Boswell caters to limited audience again for State of the City Address
THE REAL DEAL
By JERRY DEAL
Mayor Chris Boswell has done it one more time, limited his State of the City Address, set for lunchtime on Friday, to one organization.
First, however, before digging into that situation, let’s take a little mental trip up the Valley, with a stop off at McAllen.
Richard Cortez,that city’s mayor, seems like a genuine person. Everytime I have met him, he has been friendly and when I needed some city backup as I was aiding in getting the McAllen baseball team to become a reality, both he and City Manager Mike Perez, were right there at the front.
Mayor Cortez held HIS State of the City address last week.
Where did he hold it?
Of course, where else, but at the McAllen Convention Center so that residents — all residents — who wished to hear his message could do so.
Shift back to Harlingen.
Mayor Chris Boswell, via the city secretary’s office, has declared he will once again deliver his address before the Harlingen Rotary Club. It will be held at the plush Reese (which Boswell aided in it being there).
The message is the price for meal for those non members who wish to attend is $12 plus. Furthermore, we are informed, space is limited, so make your reservation with the city secretary quickly.
Oh, you say, you don’t want to pay for a lunch. Well, you can attend free — if there is any space left — but no free lunch.
I now ask, who wants to sit around and watch a group of men and women chewing away while awaiting his honor to deliver his speech?
I guess one can’t blame the Rotarians for wanting to hog the mayor and his speech. But, couldn’t someone in that organization say, “hey, the state of the city speech is for all citizens, not just for us few.”
As usual, there are those unhappy that Boswell caters to this group of citizens. In fact, there is talk about the possibility of a boycott.
Let’s just wait and see.
P.S. A few things that the McAllen mayor dealt with in his speech was to continue to recruit new business, for the city to work harder to be more friendly to those dealing with the city, and to acknowledge that there are those from ALL cultures who want to live and work in that city.
This is his way of saying “I do what I want”, I do not have to reach out to the citizens I am much more important and look how I got Danny Castillo Elected. Screw you all. You want to see and hear me mumble, cough up twelve dollars.
So what did you expect Mayor Bosshog to do. Get down with the common people, when he can continue to hobnob with his friends from the old inner circle? Heck no, he is too good to rub shoulders with the majority of Harlingen citizens, what a phony.
Ironically, hispanics keep voting for this bozo. A friend of mine, votes for him, because he is from San Benito like her, damn what a bi#$#@h.
I was transferred to the Valley from Waco. My work takes me throughout the Valley and other areas of South Texas. I decided on Harlingen as my base because it was a bit more convenient. I have second thoughts however, because I am so much more impressed with the McAllen area. It is so active, where here it seems as though things move slowly, if at all. I do not follow the local politics all that much, but it does appear that there is a faction that has controlled the city for a longtime and does not want to give it up. The mayor obviously is a part of that. Harlingen, you may have lost me to McAllen or Edinburg.
Harlingen is not controlled by any one faction. You should not believe everything you read in the blogs.
The gentleman just said that he can see the difference between the two cities and what has kept one back versus the other.
If you continue to deny the truth Lois you are just as guilty as those who lie. Do you really want to bear false witness against this man?
You need to re read his post. He is more impressed with McAllen and “a faction that has controlled”. I am not denying any so called truth that some continue to spew. And do even know what “bears false winess” means.
McAllen moves faster because it is twice the size as harlingen and they have a relationship with Reynosa.
Jerry Deal comments: When I first came to the Valley, Harlingen was about 40,000 and McAllen was about 23,000. Edinburg, Pharr and Mission were smaller So, McAllen had/has a relationship with Reynosa, does that mean Harlingen could not do things to increase industry and business because it did not have a close Mexican neighbor?
It’s Monterrey, as much if not more than Reynosa, that has put McAllen on the map.
In business it is all about making a dollar. Transportation and bridge access is important factors companies look at when deciding where to locate. Harlingen did not have ease of access. It does not have anything to do with leadership not wanting Harlingen to grow
Don’t give up so easily. There are many good things in Harlingen and there are those who are trying to change things for the better. Besides, could it be any worse than Waco?
Ageed
Hey Jerry, I hear the food sucks at the Reese. Twelve dollars for lunch? Might as well go to Luby’s, China Buffet, Seafarer, Logan’s or some where the food is good. Who wants to hear Boswell play the same old fiddle about growth and all the crap that only selective persons want to HEAR???
