Back at the beginning of July I taught a seminar to a group of elected and professional local finance and election folks at a conference in San Francisco. The cool thing about that is that they are very interested–so much so they show up at a conference to actually learn something. There is a certificate they receive once they have enough of the classes, but that hardly gets you reelected. It does, hopefully, train you to be more effective.
There were a couple of Illinois folks there, one was Lee Newcom of McLean County. Lee and I had a small go around about some events that were long ago some time ago, and first, I have to say he was one of the most pleasant people who I’ve ever called out. He didn’t threaten to sue me for slander or anything else which is usually the first response. He engaged me in a discussion and we agreed to disagree. We were able to talk after the seminar and without going into the long details, I was completely satisfied with Lee’s explanation over our point of contention and I apologize. I also have to say that he’s brining a good deal of modernization to his office in McLean County and that is great to see it. I know one critical thing from my perspective is an emphasis on historical preservation.
Don’t get me wrong, Lee and I agree on about zero on the ‘big’ issues, but I find him to be a pleasant guy and honest. McLean County voters can also be assured that when he traveled to the event, he, unlike many, actually took part in the conference for more than socializing.
And, of course, with a name like Newcom, I reserve all rights to use it in pithy headlines….