George kicks off campaign for 2011

[BrianSullivan]

The Freehold Borough Council announces another cost reduction program. According to Council President George Schnurr, in October, the Council appointed a firm named Sensible Energy, LLC to analyze and negotiate electric and natural gas generation rates. As a follow-up to that news, the Freehold Borough Finance Committee, headed by Councilman Kevin Kane, has engaged an energy company called Constellation Energy Group, Inc., a leading supplier of energy products and services to electric and natural gas customers. They are a major generator of electricity with a diversified fleet of power plants strategically located throughout the United States.

Council President Schnurr indicated that the decision to use the services of these companies came from networking with other municipalities in the Central Jersey Council of Governments. The Central Jersey Council of Governments is New Jersey's largest shared services "think tank". Council President Schnurr is a founding member of that organization. In that position, Council President Schnurr is working with elected officials from other towns to come up with ideas, like this one, to help streamline the delivery of services to residents.

The above looks like the year long campaign that was to be expected from el presidente Geo. Like I said before, he will give us lots to talk about.

The funny and brilliant thing about the above is that it was delivered via email from the borough's email blast. Actually, it is not brilliant or funny. It is shameful. A tool that is used to educate the public is instead being used to promote a candidate? Like I have said, Geo is concerned more about the democrat party than the good of the town.

[lisas84]

Brian, I am not so sure there are any problems here. From a perspective of a busy resident, I would appreciate learning what those elected people are doing, when appropriate. How exactly is it promoting a candidate? It would be really groovy to see more e-blasts about the other council members and what they're working on as time goes on.

This post actually inspired me: I logged onto the Township website and found that it has a similar e-blast and I just now signed up because it will make it so much easier for me to learn what my elected committee is doing and how it may affect me, without having to wait for a web or newspaper report. I find the concept wonderfully convenient.

[Mike Rosseel]

I dont know if im right or wrong here, but IMHO, George seems to be making all announcements into PR for certain people. I strongly disagree with this. We residents didnt sign up for E-blasts from George, we signed up from E-Blast from Freehold Boro. Seems like these announcements lately have been more of a heres an event, blah blah blah, suggested to you by blah blah blah, kinda defeats the purpose no? Tell us about Freehold, period, lets not turn E-blast into email campaigning!

[richardkelsey]

First -- undertaking these endeavors is a good thing -- assuming they lead proactive money saving opportunities for the residents and the town.

Second -- the power of incumbency is more powerful than one thinks. This is a classic use of such power. Using the apparatus of government and the trappings of news and news release to increase name recognition, highlight personal and political achievements, and reinforce positive feelings about a party or candidate. It's generally good politics, except when it is so over the top that it is transparent to all. In a town dominated by one party, however, this type use of the machinery will almost never be viewed as that over the top by many sympathetic party members.

When one controls all the levers of government and has total domination of the town through years of one party rule, these becomes a regular method of what I once called -- "machine" politics. That seems to make some people crazy because of their own negative view of what "machine" means. But, in reality, this is the advantage and the reality of being part of a well-oiled, well-established, deeply entrenched, completely in power political party. (It would be the same and doubtlessly is in Freehold township by the GOP)

One of the perks of power is to use that power to enhance your own power by framing your accomplishments. It doesn't make them bad people. It would actually take a very special person to avoid this type of common tactic and instead focus narrowly on the town and its people.

[lisas84]

I don't know here. I receive Chris Smith's newsletter and always read it thoroughly. It is very enlightening as it lets me know what he's actually doing in office -- it's been awhile since I received one and hopefully a newer version is forthcoming.

Larger view, is it any different from a company or entertainer who constantly updates their newsworthy activities via Facebook, Twitter, website or snail mail?

[Mike Rosseel]

Jan 14, 2011 14:35:24 GMT -5 lisas84 said:

I don't know here. I receive Chris Smith's newsletter and always read it thoroughly. It is very enlightening as it lets me know what he's actually doing in office -- it's been awhile since I received one and hopefully a newer version is forthcoming.

Larger view, is it any different from a company or entertainer who constantly updates their newsworthy activities via Facebook, Twitter, website or snail mail?

Lisa did people sign up for Boro E-Blasts or Dems E-Blast?

The difference is Chris Smiths newsletter is about what he is doing, its not like you signed up for a NJ update and bam, heres Chris Smiths Letter! And on facebook people CHOOSE to join a site, here people wanted news about the boro and it seems to have turned into Georges personal Shout out....kinda different!

[dfx]

Let me get this straight - members of the town council who were elected to represent the people of Freehold Borough are being attacked for actually letting the people of Freehold know what they are doing? Are you kidding?

Personally I am a big believer in elected officials maintaining an ongoing dialog with the people they're supposed to represent - regardless of political party affiliation. (It's because of this conviction that I often find myself at odds with many other ***** ** *********members, but I digress....)

