[StBernard] Absent Councilmember

[Westley Annis]

""No one should have to be intimidated to do the right
thing or voice an honest opinion as an individual.""

AND no one should be subjected to intimidation when they attempt to do the
right thing or voice an honest opinion as an individual.  

Suzanne


-----Original Message-----
"Isn't it amazing how political people can become this time of year.  Just
take notice of how many politians are trying not to ruffle the feathers of
JR.  Why are people so afraid of him.  He votes once just like the rest of
us.  Do they believe that he controls a large block of voters."  

**Well, I can't say that *every politician" or employee is "afraid" of JR,
even though I've heard many have felt the "wrath of the swinging ax" and
lost their jobs after Katrina. (in fairness to JR, some may have deserved to
go).

Given that, having respect for the office of Parish President is one thing.
Kissing a$$ is another. No one should have to be intimidated to do the right
thing or voice an honest opinion as an individual. Going into the election a
few years back, many voters saw JR as a beacon of light, especially with his
MRGO position. Now that Katrina has exhibited to the world and parish of the
enormity of the problem and safety concerns to many thousands who chose to
rebuild back in St. Bernard, JR's influence is not as powerful and a good
parish president who works hard towards continuing shutdown of the MRGO can
work equally to get the parish more secure.

However, if people wish change in government they don't have to look far to
realize what must be done to make it come about. It's as far as the voting
booth. Whoever wishes to disfavor JR with a run for the position must pick
up the baton--whether the baton is broken or whole. St. Bernard cannot
afford to idly sit back and ignore the vital importance of what it means to
get it right on election day. If the majority makes a mistake with their
votes, it can mean a loss of a decade in recovery. 

--most people don't have that long in their lives in wait time--and can
ill-afford a carousel ride while other communities show growth and
prosperity.

-=-jer-=-