Helen Hirsch for Change and Change that Works
Change is important; change is necessary. Without change there is stagnation: rot. Changing the name plate on the door is not change, unless it brings with it changes in attitude and approach to the problems of living in a group; change from the ceremonial mouthing of pledges of allegiance and integrity to the acceptance of the idea that groups need laws and that the laws apply equally to each of its members. It is that lack of real change which has driven Hoboken into the morass it is now experiencing.
Dawn Zimmer's opponent in the quest for the mayor's desk is a hand-picked protege of David Roberts and other elements of a power-hungry political machine. He has artfully and consistently followed the wishes and practices of his mentor; he has smiled and waved his lawyer's license as though it were a piece of scripture from the Almighty. (Too bad he bends it when convenient!) It has been obvious to me that his most important function on the City Council was to preserve the status quo; to avoid upsetting the apple cart and an abiding reluctance to question people and practices.
A quarter century ago control was gained with the torch; today it is reinforced with anonymous, law-skirting, huge contributions to candidates who can be manipulated. it has been suggested that at least one of these PACs was created very recently by a person associated with Sen. Menendez. Dawn Zimmer has not been endorsed by groups on or wanna-bee on the Hoboken payroll; are they afraid that she will expect a day's work for a day's pay? Are they afraid that the number of "courtesy" jobs will shrink? It is time for all those who truly care about Hoboken and its well-being to play by the same set of rules.
Tribalism may be acceptable on the sports fields; it should not be a part of a 21st century, civilized community. The City of Hoboken should dust off its rule book and insure that there is only one set applicable to all of its residents and that the time for entitlement and privilege has passed.
To accomplish this NOW -- on June 9 vote for Dawn Zimmer and her running mates: 1A, 1B, 2B, 3B...
Helen Hirsch ◦
