Thursday, August 12, 2010

For Member of the City Council - Len Stone


Pacifica is home to both my family and business.  As a City Council person my decisions will be driven by this vested interest to represent you - Pacifica residents and business owners who want our city to flourish. My priorities include:

Maintaining a fiscally responsible City Council.

Filling our commercial vacancies to produce a viable and vibrant local economy to generate sufficient tax dollars to pay our own bills.

Provide residents of Pacifica with the police, fire, schools, city works, and infrastructure they deserve with policies that respect and cherish Pacifica's most valuable resource, our unique environment.

I have owned and operated an insurance agency here in Pacifica for 8 years, am president-elect of the Board of Directors of the Chamber of Commerce, donated time to local school programs, and organized local teen driver safety seminars. I will bring the same thoughtful decision-making process and excellent listening skills to the council that have been instrumental in my business success. My livelihood and family are invested in Pacifica, and I hope you will support me to build our local economy while preserving the small town living which we all enjoy.

I respectfully ask for your vote to City Council.

http://www.vote4stone.com/

Len Stone

115 comments:

Anonymous said...

You inherited you daddy's business and people who know you also know you do not listen. Ask some of the business you have lost.

Kathy Meeh said...

America is made up of a many small family run businesses, and the fact some of these businesses are passed to the next generation allows for continuity, orderly transition and next generation advancement. This is a good thing and not a "free lunch" as you suggest.

Also, I believe the best run small business I deal with in my own business is next generation (they have a good product, the are innovative, efficient, and have good customer service).

I don't know Len personally except for having had an intelligent social conversation with him, and an email exchange which was pleasant, efficient and helpful (not business related).

Based upon his statement above, Len supports what is needed for this city, along with Barbara and Susan. Vote for them, there will be city progress, vote for other candidates (which all represent some variation on the status quo) there will be more failed city which is not getting better.

So, Mr. Sour Grapes, which is it for you?

Mr. Sir said...

That first anonymous comment is rather unfortunate and poorly thought out.

Who cares if the person I'm voting for is someone I'd want to have a beer with -- I'm voting for someone with an attitude towards fixing the mess Pacifica finds itself in.

The empty, decrepit storefronts throughout this town are an embarassment and I'm glad a candidate is highlighting this.

I don't know any of the candidates personally and don't know who I'll vote for at this point, but I'm glad that Len Stone took the time to lay out a basic position statement.

Anonymous said...

http://www.mylibertysanmateo.com/contact-us

Anonymous said...

"If you live in San Mateo County, California, MyLiberty is your 9.12 Project and Tea Party Patriot group."

MyLiberty, Leonard Stone ~ Director

So Len Stone is a Tea Party member.

Anonymous said...

His father's name is Leonard.
Better make sure which Leonard.

anonymonkeywrench said...

It's important for Pacificans to know where our candidates stand politically, and I'm afraid that many voters who would never dream of voting for a republican, let alone Tea Bagger, may end up voting for Len Stone based on his vaguely "pro-business" candidate's statement.

Of course, the actual Tea Bag voters now have someone to support, and that's good for democracy, but Len should come out of the closet and run as the right-wing zealot that he really is.

Kathy Meeh said...

Anon @1:09pm, 2:05pm,etc. think you got our attention this time. Is this Len Stone, the father or Len Stone the son and candidate? This is one of one of them, not someone else, because the business address stated is the same as both Len Stones.

If this is Len Stone the candidate, he told me this public blog, and a mind mannered citizens group I belong to (Pacificans for an Improved Economy) was "perceived as "too radical". He made no reference to his own politics, or that of his father. Thanks for making may day, Anon. I'm listening now, and would like to hear a comment regarding this information-of-interest from Len the candidate.

There is a huge difference between city politics and national politics which is the My Liberty focus. However, everyone should take a thorough look at this website including the "home page", "about us", "we surround them" etc. This website looks radicalized to me, promoting the intellect and reason of Glen Beck logic.

Anon @2:51pm, its "Tea Party", rather than Tea Bagger (Tea Bagger has a nasty connotation which you might want to look-up-- I made the unknowing error prior and was corrected by Lois).

As for Len Stone candidate, he does not appear to be a right-wing zealot, is intelligent, seems to think-out where he stands on issues, and is intently interested in improving business and the economy in this city. I think most of us and non-incumbent candidates agree that is what needs to happen here in Pacifica.

Anonymous said...

And Susan Vellone is a Republican.

Kathy Meeh said...

Cal Hinton is a Republican, he supported city economic development in the quarry 2x. City council majority including the "our environment is our economy" incumbents (Vreeland and Digre) for 8 years supported zero significant economic development, neither in the quarry nor at the old WWTP (Beach/Palmetto). This city needs a balance city economy without more fees and taxes paid by us. Bring-in the Republicans.

At the city level, I still think this is more a being responsible vs. being irresponsible issue.

Kathy Meeh said...

Here is Len Stone's website for city council.

