Posted on 01/31/2004 6:30:52 PM PST by bruce_cobbeldick_for_congress
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release
SLUG: Herman Fails To Show Foresight On Syria
TAG: Hey Herman, How Can Our Citizens Feel Secure About Syria?
POC: Bruce Cobbeldick, Bay Village, OH (440) 668-0887
Bay Village, OH - - Bruce Cobbeldick has done more than simply be the first Republican Candidate to begin his campaign against Kucinich. He's done his homework! Cobbeldick, 40, a former Marine Corps sergeant sees his candidacy as addressing critical foreign policy issues germane to Syria, this nation's next real threat. With Herman's failing to weigh in on the Syrian issue, Cobbeldick questions the breadth and depth of Herman's strategies as a U.S. Congressional Candidate. According to Cobbeldick, matters of foreign policy will make or break this race, as 2004 is not just about jobs and the local economy.
These times call for a candidate who has domestic solutions and Middle East policy positions that will serve to safeguard the people, making them secure in the knowledge that their representative is proactive and aware of terrorism threats that go well beyond our current battlefields. President Clinton was unaware and blind to what was going on in the rest of the world, focusing mostly on Bosnia. Meanwhile, look at what nations were empowered to get away with murder and terrorism training, said Cobbeldick, who served in three different branches of our military, the USMC, Army and National Guard.
Terrorists crossing into Iraq from Syria have carried out attacks against American soldiers. In an August 22nd interview with al Jazeera, Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage said, these fighters are not being stopped at the borders, and this is something that causes us a great deal of concern. It is also important to note that Bashar Assad, President of Syria, is a proponent of the occupation in Lebanon and supports a terrorist organization known as Hizballah. By occupying Southern Lebanon, Syria enables Hizballah to carry out attacks against Israel. Hizballah has positioned 10,000 Katyusha rockets on Israels northern border. Moreover, President Assad has allowed the Iranian Revolutionary Guards to operate in the region. This is the area that Israel withdrew from in May 2000, in compliance with United Nations Resolution 425. If I had been a member of the 108th Congress, I would have supported H.R. 1828, the Syrian Accountability Act.
Representative Kucinich voted against this piece of legislation. This piece of legislation would enable the President to impose sanctions on Syria. The possibility of sanctions would include the prohibition of U.S. investment in Syria and cutting off U.S. trade and diplomatic relations. These are all things for Americans to be aware of, and according to Cobbeldick, a West Shore area businessman, as a Congressional Representative, it is imperative not to miss this threat. "I'm very proud of my Domestic Platform, but these times require more from a congressional candidate than simply talking up the need for education and bolstering our local economy. The people want and deserve to feel confident that their Congressman is up on these issues of great importance, and frankly Herman has failed to demonstrate any foresight on Syria whatsoever. The Race in 2004 ought to have a lot to do with Foreign Policy-savvy. If not, voters will look elsewhere for their leadership. Kucinich has dropped the ball completely, and Herman has failed to show any expertise or wisdom on this topic, as well," said Cobbeldick. "I have a family, and even if I wasn't running for office, I would consider these matters of security extremely relevant as to who I could get behind or not get behind for the role of Congressman. As a father and husband, the safety and security of my family is a priority, and as a candidate for the 10th District, I come to this race prepared and up to speed with these things. That's a real issue for me - not just as a politician, but as a family man. There can be no more 9-11 tragedies on our homeland. And there can be no room for politicians like Clinton or others who fail to show the needed foresight in taking a position on Syria and the Middle East issues that are so relevant to Americans nowadays."
-30-
Cobbeldick Residence 440-808-8926
----- Original Message ----- From: cobbeldick@comcast.net To: steck@wews.com Sent: Sunday, January 25, 2004 9:41 AM Subject: Elizabeth - the concern here is how'd Herman do it UNLESS IT'S OK TO BE WITHOUT AN AGENDA IF YOU GET A LITTLE MONEY & BACKING...
PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE dtd. 1-26-04 ***Read emails from Trakas to Cobbeldick below***
From: Bruce Cobbeldick To: Ohio-HispanicAmericanRepublicanCommitte@yahoogroups.com Sent: Saturday, January 24, 2004 9:17 PM Subject: [Ohio-HispanicAmericanRepublicanCommitte] VOTE FOR BRUCE COBBELDICK ON MARCH 2
...BECAUSE EDDIE (HERMAN) NEEDS A LITTLE MORE TIME TO GET READY!
