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School Board Candidates
Topic Started: Feb 7 2008, 10:29 AM (4,771 Views)
Mrs.M
Veteran
Bailey and Oke are probably the least disliked(?)or contentious, they do question some actions and don't tend to gloat when their proposals pass.
I'd agree with you, but then we'd both be WRONG.
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Extra Olives
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Rocky
Feb 14 2008, 11:38 AM
Mrs.M
Feb 14 2008, 11:09 AM
If you don't like the team, should you not try out for it? Referring to either City or School board as a team, no wonder some people are left on the bench.  

I'm sure those lone votes can earn a person respect. Respect for doing what's right and standing against the 'crowd', especially when you're supposed to be representing constituents.

That's my point. If we don't like the team, how come there isn't a line of people running to change the team? One person alone can't win a game, nor can one person on a board.

And one person alone can't win an election -- especially when going up against a huge political machine. Those on the current BOE (save SK) are all part of that huge network which has ingratiated itself to the LPS unions, PTA, and those in Central office and city hall. It would be nearly impossible to beat a machine like that as an outsider. I, for one, will be working my tail off for Patrice Mang. She came very close last May. If McComber had not run, she maybe even could have won. He took 500 votes. That's more than she needed to beat Oke.
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Renee Chesney
Veteran
Extra Olives
Feb 14 2008, 11:59 AM
Rocky
Feb 14 2008, 11:38 AM
Mrs.M
Feb 14 2008, 11:09 AM
If you don't like the team, should you not try out for it? Referring to either City or School board as a team, no wonder some people are left on the bench.  

I'm sure those lone votes can earn a person respect. Respect for doing what's right and standing against the 'crowd', especially when you're supposed to be representing constituents.

That's my point. If we don't like the team, how come there isn't a line of people running to change the team? One person alone can't win a game, nor can one person on a board.

And one person alone can't win an election -- especially when going up against a huge political machine. Those on the current BOE (save SK) are all part of that huge network which has ingratiated itself to the LPS unions, PTA, and those in Central office and city hall. It would be nearly impossible to beat a machine like that as an outsider. I, for one, will be working my tail off for Patrice Mang. She came very close last May. If McComber had not run, she maybe even could have won. He took 500 votes. That's more than she needed to beat Oke.

And all 500 could have gone to Greg too. We'll never know how they would have voted if McComber would not have been on the ballot. Looking forward to a great race. I wish all the candidates the best of luck.
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Whatever
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Veteran
A safe assumption would be to consider the fact that those who voted for McComber would have not voted for status quo. That is primarily why thye voted for him.
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Renee Chesney
Veteran
Whatever
Feb 14 2008, 02:44 PM
A safe assumption would be to consider the fact that those who voted for McComber would have not voted for status quo. That is primarily why thye voted for him.

Oh wow is it indeed a fact that "those who voted for McComber would have not voted for the status quo?" Please post your "facts" on that one cause from where I am sitting that is pure speculation.
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BoaterDan
Veteran
Renee Chesney
Feb 7 2008, 11:17 AM

Unlikely that I will vote for who you back and unlikely that you will vote for who I back. If there were a candidate that came from neither side we might just be able to get down to getting some real issues resolved. It isn't about being a peacemaker, just a topic I thought would be interesting to discuss. C'mon with a name like Purple Haze what are people supposed to think?

I like the theory, but I'm not sure how it would work in reality.

Anybody running against the incumbents is inherently on the "them" side of the "us vs. them" equation from the board's perspective. If history continues to repeat, that means that the union/Kirksey/MASB machine will crank up to whatever level necessary to defeat them if possible.

That in itself is likely to polarize the campaigns and voters along the same lines we've seen, and we'll continue as we always have.

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Whatever
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Even if one of "them" is not really "them", "they" will be not be seen as one of "us" and thusly be treated as one of "those" :rolleyes:
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Renee Chesney
Veteran
BoaterDan
Feb 14 2008, 02:52 PM
Renee Chesney
Feb 7 2008, 11:17 AM

Unlikely that I will vote for who you back and unlikely that you will vote for who I back.  If there were a candidate that came from neither side we might just be able to get down to getting some real issues resolved.  It isn't about being a peacemaker, just a topic I thought would be interesting to discuss.  C'mon with a name like Purple Haze what are people supposed to think?