The Rotary Club of Harlingen has sponsored and hosted the Mayor’s State of the City Address for decades. It’s a time-honored tradition. This is hardly news. Get over it Jerry Deal and anonymous bloggers. Plus, the Rotary Club is hardly an elite group, but rather a group of hard-working and dedicated volunteers that dedicate their time and service to those less-fortunate. They are to be commended and respected if anything. God Bless Rotarians and thank you for your service!
Jerry Deal comments: It still gives the look that the public is left out. Just because it has been done for years you apparently believe that does make it right? There are many things in our government done for years that are not right. What would beso wrong in having it in an open city forum?
And let me add that the event is free and open to the public. The Mayor’s speech will be posted on the city’s website for all to see. Copies can be requested from the city secretary’s office and the VMS always does a recap story for all to read. Basically nobody is being excluded from this information. There is nothing to complain about, except from those that are chronic complainers and have nothing better to do.
Jerry Deal comments: If it is so important for the Rotary Club to sponsor this event, why not hold it in a location that would be open to all, including those who might feel uncomfortable to rub shoulders with those in the Rotary.
I must agree with Jerry. A change of venue is in order. Why is it that the Rotary Club ALWAYS has to sponsor it. Many citizens of Harlingen will feel out of place going up to the Reece and rubbing elbows with some of them. When election time is upon us, its seems the “elected official” then only has the time to be available to ALL the citizens of Harlingen. Perhaps let the Knights of Columbus , Rio Grande Jaycees, or Lions Club host the mayor’s event. Some of us are only important during election time, after that we are just uncounted citizens of Harlingen.
Both Jerry Deal and mysteryshopper1 indicate that some people might be uncomfortable rubbing elbows with a Rotarian. Folks, these are caring, giving, dedicated volunteers that practice “Service Above Self.” In other words, good, genuine, nice, friendly, loving people. Believe it or not, they are human beings just like you. If you would feel uncomfortable hanging out with these types of upstanding folks, then you clearly are the one with the problem.
Well Justin, one day I decided to join the Rotary Club. I was told ” you need to get invited by another member”. I have lived here for 50 years, and well educated and have proven myself to this town. What do you think their criteria is?
It is the Mexicans who were raised to kiss up to the Anglos. They do not know any better. They truely consider themselves beneath the Anglos. Look At Danny Castillo, Eddie Medrano, Robles the Muffler guy, yet they are never invited to the real Anglo functions.
Wow JL, that is the most asinine thing I’ve ever read on this blog. And man, that is saying a whole lot! With that huge chip on your shoulder, I have to ask: are you related to that Chapa guy that runs the really dumb blog?
Sorry, Campos, I am Hispanic, and I have never kissed ass to anybody. I have worked in Harlingen for over 50 years, gotten promoted, and worked myself up the ladder. I still repeat the same phrase to anyone that knows me, I will not and have never kissed up to anyone. I have chewed out many people, Anglos, Hispanics, Chinese, and yet still employed.
Pretending you are unaware is exactly what I am talking about. You think it is perfectly natural for the mayor to cater to his exclusive friends. You even have great excuses for them you are either Anglo or have assimilated into thinking that Hispanics are the lower race. Everyone in the Valley knows about Harlingen. Stanley Hoffman saw it right away. You can not see the forest for the trees. You probably hope your children will work for one of these fine gentlemen who keep you at a distance. How about the Cotton reaping time have you ever attended an Algodon Gala have you ever been invited and actually attended one? Are you a member of the Rotary Club? Have you been invited to the Reese? Have you been to lunch or super at the mayors home? Chapa has no brains, but if he did they would be in the same league as yours.
Campos, I am a very well educated man. I am hispanic, and have made my money all by myself. I have earned it. My father also fully educated and a veteran taught me well. My daughter has followed me in my footsteps, fully educated, and again, many people under her at work. I raised LEADERS, not followers. I do not need to attend any “event” to become noticed or get ahead. I am already there. Many many people respect me, and urge me to run for some political office. I decline, only because my job is so demanding. My dad had a name for mexicans like you who continue to degrade us Hispanics. My grandmother is a Campos, only she says there is always one bad apple in the Campos family. I guess she has met you.