Hello, you can reach me at 440-668-0887 or cobbeldick@comcast.net
Welcome to my website! My name is Bruce Cobbeldick. The key thing I would want the voters and the media to be aware of for the March Primary and November General Election is the question of having mature experience, as Congress is no place to cut ones teeth. The role of Congressional Representative is an important one - it is not a hobby or alternative career. Congress is a chance to serve your fellow citizens and get important things done for your community. Everyone knows Dennis Kucinich is a Wacko. It's not enough for Herman to simply state ones opinion that Dennis needs to go. Many feel that way. But in order to earn the people's votes, you have to show preparation, maturity, and be electable. Being Pro-War, a fan of George Bush and for education and improving the economy are nice soundbytes from Herman, but what else have my opponents got? Where's the beef? Where's the creativity? Where's the innovation? Mere enthusiasm is not enough.
The fact is I am the only Candidate who has stated I will introduce legislation to get Congressmen and Senators on the same Social Security Retirement Plan that the rest of us are on; I am the only candidate who has stated that I will take steps as a Congressman to see to it that our country collects on the Foreign Debts other countries owe America; I am the only candidate that has said I will seek to reduce United Nations funding by 50% and route the savings to our senior citizens health-care needs; I am the only Candidate with a well thought out, cogent and professional Foreign Policy, at a time when the Middle East is a serious threat; truth be told, my Domestic Platform covers 20 topics - not three or four topics; I offer the voters breadth and depth - experience!
The people want ideas - not some campaign like Herman's that has got the "mechanics down" of running a race. Whether a candidate has 3,000 or 30,000 dollars to run against Kucinich, on March 2nd, 2004, Independents, Republicans and disenchanted Democrats alike will have to realize that Kucinich has millions. So, any bragging about having fifty thousand in ones campaign fund is silly. Dennis has funds that will eclipse that! I, Bruce Cobbeldick, offer substance.
So, to the people, I tell you: This race better be about IDEAS and SOLUTIONS - not money. Because in the big picture, whether it's 5,000 dollars or 50,000 dollars, money will not beat Dennis. But sincereity, character, maturity and business acumen can. AND THAT IS WHY YOU SHOULD VOTE FOR BRUCE COBBELDICK ON MARCH 2nd, 2004!
My opponent has pinned his political hopes on being a Veteran and "being mad - very mad at Dennis Kucinich," as he puts it. That is flawed thinking, and I'll tell you why. As a former Marine Corps Sergeant and past Chairman for the American Legion, I too am a veteran. I'll gladly compare my military service with that of Herman!
In fact, while my opponent is quick to point to his one year of active-duty time with the Army, I was in the Marines on active duty for 6 years, then I went on to also earn Honorable Discharges from the Army Reserves and National Guard for a total of 14 years in the military. I was the only candidate or politician who was at the Veterans Rally at the Cleveland Muni Parking Lot this past Fall.
But folks, that is not enough. No one is more proud of the military or being with the American Legion than I am, but the people of NE Ohio need more from their Congressman than simply being "mad at Dennis" and offerig military service to ones country. Where's the beef? Many Clevelanders aren't Veterans. My campaign does not hinge on my being a Veteran. A quick scan of websites shows my preparedness.
The people here in the 10th Congressional District do not need someone who is single and 29. Voters want and deserve someone with maturity, business acumen and someone who can relate to what today's families are going through. How can a Congressman fight for family values and be insightful and sensitive to what it takes to hold a family together in the midst of tough economic times when the Candidate is single and 29 years young? Age is no guarantee of intellect, but ones life experiences are tremendous indicators of ones character and resourcefulness!
I had no silver spoon in my mouth. I know what it's like to be a child, drinking 3 glasses of milk to fill up your stomach when you're hungry. I know what it's like to be a latch-key kid. I know what it's like to be without medical insurance and I know what it's like to go from being a teenager to the family's breadwinner because of a parent's death. These are all intangibles - things that make you be caring and sensitive - they are life events that forge inner strength and compassion for others. My background has many things that I can draw on to help people - to care in a way that my opponent just simply cannot fathom.