Larry said...

Reagan was a Republican. Carter was a Democrat.
Who gives a rats a--! Stone is not his father and is not responsible for his father's politics. Some of you talk out of your rear cause your mouth knows better.

Steve Sinai said...

I put a link to Len Stone's website at the top of the page.

Kathy Meeh said...

Thanks Steve for adding the link to the Len Stone article. Confirming Larry @5:37pm, Len sent an email saying his father is involved with the local Tea Party, not him.

I like Len's candidate website and statement (balanced city economy, that's good). And, of course they're a cute young family, hope that gets him more votes than incumbent councilmember Vreeland with his cute family.

Other candidates are welcome to put-up their own articles (same as everyone else). We are interested in you. And, if you are candidates don't worry you'll get picked-over, that's the way it works.

Also, think we all appreciate the comment posting from Heather Tanner and from Tom Clifford.

Heather Tanner said...

Oops, I accidentally erased my last comment. Someday, I will be technically proficient. Today isn't it.

What I was going to say is - thanks, Kathy. I am always happy to comment. Whether I am elected or not, I want people to understand how much I care about Pacifica and want to support the community that has been there for me and my family.

I don't have a website, but (call me crazy), I am always willing to respond to email: tanneresq@yahoo.com.

Kathy Meeh said...

Heather, you might want to post an article, view top of blog left under the begging dogs and cat. First paragraph.

The format is email, Your grammar and spelling need to be correct because there is no editing. You might want to add a picture. Steve Sinai (Blogmaster) positions and posts the article.

Its easy. Say what you want, maybe include your candidate statement. This is your article, and you are the star. Send your article/email to fixpacifica@gmail.com

The same invitation is open to Tom Clifford who has posted comments, to other city council candidates, and to other local candidates.

Heather Tanner said...

Thanks, Kathy. I think I will do that after I finish preparing for the candidate forum on Tuesday. I have a picture of me and the kids I think I will use. Or maybe just the kids - they are way cuter than me. They definitely got the best of the genes. LOL.

Grammar and spelling are not a problem. I am the champion speller of the 1987 8th grade class of AP Giannini in SF. Its one of my many accolades. LOL.

I am in an odd mood tonight. It must be the fog. Ahh, I LOVE the fog!

Unknown said...

"anonymonkeywrench"

I am amazed that some comments are "acceptable" on this Blog and then some are trashed. Anyone who makes comments like "anonymonkeywrench", you continue to allow that person to make shameful references to a whole group of Americans who believe differently than you. "Teabagger" is a nasty reference. Please desist. I am not a member of the Tea Party but I do believe in their right to speak out.

Heather, I am enjoying your comments and hope that you win. I am also for the "Republican" Sue Vellone. I don't know Len, but he has got to be better than what Pacifica has in Vreeland and DeJarnatt and Digre.

Heather Tanner said...

Thanks, Lois! I hope that I win if people believe I can best represent Pacifica and their needs. If I don't win, that will be alright - I will still find ways to give back to the community. Of course, I do want to win, but I'll accept defeat graciously and be better for the trying.

Kathy Meeh said...

Lois, don't think "anonymonkeywrench" intended the alternative name for the political Tea Party movement. Think he or she understands now. Had you been viewing at that time, you would have clarified, so in you absence I did.

Do Wa Diddy said...

I am a Tea Party Activist.

Kathy Meeh said...

For those of who did not recognize the obscure reference above @ 9:40AM without much other point made, here is the reference I guess: Do Wa Diddy, a song 1988.

Not sure what that has to do with the "price of tea", or Tea Party, or even why continuation of that topic now deemed unrelated to Len Stone the candidate should occur on this article.

The song was pretty good though, but I'm interested in hearing more about candidates, all candidates. Some of us are looking forward to the candidates forum, Tuesday, September 21st, 7:30pm, channel 26, or catching it live through the station on the internet.

The Founding Fathers said...

Happy Constitution Day!



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q_TXJRZ4CFc

Heather Tanner said...

I must admit, I am nervous about Tuesday. Not about the things I believe, but hopefully, I'll be able to articulate them intelligently. I am not perfect and I am sure I will make mistakes, but you will see me answer every question honestly.

Tom Clifford for a more perfect candidate said...

Heather, from one not perfect candidate to another I am sure you'll do just fine. Looking forward to meeting you.

Imperfectly yours Tom Clifford

Steve Sinai said...

Does anyone know who's moderating?

Heather Tanner said...

Tom: Thanks so much! I saw some of your signs today and thought - he seems like such a nice guy!

It will be interesting as I've never done anything like this before. Sure, I've been in the court room and done plenty of court hearings, but I knew everyone there and I always knew whether I would win or lose (sometimes, I was surprised).

I'm not perfect, either. I appreciate the support, Tom - and I've got your back, too.

Tom Clifford The man sitting in the corner talking to himself said...