Couldn’t disagree more. The venue can comfortably hold hundreds of people. It’s the new jewel of downtown, blocks away from City Hall. Contrary to the propaganda in this blog, the Rotary Club is filled with first class citizens who meet payrolls each week or are actively involved in promoting the local economy, not to mentions the thousands of dollars they raise for local nonprofits to do their good work in our community. And, it’s open to the public and free of charge.
A great stage and a nice showcase of what’s possible in Harlingen, TX.
Jerry Deal comments: If it so huge, why is the city saying seating is limited. Do those involved in this great address believe there are so many who are willing to go to this and sit and wait while the Rotarians chuck down their meals and then hear the mayor?
It’s not big at all. One story with very limited seating and yes I have eaten there. I was not impressed at all. The fire marshal will be there to put a dead stop to any over crowding and will let in only those he deems worthy to be let in.
Case in point he let people cut in front of me and the spokesperon for Feldman’s when we were the only ones standing there waiting for people to exit the city commission meeting. He knew we had been waiting and let others who had just come up the stairs cut in front of us and let them in. What makes “YOU” people of Harlingen think this will not happen again.
Luby’s,Casa del Sol, or the Fair Park convention center would be better by all means.
That is to discourage people like Sally G. and a good portion of the 85% Hispanic.
I don’t know why they said seating is limited. Perhaps to heighten suspense? You’ll have to ask the city that question.
As far as your 2nd question, it’s a Rotary meeting. They eat lunch. I assume you do too. They have opened the meeting to the public. Good or them.
Should the mayor not want to show off the most beautiful building in town? Should he not want to make himself available to people that donate thousands of dollars to nonprofits in our community? Who serve the community cleaning up trash and sending students overseas as exchange students?
Remove your Boswell jealousy before you answer those questions. The mayor of Harlingen is well served to recognize this good things. You might be as well. If not, well, I feel sorry for you.
Since it is the state of the city why did city hall not step up and plan the event. Why did our leadership there let it fall to the Rotarians?The state of the city is free .. If one wishes to attend they can. The Harlingen Rotary club is doing us a service, there are other organizations that can take the initiative and organize this event but don’t. If people are so against having it at the Reese, where the Rotarians meet weekly, step up to the plate and organize it next year.
Again it is FREE and open to the public. Quit making a bigger issue out of this than it is. If you want to go go if watching someone eat bothers you do look.
Jerry Deal comments: It will be interesting to see how many non Rotarians will feel comfortable to be seated to wait while the members lunch so they can hear the mayor’s speech. As for city hall stepping up to plan the event, I believe that did happpen, compliments of the mayor.
Jerry the ROTARIANS planned the event the Mayor is speaking at it. I attended the state of the city last year when it was at the casa de amistad. It was free to the public, plenty of seats available and aside from the regular Rotarians very few people attended. It cost the Rotary club money; I do not believe the city donated the space. There were 30+ city employees at last years event that did not pay for their lunch … Your friend the city attorney included.
And I know for a fact the event cost the Rotarians more money than they made.
Jerry Deal coamments: I do not believe they were doing it as a moneymaker.
No they were – are not doing it as a moneymaker on the other hand they were -are doing to lose money either.
The point is people can attend if they want to whether they eat lunch at a cost of twelve dollars is up to them and Rotarians should have to foot the bill for non members, the general public or city hall.
Let’s ALL just take a look at this statement and let it sink in. Especially YOU SALLY G.
“Mayor Cortez held HIS State of the City address last week.
Where did he hold it?
Of course, where else, but at the McAllen Convention Center so that residents — all residents — who wished to hear his message could do so.”
Honestly Sally, your spin only makes you look like the one-sided,inner circle Facist that you truely are. You tell us to,”get over it”? This just goes to show what we all have been bitching about for so long. Your comment just exposes that even more. This also shows how far ahead McAllen is compared to us and how McAllen will continue to hold the lead with TRUE LEADERSHIP and the bringing together the city as a WHOLE.
“Keep moving forward”, coming from this tub of *h#T and that’s exactly what comes to mind when I see that smug look with that sorry PR pic.
What is moving forward? Further isolation from the general public,give me a *%#*ing break already.
