It was quite a weekend, and I’m not just talking about the weather.
In starting this blog, it was never my goal to be the story. The fact that there are now journalists out there wanting to ask me questions and scribble down what I have to say is a bit surreal, and frankly, unnerving.
There are some in town who will choose to pursue this story, and as news-worthy things happen, I’ll tell you about them. But the theme of this blog isn’t going to become “First Ammendment Watch 2010.”
This week it will be back to blogging as usual, and as usual there’s quite a bit on the docket. Jane Moran will be sworn in as police chief. I’ll tell you about some interesting new developments in the upcoming town elections. And about the Advisory Committee’s recommendation on how to fund this year’s budget while avoiding a Prop 2-1/2 override vote. And that’s just the start.
Reading your comments this weekend I was so very impressed. What could have been nasty and snarky wasn’t. What might have turned mean-spirited didn’t. A wise man (hi, Dad!) said to me this weekend, “Everybody has been reminded that Southborough has a great underlying fabric. From time to time that fabric will get stretched, but it won’t tear.”
He’s right.
I’m honored to be a member of this community, and to play a role in keeping its narrative. Thank you for the support you have shown me. I’m gratified to know the conversation we have here is as important to you as it is to me.
-Susan
(Oh, and if you have absolutely no idea what I’m talking about, read this.)
Great job. I would hate to see your blog disappear. You provide great information about what is going on in the town every week. Keep up the good work.
Hi Sue,
Keep up the good work.
You have created a great forum, with your blog. Sure there are times that some will hide to post, but the discourse is healthy.
Control is such an outdated concept. People need the freedom to weigh in and vent at times. Our town is strong and will survive.
Thanks for the effort. Keep at it. My Southborough.com has become a great central point for citizens to learn, be kept in the loop, comment and engage in discussions.
Blogs have become the fifth estate, in companies, towns and special interest groups.
Hold strong. You may not want to “be the story” but have allowed stories to be told and explored by interested citizens. Be proud of your accomplishments!
Keep up the good work.
Steve Morreale
Good afternoon. Yesterday I turned in nomination papers for the office of Board of Selectmen. In the coming days and weeks ahead, I hope you will be eager to learn more about me. As a candidate, I think you have a right to know where I stand on this issue.
Like everyone, I hope people never say anything bad about me, but I recognize that as a public figure, there are people who will. Skin must be thick, but not impenetrable. I know the people of Southborough are smart, and I trust them to give me an opportunity and a fair hearing. I will never chill a person’s right to his or her opinion under any circumstance. Democracy is sustained by disagreement. The purpose of free speech is to elicit and invite dispute. I cannot recall ever learning anything from people who just simply agreed with me. Free speech protects not only the thoughts and opinions we agree with, but more importantly the thoughts and opinions that are controversial and outrageous.
I was introduced to this website while a member of the Police Chief Search Committee. If I am fortunate enough to earn your vote, I believe it would be entirely appropriate, and even beneficial, for me to be here from time to time to listen and talk (excepting, of course, for statutory or confidentiality restrictions as to what I can and cannot say.) If anonymous commenter’s want to scream, they are free to scream, but scream back I will not. I have learned that silence is also speech and at times is the best response to anger. On the other hand, if there is serious discussion and I am able, I will engage. This is an example.
Lastly, Ms. Fitzgerald, thank you for doing this. I am sorry you lost some sleep over it. I am confident no one in town is pleased with your internal angst.
John Rooney