I don’t think I could add anything to that comment except…

AMEN!

Sometimes, genius is an unbearable burden. Most folks are raised to be “average”; there’s not parenting class for raising them; and because their viewpoint is sooooo different from the rest of us, they probably have a major challenge coping. NOW; that does NOT absolve him of his missteps but I cringe every time I hear his name and pray that THIS time, let it be that he’s re-grouped.

Local Candidates:

Our political potpourri, in my ‘umble opinion, includes “conspiracies” and the like. On the other hand, “To whom much is given; much is required.” Those who know better must do better and I refuse to believe there are so few of us who do not know better than to vote in the kinds of folks who simply are looking for a job. Some of the names listed are folks who either run for the nearest office available; have run since Jesus wept, or have bought into the belief that “our” salvation is political; rather than ECONOMIC!!

Lastly, when each of us who knows the “right path” on any issue, gathers the courage to place our faith in our values and NOT our boss, our mortgage; our car note; etc., I believe the others, slowly but surely, will follow our footsteps. Its our walk, not our talk, that will win the day.

Okay, sermon’s over. Go in Peace.

REB

I think you’re on to something (and I think it’s a better idea than the candidates questionnaire series we’re doing).

Given the kind of society we’re living in, working class folks may need their politics delivered like fast food takeout.

And I’m with you on the anti-complacency campaign because one thing folks in our community do well is complain.

I really like the idea put forth in your reply and am beginning to believe that the curve in completing such a “Candidate Profile” would be lowered and unintimidating.

And I as well as you are happy that Councilman Al Vann has decided to participate in our series.

By far, he is the “Dean of Brooklyn Politics” and has reach and influence in many corners of City and State government that are envied by many. Many consider him an ally, adviser and counselor.

And in spite of how some in his office and campaign may have felt we were a little rough in linking him to certain stories, we have nothing but a healthy respect for him and his accomplishments.

Which is why I thought the Marion Barry documentary is so instructive….Al Vann has never devolved into a character like Marion Barry…though some in his political circle have.

I think there should be a new anti-complacency campaign and it would go something like this:

- Drug dealers on the corners?

- Garbage in the streets?

- Kids failing classes?

- Homeless shelter next door?

- Don’t vote? Don’t complain.

It’s harsh, but I think people need a wake up call.

Now I do understand that, particularly in working class communities, it may be difficult for folks to find the time to get up to speed on all that is going on. So they will rely on the endorsement of others. And that is a fair critique that needs to be addressed.

I think it would be great if some independent body could create a comparison table showing – in a one page summary format – the most salient pieces of information from the candidates’ bios and campaigns:

- Where they live.

- How long they’ve lived here.

- Major lifetime achievements.

- Major contributions to the community.

- Vision for the community.

- Top three issues affecting the community.

- How they would address these issues.

- Top three skills they have to effectuate change.

- Top three critiques that others have about the candidate.

Maybe the posters could be posted at the bus and subway stations and along the main commercial corridors throughout the district.

Also, I am very happy to hear that Al Vann will be speaking up on the forum!!