I remember what it was like when we had my Social Security Death Benefits suddenly terminated. I have graduated from the School Of Hard Knocks and after beginning my life over in the Marines, I know what it is like to put yourself through college and change careers to make ends meet. Pain and struggle can serve to make a person be more patient, show more courtesy and love for ones fellow man. This I offer you.
I applaud my candidate's military service record. I salute him for having enthusiasm. But the people here in NE Ohio need substance and experience - not mere enthusiasm.
But ultimately, this race is far too important for the future of Greater Cleveland than to simply "be mad, very mad at Dennis Kucinich." The people don't want merely a default option to Kucinich. The voters want someone who has a Foreign Policy, someone with maturity and someone they can relate to - but best of all, the voters need someone who has walked in their shoes. I am that kind of human being. I've been there.
I did not attend St. Ignatius High School and move on to a nice Liberal Arts College and teach English to Arabic Children. My father died when I was 18, and I immediately dropped out of School and went to work at Cleveland Hopkins Airport unloading planes and loading trucks for Summit Airlines. I then joined the Marines and after getting out of the military, I went to night school and put myself through college. My background and experience says a lot for my character and resolve.
I love this community. I believe this still is The Best Location In The Nation, but if we're going to work together and make Greater Cleveland geat again, the people in this District are going to need experience and enthusiasm - not just enthusiasm! So, on March 2nd, 2004, vote for Bruce Cobbeldick. There's work to be done. March 2nd better be about ideas, experience and preparedness. Pit someone young and inexperienced against Kucinich? Voters need help, relief, assistance - they need money brought home from Washington and someone who can have a dialogue with CEO's and CFO's. My .com and e-Learning background will be very key in helping Cleveland. I've coached executives as well as Ohio County Agency senior managers, doing Efficiency Studies and Management Consulting to help government be more effective. That's key.
Get a family man who's worked for Blue Chip companies and who knows how CEO's and CFO's think. Cleveland needs a Congressman who can bring home the bacon and fight for this District.
If elected, I will fight for a fair flat tax and I will introduce legislation to get Congressmen and Senators on the same Social Security Retirement System that the rest of the American people are on. I will legislate to reduce United Nations spending by 50% and route that money to senior citizens health-care. I will fight for Tort Reform and Health-care Reform, including a Patients Bill of Rights. So, come March 2, 2004, please make it to the polls and vote for Bruce Cobbeldick. The question is who will get it done?
Vote for EXPERIENCE, MATURITY AND QUALIFICATIONS. Vote for BRUCE COBBELDICK!
"Together We Can Make Greater Cleveland Great Again!"
LOBBY FOR COBBY ON MARCH 2nd!
www.brucecobbeldickforcongress.com
Let's Show Dennis The Door In 2004!!!
READ THE LETTER FROM THE REPUBLICAN COUNTY CHAIRMAN JIM TRAKAS CRITICIZING HERMAN FOR "A LACK OF AN AGENDA"
(even Trakas asks, where's the beef?) ----- Original Message ----- From: "Jim Trakas" To: Sent: Wednesday, November 26, 2003 8:13 AM Subject: RE: i loved what i heard - nice talk tonight Jim
> > Bruce, > > Nice seeing you. Good decision on the newspaper. Just think "what would Chesty Puller do?" and you'll answer your own questions. > > This Herman is someone to be reckoned with. I was underwhelmed by his apparent lack of agenda, but he can raise some bucks. Of course, Bill Smith is a very well intentioned man, but you know what that is all about. > > Happy Thanksgiving. > > Jim
Read the next email message where Trakas asked Republican Executive Director Brad Lamb to run for something else other than Congress!
It beckons the question, how and why would the Screening Committee back someone the Party had serious doubts about ----- Original Message ----- From: "Jim Trakas" To: Sent: Monday, November 17, 2003 11:11 AM Subject: RE: Hi Jim
> > > > Hi Bruce, > > Got the message on Herman. Brad Lamb tried to move him to another race this year, but he says he is focussed on Congress. I have never met the guy, but will have a crack at him myself. (Please keep this confidential) > > The last thing we need is a primary to waste resources against Dennis! (his name, you know). Only Dennis! benefits from a primary. You don't have to convince me, you need to convince the Central and Executive Committees. Make sure you check the website for all the party events, Holiday parties, and ward club meetings throughout the county, not just in the 10th. People tend to support who they know. > > I am actively recruiting for all the other races, but certainly want to talk to you soon about the 10th. If we don't have a strong ticket, they will shower all their resources at you, and I am trying to build a decent ticket. > > Jim > > -- > This message was sent using 3wmail. > Your fast free POP3 mail client at www.3wmail.com
SLUG: Herman Fails To Show Foresight On Syria
TAG: Hey Herman, How Can Our Citizens Feel Secure About Syria?