If I'm signed up for Freehold Borough news alerts, I want to receive alerts about EVERYTHING having to do with Freehold Borough. That said if the alerts became political partisan attacks, I might have a problem. However I can hardly see how the message Brian posted can be construed as a politically partisan attack.



dfx

[Mike Rosseel]

Jan 15, 2011 18:43:21 GMT -5 dfx said:

Let me get this straight - members of the town council who were elected to represent the people of Freehold Borough are being attacked for actually letting the people of Freehold know what they are doing? Are you kidding?

Personally I am a big believer in elected officials maintaining an ongoing dialog with the people they're supposed to represent - regardless of political party affiliation. (It's because of this conviction that I often find myself at odds with many other ***** ** *********members, but I digress....)

If I'm signed up for Freehold Borough news alerts, I want to receive alerts about EVERYTHING having to do with Freehold Borough. That said if the alerts became political partisan attacks, I might have a problem. However I can hardly see how the message Brian posted can be construed as a politically partisan attack.



dfx

Wow Dan i am surprised by you! As a member of the BOE let me ask you this. If people signed up for BOE e-blast, shouldnt they be about the schools? Should the blast be about whats going on in schools or test results? Or should a person up for re=election use them to pat himself on the back and tell half a story? How about tell people about programs but leave his republican counterpart out of the news blast? shouldnt the blast be about freehold or what Geo is involved with? seems to me Geo is using the E-blast for self promotion and leaves out John Newman and his accomplishments! Shame on you George! How about keep the blasts about the Boro. Heres an example......

Blast 1- the boro wants to announce the new budget committee. This committee is for blah blah blah. the members are 1 2 3....

blast 2- I george schnurr, council president would like to announce to you from the mayor mike wilson, we have a new budget committee. The mayor and Kane and Shutzer would like to tell you the members are 1 2 3. Council mike d explains the purpose is blah blah blah..

Which one is the proper blast....OH YEA did you notice blast 2 somehow John NEwman the man who came up with the idea was left out??? Did George make a mistake? doubt it, think he was being alittle one sided, yes!!

I feel George should resign for his lack of respect for the reason people signed up for eblasts and for abuse of power! i know when i signed up for the eblasts i was hoping for news about the boro, not self promotional bs from George. He showed a lack of ethics and the blast arent the only place, look at his post on Facebook? it carries on there as well! Again, Shame on you George

Dan with all due respect, I expect a Dem to support other dems as you are!

[dfx]

As a member of the BOE let me ask you this. If people signed up for BOE e-blast, shouldnt they be about the schools? Should the blast be about whats going on in schools or test results?

I am not responding to anything as a BoE member, my responses are on behalf of myself and do not represent the opinions of any other BoE members.

Or should a person up for re=election use them to pat himself on the back and tell half a story? How about tell people about programs but leave his republican counterpart out of the news blast?

Like I stated earlier, if the alerts became political partisan attacks, I might have a problem. However I can hardly see how the message Brian posted can be construed as a politically partisan attack.

Let me ask, what is the purpose of a Town Council President if not to preside over the Town Council? Doesn't it also make sense that announcements come from the person (whoever it may be) who is currently presiding over the council? In this case that person is Mr. Schnurr. (I'm assuming someday when John is holding this position he will be the one making these announcements too.)

shouldnt the blast be about freehold or what Geo is involved with? seems to me Geo is using the E-blast for self promotion and leaves out John Newman and his accomplishments!

Your statement implying that George is using these e-mail blasts for self-promotion and that any mention of John Newman is intentionally disregarded is your opinion and I respectfully disagree with it. To be honest, I do not receive these Freehold Borough e-mail alerts nor do I know who authors them. (If I had to guess, I would assume the CIC - but I'm not certain as the idea's never been a foremost thought on my mind.)

Shame on you George! How about keep the blasts about the Boro. Heres an example......

Blast 1- the boro wants to announce the new budget committee. This committee is for blah blah blah. the members are 1 2 3....

blast 2- I george schnurr, council president would like to announce to you from the mayor mike wilson, we have a new budget committee. The mayor and Kane and Shutzer would like to tell you the members are 1 2 3. Council mike d explains the purpose is blah blah blah..

Which one is the proper blast....OH YEA did you notice blast 2 somehow John NEwman the man who came up with the idea was left out???

Did George make a mistake? doubt it, think he was being alittle one sided, yes!!

I feel George should resign for his lack of respect for the reason people signed up for eblasts and for abuse of power! i know when i signed up for the eblasts i was hoping for news about the boro, not self promotional bs from George. He showed a lack of ethics and the blast arent the only place, look at his post on Facebook? it carries on there as well! Again, Shame on you George

In my opinion, it appears some people may be trying to make a mountain out of a molehill. The simple fact of the matter is everyone already knows that the idea of a financial oversight committee was John's idea. It was something he campaigned on, pushed for, and saw through to it's fruition. We've even commented on newspaper articles announcing it's formation right here on this website not even 1 month ago.

Furthermore, call's for anyone's resignation simply because some people don't like the way a press release was written borders on lunacy. If George were convicted/arrested for money laundering, murder, or domestic violence I could rationalize this demand - but in my opinion it's somewhat juvenile to make this call simply because someone does not like the way something was written.