The moderator will be Dennis Willis PCT board president.
Seating will be left to right by alphabetical order. (A to left Z to Right) First name or last ? three Min. Intro per candidate plus three questions picked at random from thirty seven Questions. two min. per question. Hope this helps.
Tom[Feels like finales week]Clifford

Steve Sinai said...

Ah, thanks Tom.

Brush up on your movie trivia. Haha.

Paul Slavin said...

Heather and Tom
Best of luck in Tuesday's, uh, debate. But, seriously, by already talking to the electorate, you got a jump on the competition.
Paul Slavin

Heather Tanner said...

Thanks, Paul.

It was spelled out in the questions that it really won't be a debate - more like a forum. No one will be allowed to address anyone else's statements. All fine and good as I don't really want to see this devolve into a cat fight of any sort. I'd like to think we could all just be respectful of each others' opinions, whether right or wrong.

Hmm, movie trivia.... Has any movie ever been made in Pacifica? That would be cool to know. Hey, why don't we make a movie studio here? Fogged-In Productions?

Tom - sounds like no matter how they seat it, you and I will be at opposite ends of the spectrum. I'll give a little wave. Still, got your back.

Emma Valentine said...

I am a concerned and compulsive snoop. I will be watching. Stay cool, calm and collective. Take your time, breath and articulate. And most of all, be yourself.

Heather Tanner said...

Thanks, Emma. Will do. I think I will imagine all of the at-home audience in ... no, not their underwear, but rainbow wigs, tiaras, and storm trooper costumes. Yeah, that could do the trick.

Scotty said...

Mr. Clifford, I'd like to get your perspective...

You seem like a very thoughtful person, and the fact that you and Ms. Tanner are willing to engage with others on this blog makes me very inclined towards voting for you, if for no other fact than that. Mary Ann is the only current councilmember who regularly engages directly with the community, and that might be why I have a perception that she's also the only one who doesn't have a political agenda every time she discusses something.

However, your Sierra Club endorsement troubles me, for no other reason than the company in which it places you. Based upon the very sad state of our city's affairs, I'm personally inclined to look down upon someone who gets lumped in with Vreeland, Digre, and Leon -- even though I tend to agree with the Sierra Club's environmental perspective.

Any comment on that?

Emma Valentine said...

Sierra Club was founded my John Muir sometime in the late 1800's. The organization has gone through some changes. Some extreme points of views are supported by the Sierra Club when it comes to the environment.
Take a good long look at policy and politicians, publications, Huffington Post they endorse and contribute to.

Most of all do your research.

Lance said...

#7
"The Loma Prietta Chapter's Transportation Committee has serious reservations about the pending CalTrans SMCTA proposal for the 6-lane Calera project on Highway 1. Do you favor this $45 MIL project? If not, what alternative(s), if any, would be most suitable?"

Now wouldn't it be interesting to see Mr. Vreeland's response to that one. The same Mr. Vreeland who is on the record at SMCTA endorsing the very project the Sierra Club has reservations about.
I also wonder how he addressed that issue with Labor who would stand to gain a huge project for their members.


Posted by: Lance Fernork | September 18, 2010 at 10:54 AM

Emma Valentine said...

What are the "reservations" that the Sierra Club has? What part of the SMCTA project?

Anonymous said...

HEather,

I read your sob story on sfgate.com a while you back. I don't know you personally and you seem like a nice person and certainly, it was an unfortunate situation that you got laid off. However, going from making $100K to surviving on unemployment and local handouts, I am really curious as to how you think you can help fix Pacifica's budget crisis when you have your own budget crisis to be solved.

Kathy Meeh said...

Anon @5:26pm I'm not sure how you equate the 1) temporarily being with out a job with 2) a practical, balanced economic vision for this city. The two issues are separate.

What has been lacking over the past 8 years from 4 city council members who have consistently been employed is failure to deliver a realistic, practical economic plan for this city when options have been available.

Understanding the consequences of inadequate city funding, Heather might do better than the 8 year "nothing for Pacifica" city council incumbents. And, I suspect Tom, Barbara, Susan and Len would all do better as well.

Anonymous said...

I am quite the believer that anyone running against our current incumbents should hopefully bring about change and make things better for our town. But to me, relying on city handouts while trying to run for council and making 'cute' blog comments is not going to find Mrs. Tanner a lot of support. And I could see slight a conflict interest with her....http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/03/26/former-middle-class-famil_n_514851.html

Heather Tanner said...

Well, kid gloves off.

How does going from being a successful attorney to someone needing help prepare me to help Pacifica? Have you followed the news, anon? Pacifica has doubled its unemployment in the past year. That includes only those reported as unemployed, not those whose hours have been significantly reduced, or who cannot find work to return to the workforce. That includes me.

So, being one of "those" people, I can understand what a large majority of our citizens are going through, and I am greatly concerned that our government is out of touch with the very dire circumstances facing so many. It is easier to say it must be all 11% of us doing something wrong.