There are way too many Hispanics, who are very insecure and must kiss someone else rear end. They should be proud of their heritage and quit being what they are not. JL.Campos you are soooo right, some of these characters only speak to Hispanics, when they expect something, like vote for me, pobre sonsos, vendidos.
Sally,citizen, and lois remember you all will be judged in the afterlife.
Fascist,Control freaks,inner circle cliques(insider deals) and those who are greedy will not fair well in God’s eyes.
I’m already being judged by the people on earth … God does not judge
Jerry Deal comments: You say that God does not judge? Does that mean those billboards that declare God saying the “Supreme Court is Up here” are wrong?
Take into consideration that I am talking on the level for which most of these so called Christians claim to worship and believe in but we as a community have yet to see practiced.
Good Christians do not practice questionable business deals,transactions and or hirings. They do not go against principle and ethics. And they should most certainly not take monies that are not theirs for which they do not deserve. This is all the more a sin because these individuals know exactly what they are doing.
When you claim so and so is a good Christian or God bless the so and so’s you are just as guilty as the wrongdoers.
My God is a forgiving God. He knows my faults and accepts me as I am. The billboards are a mans creation.
Yes, Sally, a time honored deal because of the close knit people who have run the city for years (and into the ground). If the Rotary Club wanted to sponsor this and honestly in the interest of the community why not hold it at a time when their precious lunch is not served and hold it where a public forum can really be held? No, they just cling onto what power they have snd screw the rest of the citizens.
Frank. Rotarians CFO not claim to have any power. They are a group of individuals that care about the community and give back to the community through service. The Rotarians hold fund raisers that fund numerous scholarships for students that without Rotarians would be short tuition money. Rotarians contibute money and time to project such as polio plus, which is close to being eradicated and hands to Honduras which Helps with education and technically assistance to the atlantido region. So before people bash the Rotary group learn how the contribute their time, money and knowledge to help increase te quality of life of many people.
I agree that the Rotarians would make themselves more popular if they were to sponsor this annual speech in a location large enough and not during a meal that people had to pay for or sit and watch others eat while waiting. It is not a case of how many people would go to hear the speech, but making the facilities available for all. We do allow all qualified to vote. although many do not. Why not make facilties available for all and let them decide if they want to go hear what the mayor has to say. Maybe he is afraid to make his statements in a REAL forum. could that be why he limits his talk to a few?
Are you serious … Either show up and listen to him live , read it in the paper or go to the city website it will posted there. Again Rotarians are providing a service to the community.
“the McAllen Convention Center so that residents — all residents — who wished to hear his message could do so.”
Yes,we are all dead serious Lois. WE DO NOT CARE ABOUT THE ROTARIANS. They are a CLUB for which you have to JOIN. The MAYOR IS A PUBLIC SERVANT who is ELECTED to his position by THE PEOPLE. What do you not understand LOIS???????
The meeting is open to the public and free. You don’t have to buy lunch. What do YOU not understand John?
The venue was larger last year. Very few private citizens(other than Rotarians) showed up. Why have a larger venue this year when it would remain half empty?
BOF you know exactly what I am talking about so take your tired old spin and try to blow smoke up someone else’s ass.
What I do not understand the pettiness that you and others insist on exhibiting. Yes you have to join rotary. And the little amount of dues that are charged out weigh the millions that are raised for scholarships and other humanitarian efforts. Go to http://www.rotary.org and LEARN something. Yes the mayor is a public servant and you John are citizen. I look forward to YOU organizing this event next year that will be open and free for the public to attend. Let’s see how many facilities you can find in Harlingen that would be willing to donate the space.
I UNDERSTAND PLENTY … Many thing that cannot be repeated
As I have said so many times BEFORE. THIS IS NOT ABOUT THE ROTARY CLUB.
Agreed.
I believe President Obama made his State of the Nation address to and for all. He did not first deliver it to the Washington Downtown Lions Club or any other. On a smaller scale, the McAllen mayor saw that his speech on the state of McAllen could be heard when he gave it. Mayor Boswell decided instead again to limit his to a few, regardless of what you say about others being able to attend (probably hostile hosts).
You are in the same arena as John above
Boycotting or protesting might be a little too much. But if many show up at the Reese it will show that they are not happy with mayor staying with his buddies and forgetting the rest of the population.
