenot. In case you didn't know…Huguenots became famous fo their fiery criticisms of worship as performed in the Roman CATHOLIC CHURCH.
FACT: Henri-Frédéric Amiel, did not believe in the rituals of the Roman CATHOLIC CHURCH. The Huguenot's saw Christian faith as something to be expressed in a strict and Godly life, in obedience to Biblical laws, out of gratitude for God's mercy.
Now a question to you Captain. Did the Huguenots have a clear definition of 'IDEAL' man or did S. FRED'S famous AYN RAND have a better vision with her "Mystic Spirits" philosophy?
Here is another Amiel quote for you AND your superiors to ponder…
"Every life is a profession of faith, and exercises an inevitable and silent influence."
I am,
Dagny
Dangy makes my head hurt!
Hey Dagny, You are taking them away from their thug hugging!
Mr. Denu,
I would like to pose a few questions to you Sir, since it appears that you are the only candidate and/or incumbent who has made his presence known on this venue.
1. Where do you see Aberdeen in 2 years if you are elected in so far as BRAC and related growth is concerned?
2. How do you propose to address the achilles heel of providing sufficient access to "water?"
3. What will you propose/do with the Ripken Stadium moneypit we're currently losing money on?
4. What needs to be addressed with the way our police department is operating and what do you propose to do to fix it?
5. If the charter of the town is antiquated and/or outdated, will you fix it and bring up to current day standards that are legal, feasible, and timely?
6. Many elected officials will state that their administrations will operate under the guise of "transparent govenrment." Will you make that statement, and if so, how will you Sir keep that declaration?
7. IF elected, how will you work with your fellow Councilpersons and what will you do to promote a unified front that puts the interests of your citizens first?
I will stop at lucky #7. I hope that I'm not asking too much of you at once. I am attempting to keep this posting related to the issues that many residents find of great concern to us, our families, and neighbors.
Seeing some of you previous postings, I get the sense you'll not mind at all and accept the challenge. I await your response at your convenience.
Bless you and your family…
Jason,
I agree with it your post and as I told you before, I'm sure was difficult juggling all that drama. Keep your head though- only 13 more days!!
How about question posed to ALL CANIDATES:
Do YOU support the Police Dept moving thier retirement to LEOPS? If so, when and if not, why? (Please, no sidestepping saying it needs to be studied or we could od our own – We are tired of the underfunding and word suffle)
ATC,
I did ansew some of these questions on Harford Now Blog, please check it out…
http://www.harfordnow.com/5-questions-aberdeen-ca…
I'll get to the remainder ASAP
Thanks
Mr Denu-
I keep hearing rumors that people don't want you in office because they know you let things from the police dept out. Why wait till you get in office? If you have something, why not just say it?
what might be in the police department, they would prefer to remain incognito? this is a free and open society. how about some gossip from the council etc.
a man that believe's in free press & speech if he has something to say he will.and I'am willing to listen.
Daddy,
Perhaps you need to visit Johnson's. Give it a rest or are you scared Mr. Denu knows something you wouldn't want to get out?
ATC
#4
Crime? Since you ask, I'm tough on crime and my record speaks for its self.
The Aberdeen Police Department is full of great people and It's time someone givens them real support and leader with a real policing mission.
They have earned and deserve a stable pay structure and legacy benefits, ie: sustained markey pay, benefits and L.E.O.P.S. These equal work for equal pay ideals coupled with a structured and fair work environment, are essential to the recruitment and retention process that needs to be finalized.
This is step one in what needs to be accomplished to change the organizational culture of the police department. At the same time we need to implement systems, equipment and also allocate well trained personnel to proactively address prevention, deterrence, apprehensions, prosecutions and convictions.
In closing, public saftey is a very comples issue that needs a person like myself in Council to guide the City Manager in his oversight of the Chief of Police.
Wow, Dagny. Are you so upset that there might be another reader in the house that you accuse him of not remembering his own quotes? No matter. I’m sure the blog readers appreciated your wiki-lesson.
Truth be told, though the philosophies you challenge the captain with discerning are quite different, they both have the same underlying vein: challenging the power and belief system of a larger structure (Catholic church/ big government) and the conviction to live their own lives with strict accordance and sacrifice. Not that it pertains to this blog…much.
I have read your postings and have come to the opinion that your pseudonym affords you the opportunity to play both sides in these philosophical and political debates—at times not well. (I hope you finally finished the book.)
Then again, maybe its fun for you to write an article that stirs the pot for many, and a blog entry that is understood by one or two. Your fellow bloggers have said you “make their head hurt,” and this must have made you feel truly intellectual and “enlightened.”
(“Well, what is it that enlightened people do with thier lives?” “Perhaps they do not attempt to do anything. That is their enlightenment.”)
In another of your posts, I found it (deliberately) confusing as to whether you felt the election’s issues should be “all about the people” or “all about the people and their money.” I hope you were ranting sarcastically and finally coming to a final solution: this election is about the people and their money. Because you’ve no doubt at least read far enough by now to know that these two statements are as different as the views of Scudder and d’Anconia.