Yes, I asked for support and assistance, and I have given it back in spades. I have volunteered in the community and worked hard to help others. I have taken all work that has come my way. I am by no means sitting around just taking hand outs. I am out in the community volunteering at the Pacifica Resource Center, watching other mom's kids so they can work, and volunteering at the schools.

I also understand how to run a household on less, much less. How to get creative in finding revenue sources. How to make difficult decisions that need to be made when people may not understand or like the decisions. How to take derisive, unearned criticism. How to make cuts that we can live without even though people are adamantly sure we need them.

I have been working since I was 11 years old. This is the longest I have ever been out of work. I put myself through law school at night and worked as a lawyer while successfully running my own business and raising a family. Not everything comes through in a three paragraph news article. The infamous "$100,000" I earned was earned through a combination of full-time employment and running a business on my remaining time.

Despite doing all of that, I managed to volunteer at my kids' school, and still have quality time with my family.

I was laid off through no fault of my own, with no notice and no severance. My company shut its doors. I am not ashamed of being one of the millions of people who lost their jobs. I came forward in the articles because I know people who are sitting at home in shame, who aren't feeding themselves or their families - because people have made them feel unworthy because they have lost their jobs. I thought if I told my story maybe others would feel more comfortable in seeking help for their families.

I haven't blamed anyone, nor have I stopped trying or looking for work since the second I was laid off. It took a lot of courage to stand up and ask for help because, unfortunately, people think there is something wrong with you needing it.

By the way, I needed help because my unemployment was delayed two months due to a problem at unemployment. My benefits were delayed for two months and my part-time jobs and contract business did not bring in enough money to pay my rent. Had that not happened, I would have had no problem paying my rent and have not had a problem since then. I stayed with the problem, found alternate solutions, and continued to work hard.

So, how does my situation make me right for Pacifica? First, I don't give up. I have the courage to stand by what I believe is right and I will ask every person I need to ask until I get the job done. I believe in Pacifica. I believe in the future of Pacifica. Second, I am not afraid to make tough decisions to drive Pacifica to a more stable future. Finally, I have learned not to hear no, to take every opportunity for what it is, and to keep going until you get the right answers.

Ask yourself this - if you found yourself suddenly without everything you ever thought you needed to keep you and your family safe, would you be able to survive?

I have. Pacifica needs help to survive.

Anonymous said...

I am one of "those" people too. I lost my job and my livelihood as so many of our fellow citizens have. I know what it feels like and have a family to support as well. But at the end of the day, I don't try to garner sympathy for myself through sob stories and have quietly risen above it. You make very valid points through your recent experiences. But what I want know is what are your concrete ideas for fixing Pacifica? I know you would like to have a drink with Tom Clifford and share stories about your crazy past....enjoy! Pacifica needs to survive and what are you going to do about it? "I would like to bring in funds from federal grant programs to create employment incentive packages." That still sounds like govt handouts to me and not a sustainable future for our beloved town.

Heather Tanner said...

Anonymous: Try to garner sympathy? If that's the way you read it, then by all means, have a shot at me. Do you have any idea what it takes to put yourself in the public spotlight? Do you have any idea what I went through after that article came out? All anyone can seem to do is tell me how my being unemployed is my fault and they would have done it so differently.

I am sorry to hear you lost your job. I know how it feels and I know how hard it is to get re-employed. That is why I am working so hard to find resources for Pacifica - to protect the services we need in the short-term and to come up with plans to get us business to support sustained employment in the long term. It is time Pacifica took a development project seriously. I believe I am the right person to work hand-in-hand with the concerns of the pro-development groups and the pro-environmental groups. We have a lot of natural resources to help us create a solid business center and yet, we are ignoring them.

If you had read all of my comments on this blog and others, you would know that my plan isn't just about seeking federal grant funds. You would see that I have a plan to create a job corps to get Pacificans back to work. You would see that I am pro-development and want to use our resources to support business development in our community.

I am putting myself out there for Pacifica. It takes courage to stand in the light. Pacifica needs courage. They don't need people who fight behind closed doors, who say one thing when the spotlight is on them and another when its time to vote.

I have been and will continue to be someone who will use my voice and my experiences to help Pacifica. I am not ashamed of who I am or the decisions I have made.

As for having a drink with Tom Clifford - I know it might seem strange; two potential city council people actually making an attempt to get along, but perhaps that is what our city needs. Perhaps if we all tried to work together, things would actually get done around here. Maybe it wouldn't take years to vote on a dog park or to decide on a plan to revitalize our downtown.

If I am elected, I will work hard to build programs that give us a future. If I am not elected, I will still work hard for the future of Pacifica. I have continued to support the Pacifica Resource Center and their many programs supporting those, like yourself, who have been affected by the unemployment crisis.

I am here and I will continue to be here.

Heather Tanner said...

Anonymous:
I've had time to sleep on it, and I owe you a slight apology. You ask good questions. I am sorry I got angry.