Very true, but the real story is Mayor Cortez keeps mentioning CABELA’S as a retailer they are courting. Agree with Bass Pro or not, Harlingen is now vested for 20 years and $60 millions on that deal. A McAllen Cabela’s would essentially flush that down the toilet and all the efforts would be for not, plus a huge debt with decreasing sales to pay it off. Now the realist in me sees that McAllen wouldn’t be able to get a Cabela’s. It would still cost the city an average of $60 million (Buda’s cost that much and so does Bass Pro). It would still have to pass the city council and judging from the comments in the Monitor when he first mention attracting a big name retailer, a lot of McAllen residents resented the city’s main focus on retail. They resent the Civic Center being sold off to developers. They seemed about as anti-retail as all the Bass Pro haters here. That being said, a Cabela’s investment would still have to “compete” with a Harlingen Bass Pro for the same sales. I think McAllen would eventually win, but this isn’t DFW or Houston. The only Texas areas with multiple Bass Pro, Cabela’s stores.
Or as I look at it; the papers were signed, the building was built, and the people were hired.
If you read today’s VMS, Harlingen and Mcallen topped it in sales receipts. If you have been to La Plaza Mall lately, you will find a few spaces or stores that have closed up and there are empty spaces. It is not at 100% occupancy as of today. There is more retail coming to Harlingen, I hear it everyday.
Good.
Well topped in percentage increase which is still good for Harlingen. Brownsville is still a sizable two and Harlingen third in terms of total sales tax generated.
Good morning Jerry, WOW! I like the response to this blog! It is amazing the thoughts and opinions about our “head in the sand” mayor, Boswell and his “so-called” State of the City Address. I also have to wonder how he can address with such a straight face but then again? Who is in the crowd?
I retrieve my morning paper and on the front page is about the I-69 construction. Then there is a name of David Allex, chairman of the CCMPO. I find this suspicious and now my “assumption” is that explains the land grabbing by selective few including our mayor and former and convicted commissioner Kori Marra. If I remember correctly, the I-69 project has been laid out and toward the Island if and when the second bridge is approved? If this is so, then these two “so-called” politicians for the people? In my opinion, were out to make money and got the low down from friend, Allex and thus built up their future financial status? I know, capitalism at its best! But, when do you draw the line? A politician is supposed to be for the people and serving the interest of the people and NOT their interest in building their financial status? How many of the selective few have joined in in this venture? Makes one wonder and ASSUME that other selective few have made their money with insider information. After making this assumption, I have to agree with that few who truly believe that the selective few are only out to make money for themselves and NOT allow others to ensure their financial gain or stability?
You know what the say about ASSUME. You should attend a meeting next time Alex is briefing on the ccrmo and realize that not everything has to do with the “rich” getting richer”.
I have often thought that one accuses others of possible wrong doing without proof then that one has probably done the exact deed themselves
Jerry Deal comments: I must admit, I have often thought that too.
We are very fortunate to have a Mayor the caliber of Chris Boswell, and to have dedicated Rotarians serving our community to make it a better place for everyone. As for the haters that seem to congregate to this blog spreading lies and filth and all things counterproductive, please get help!
The bitterness and envy displayed on this blog is truly stunning. The Harlingen Rotary club sponsors this event and now holds it’s meetings at The Reese, which has more than adequate capacity for this event.
The Reese is a major accomplishment for Harlingen and a natural place to have the mayor’s address.
This is a completely manufactured controversy, tailor made for the class-warfare bloggers on this site. Most of you wouldn’t attend if it was held in your own front yard, but can’t resist complaining about this non-issue.
Here’s a repost.
John on January 24, 2012 at 5:42 pm
Remember how some say on here that some of us have problems with those who are rich here in Harlingen and supposedly are prosperous. The problem we have with them is not that they are rich but how they obtained their riches. Case in point here is an EXCELLENT comparison.
They Got It, and You Didn’t
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9iqRebnSpkA&feature=g-u-u&context=G2e04a51FUAAAAAAAGAA
David,
don’t you ever get tired of sucking up to the old guard?
David, what a perfect response. Couldn’t have said it better myself. Bravo!
Agree with Justin. Jerry, you should consider changing the name of this blog to: MyHaternews.com.
Jerry Deal comments: I believe you have done your share of hate messages here.