Dan with all due respect, I expect a Dem to support other dems as you are!

I'm sorry that you feel this way Mike. It is exactly because of sweeping statements like this that I did not declared my allegiance to a political party on this website earlier. I know in today's increasingly divisive society many people find it hard to look at a differing opinion from a purely objective standpoint without trying to find a way/reason to dismiss it. And now that my political affiliation is known, it allows people to make merit-less rationalization statements (like the one you just did) about why I may have the opinions that I do.

That said, I think I am now beginning to understand why many people warned me about giving my opinion on this site...


dfx

[Mike Rosseel]

Dan,

you can slice it dice it anyway you want. It seems to me, you may be a up and coming puppet for the council like many other Freehold residents. You see Dan, unlike you, I have fought on both sides, dem and republican(maybe you forgot how i fought against Miller). Now i am looking at a council president using others ideas for self promoting. In a typical Dan way, you hide and dont explore the facts!

Fact 1. The council president should not use a eblast that is suppose to be strictly about the Boro for any one sided promo! Many people are unhappy with Georges use of the eblast, some of which are his current council partners(dan please notice the "S" at the end of partners meaning more then one)

fact 2. George has not only abused his very new title on the eblast but also on facebook. Dan did it ever come to you that maybe the press or whomever did mention John in the CBC announcement, but maybe people didnt read that article and saw geo posts on facebook or eblast.

fact 3. George is a "D", which means when a "D" or "R" reports something on a non political media it is very important to report info very PC, making sure the people are getting the facts and announcing all involved. Just to educate you, as a former CIC member I can assure we NEVER write the eblasts. That my friend is a fact!

You see Dano, you can think me saying George should resign as anything you want, you can slice it and dice it anyway! Maybe our MORALS are just on a different level. I find it unethical for George to misuse the e-blasts. IMHO George knew he was misusing it and didnt care(hence his ego). Typically politicans that act in an unethcial manner or abuse there power are asked to resign! Thats my point.

You can sit here and look at this throw your rose colored glasses and make all the excuses you want! Heres a question to you Dan, if memory services me, i believe you are or were a fire department member in Freehold Correct? Well, if Im right, why dont you ask some of your past Cheifs or Captains about how George interacted with them, I think some of your brothers(if you are a member) would paint a similar picture of ego and lack of respect and ethics from George Schnurr!

Have a blessed day Dan!

[Mike Rosseel]

PS>>>

The above thoughts are from Mike Rosseel personally, they do not reflect the thoughts of anyone else but him....did i get that right Dan?

[dfx]

Obviously the messages on this site have turned personal. At this time I think it'd be best to ride off into the sunset.

Good luck everyone. I've enjoyed most of the conversations I've had with members on this site during the past 2 years and have met a lot of good people.


dan xavier

[Mike Rosseel]

Jan 16, 2011 11:01:06 GMT -5 dfx said:

Obviously the messages on this site have turned personal. At this time I think it'd be best to ride off into the sunset.

Good luck everyone. I've enjoyed most of the conversations I've had with members on this site during the past 2 years and have met a lot of good people.


dan xavier

Dan,

Nothing personal just facts my friend? was the Fire Department question too much? Well Dan, i really am sorry your taking it personal! I wish you could have answered the FD question but i guess no answer is just as good as one!

I guess me thinking differently then you makes it personal? I guess me asking you a fire department question is personal? or even a BOE question?

Dan support who you may, I respect that! Just hear other peoples stories, take facts into consideration! I like you as a person Dan, sorry if all this offended you, such is life i quess!

[admin]

I have to put on my admin hat for a minute here. Dan and Mike, both of you are good participants who share their thoughts which is why we are here.

This thread has clearly taken a downhill slide and I just want to provide food for thought.

1. We are in this together and we all want to contribute to this town. All three of us are well involved.

2. Participation here can especially be tough on an elected official. Dan, I respect your outreach, not just here, but in general. Please don't ever allow yourself to be silenced for the wrong reasons.

3. Lets all agree to be guarded against personal attacks on one another while communicating here. We all need to look in the mirror on this one at times.

4. Almost as important as number 3. Forgiveness. We all have bad days and not great moments.

I will agree with Dan's concerns about blanket statements. Dan is his own person and should be respected as such. He does try where others don't ( not just here on the fv) And that should be respected.

Lets also be careful about putting words into others mouths. On that note, I did not refer to the eblast as an attack, just as a campaign piece. There clearly was no attack in it. I will chime in on this topic, under my own name, later on this week. For now, this is where the forgiveness thing kicks in.

[Mike Rosseel]

Jan 16, 2011 16:26:47 GMT -5 admin said:

I have to put on my admin hat for a minute here. Dan and Mike, both of you are good participants who share their thoughts which is why we are here.

This thread has clearly taken a downhill slide and I just want to provide food for thought.

1. We are in this together and we all want to contribute to this town. All three of us are well involved.

2. Participation here can especially be tough on an elected official. Dan, I respect your outreach, not just here, but in general. Please don't ever allow yourself to be silenced for the wrong reasons.