The thing is, I've had enough experience with people hiding behind a computer deriding me because I needed help. It's a sensitive subject. You say you are going through the same experiences, but, yet, you display a lack of understanding and sympathy for the experiences I, and many others, are going through.

Your judgment, in using terms like "sob story" and "handouts" is exactly why I stand up for those who are unemployed and struggling. There is nothing wrong with needing help. I have been working since I was eleven years old and had my first job on a paper route. My taxes have supported many, many things in our country, state, and town. I do not complain about anyone who needs my tax dollars.

There are roads I don't drive on that my tax dollars pay for. I've never had a fire to use the tax dollars I contributed. I don't get to use business subsidies.

My point is - in all the years I've been working, I've contributed far more to taxes then I've ever asked for in return. In all those years, I've asked once for help.

I am sorry I got angry at you because that doesn't help anything. You have a right to ask questions. But, also know that I think its terrible of someone to put down anyone who has the courage to seek help when they have a problem. I am sorry you feel that you have to sit in silence with your own unemployment struggles. Everyone should be allowed to seek support when they need it and not be afraid. That is the only reason I ever did those articles.

You are worried I won't be able to manage Pacifica's budget. Don't be. I am able to budget quite a bit with very little. I am mindful of the consequences of every dollar I spend, and I'll be mindful of every dollar I spend for Pacifica.

In my mind, Pacifica could use someone who knows what its like to struggle and not give up. Pacifica is in a great struggle and we need our leaders to not give up.

So, anonymous, I am sorry. I am sorry you are struggling and feel you can't do anything but "quietly" rise above. Even if I do not get elected, I will still fight for people who are struggling.

If you'd like to send me your resume, I would be happy to try and help you get back to work. I have worked with several recruiting agencies - maybe they can help? I know you have probably done everything you can think of - its so frustrating. But, if I can help get your resume out there, please let me know.

Lance said...

9.6% unemployment! Anon, there are a lot of people out of work and needing assistance. I applaud those that are doing what is necessary to protect and house their family. This economy sucks! I've been through a lot of economic cycles, and as a small businessman I've had moments where I wondered how in the hell I'd make ends meet. I would not have hesistated for an instant if the choice were between public help or my family on the street. Somehow I think you would have made the same decision as Heather. Maybe Heather is just what this dysfunctional city needs. This city is "there". We're on the verge of going broke, only problem is that the 4 fools that comprise the long term council don't realize it. I'm pretty sure Heather "gets it".

Tom (been there myself) Clifford said...

Heather: Is it not amazing how brave and cruel someone can be when they can hide behind the word anonymous? Falling on hard times is not a crime.
You have handled your situation with grace and style and I am proud to be in the race for city council with you.

Steve Sinai said...

Heather, you don't owe an apology to anyone who attacks you from a position of anonymity. You have the guts to put your name out there when describing your situation. Anonymous doesn't.

The one thing I do agree with Anonymous on is that we need to break our dependence on government handouts to solve the city's problems.

Heather Tanner said...

Thanks, guys!

Sinai: you are right. Its the same thing I think a lot of people strive for in their own lives. To be independent - from credit, from assistance, from... whatever it is that has the potential to destroy them financially. I am working towards that myself.

Still, if I can help someone, let me do it. Whether its as a council member or not.

The worst part about being in the situation I was in was feeling idle. Feeling helpless to do anything. I want to use my skills, not sit by with them and watch as things get worse.

Pacifica, by and large, has been a wonderful community for my family in this hard time. The community has stepped up, and now its my turn to step up for the community.

Tom: Ditto.

Heather Tanner said...

Lance: are there things you feel the city council could do to help you as a small businessman? I am concerned that plans to bring in/redevelop business areas with larger businesses will adversely affect small businesses. I like the mom/pop businesses in our town. I also know we need jobs and more revenue - something I'm not sure small businesses will be able to give us.

Do you think the five year plan will hurt your business? Do you think redevelopment will hurt your business?

I am very interested in your concerns.

Thomas Clifford for City Council said...

Scotty: I am not sure how to answer your question.
I was the selectee not the selector. I answered the Sierra Club's questions fully and honestly. I told them my hopes for the quarry and my plans to develop the city's business districts. The fact that they also chose to endorse Vreeland, Digre and Leon actually says nothing about me. I received the endorsement on my own merits. I am both a person who wants to take care of our environment and a hard-nosed businessman who wants our city to prosper. The two goals are not mutually exclusive.

Heather Tanner said...

Thank you, Tom. I've been saying that myself. Why do the two goals have to be mutually exclusive? Development is not always bad to the environment and the environment does not always have to prevent development....

Steve Sinai said...

There used to be a time when I viewed a Sierra Club endorsement as a plus, but not anymore. Vreeland, Digre, Lancelle and DeJarnatt were all endorsed by the Sierra Club, and they've practically ruined the city by constantly favoring environment over economy. There's no balance.