I like the theory, but I'm not sure how it would work in reality.

Anybody running against the incumbents is inherently on the "them" side of the "us vs. them" equation from the board's perspective. If history continues to repeat, that means that the union/Kirksey/MASB machine will crank up to whatever level necessary to defeat them if possible.

That in itself is likely to polarize the campaigns and voters along the same lines we've seen, and we'll continue as we always have.

I thought John Hiltz was fabulous filling in last year, I wish he would run in the future. He wasn't hard core either way and is the type of person of could have wedged the gap I think. But you are right both sides have polorized the campaigns and voters and neither are going to give in. It is slated that way again with the three that are running. Although I have to say I am truly impressed with the other sides decision to throw one candidate out there versus two. Congratulations, I think its a great idea that could very well work out nicely for you.
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Deleted User
Deleted User

What is interesting is the fact that Bailey--the lone NO vote during the LI, is now considered one of 'them'. (IMO, he was always one of them) Does he really have a vanity plate that says 'TRUSTEE'? :lol: :lol: :lol:


Didn't Hiltz have a gigantic "Scheel" sign up in front of his business? I doubt he came from nowhere. Nice story though Chesney.
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Al Beabak
Advanced Member
[ *  *  * ]
Renee Chesney
Feb 14 2008, 03:35 PM
Although I have to say I am truly impressed with the other sides decision to throw one candidate out there versus two.

A typical example of polarization and assumption. What if it was just the case that this was the candidates choice only and ther was no, other sides decision, as you put it?
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Micki
I love teaching.
I don't know how anyone can even compete with the resources that will be used to campaign against Patrice. I will have to be answering my phone "Hello, I am voting for Patrice."
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Renee Chesney
Veteran
persona non grata
Feb 14 2008, 04:00 PM
What is interesting is the fact that Bailey--the lone NO vote during the LI, is now considered one of 'them'.  (IMO, he was always one of them)  Does he really have a vanity plate that says 'TRUSTEE'? :lol:  :lol:  :lol:


Didn't Hiltz have a gigantic "Scheel" sign up in front of his business?  I doubt he came from nowhere.  Nice story though Chesney.

As someone who was heavily involved with the support of the board in the recall and in the board elections, I had never met nor heard of John Hiltz prior to his sitting on the board. So while he may not have come from nowhere (I don't know the connection, if there is one), I think he really could have bridged the gap and though he did an awesome job.
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Renee Chesney
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Al Beabak
Feb 14 2008, 04:04 PM
Renee Chesney
Feb 14 2008, 03:35 PM
Although I have to say I am truly impressed with the other sides decision to throw one candidate out there versus two.

A typical example of polarization and assumption. What if it was just the case that this was the candidates choice only and ther was no, other sides decision, as you put it?

If your what if is correct, then my assumption would be wrong.
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Deleted User
Deleted User

Rocky
Feb 14 2008, 07:03 AM
Still, it seems to me for as much disenfranchisement and outrage as this message board seems to represent with the existing board, for there to only be one non-incumbent to file is pitiful.  To say that no one filed because they are scared of a deep-rooted political machine makes no sense, it doesn't take much effort to throw your name on a ballot. 

For as long as Livonia has been a city, there have been no name candidates on city and school board elections who spent nothing to campaign.  Sure it takes an organized campaign to go against incumbents, but it takes practically nothing to at least show you care by filing to run.  Certainly if there is a ground swell of anger about the current board in the community we should be able to put a package of willing and qualified candidates out there for the voters to pick without spending a ton of money.  That's why I have stated before and still believe that we on here are a tiny minority and the vast majority must be satisfied with the district and its board.

LR is correct that there is a big difference between sitting around complaining about a problem and doing something about it or trying to make a difference.  Just because Steve King was the only candidate we got in last time doesn't mean we pack up our football and go stand on the sideline mumbling.  But that's exactly what I see.  Which leaves Steve sitting out on an island looking like Kirstin Galka who opposed everything the rest of the board did, ultimately looking silly and powerless.