POC: Bruce Cobbeldick, Bay Village, OH (440) 668-0887
Bay Village, OH - - Bruce Cobbeldick has done more than simply be the first Republican Candidate to begin his campaign against Kucinich. He's done his homework! Cobbeldick, 40, a former Marine Corps sergeant sees his candidacy as addressing critical foreign policy issues germane to Syria, this nation's next real threat. With Herman's failing to weigh in on the Syrian issue, Cobbeldick questions the breadth and depth of Herman's strategies as a U.S. Congressional Candidate. According to Cobbeldick, matters of foreign policy will make or break this race, as 2004 is not just about jobs and the local economy.
These times call for a candidate who has domestic solutions and Middle East policy positions that will serve to safeguard the people, making them secure in the knowledge that their representative is proactive and aware of terrorism threats that go well beyond our current battlefields. President Clinton was unaware and blind to what was going on in the rest of the world, focusing mostly on Bosnia. Meanwhile, look at what nations were empowered to get away with murder and terrorism training, said Cobbeldick, who served in three different branches of our military, the USMC, Army and National Guard.
Terrorists crossing into Iraq from Syria have carried out attacks against American soldiers. In an August 22nd interview with al Jazeera, Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage said, these fighters are not being stopped at the borders, and this is something that causes us a great deal of concern. It is also important to note that Bashar Assad, President of Syria, is a proponent of the occupation in Lebanon and supports a terrorist organization known as Hizballah. By occupying Southern Lebanon, Syria enables Hizballah to carry out attacks against Israel. Hizballah has positioned 10,000 Katyusha rockets on Israels northern border. Moreover, President Assad has allowed the Iranian Revolutionary Guards to operate in the region. This is the area that Israel withdrew from in May 2000, in compliance with United Nations Resolution 425. If I had been a member of the 108th Congress, I would have supported H.R. 1828, the Syrian Accountability Act.
Representative Kucinich voted against this piece of legislation. This piece of legislation would enable the President to impose sanctions on Syria. The possibility of sanctions would include the prohibition of U.S. investment in Syria and cutting off U.S. trade and diplomatic relations. These are all things for Americans to be aware of, and according to Cobbeldick, a West Shore area businessman, as a Congressional Representative, it is imperative not to miss this threat. "I'm very proud of my Domestic Platform, but these times require more from a congressional candidate than simply talking up the need for education and bolstering our local economy. The people want and deserve to feel confident that their Congressman is up on these issues of great importance, and frankly Herman has failed to demonstrate any foresight on Syria whatsoever. The Race in 2004 ought to have a lot to do with Foreign Policy-savvy. If not, voters will look elsewhere for their leadership. Kucinich has dropped the ball completely, and Herman has failed to show any expertise or wisdom on this topic, as well," said Cobbeldick. "I have a family, and even if I wasn't running for office, I would consider these matters of security extremely relevant as to who I could get behind or not get behind for the role of Congressman. As a father and husband, the safety and security of my family is a priority, and as a candidate for the 10th District, I come to this race prepared and up to speed with these things. That's a real issue for me - not just as a politician, but as a family man. There can be no more 9-11 tragedies on our homeland. And there can be no room for politicians like Clinton or others who fail to show the needed foresight in taking a position on Syria and the Middle East issues that are so relevant to Americans nowadays."
-30-
Cobbeldick Residence 440-808-8926
----- Original Message ----- From: cobbeldick@comcast.net To: steck@wews.com Sent: Sunday, January 25, 2004 9:41 AM Subject: Elizabeth - the concern here is how'd Herman do it UNLESS IT'S OK TO BE WITHOUT AN AGENDA IF YOU GET A LITTLE MONEY & BACKING...
PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE dtd. 1-26-04 ***Read emails from Trakas to Cobbeldick below***
From: Bruce Cobbeldick To: Ohio-HispanicAmericanRepublicanCommitte@yahoogroups.com Sent: Saturday, January 24, 2004 9:17 PM Subject: [Ohio-HispanicAmericanRepublicanCommitte] VOTE FOR BRUCE COBBELDICK ON MARCH 2
...BECAUSE EDDIE (HERMAN) NEEDS A LITTLE MORE TIME TO GET READY!
Hello, you can reach me at 440-668-0887 or cobbeldick@comcast.net
Welcome to my website! My name is Bruce Cobbeldick. The key thing I would want the voters and the media to be aware of for the March Primary and November General Election is the question of having mature experience, as Congress is no place to cut ones teeth. The role of Congressional Representative is an important one - it is not a hobby or alternative career. Congress is a chance to serve your fellow citizens and get important things done for your community. Everyone knows Dennis Kucinich is a Wacko. It's not enough for Herman to simply state ones opinion that Dennis needs to go. Many feel that way. But in order to earn the people's votes, you have to show preparation, maturity, and be electable. Being Pro-War, a fan of George Bush and for education and improving the economy are nice soundbytes from Herman, but what else have my opponents got? Where's the beef? Where's the creativity? Where's the innovation? Mere enthusiasm is not enough.
The fact is I am the only Candidate who has stated I will introduce legislation to get Congressmen and Senators on the same Social Security Retirement Plan that the rest of us are on; I am the only candidate who has stated that I will take steps as a Congressman to see to it that our country collects on the Foreign Debts other countries owe America; I am the only candidate that has said I will seek to reduce United Nations funding by 50% and route the savings to our senior citizens health-care needs; I am the only Candidate with a well thought out, cogent and professional Foreign Policy, at a time when the Middle East is a serious threat; truth be told, my Domestic Platform covers 20 topics - not three or four topics; I offer the voters breadth and depth - experience!
The people want ideas - not some campaign like Herman's that has got the "mechanics down" of running a race. Whether a candidate has 3,000 or 30,000 dollars to run against Kucinich, on March 2nd, 2004, Independents, Republicans and disenchanted Democrats alike will have to realize that Kucinich has millions. So, any bragging about having fifty thousand in ones campaign fund is silly. Dennis has funds that will eclipse that! I, Bruce Cobbeldick, offer substance.
So, to the people, I tell you: This race better be about IDEAS and SOLUTIONS - not money. Because in the big picture, whether it's 5,000 dollars or 50,000 dollars, money will not beat Dennis. But sincereity, character, maturity and business acumen can. AND THAT IS WHY YOU SHOULD VOTE FOR BRUCE COBBELDICK ON MARCH 2nd, 2004!
My opponent has pinned his political hopes on being a Veteran and "being mad - very mad at Dennis Kucinich," as he puts it. That is flawed thinking, and I'll tell you why. As a former Marine Corps Sergeant and past Chairman for the American Legion, I too am a veteran. I'll gladly compare my military service with that of Herman!
In fact, while my opponent is quick to point to his one year of active-duty time with the Army, I was in the Marines on active duty for 6 years, then I went on to also earn Honorable Discharges from the Army Reserves and National Guard for a total of 14 years in the military. I was the only candidate or politician who was at the Veterans Rally at the Cleveland Muni Parking Lot this past Fall.
But folks, that is not enough. No one is more proud of the military or being with the American Legion than I am, but the people of NE Ohio need more from their Congressman than simply being "mad at Dennis" and offerig military service to ones country. Where's the beef? Many Clevelanders aren't Veterans. My campaign does not hinge on my being a Veteran. A quick scan of websites shows my preparedness.
The people here in the 10th Congressional District do not need someone who is single and 29. Voters want and deserve someone with maturity, business acumen and someone who can relate to what today's families are going through. How can a Congressman fight for family values and be insightful and sensitive to what it takes to hold a family together in the midst of tough economic times when the Candidate is single and 29 years young? Age is no guarantee of intellect, but ones life experiences are tremendous indicators of ones character and resourcefulness!