Look at what it's done to HMB financially. A majority of the 2000 council that denied Chop Keenan a permit to build at Beachwood were either members of the Sierra Club (including one who was director of the Loma Prieta Chapter of the Sierra Club,) or endorsed by the Sierra Club. By playing the same kind of dishonest games with a developer that I see continuously being played in Pacifica, HMB ended up getting sued, lost big, and now 1/3 of their annual budget goes to paying off Chop Keenan. Thanks, Sierra Club.

I won't say I'll never vote for someone who has a Sierra Club endorsement, but the odds of that happening are pretty slim.

Steve Sinai said...

"I won't say I'll never vote for someone who has a Sierra Club endorsement, but the odds of that happening are pretty slim."

I should clarify that I just meant at a local government level. I view Sierra Club issues as being more relevant on a statewide, national, or global level. I don't think cities should be expected to sacrifice themselves for the Sierra Club.

Tom (looking forward) Clifford said...

I am going to take this opportunity to state again why I believe I am the best candidate for City Council. I have thirty + years of business experience and almost eight years of working with the city government on various committees, taskforces and the Planning Commission. I have detailed plans for revitalizing each of our business districts and have also worked to keep the quality of life in Pacifica high. If elected, I will be able to hit the ground running. The incumbants have had their chance. It's time to elect new people who can clean up the mess and move the City of Pacifica into the 21th century.

Steve Sinai said...

"The incumbants have had their chance. It's time to elect new people who can clean up the mess and move the City of Pacifica into the 21th century."

Now we're talkin' turkey!

Steve Sinai said...

That was a complement. I'm not saying anyone's a turkey.

Tom (not a turkey)Clifford said...

Steve: I was born on Thanksgiving and my name is Tom. I have had to have a sense of humor about it since I was very young. At least they didn't name me Sue.

Back In Black said...

That is what the fight is about this election cycle "entitlements" Americans, who have fallen on hard times for the first time in their lives, are scared. Americans feel they have no control over their lives. To much of our hard earned dollars are going to unknown places, and then we never get anything in return. We are told things like , 'government lost millions and the money can't be accounted for', or, 'schools going broke, need more money', and yet our kids are not learning anything and dropping out in bigger numbers.

We need Americans, in our city councils, who are not big fans of government entitlements , instead are fans of small and medium size business and tax cuts to run our cities and towns. If we keep electing people who like; government grants, stimulus funds, tax increases, parcel taxes, more permit fees, more open space land grabbing, then we will never get out of debt.

It's about the entitlements stupid. Are you for them? or just tired of the amount of people using them? Not necessarily against them, just outraged by the amount of people using and abusing them. When now, for the first time, some Americans really need some help and they are not getting it. for the REAL AMERICANS.

Americans money has been lost on unsustainable government projects and agency's, leaving us with a negative balance. What have we learned from all this? Big Government is bad for our Health and Welfare.

Laurie Frater said...

I, too, have always been happy that my parents didn't name me Sue! That would just have been strange!! ;~)

Kathy Meeh said...

Back or Beck @2:28pm, did you just fall off a turnip truck? "Real Americans", which Americans would that be?

Black Betty said...

Signs that your local government is too big;
1) Government can't pay their bills
2) People are leaving
3) Business is leaving
4) Business won't come
5) Needs to bus school kids in to keep the schools full
6) Continually tries to raise taxes
7) Private sector pay decreases, but public sector pay stays the same with a automatic pay increase every year.
8) Real Americans (citizens born or sworn in) are SCARED! Scared of who? Their government.

Tom( a real american?)Clifford said...

Hi Kathy,
I talk with a New England accent and some of my ancestors met the Mayflower. Do you think Back in Black would think I am a real American?

Anonymous said...

those are signs of a failed economic system. time for a new one.

Kathy Meeh said...

"Back, Betty, Beck, Anon" I think you may be having problems distinguishing "real Americans" (any Americans) from government (and government from chaos).

Fortunately this country was saved beginning two years ago from a depression. That was accomplished by government that was big enough to put a "safety net" under "big corporation" greed and malfeasance.

The city of Pacifica, on the other hand, has a small government structural failure. Not much city infrastructure, made worse over 8 years by neglect rather than care to develop.

Tom, "Back in Black" may have skipped 200+ years of history whereas 1620 is a bit further back. Who knows what these made-up "real American" rules are. Maybe "the family rules" make you pre-American (partially English).

Earl Grey said...

Teabagonomics?

Anonymous said...

Did you see the new dollar? Why are creating new money?

Heather Tanner said...

I am very confused by the last few commentators. Let me try to address some of the comments:

I am not going to create new money. Having others send the old money to Pacifica will be just fine.

I am into creating new business and new opportunities for business. I care about the environment, but I also believe in progress. I don't believe in politic-ing anyone. You'll get a straight answer from me.

I think Tom has wonderful ideas and I have told others that, as well. I haven't had the opportunity to speak with anyone else, so I don't know how their ideas stack up.

I was not named Sue.

There, have I covered it all?

Steve Sinai said...

"Did you see the new dollar? Why are creating new money?