3. Lets all agree to be guarded against personal attacks on one another while communicating here. We all need to look in the mirror on this one at times.

4. Almost as important as number 3. Forgiveness. We all have bad days and not great moments.

I will agree with Dan's concerns about blanket statements. Dan is his own person and should be respected as such. He does try where others don't ( not just here on the fv) And that should be respected.

Lets also be careful about putting words into others mouths. On that note, I did not refer to the eblast as an attack, just as a campaign piece. There clearly was no attack in it. I will chime in on this topic, under my own name, later on this week. For now, this is where the forgiveness thing kicks in.

Brian,

I will admit this is a heated and personal matter for me. With that being said, i do apologize to Dan for receiving the brunt of my anger and discouragement. Dan with all the respect in the world, if you think I was out of line towards you i do apologize. Sometimes my passion gets the best of me!

[richardkelsey]

This e-mail blast politicking business is interesting, if only because of what it may indicate.

As we all know, Freehold has had one Mayor since the spring of 1985. The last two cycles, and this one included, some early hints were made that perhaps the Mayor was not sure if he was running again. I assure you, I have no information on that matter.

However, if the Mayor is NOT running again, and he has made some strong hints or tipped his hand internally, that could be and likely would be the start of some political jockeying. After all, the Democrat that wins that nomination has an outstanding chance at being elected, and once elected, can likely hold that job for as long as he or she is breathing, absent the perfect alignment of some set of political stars or boorish behavior.

So -- with all that on the line, and more than one person likely wanting to be the next Mayor from our Dem majority, what better time to try to raise one's profile in the community than now?

For pure fun -- here is my speculation on who would really want to be the Dem candidate for Mayor, and what his or her chances would be to win the nomination.

In no order at all:

Sharon Schutzer: I don't think she wants it. I think at one time she might have wanted it, but she has so much going on with family, I suspect she would not make a run at it. If she did, however, she would be a formidable opponent for her fellow dems.

George Schnurr: I don't know George, though I finally met him last October. He demonstrated here as a poster that he likes to be heard on issues, and has strong views. His involvement in the early debate-debate shows a take charge personality combined with a love of the political game. I suspect he craves to be Mayor. Not being an old-time Freehold person would put him at considerable disadvantage in an intra-party struggle. I am sure he is aware of this and is working hard to raise his profile among would-be Dem primary voters.

Kevin Kane: Kevin is a Kane, and his dad use to be the Mayor. He could be the ultimate Freehold insider with deep family and community ties that span multiple generations. He has not spent his years making enemies, and as such would have a strong grass-roots advantage if he chose to go for it. Would he want it -- I think he would. Does he burn for it? I actually don't read him that way.


Jaye Sims: Does Jaye want to be Mayor? Is he ready? Arguably, he is as ready or more than was Mike Wilson. He has showed an ability to turn out votes in his elections. He seems well regarded by all in town, and his roots are like a might oak. He also brings with him a sense of history, as I am fairly sure Freehold has never had an African American Mayor. I suspect he is willing to wait if the party got together and worked with the Mayor to choose a successor. (Assuming that successor was not someone who planned on serving 25 years.) For example, if Sharon wanted it, and Mike brokered a deal, she might serve for a term and then allow the seat to be open to contest. Can Jaye win the Dem nomination? I think it depends on his opponent or number of opponents. He can certainly win though.

Mike DiBenedetto: In an open primary, Mike would be my pick to win the nomination among dems. I am also bias, in that I have known Mike my whole life, and I consider him a friend. However, it is my knowledge of him, his roots, his family, his personality, his reputation, that tell me that if he wanted it, if he burned for it, he would be very hard for a dem to beat. (though with 3 or more candidates, anything can happen when votes are split). I don't know if Mike wants it, and if he does he has never indicated so to me. Of course, he would never be openly talking about a job that is not up before it is up -- even with friends -- which is why people like him. Of course, if Mike wins, I may really be challenged to write a word about him that is less than kind.

My guess -- Mayor Mike Wilson will run again. In fact, while I am sure he seriously wonders why he takes the job on sometimes, taking crap from everyone -- including people living in Virginia, I think he is a scrapper. I think he views himself as still able to lead, and necessary to hold the party together until new leadership is really ready.

Nonetheless, it may well be that he is truly thinking of not running this year. In that case, it would be no wonder why some seem to already be running in January. The question is, what are they running for? I guess we will find out.

[Mike Rosseel]

Jan 18, 2011 11:26:50 GMT -5 richardkelsey said:

This e-mail blast politicking business is interesting, if only because of what it may indicate.

As we all know, Freehold has had one Mayor since the spring of 1985. The last two cycles, and this one included, some early hints were made that perhaps the Mayor was not sure if he was running again. I assure you, I have no information on that matter.

However, if the Mayor is NOT running again, and he has made some strong hints or tipped his hand internally, that could be and likely would be the start of some political jockeying. After all, the Democrat that wins that nomination has an outstanding chance at being elected, and once elected, can likely hold that job for as long as he or she is breathing, absent the perfect alignment of some set of political stars or boorish behavior.