I had no silver spoon in my mouth. I know what it's like to be a child, drinking 3 glasses of milk to fill up your stomach when you're hungry. I know what it's like to be a latch-key kid. I know what it's like to be without medical insurance and I know what it's like to go from being a teenager to the family's breadwinner because of a parent's death. These are all intangibles - things that make you be caring and sensitive - they are life events that forge inner strength and compassion for others. My background has many things that I can draw on to help people - to care in a way that my opponent just simply cannot fathom.
I remember what it was like when we had my Social Security Death Benefits suddenly terminated. I have graduated from the School Of Hard Knocks and after beginning my life over in the Marines, I know what it is like to put yourself through college and change careers to make ends meet. Pain and struggle can serve to make a person be more patient, show more courtesy and love for ones fellow man. This I offer you.
I applaud my candidate's military service record. I salute him for having enthusiasm. But the people here in NE Ohio need substance and experience - not mere enthusiasm.
But ultimately, this race is far too important for the future of Greater Cleveland than to simply "be mad, very mad at Dennis Kucinich." The people don't want merely a default option to Kucinich. The voters want someone who has a Foreign Policy, someone with maturity and someone they can relate to - but best of all, the voters need someone who has walked in their shoes. I am that kind of human being. I've been there.
I did not attend St. Ignatius High School and move on to a nice Liberal Arts College and teach English to Arabic Children. My father died when I was 18, and I immediately dropped out of School and went to work at Cleveland Hopkins Airport unloading planes and loading trucks for Summit Airlines. I then joined the Marines and after getting out of the military, I went to night school and put myself through college. My background and experience says a lot for my character and resolve.
I love this community. I believe this still is The Best Location In The Nation, but if we're going to work together and make Greater Cleveland geat again, the people in this District are going to need experience and enthusiasm - not just enthusiasm! So, on March 2nd, 2004, vote for Bruce Cobbeldick. There's work to be done. March 2nd better be about ideas, experience and preparedness. Pit someone young and inexperienced against Kucinich? Voters need help, relief, assistance - they need money brought home from Washington and someone who can have a dialogue with CEO's and CFO's. My .com and e-Learning background will be very key in helping Cleveland. I've coached executives as well as Ohio County Agency senior managers, doing Efficiency Studies and Management Consulting to help government be more effective. That's key.
Get a family man who's worked for Blue Chip companies and who knows how CEO's and CFO's think. Cleveland needs a Congressman who can bring home the bacon and fight for this District.
If elected, I will fight for a fair flat tax and I will introduce legislation to get Congressmen and Senators on the same Social Security Retirement System that the rest of the American people are on. I will legislate to reduce United Nations spending by 50% and route that money to senior citizens health-care. I will fight for Tort Reform and Health-care Reform, including a Patients Bill of Rights. So, come March 2, 2004, please make it to the polls and vote for Bruce Cobbeldick. The question is who will get it done?
Vote for EXPERIENCE, MATURITY AND QUALIFICATIONS. Vote for BRUCE COBBELDICK!
"Together We Can Make Greater Cleveland Great Again!"
LOBBY FOR COBBY ON MARCH 2nd!
www.brucecobbeldickforcongress.com
Let's Show Dennis The Door In 2004!!!
READ THE LETTER FROM THE REPUBLICAN COUNTY CHAIRMAN JIM TRAKAS CRITICIZING HERMAN FOR "A LACK OF AN AGENDA"
(even Trakas asks, where's the beef?) ----- Original Message ----- From: "Jim Trakas" To: Sent: Wednesday, November 26, 2003 8:13 AM Subject: RE: i loved what i heard - nice talk tonight Jim
> > Bruce, > > Nice seeing you. Good decision on the newspaper. Just think "what would Chesty Puller do?" and you'll answer your own questions. > > This Herman is someone to be reckoned with. I was underwhelmed by his apparent lack of agenda, but he can raise some bucks. Of course, Bill Smith is a very well intentioned man, but you know what that is all about. > > Happy Thanksgiving. > > Jim
Read the next email message where Trakas asked Republican Executive Director Brad Lamb to run for something else other than Congress!