Good Christians do not practice questionable business deals,transactions and or hirings. They do not go against principle and ethics. And they should most certainly not take monies that are not theirs for which they do not deserve. This is all the more a sin because these individuals know exactly what they are doing.
When you go along with the flow you all are just as guilty as them.
have you been out to Holly Beach where you will see large signs stating that for information call Chris Boswell. Realestate agent Kori Mara. Justin you nincompoop have you been invited to invest out there? I doubt it. You are a cabbage head.
Sounds like you are very mature for you age. When you cannot think intelligently you resort to name calling. I am so proud of you being one of Harlingen’s residents.
JL,
It seems to me that the land near Holly Beach that is for sale(listed by Kori Marra) is an invitation to invest. Have at it. Put up or shut up.
So, some of you believe that because probably not many people would attend an open forum, it is all right for Mayor Boswell to limit it at first to one organization. But, how can you tell if it has been limited to the organization for a number of years. Of course, it will be published later. But, so was President Obama’s State of the Nation address, but I listened to it and did not want to wait to read it later.
Fernando,
It’s not limited to one organization. They are providing the venue..it is open to the public, free of charge.
Thank you BOF! Is anyone listening here? Open to the public, free of charge. All naysayers comments are null and void. Jeez, some of you people are so dumb it is not worthy of a response. Please, for the love of God, get a freaking life!
Sorry BOF and Sally it’s not the 30′s,40′s,50′s,60′s,70′s,80′s, or the 90′s anymore. The time to address the community as a whole with adequate seating and consideration is now a given even for backassward places like Harlingen. Oh wait, not Harlingen. Sorry, I was thinking of McAllen.
You know what else is so F%*&ing funny as well. Don’t these guys endorse that slogan,”bringing the community together”? Oh, it’s just so painfully funny how hypocritical this all is.
The mayor needs to not run from the public anymore. We had this for years with not showing the city meetings even though the technology was around via the internet since the 90′s. As for it being televised, that was around for forever.
It’s NOT ABOUT THE ROTARY CLUB. It’s about how one mayor of a great city chooses to do the right thing and another chooses to hide from the general public. What is he so scared of?
The simple solution is to have two addresses one which is pretty much private like the one in question and one held in a public venue. Problem solved but I seriously doubt it.
There was never any problem. Free event during a time when people can attend …. Lunch or no lunch at a centrally located facility. The only problem has been is with the whiners that look for things to complain about.
It’s about how one mayor of a great city chooses to do the right thing and another chooses to hide from the general public.
Mcallen is not a GREAT city. It is a larger version of Harlingen. It has all the same issues that every other city along the Mexico border has. People see and hear wht they want including you john. Your take on issues is quite different than mine, I suspect because you have a chip on your shoulder or because you just want to get a rise out of people.
Nope, just calling it the way I see it. No chip in wanting a fair playing field for all.
Mayor Chris Boswell needs a support crowd to cater to his presentation. The Rotary Club is his support group and I don’t blame the Mayor for allowing this group to sponsor his event. On Friday, he will take the speaker’s podium and give us his insight into where Harlingen is headed. His prepared speech is what really counts at the end. The issues that are facing the City of Harlingen are what really matter. We as a community must decipher what Boswell is telling us. The good and the bad of Harlingen must be emphasized. Most people are just barely getting by and the Mayor’s leadership affects our community directly or indirectly. I am wondering if his support TEAM will be there in the audience and will he recognize their efforts or accomplishments. Can Mayor Boswell bring this community together and give us a Shared Vision that we all can believe in?
Will the Mayor talk about Bass Pro Shops and the fact that they want their remaining $7 million owed to them and there is a dispute on this? Will the Mayor address the high unemployment in Harlingen that exceeds 11% affecting our community? Will the Mayor talk about the drug dealers in the neighborhoods? Will the Mayor talk about pending and forthcoming Ethics violations that are costly to investigate? Will the Mayor tell us about the lack of street improvement funds for the last two years because of the deficit in the budget? Will the Mayor tells us about infrastructure needed for the City of Harlingen? Will the Mayor talk about the Harlingen EDC that last year borrowed $4 million to make ends meet? Will the Mayor talk about the upcoming city budget that in the last two years has been forced to address each year a shortfall of $3 million dollars? Will the Mayor talk about pending lawsuits against the City of Harlingen? Will the Mayor talk about a lack of pay raises for City employees for the last five years? Lots & lots of questions but will the Mayor allow audience members to ask him questions?