So -- with all that on the line, and more than one person likely wanting to be the next Mayor from our Dem majority, what better time to try to raise one's profile in the community than now?

For pure fun -- here is my speculation on who would really want to be the Dem candidate for Mayor, and what his or her chances would be to win the nomination.

In no order at all:

Sharon Schutzer: I don't think she wants it. I think at one time she might have wanted it, but she has so much going on with family, I suspect she would not make a run at it. If she did, however, she would be a formidable opponent for her fellow dems.

George Schnurr: I don't know George, though I finally met him last October. He demonstrated here as a poster that he likes to be heard on issues, and has strong views. His involvement in the early debate-debate shows a take charge personality combined with a love of the political game. I suspect he craves to be Mayor. Not being an old-time Freehold person would put him at considerable disadvantage in an intra-party struggle. I am sure he is aware of this and is working hard to raise his profile among would-be Dem primary voters.

Kevin Kane: Kevin is a Kane, and his dad use to be the Mayor. He could be the ultimate Freehold insider with deep family and community ties that span multiple generations. He has not spent his years making enemies, and as such would have a strong grass-roots advantage if he chose to go for it. Would he want it -- I think he would. Does he burn for it? I actually don't read him that way.


Jaye Sims: Does Jaye want to be Mayor? Is he ready? Arguably, he is as ready or more than was Mike Wilson. He has showed an ability to turn out votes in his elections. He seems well regarded by all in town, and his roots are like a might oak. He also brings with him a sense of history, as I am fairly sure Freehold has never had an African American Mayor. I suspect he is willing to wait if the party got together and worked with the Mayor to choose a successor. (Assuming that successor was not someone who planned on serving 25 years.) For example, if Sharon wanted it, and Mike brokered a deal, she might serve for a term and then allow the seat to be open to contest. Can Jaye win the Dem nomination? I think it depends on his opponent or number of opponents. He can certainly win though.

Mike DiBenedetto: In an open primary, Mike would be my pick to win the nomination among dems. I am also bias, in that I have known Mike my whole life, and I consider him a friend. However, it is my knowledge of him, his roots, his family, his personality, his reputation, that tell me that if he wanted it, if he burned for it, he would be very hard for a dem to beat. (though with 3 or more candidates, anything can happen when votes are split). I don't know if Mike wants it, and if he does he has never indicated so to me. Of course, he would never be openly talking about a job that is not up before it is up -- even with friends -- which is why people like him. Of course, if Mike wins, I may really be challenged to write a word about him that is less than kind.

My guess -- Mayor Mike Wilson will run again. In fact, while I am sure he seriously wonders why he takes the job on sometimes, taking crap from everyone -- including people living in Virginia, I think he is a scrapper. I think he views himself as still able to lead, and necessary to hold the party together until new leadership is really ready.

Nonetheless, it may well be that he is truly thinking of not running this year. In that case, it would be no wonder why some seem to already be running in January. The question is, what are they running for? I guess we will find out.

Rich Great job! Excellent points and very well done!

Lets look at the other side of the coin, the republican side!

I see this as having two possibilities. One if its Mike Wilson or two New Dem candidate.

1. if it is Mike Wilson, I see the "r" candidate being someone that could put up a valid fight but not a top notch candidate. The "R" party is making strong strides to become a player again, dont think they would want to burn one of the few good candidates they have against Mike Wilson. Unless the person wants to roll the dice in a historical election if they win!

2. If Wilson doesnt run, IMHO, this is the prime time for Newman to make a move for himself. its a risky venture that could have HUGE pay outs for the party in town! He would be mayor(assuming he wins) and you get to put someone in his seat for a year. Its a buy one get one free if you ask me!

Either way, the next few elections are going to be interesting, very interesting!

[BrianSullivan]

I am playing a lot of catch up on this thread, I did not expect such good discussion to ensue. First, Rich and Mike, you both got heavy into election prediction and breakdown. Very interesting thoughts. It does play into the topic because I think the year ahead will be a very interesting one as far as the race goes.

I still say the eblast was a campaign piece, but not an attack. Coming from Geo, it is no surprise to me, he is an aggressive type person. It also feeds into my belief about him that he is more interested in his party than Freehold. Now, lets break down the eblast:


The Freehold Borough Council announces another cost reduction program. According to Council President George Schnurr, in October, the Council appointed a firm named Sensible Energy, LLC to analyze and negotiate electric and natural gas generation rates. As a follow-up to that news, the Freehold Borough Finance Committee, headed by Councilman Kevin Kane, has engaged an energy company called Constellation Energy Group, Inc., a leading supplier of energy products and services to electric and natural gas customers. They are a major generator of electricity with a diversified fleet of power plants strategically located throughout the United States.

Council President Schnurr indicated that the decision to use the services of these companies came from networking with other municipalities in the Central Jersey Council of Governments. The Central Jersey Council of Governments is New Jersey's largest shared services "think tank". Council President Schnurr is a founding member of that organization. In that position, Council President Schnurr is working with elected officials from other towns to come up with ideas, like this one, to help streamline the delivery of services to residents.