And if we’re talking the people’s money, then I’d love to have a look at the candidates across the board: are they moochers, looters, or producers, and which would you like to have working for you in the city? Which will forge forward (where certainly they will be continually forced to deal with opposition) and produce—which will show us quantitative results when it comes to real problems? (“Money is the tool of exchange, which can’t exist unless there are goods produced and men able to produce them.”) Which, as you say, will be concerned with the people’s money…and their water supply…and their safety…and their progress in the face of growth?
Do you want the so-called nice guy who smiles but says “I don’t know” about the issues? (“My objective was social progress, human brotherhood, and love.”)
Do you want a turncoat turned crybaby who bawls insults after being passed up for a promotion? (“Why yes I can," said Midas Mulligan, when he was asked whether he could name a person more evil than the man with a heart closed to pity. "The man who uses another's pity for him as a weapon.”)
Or maybe you want the unremarkable candidate that squeezes through because they do not face adversity—rather than because they are the best choice? (Let’s remember what happened when Wesley slipped through the cracks.)
For my part, I wish to not spend a cent of my tax dollars supporting the follies or the (even meager) salaries of any of the above. (“Money is not the tool of moochers, who claim your product by tears, or of the looters, who take it from your by force. Money is made possible only by the men who produce.”)
I don’t care whether I vote for the nice guy. I don’t want to debate whether campaign slogans show an arrogance of claiming to be John Galt or God. I don’t care if he wears guns, if her age attracts national media attention, if he claims to live out of a pharmacy, or if he cheated on a test decades ago. I want to vote for the person who gets things done, who stands by his convictions—even if it means shaking things up, creating some waves, or maybe even an enemy or two.
I want to vote for someone who is careful with money and uses it wisely to support what affects me—afterall, I have worked hard for it. (“Money is a tool of exchange, which can’t exist unless there are good produced and men able to produce them.”) I want to vote for a producer.
And I am,
Francisco
Well put Francisco. For me the question is do I vote for a mayor who has knowledge of BRAC issues from jump street, a mayor who works FULL TIME at his position (something that Aberdeen hasn't had), a mayor who does not accept his salary (sure it's only $13K but the guy is working full time for free), and a mayor who, in my opinion as a long time tax paying resident, lit a little fire under a few butts and has police officers out there policing (I admit limited contact with Chief Rudy or police in general but it appears that Aberdeen PD is proactively taking on criminals at any level, something that was NOT done during the Wilson years). OR do I vote for a 19 year old that has a great topic for her poli-sci senior term paper. OR do I vote for a man who does have civil minded qualities (life long member of the FD), a man that pretty much basks in the light of Sunshine Helton, and a man who is a self admitted cheat that took a poo on his fellow troopers with inside knowledge on a promotional test (there is NO HONOR in that, not to mention selling out when his hand got caught….I repeat NO HONOR).
My choice will be an easy one when it comes to mayor. The City Council has some hopefuls, and the best mix will be a mix that can work together, debate together, and will vote the will of the citizens not the will of a special interest, a best friend, or in furtherance of a private agenda (ax grinders need not apply).
Aberdeen is on the right track and can continue on the right track with our current mayor, our current council president, and three new faces (or at least 2 new faces). When there is a 2-1-2 split a vote isn't in the bag, debate becomes much more informed and much more effective and progress is made because it is hard earned.
I'll leave with this thought, historically progress is made by persons who went against the grain, who were not reasonable, therefore all progress was made by unreasonable people and from reading the words of other posters Mayor S. Fred Simmons is considered unreasonable therefore I am assured that he will not lay down but will continue to be unreasonable and progress will continue with a prosperous zeal. BTW, Denu and Garner appear to be rather unreasonable in the good sense.
this election is simple for me: simmons, hiob, denu, dewitt, and young. its time for kupferman, elliott, and yensan to go.
You ask: "What might be in the police department, they would prefer to remain incognito?
This is a free and open society….."
The "Great Denu" couldn't pass the test, resulting in his failing to get a promotion he so (in HIS mind) deserved. He quit his job with no real means to support his wife and family. And NOW wants to be councilman of the City that he says screwed him. And he wants Bennett to be Mayor who stole and cheated on the Maryland State Police promotion exam…and they say, "We deserve it!" 10-96…Barney Fife!
Does "10 – 96" mean the same at APD and the Maryland State Police?
Jason, The blog is about the election being postponed because of Steve Johnson. He dropped out,remember? So what else to you have to say about this issue? You are an idiot who is using the blog as yet another forum to trash Art Helton?
observer for observer: No not at all however it is obvious from certain posts my comments were warranted. Get to the issues people!
Wrong
Francisco,
Why did it take you so long?
I did finish the book. And I did write my blogs for you to read; all others are irrelevant. I'm glad to see that you understood who I was talking to and finally replied. I wasn't sure how many blogs I would have had to write before you responded. Finally–thank you!