We are the greatest country in the world. For that, we need the greatest-looking money in the world.

Tom Clifford said...

For those who missed it "A boy name Sue" is an old Johnny Cash song.

Why are we creating new money?
The new paper money is much harder to counterfeit.

Anonymous said...

I saw the new dollar and Obama will replace George Washington on the new One Dollar Bill.

Tom (I am so bad)Clifford said...

Anonymous: Someone is pulling your leg and not in a good way. If you believe that, I have a million dollar bill I would like you to break for me. I'll even let you keep 10% for your trouble.

Anonymous said...

It is in the news today. It has been all over the news, this past weekend.

Anonymous said...

Judge Walker is on the new 3-dollar bill

Steve Sinai said...

The Weekly World News story on new one dollar bill

If it's on the web, it must be true.

Scotty said...

The fact that they refer to the Weekly World News as "the news" says a great deal about Anonymous.

Tom (wish I had more of them) Clifford said...

They call them dead presidents for a reason

Steve Sinai said...

The funny thing is, if you look at the comments for the WW News story, everybody seems to believe the story is real.

Glenn Beck or somebody like that must have fallen for this, and sent his peeps into a tizzy.

Anonymous said...

Not a good comment on the reasoning skills of some people.

Anonymous said...

What does any of this have to do with Len Stone? I say: time to start a new thread!

Anonymous said...

Huffington Post reported it first , dufus. It is a creative designer that put out the contest , he is a brit and funding for this is coming from non-other than George Soros. Idiots. All ya. Great researchers, not.

Black Betty said...

Example of a person who is not a "Real America" -Your tax dollars hard at work supporting illegal aunt of BHO, here in the US illegally. A 2004 court ordered her to leave, but she stayed. She lives in public housing, receives public welfare, can afford to dress well, have her hair and nails done regularly, and donated $260 'presumably of your tax dollars' to her nephew's 2008 presidential campaign. She is fond of wearing gold jewelry. She attended her nephew's parties when he won the Illinois senate seat. How many more situations are there like Auntie Z's; that while citizens go hungry, we cowtow to those who abuse our system.

Kathy Meeh said...

"Betty" @ 9:42am, here's a reliable news article about President Obama's aunt being granted asylum in the United States: http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/05/17/obamas-aunt-is-granted-asylum/

Note: The aunt's $265 donation to the Obama Presidential campaign was returned. Also, she lives in the substandard housing, no surprise.

President Obama's aunt is his fathers 1/2 sister from Kenya), and he didn't know she was in the country.

Why don't you stay on the related topic next time, rather than moving the direction to unrelated national politics where you "tea party" types can't seem to get your facts right, and hint at racism and insensitive human concern while mostly claiming to be "Christians"? And, Anon @ 9:22AM, here comes your George Soros obsession again.

How about staying on what you know about this city, the issues and city politics?

Unknown said...

"insensitive human concern while mostly claiming to be "Christians"? What do you even know personally about "Christians" Kathy? Staying on related topic is only important when you want it to be.

Christians believe that families should take care of each other and only in extreme cases should we ask the government to take care of us for a little while if we need it to get back on our feet. If we have rich relatives, they should be the first to come to the plate to help out.

The $265 donation to Obama Presidential campaign should never have been given...(that's period!) And Obama knows she is here now - why doesn't he bring her into the White House and take care of her if she is living in substandard housing?

"How about staying on what you know about this city, the issues and city politics?"

Why? The whole country is in the same mess because of the same problems.

Lord have mercy on the United States of America.

Anonymous said...

When did Jesus say that "families should take care of each other and only in extreme cases should we ask the government to take care of us for a little while if we need it to get back on our feet"?

Lord have mercy on Christians who pervert the word of God to meet the needs of their partisan political bickering.

Unknown said...

1 Timothy 5:8 (New International Version)

8If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

Lord have mercy on Anonymous and his family.

Anonymous said...

And where does that reference the government?!? It's surprising that you people don't recognize how similar you are to the Taliban.

Unknown said...

I'm not going to fight with you Anonymous. "you people" will take care of our own and take care of many others without the benefit of the government.

Anonymous said...

Then you should just do that, and not pretend that it's a political issue.

Unknown said...

http://www.redbluffdailynews.com/ci_16142579?IADID=Search-www.redbluffdailynews.com-www.redbluffdailynews.com

Must be the new talking points for the left.

Kathy Meeh said...

Lois, it would be helpful that you learn more about Islam (the world's second largest religion) before you throw-out opinions.

Unknown said...

You are always so helpful Kathy! Thanks.

Unknown said...

First Amendment to the United States Constitution
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia


This article is part of the series:
United States Constitution
Original text of the Constitution


The Bill of Rights in the National Archives.
The First Amendment (Amendment I) to the United States Constitution is part of the Bill of Rights. The amendment prohibits the making of any law "respecting an establishment of religion", impeding the free exercise of religion, infringing on the freedom of speech, infringing on the freedom of the press, interfering with the right to peaceably assemble or prohibiting the petitioning for a governmental redress of grievances.
Originally, the First Amendment only applied to the Congress. However, starting with Gitlow v. New York, 268 U.S. 652 (1925), the Supreme Court held that the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment applies the First Amendment to each state, including any local government.