I highlighted what is called brand name building. Rich rightfully pointed out in another post that it is an advantage and normal for incumbents to get their names attached to things. He is right, but this is heavy with that- far more than just a simple announcement. The second paragraph is almost exclusively a bio for Geo.

Mike rightfully picked up that the third person on the finance committee was not mentioned- John Newman. Though it is a small slight, it is a slight. It certainly was no oversight either.

During a council meeting Geo once said that there is no Dem or Republican way to collect garbage. It looks like he is finding a way.

[Mike Rosseel]

Jan 18, 2011 14:56:04 GMT -5 BrianSullivan said:

I am playing a lot of catch up on this thread, I did not expect such good discussion to ensue. First, Rich and Mike, you both got heavy into election prediction and breakdown. Very interesting thoughts. It does play into the topic because I think the year ahead will be a very interesting one as far as the race goes.

I still say the eblast was a campaign piece, but not an attack. Coming from Geo, it is no surprise to me, he is an aggressive type person. It also feeds into my belief about him that he is more interested in his party than Freehold. Now, lets break down the eblast:


The Freehold Borough Council announces another cost reduction program. According to Council President George Schnurr, in October, the Council appointed a firm named Sensible Energy, LLC to analyze and negotiate electric and natural gas generation rates. As a follow-up to that news, the Freehold Borough Finance Committee, headed by Councilman Kevin Kane, has engaged an energy company called Constellation Energy Group, Inc., a leading supplier of energy products and services to electric and natural gas customers. They are a major generator of electricity with a diversified fleet of power plants strategically located throughout the United States.

Council President Schnurr indicated that the decision to use the services of these companies came from networking with other municipalities in the Central Jersey Council of Governments. The Central Jersey Council of Governments is New Jersey's largest shared services "think tank". Council President Schnurr is a founding member of that organization. In that position, Council President Schnurr is working with elected officials from other towns to come up with ideas, like this one, to help streamline the delivery of services to residents.



I highlighted what is called brand name building. Rich rightfully pointed out in another post that it is an advantage and normal for incumbents to get their names attached to things. He is right, but this is heavy with that- far more than just a simple announcement. The second paragraph is almost exclusively a bio for Geo.

Mike rightfully picked up that the third person on the finance committee was not mentioned- John Newman. Though it is a small slight, it is a slight. It certainly was no oversight either.

During a council meeting Geo once said that there is no Dem or Republican way to collect garbage. It looks like he is finding a way.

Will write my response George style....

I, Mike Rosseel, think using the E-blast for self promotion is bad. Mike Rosseel thinks its not ethical to use a non political media to promote only one side. Mike Rosseel also thinks council president Georges lack of respect for the E-Blast should lead to council president George not being able to produce anything from this point further on E-blast. Mike Rosseel doesnt think this was a attack e-blast yet a lack of integrity or respect on the behalf of council president George. This is just Mike Rosseels thoughts!

[BrianSullivan]

Jan 19, 2011 7:40:11 GMT -5 Mike Rosseel said:

Jan 18, 2011 14:56:04 GMT -5 BrianSullivan said:

I am playing a lot of catch up on this thread, I did not expect such good discussion to ensue. First, Rich and Mike, you both got heavy into election prediction and breakdown. Very interesting thoughts. It does play into the topic because I think the year ahead will be a very interesting one as far as the race goes.

I still say the eblast was a campaign piece, but not an attack. Coming from Geo, it is no surprise to me, he is an aggressive type person. It also feeds into my belief about him that he is more interested in his party than Freehold. Now, lets break down the eblast:


The Freehold Borough Council announces another cost reduction program. According to Council President George Schnurr, in October, the Council appointed a firm named Sensible Energy, LLC to analyze and negotiate electric and natural gas generation rates. As a follow-up to that news, the Freehold Borough Finance Committee, headed by Councilman Kevin Kane, has engaged an energy company called Constellation Energy Group, Inc., a leading supplier of energy products and services to electric and natural gas customers. They are a major generator of electricity with a diversified fleet of power plants strategically located throughout the United States.

Council President Schnurr indicated that the decision to use the services of these companies came from networking with other municipalities in the Central Jersey Council of Governments. The Central Jersey Council of Governments is New Jersey's largest shared services "think tank". Council President Schnurr is a founding member of that organization. In that position, Council President Schnurr is working with elected officials from other towns to come up with ideas, like this one, to help streamline the delivery of services to residents.



I highlighted what is called brand name building. Rich rightfully pointed out in another post that it is an advantage and normal for incumbents to get their names attached to things. He is right, but this is heavy with that- far more than just a simple announcement. The second paragraph is almost exclusively a bio for Geo.

Mike rightfully picked up that the third person on the finance committee was not mentioned- John Newman. Though it is a small slight, it is a slight. It certainly was no oversight either.

During a council meeting Geo once said that there is no Dem or Republican way to collect garbage. It looks like he is finding a way.