Yes, I am in agreement with you. You knew that I would be. I couldn't have written a better synopsis of the book. You know me well enough to know that I believe in producing a product and receiving pay for that product. I also believe that the looters are government –not to mention some people.
Government regulations closes the doors of many businesses. If a man is wealthy because he has a great mind–then he should be permitted to keep his money. Look at how many people he employs through his business. Look at Bill Gates–he employs thousands and the government has been after him for a long time. In this, we are in total agreement.
Do I want looters to lead the Aberdeen government? Absolutely not! Again, we are in agreement and that's why you would have my vote.
However, I found an underlining theme in the book. I believe that Ayn wrote the book using Capitalism as a front to promote athiesm. John's speach is actually Ayn telling us about her philosophy of life. She says that man is superior. I'm not buying. God is superior.
If you revisit the book, you will see that Ayn is actually lost within herself. When I finished the book, I felt a sadness for her. She had to be a very lonely person. I believe she was trying to replace the void that God places within us, with hard-work. Nothing wrong with hard work, but there has to be a balance. And it is God who gives us that balance.
I began reading Ayn's biography. I want to know what went wrong in her life and why she left me with a feeling of sadness for her.
In conclusion, yes I believe in the philosophy that one must be productive. But, I don't believe in the books main theme — Athiesm. I believe in a living God.
I am,
Dagny
And this is the last blog that I will write, because it's the only one that I wanted to write.
Dagny, Dagny, Dagny…
What happened? You were the only reason I started reading this blog…sharp writing and a thorough understanding (I thought) of objectivism.
I'm not sure who you think I am, but I doubt you were writing deliberately for me…unless you meant in a larger sense: eliciting an intelligent response from another reader. (But the idea that you were writing and waiting for me to come out of the woodwork to answer–only to have your response to me be the only blog you wanted to write–well, your version is sooo much better. Almost romantic. Dagny and Francisco. So we'll go with that.)
Atheism and its role in Ayn's life was only PART of her theory of objectivism, not the central idea. There is room for God in the life of the true objectivist, as long as their beliefs all contribute to their own capitalism in the truest, barest sense–as long as they have tapped the vein of their personal productivity.
Beware the moochers too Dagny. At least the looters brandish weapons, and you see the theft, you know the pain is coming. The moochers are as smart as you, but with less integrity. They make you believe that they are contributing, that each day they help the world to make the sun rise. Meanwhile, you are getting weaker and weaker, holding the whole world on your shoulders.
You will not find my name on the ballot, but since I have your vote, please feel free to write it in:
I am,
Francisco
MOZART, BEETHOVEN AND BACH…….THEN THERE WAS HALLEY’S FIFTH CONCERTO
I experienced my first symphony in 2006 when someone gave me tickets to see the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. I fell in love with the music. It was as if someone opened up the heavens so that I could take a peak. Everyone wore tuxedos or evening gowns. The audience clapped after ever movement of a piece, after that one piece the violinist stood up and everyone played the same note. (As Dagny understood, classical music isn’t meant to be enjoyed – it’s meant to be appreciated.) I sat quietly through the performance, almost in a trance, when all of a sudden someone in the audience coughed and it added to the music – it was like a new percussion instrument. (Ha)
Francisco, you don’t have to teach me about the looters (believe me I watch my $ only giving what is mandated and I know the weapon when I see it coming) and you don’t have to teach me about the strikers–I know them well. The moochers, however are probably the people who I am most vulnerable. Someone once told me that my only weakness was that I was too forgiving. Well the moochers draw on that liability. I am cognizant to the people who have a tendency to sponge off other people, sort of like free-riding, which has been a problem, in my opinion, since civilization began. It’s okay for people to ask family and friends for help when they get into a jam, but the Moochers take it to the next level. They make it a lifestyle.
Come on Francisco, if we were to be honest with one another, we would admit that Ayn divided her world, and her characters, in a coward fashion into what she wanted and what she didn’t want. Here is what she didn’t want: Toohey, “second-hander,” Mouch–as we both agree was a looter, and collectivists or as some would say, “ left-wingers, or donors.” Now, here is what Ayn wanted: Roark and Galt because both represented individualism and capitalism. We also have to agree that both “ideal men”or “creators” rejected their social surroundings and were rejected in return.
So what does Halley’s Fifth Concerto in “Atlas Shrugged” represent? I believe it represented a time to celebrate–basically a “symphony of triumph.” Or a song of a deliverance with a clear melody at a time – when no one wrote a melody.
I don’t know Francisco, perhaps Rand really believed democracy was hopeless and wanted a government ruled by men like Galt and Roark. OR maybe she never really cared about working any of this out. OR maybe she really didn’t know what she wanted???? Anyways, I do believe the failure to come to terms with the democratic knowledge shared by society and achievement has not been her thoughts alone. I guess this is one reason why people still choose sides???
—-The American way Francisco. One can still believe in HALLEY’S FIFTH CONCERTO.
Read the writings of Aristotle
I remain,
Dagny