Kissinger would love this; RP as a microcosm of the national scene.
Ever since Eleanor Roosevelt the spouse of the First Occupant has pretty much been able to engage in as much activism as she chooses. Nowadays, the spouses of potential candidates get as much vetting as the candidates. Their children may be next, given the hijinks of the Bush daughters. So I suppose I shouldn't be surprised that our 'progressive' Alderman has joined the ranks of the national leadership and trotted out his significant other and his son.
Now, I understand completely that we need to work with the winner of the election. I have said it before because I believe it is true. Like it or not that individual is the connection to a lot of city services, unless end runs are done. At the same time, I have to question the motivation of the new players who only now appear after a bruising election that Joe won by a hair after being forced into a runoff.
Ms. Sepanik does not address why she is suddenly so visible, aside from an urge to reach out to the folks in the community and encourage 'good works' all around, starting with the environment. What has ticked off some folks is the public absence of local environmental leaders who should be front and center, or at least standing by Ms. Sepanik's side. They aren't there yet although one has reached out to her and she intends to contact another.
Note to Ms. Sepanik - next time do the contacting and reaching out in advance and have your line up of community supporters ready. Helps the credibility quotient.
Yes, you are hearing a skeptical bordering on cynical tone here, but I am willing to be convinced. Keep in mind that Andrew Sharp, a DC political consultant, joined the Alderman's team for the runoff and Inquiring Minds want to know how much influence he had in this development.
So, the ball remains in the Alderman's and Ms. Sepanik's court. We will either wind up with more of the same, or real change can occur. If it turns out to be the former, then I hope Ms. Sepanik has a very thick skin. I know at least one other blogger who doesn't like to be made a fool of.
6 comments:
For some reason the song, "I'm not your stepping stone" keeps playing in my head. But, if they ae ready to do some good, I am all for it.
I take back what I said. I gave another shot at reading this blog and I think what was going on with me before is that I was having trouble concentrating. I have focused better and found it clear and informative. Thanks.
Hey! Hey! We're the Monkees!....
I remember that song and I think Dolenz sang it.
The Sex Pistols version is good too.
Hey, hey, you're right about Mickey Dolenz!
But seriously, it would be encouraging if more of a grassroots environmental effort developed. I'm sure if it can form around anyone directly associated with Joe, though, as he may have burned too many bridges with some of the most knowledgeable folks. We'll see....
Oops! There's a crucial word missing from my previous comment.
Make that: I'm not sure if it can form around anyone directly associated with Joe, though, ...
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