Will write my response George style....

I, Mike Rosseel, think using the E-blast for self promotion is bad. Mike Rosseel thinks its not ethical to use a non political media to promote only one side. Mike Rosseel also thinks council president Georges lack of respect for the E-Blast should lead to council president George not being able to produce anything from this point further on E-blast. Mike Rosseel doesnt think this was a attack e-blast yet a lack of integrity or respect on the behalf of council president George. This is just Mike Rosseels thoughts!

Mike, your killing me! lol

Now that we are getting a little goofy and having fun, I was thinking that the eblast need one last line added to it.....


" I am Council President George Schnurr and I approve this message"

[richardkelsey]

Jan 19, 2011 7:40:11 GMT -5 Mike Rosseel said:

Jan 18, 2011 14:56:04 GMT -5 BrianSullivan said:

I am playing a lot of catch up on this thread, I did not expect such good discussion to ensue. First, Rich and Mike, you both got heavy into election prediction and breakdown. Very interesting thoughts. It does play into the topic because I think the year ahead will be a very interesting one as far as the race goes.

I still say the eblast was a campaign piece, but not an attack. Coming from Geo, it is no surprise to me, he is an aggressive type person. It also feeds into my belief about him that he is more interested in his party than Freehold. Now, lets break down the eblast:


The Freehold Borough Council announces another cost reduction program. According to Council President George Schnurr, in October, the Council appointed a firm named Sensible Energy, LLC to analyze and negotiate electric and natural gas generation rates. As a follow-up to that news, the Freehold Borough Finance Committee, headed by Councilman Kevin Kane, has engaged an energy company called Constellation Energy Group, Inc., a leading supplier of energy products and services to electric and natural gas customers. They are a major generator of electricity with a diversified fleet of power plants strategically located throughout the United States.

Council President Schnurr indicated that the decision to use the services of these companies came from networking with other municipalities in the Central Jersey Council of Governments. The Central Jersey Council of Governments is New Jersey's largest shared services "think tank". Council President Schnurr is a founding member of that organization. In that position, Council President Schnurr is working with elected officials from other towns to come up with ideas, like this one, to help streamline the delivery of services to residents.



I highlighted what is called brand name building. Rich rightfully pointed out in another post that it is an advantage and normal for incumbents to get their names attached to things. He is right, but this is heavy with that- far more than just a simple announcement. The second paragraph is almost exclusively a bio for Geo.

Mike rightfully picked up that the third person on the finance committee was not mentioned- John Newman. Though it is a small slight, it is a slight. It certainly was no oversight either.

During a council meeting Geo once said that there is no Dem or Republican way to collect garbage. It looks like he is finding a way.

Will write my response George style....

I, Mike Rosseel, think using the E-blast for self promotion is bad. Mike Rosseel thinks its not ethical to use a non political media to promote only one side. Mike Rosseel also thinks council president Georges lack of respect for the E-Blast should lead to council president George not being able to produce anything from this point further on E-blast. Mike Rosseel doesnt think this was a attack e-blast yet a lack of integrity or respect on the behalf of council president George. This is just Mike Rosseels thoughts!

This message made me truly laugh out loud.

[Mike Rosseel]

Jan 19, 2011 9:25:43 GMT -5 richardkelsey said:

Jan 19, 2011 7:40:11 GMT -5 Mike Rosseel said:

Will write my response George style....

I, Mike Rosseel, think using the E-blast for self promotion is bad. Mike Rosseel thinks its not ethical to use a non political media to promote only one side. Mike Rosseel also thinks council president Georges lack of respect for the E-Blast should lead to council president George not being able to produce anything from this point further on E-blast. Mike Rosseel doesnt think this was a attack e-blast yet a lack of integrity or respect on the behalf of council president George. This is just Mike Rosseels thoughts!

This message made me truly laugh out loud.

;D

[BrianSullivan]

Just when I thought I was done on this thread.... I looked on line and could not find what I am looking for, but, in this weeks NT there is an article which is word for word the longer version of the e-blast found at the top of this thread. Clearly this was all done from a press release for the benefit of one person. Amazing how much discussion can ensue from what really is a small matter.

[Mike Rosseel]

Jan 20, 2011 5:59:31 GMT -5 BrianSullivan said:

Just when I thought I was done on this thread.... I looked on line and could not find what I am looking for, but, in this weeks NT there is an article which is word for word the longer version of the e-blast found at the top of this thread. Clearly this was all done from a press release for the benefit of one person. Amazing how much discussion can ensue from what really is a small matter.

If you find it please post, would love to see it!

[BrianSullivan]

Jan 20, 2011 8:56:24 GMT -5 Mike Rosseel said:

Jan 20, 2011 5:59:31 GMT -5 BrianSullivan said:

Just when I thought I was done on this thread.... I looked on line and could not find what I am looking for, but, in this weeks NT there is an article which is word for word the longer version of the e-blast found at the top of this thread. Clearly this was all done from a press release for the benefit of one person. Amazing how much discussion can ensue from what really is a small matter.