It beckons the question, how and why would the Screening Committee back someone the Party had serious doubts about ----- Original Message ----- From: "Jim Trakas" To: Sent: Monday, November 17, 2003 11:11 AM Subject: RE: Hi Jim
> > > > Hi Bruce, > > Got the message on Herman. Brad Lamb tried to move him to another race this year, but he says he is focussed on Congress. I have never met the guy, but will have a crack at him myself. (Please keep this confidential) > > The last thing we need is a primary to waste resources against Dennis! (his name, you know). Only Dennis! benefits from a primary. You don't have to convince me, you need to convince the Central and Executive Committees. Make sure you check the website for all the party events, Holiday parties, and ward club meetings throughout the county, not just in the 10th. People tend to support who they know. > > I am actively recruiting for all the other races, but certainly want to talk to you soon about the 10th. If we don't have a strong ticket, they will shower all their resources at you, and I am trying to build a decent ticket. > > Jim > > -- > This message was sent using 3wmail. > Your fast free POP3 mail client at www.3wmail.com
The Political
Roundhouse
(440) 668-0887
cobbeldick@comcast.net.
Putting People Before Pride
Dear Bay Village Resident:
First, let me say that I know that this race will equate to me sticking my head into a hornet's nest. I am aware of what I'm up against, and so be it. There are two quotes that I like to read whenever I meet up with someone who is with the Sutherland Camp, all gung-ho to beat me in November 2005:
The instinct of nearly all societies is to lock up anybody who is truly free. First, society begins by trying to beat you up. If this fails, they try to poison you. If this fails too, they finish by loading honors on your head. - Jean Cocteau
All truth passes through three stages. First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is accepted as being self-evident. - Arthur Schopenhauer
There Is a Train Coming Around the Bend
and the Name of the Train Is Democracy
I believe the best leaders create a "safe and welcoming atmosphere" for all, and they know how to create a true Learning Organization, implementing solid and respected Organizational Development and Training techniques that are in keeping with today's Best Practices - not the "ol' turn red, stomp your feet and invoke fear" style of management.
A leader of the Republican Party here in Bay has said, "Debbie doesn't belong to the Republican Party; Debbie belongs to the Debbie Sutherland Party." Bay business owners have told me "they were crushed to have to learn from reading in the newspaper about City Hall's plans that would be impacting their business and livelihoods," and they're "anxious for a change at City Hall." Folks, those are their words - not mine. But they ought to cause anyone to stop and take pause for a moment. This is a race where people will come forth and talk openly about their pain and frustrations with this Administration. I won't need to make empty allegations or unsubstantiated charges. My opponent has shot herself in the foot. Truth be told, I can remember when I was a business owner and I first met Debbie Sutherland. I left City Hall saying, "someone has to stop her." And that was long before I ran for U.S. Congress, let alone mayor.
I get a kick out of people, once elected to Public Office, who see things that are wrong, but do not take a strong stance against wrongdoing. Sure, they'll whisper behind closed doors and say things that identify problem behavior, but it's always in the safety of shadows, off the record, followed shortly thereafter by "selective memory loss", or a stern advisory, "but do not quote me on that!"
It's like that fable, The Emperor Who Had No Clothes, by Hans Christian Anderson, (everyone knew the Emperor had no clothes, but were too unwilling to profess what their eyes plainly could see!)
I've done a fair amount of Executive Coaching and Organizational Development work, and it's my opinion that the most unhealthy organizations are the ones incapable of producing people to step forth and say what's on their mind. If an entity has a culture where people think in terms of their surviving the backlash from reprisals rather than focus on purpose and what is reality, very little progress is ever possible.
In the Marines, what would happen if a scout came back and told a Battalion's Colonel what he simply wanted to hear? I've been advised not to use big words. I've been advised not to discuss more than two or three topics. I've been advised to keep it at a third or fourth grade education level. To me, voters are being insulted and robbed of what is due them: the truth.
Funny, I come from the school of leadership that says stand up and take a stand - if you notice something that is worth challenging, challenge it - not to just rock the boat - but if you stand opposed to someone or some idea, speak up!
True, I ran for US Congress, but that doesn't make me your typical politician. I know how the game is supposed to be played. I know about "doing the dance, etc." Like I said, I am not your typical politician. Personally, I am miffed that a councilman who observes things or reaches certain conclusions wouldn't step forth and take a stand. But therein lies the problem! The people never learn what's going on behind the scenes because of some hush-hush, unspoken code of loyalty to fellow politicians. I assume he thinks he needs to maintain his "power base" and not jeopardize his position with the mayor.