Only the real workers of Harlingen did not get pay raises. Your city manager and city attorney got hefty ones. The message will be interesting to hear. I look forward to it and deciding on my own whether it is credible with out commentary or biase from people that will not attend and only repeat twisted snippets.
Jerry, you could have save everyone a lot of time and effort by reposting your article and reader comments from last year. Same arguments back and forth, and no one has changed theirs or anyone else’s mind.
Good morning, Jerry. I doing some online reading when this popped up. It explains a lot .
http://news.yahoo.com/low-iq-conservative-beliefs-linked-prejudice-180403506.html;_ylt=AlWodhzPyIs.0HuaT_iqcA759XQA;_ylu=X3oDMTRzZmcxb3BvBGNjb2RlA2N0LmMEbWl0A0FydGljbGUgTW9zdCBQb3B1bGFyBHBrZwNjNzMwN2U5YS0xN2UxLTM1OTQtOWMxNi1iYjYyNzVhZmQwODkEcG9zAzEEc2VjA01lZGlhQkxpc3RNaXhlZE1vc3RQb3B1bGFyQ0EEdmVyAzY1OWVhMGUwLTQ4NGEtMTFlMS1iOGVlLThjMjVkMWUzMGRkNw–;_ylg=X3oDMTMxcGM4c21tBGludGwDdXMEbGFuZwNlbi11cwRwc3RhaWQDNmU4NjZkMzEtZGFlZC0zOTUyLTg1MzUtZWFmZDcyMjljOTg4BHBzdGNhdANwb2xpdGljcwRwdANzdG9yeXBhZ2UEdGVzdAM-;_ylv=3
I have always known this from the first time I encountered it. This goes for ALL races who have prejudice factions. Being mixed, I found out it can come from both sides or all sides.
Mysteryshopper brings up a good point about not being able to join the “CLUB” without being invited in. If you ask me,it sounds like a way to keep “CERTAIN” people out. Hence, back to the topic Benton posted.
Yes,we have dumb people here in Harlingen too.
Yes, you have to be invited to join Rotary. That is precisely what keeps the bad apples out. Oh, and the mandatory background check. Sorry John, you would fail!
Whatever.
My father was in more than one of these clubs here in town. Lions,Rotary and Elks. I have no interest in joining the “clubs” for I don’t need a pat on my shoulder when I help people out. The only one that sees my good deeds is the only one that counts upstairs.
Sally G, you must be one of those who think that “white” is the only color allowed in organizations? Why should you have to be invited? Aren’t organizations created to grow and prosper for the better good? Knowing this, I would not want to join such a group if you have to be invited? And then all, a mandatory background check? What, if you don’t pay your taxes? You don’t get in? What about a misdemeanor conviction? What about partying so much that everyone knows that a drink will make you easy? I hope that you weren’t speaking as a member of the Rotary for you are a poor representative. John, I welcome you into the world as a human and your right to blog your opinions! Oh John, don’t worry. I won’t run a background check on you. God Bless America!!!
Thank you Fustrated Harlingenite and I totally agree with you.
John,
I have little doubt that if Mystery shopper really(sincerely) wished to join the Rotary club he could find someone to sponsor him.
Just left the State of the City address and I congratulate the Mayor for his presentation. It was a well prepared “spin master” speech. Four uniformed police officers were assigned to the event and I guess it was just a coincidence that one of them rode the elevator with our group of protesters.
Speaking about cops, my favorite police officer John Byrum made sure that he made some disparaging remarks to one of the protesters about me. “John, Bad Boy, you should know better. How many times has your mouth gotten you in trouble? Plenty of times! Did you enjoy recording the protest or were you under orders by a higher authority?”
In the next few weeks, things will be exposed that are happening in Harlingen. The only way to fight City Hall is through a Harlingen Charter change and it’s forthcoming.
I can’t wait,bring forth the expose’.
Well, tickets to Mayor Cortez’s state of the city address in McAllen cost $50 per person. So quit complaining.
Jerry Deal: Not what I was told by the city. Can you confirm this?