Thank you very much!

Kathy Meeh said...

Lois, got me, what are you saying? Oh, opinion and personal agenda void of factual content is protected. Got it! Carry on.

We have some of that in Pacifica as well.

Scotty said...

I'm not sure I understand your post about the First Amendment, Lois... Are you trying to show your support for the mosque at ground zero?

Anonymous said...

On the "MyLiberty" website they have "no recommendations" for Pacifica city council, but they do phone banking for "Len Stone".....very odd.

Anonymous said...

Len's Father is the president of the San Mateo chapter of My Liberty.

Anonymous said...

Someone told me Len Stone, the candidate, is a Libertarian. Is that correct?

Anonymous said...

The apple does not fall far from thr tree

Anonymous said...

Anonymous @7:46PM, almost no one cares one way other the other. We need people in city council who can count, and provide this city an economic vision.

Anonymous said...

anon@7:58PM, lots of people care what a candidate really believes but it's almost impossible to find out. All of them tell you just what you want to hear so they can get in. Do your research. I do know what Myliberty stands for and it's not for me and I agree with other anon, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. This one fell right into the same office.

Unknown said...

My Liberty, San Mateo County
(Website Quote)

"We are here to restrict our Federal Government to Constitutional limits and promote fiscal responsibility at all levels of government. We will accomplish this by raising community awareness and employing the power of the vote"

So radical.

Steve Sinai said...

The idea that children have the same political leanings as their parents is outright idiotic. I have nothing in common with my father when it comes to politics.

Kathy Meeh said...

Anonymous@ 8:14PM, Political affiliation is immaterial. Currently we have 5 Democrats on city council, 4 of whom with available opportunities have failed to provide a balanced city economy over 8 years.

As a Democrat who understands basic math, I would like to think these 4 city council members just couldn't find the "green party" over the hill in Daly City.

Tea Party Patriot said...

Here's a picture of me getting ready for the election.

Studying up on national issues

Anonymous said...

Man what a bunch of lousy choices and voters will probably play it safe once again. Screwed again Pacifica!

Anonymous said...

Steve@9:28, right and I just want to hear him say the same before I vote for him.

Kathy Meeh said...

Anon 12:20am, plenty of information is and has been available this election. Stone runs from controversy, so maybe we understand that better now.

5 excellent pro-economy candidates, anti-incumbent choices for city council: Arietta, Clifford, Stone, Tanner, Vellone (in A-Z order). Pacifica Tribune candidate statements (in 2 parts, about 10/6, 9/30) have been re-formatted and posted to read easily on this blog, scroll back. Google brings-up candidate information, there were 3 candidate forums (replayed on channel 26).

There has also been the "meet the candidate" events. Tom Clifford was hospitable to everyone who attended his event, and answered all questions. Susan Vellone presented a power point presentation of what exists, and what might be improved. Barbara Arietta held 2 "meet and greet" events and was available for questions (I attended the Sharp Park golf course event, and enjoyed the company of an enthusiastic Republican, and others). Len Stone also hosted 2 "meet and greets".

There is no lack of talent to replace failed incumbent city council candidates. The talent exists.

Your naysayer comments are reflective of "no effort" on your part, or possibly a political ploy. Try harder, and next time consider supporting candidates you like. Anon 12:25am, make the phone call or send Len Stone an email. There is no change from what we already know, he is not Tea party, his father is.

Its important to replace city council, make all 3 of your votes count. Once again there's an opposition "nothing for Pacifica" voting advantage (Vreeland, Digre, Leon; the Nancy Hall choice)-- my view another reason for term limits.

Tea Party people on this blog-- vote for 3 candidates. These votes are needed to "save Pacifica".

Steve Sinai said...

"Steve@9:28, right and I just want to hear him say the same before I vote for him."

Anon, given how you keep raising the bar on what you demand from Len Stone, I'm pretty sure you'd not vote for him no matter what he says or does. Please stop pretending that you're a rational person who genuinely has an open mind on this. Nobody's buying it.

Anonymous said...

Raise the bar? Why bother? They all slither like snakes.

Anonymous said...

Sounds like a complaint from a RL frog, Anon 1:32pm.

Anonymous said...

Ribbitt

Anonymous said...

yeah, I heard that Leonard Stone started the tea party myliberty -- located in pacifica. But someone else said that parents and siblings are tea party members, Len is Libertarian.

Tea Party Patriot said...

Len's dog is in the tea party.

Anonymous said...

I heard he changed his party from libertarian to democrat... Is that true?

Anonymous said...

Len's dad Len SR. is the tea party guy.

Len Jr the Mayor is not.

And yes he did switch parties.