Do you see who the loser is when that kind of stuff goes on? It's the taxpayer. The Legislative Branch of Government exists as a checks and balances system to the Executive and Judicial Branches. If a councilman sees issues, but insists on remaining quiet about them, why even bother being a councilman? As for any notion about protecting his power base, that's a mirage he's chasing. Why? Because if he would just see that his true power base is with the people, he could always speak up, always call 'em like he sees 'em and always provide that needed checks and balance system to truly serve the interests of the people! But when you're beholden to your peers and associates, and the profession is politics, the constituents - the residents - the families - the breadwinners - the taxpayers are the ones hurt.
Yes, you have to live to fight another day. And yes, better to lose a battle than lose the entire war, but at what point does a spine get so double-jointed from being so flexible that it actually goes limp? I believe one must stand for something or one will fall for anything.
I do not aspire to upset the apple cart or make waves. There is no value in shaking the tree needlessly. But when the people vote someone into office, I think the voters are the Hiring Authority. I'm pretty sure constituents are the boss. Or at least they should be!
That's at the very essence of why a soldier makes a good champion for the citizens. Soldiers don't "dance." They don't kow-tow. Soldiers are trained to offer reality-based briefings. Soldiers know the consequences of sugar-coating the news. And a soldier is enough of a Romantic to do the right thing - even if it means to fly in the face of what is popular or causing oneself to be in harm's way.
I'm running as a soldier. I'm a foot soldier for Tax Relief and Accountability. I'm not going to name names and I'm not out to burn anyone. To me, someone else does not have to lose just so I can feel like I have won.
But this business of me being told to talk to people at a 4th Grade Level, or to keep my Platform down to three issues... That's beneath the intelligence of the people here in my home town of Bay Village. And it's high time the people got themselves a mayor who is an advocate of their agendas - a mayoral candidate who is beholden to the people - not The Old Guard and not some Kingmaker or Cronie of someone who's got lots of juice (power)... No, the time has come for a new era.
My campaign will seek to open up the doors, shed light on the subjects, allow for debate, and reward courage. I believe in my heart that is what the People want too. You can get the same old, same old. However, your vote does entitle you to make a change. My thought is this: Wouldn't it be revolutionary to put a taxpayer and a soldier in the role of chief executive officer for our city? (Someone who doesn't underestimate the people's comprehension - or the people's ability to consider more than two or three issues at the same time!)
I will run this campaign from the perspective that the people are my "power base.". If I can affect better accountability, increase savings, bolster efficiency, or open up how we communicate with the citizenry, then my measuring stick will be based on those things - not how well I've managed to schmooze with a Political Boss or raise money from contractors who reside out of this county! There might be a million dollars and a million yard signs, all earmarked for Deborah Sutherland, but I am placing my trust in the people - that come election time, when they get in that voting booth, they will vote their conscience and do what their heart says is right. We'll raise money and have yard signs up too, but in me, you will see a candidate who spends his time mastering the art of learning what is important to the people - not mastering the mechanics of how to conduct a political campaign. I plan to be at Java Bay and the Bay Bowling Alley on Saturdays. Once a month, I will deliver speeches like this one, and I will begin my door to door campaign walking the streets of Bay. That's pretty much it. If you want to send a donation, I will put it to very good use.
You'll be supporting: The Sunshine Law, an end to Elitism, Tax Relief, better communication style and fair disciplinary actions, as well as City Council Meeting Minutes that no longer are edited, and a mayor who will reign in the spending and bring forth talent and innovation. We will seek to be more friendly, courteous and helpful in our words and deeds. You will get a leader - not a manger - a statesman - not a politician. Thank you.
Very respectfully,
Bruce Cobbeldick
Cobbeldick for Mayor
Bruce Cobbeldick, a native of Bay Village, is running for mayor, and he recently conducted an Open House for Bay business owners, talking about his plans for reigning in the spending, fighting for Tax Relief, and protecting Bay Village from being turned into another Westlake just to keep up with the Jones'.
Cobbeldick, who ran for US Congress last year while spending only $1,700.00 on his campaign, lost the county-wide election by just 4,000 votes. In Bay Village, he actually beat out Republican nominee, Ed Herman. According to Cobbeldick, the message of Fiscal Conservatism, reduced spending, and lower property taxes has the community's residents excited. read more...
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.