If you find it please post, would love to see it!

Found it! Looks like the NT added some articles since I last looked.

newstranscript.gmnews.com/news/2011-01-19/Front_Page/Towns_are_in_pursuit_of_savings_on_energy.html

[Mike Rosseel]

Jan 20, 2011 16:37:49 GMT -5 BrianSullivan said:

Jan 20, 2011 8:56:24 GMT -5 Mike Rosseel said:

If you find it please post, would love to see it!

Found it! Looks like the NT added some articles since I last looked.

newstranscript.gmnews.com/news/2011-01-19/Front_Page/Towns_are_in_pursuit_of_savings_on_energy.html

Theres no republican or democratic way to remove garabage George but apparenlty theres a democratic way to pat you and all your friends on the back and forget to mention Councilmen Newman on anything? I wonder how long it took George to memorize all the committees his fellow democrats are on in order to do these interviews/eblast! Maybe they have trading cards for eachother if your a democrat in Freehold Boro!

I haven't seen a bigger ego in the Boro since a past dem had his seat taken away!

Whats sad here is John's lack of respect from George. I am going to say that i honestly believe with Jaye a close secong, John is the hardest working person on council! So what blows my mine is from a man who knows there no "D" way or "R" way to do things, he certainly forgot that message with the way El Presidente excludes John in all his messages! Makes me wonder if George hears or understands everything he says when he is on his soap box! I guess the "yankees" may have the man but the "giants" are the champs! Time will send a message to El Ego Presidente!

[BrianSullivan]

Jan 22, 2011 8:24:22 GMT -5 Mike Rosseel said:

Jan 20, 2011 16:37:49 GMT -5 BrianSullivan said:

Found it! Looks like the NT added some articles since I last looked.

newstranscript.gmnews.com/news/2011-01-19/Front_Page/Towns_are_in_pursuit_of_savings_on_energy.html

Theres no republican or democratic way to remove garabage George but apparenlty theres a democratic way to pat you and all your friends on the back and forget to mention Councilmen Newman on anything? I wonder how long it took George to memorize all the committees his fellow democrats are on in order to do these interviews/eblast! Maybe they have trading cards for eachother if your a democrat in Freehold Boro!

I haven't seen a bigger ego in the Boro since a past dem had his seat taken away!

Whats sad here is John's lack of respect from George. I am going to say that i honestly believe with Jaye a close secong, John is the hardest working person on council! So what blows my mine is from a man who knows there no "D" way or "R" way to do things, he certainly forgot that message with the way El Presidente excludes John in all his messages! Makes me wonder if George hears or understands everything he says when he is on his soap box! I guess the "yankees" may have the man but the "giants" are the champs! Time will send a message to El Ego Presidente!

C'mon, Mike, tell us how you feel! lol ;D

In the end, this is a small issue that falls into the category of small political nonsense. It will be interesting as we get into the meatier issues that really affect us- and we will.

[Mike Rosseel]

Jan 24, 2011 17:14:03 GMT -5 BrianSullivan said:

Jan 22, 2011 8:24:22 GMT -5 Mike Rosseel said:

Theres no republican or democratic way to remove garabage George but apparenlty theres a democratic way to pat you and all your friends on the back and forget to mention Councilmen Newman on anything? I wonder how long it took George to memorize all the committees his fellow democrats are on in order to do these interviews/eblast! Maybe they have trading cards for eachother if your a democrat in Freehold Boro!

I haven't seen a bigger ego in the Boro since a past dem had his seat taken away!

Whats sad here is John's lack of respect from George. I am going to say that i honestly believe with Jaye a close secong, John is the hardest working person on council! So what blows my mine is from a man who knows there no "D" way or "R" way to do things, he certainly forgot that message with the way El Presidente excludes John in all his messages! Makes me wonder if George hears or understands everything he says when he is on his soap box! I guess the "yankees" may have the man but the "giants" are the champs! Time will send a message to El Ego Presidente!

C'mon, Mike, tell us how you feel! lol ;D

In the end, this is a small issue that falls into the category of small political nonsense. It will be interesting as we get into the meatier issues that really affect us- and we will.

Brian,

Agreed it is a small issue, but it isnt the first time nor probably the last that George has acted this way using his position on council! I can tell you at least 2 other times were George has run off at the mouth and in plain English, pissed people off!

I laugh because I have heard from people the mayor has the right to do whatever he wants with the E-blasts, really? When did the mayor become the KING of Freehold! Sure he has a right to use this tool properly, theres no doubt about it, hence why they came up with the idea. My problem is I look back to when it was my father and one other on council, that was some 20 years ago and the same things happened then. It seems to me that when a "R" is up there, he/she gets left out because they are a threat to the "MACHINE". And dont get me wrong I get it, thats politics, but heres my issue, dont preach theres no republican way or democratic way to remove leaves, lie to us and give us the impression that the council is one working together and then act like this!

I guess time will tell if Georges Yankees rants, disrespect to the oldest organization in town or this resent E-blast ego stroking will hurt him come November...Only time will tell!