Throwing your name on a ballot to show you care is a bad idea. We need to be more responsible than that. It is probably great for the established candidates, as it would water down the voting pool. If you are very serious, then by all means you should run. It is much too important of an undertaking than to just throw your name on a ballot.

I think it is possible we are on different sidelines Rocky. I don't see people sitting around doing nothing. I also don't think it is fair for you to assume that people are doing nothing, and just complaining on this board. If so, I can assume since you and LR are part of this message board, all you are doing is sitting around and complaining also. There are a thousand ways to contribute and be involved in your community, that do not include City Hall, or the BOE, and no one should think any less of those people.

This is just a small message board, and it bewilders me why so many people get so bent out of shape about. No ones really reading it anyway, right? It's just a small minority, so why bother. Use this board to find the right questions to ask, and things to do. Then go ask them, and do them.
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Deleted User
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Mrs.M
Feb 14 2008, 11:45 AM
Bailey and Oke are probably the least disliked(?)or contentious, they do question some actions and don't tend to gloat when their proposals pass.

I agree. That is the one thing that should help keep this election civil. HOPEFULLY :o
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LPS Reformer
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The schools exist to educate, not employ.
Rocky
Feb 14 2008, 10:56 AM
Sourapples
Feb 14 2008, 07:40 AM
Rocky, ya just don't get it. Why run in a crowd with a slow pack when you can lead with a soloist?

Because one person can not make a difference when there are six other votes always against you. Like it or not, when serving on a board, committee or other representative body you need to work as a team and earn the respect of your peers to get a majority of the votes to go the way you want.

That may mean compromise, consultation and promoting your views to win over additional votes. A lone maverick never accomplishes anything, it's been proven time and time again.

Steve King has ready made a difference.
“Child Abuse” means different things to different people....
----Randy Liepa 8/9/12
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LPS Reformer
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The schools exist to educate, not employ.
Renee Chesney
Feb 14 2008, 03:35 PM

I thought John Hiltz was fabulous filling in last year, I wish he would run in the future.

Of course you did. After all, he gave money to Scheel and company. ;)
“Child Abuse” means different things to different people....
----Randy Liepa 8/9/12
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IDK
Advanced Member
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LPS Reformer
Feb 14 2008, 06:52 PM
Rocky
Feb 14 2008, 10:56 AM
Sourapples
Feb 14 2008, 07:40 AM
Rocky, ya just don't get it. Why run in a crowd with a slow pack when you can lead with a soloist?

Because one person can not make a difference when there are six other votes always against you. Like it or not, when serving on a board, committee or other representative body you need to work as a team and earn the respect of your peers to get a majority of the votes to go the way you want.

That may mean compromise, consultation and promoting your views to win over additional votes. A lone maverick never accomplishes anything, it's been proven time and time again.

Steve King has ready made a difference.

How?
I am honestly curious and do not mean this as a snide comment in any way, shape, or form, How has Steve King made a difference?
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LPS Reformer
Member Avatar
The schools exist to educate, not employ.
IDK
Feb 14 2008, 07:49 PM
LPS Reformer
Feb 14 2008, 06:52 PM
Rocky
Feb 14 2008, 10:56 AM
Sourapples
Feb 14 2008, 07:40 AM
Rocky, ya just don't get it. Why run in a crowd with a slow pack when you can lead with a soloist?

Because one person can not make a difference when there are six other votes always against you. Like it or not, when serving on a board, committee or other representative body you need to work as a team and earn the respect of your peers to get a majority of the votes to go the way you want.

That may mean compromise, consultation and promoting your views to win over additional votes. A lone maverick never accomplishes anything, it's been proven time and time again.

Steve King has ready made a difference.

How?
I am honestly curious and do not mean this as a snide comment in any way, shape, or form, How has Steve King made a difference?

He has asked the kinds of question that were never asked in the past. He brings attention to the rubber stamp approach the BOE has taken. He communicates freely with the public, answering questions, and explaining his votes on his blog.

In other words, he is leading by example, and his example is transparency in government.
“Child Abuse” means different things to different people....
----Randy Liepa 8/9/12
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Nikki
Veteran
He saved the district shipping costs on their new substandard math program.
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