re Raymond Pert's observation: "DFO shook hands with Dan Gookin and they were fairly civil"

John Austin: Yes, RP, I actually saw the history-making event with my very own eyes. Dang strode right up to us and shook our hands. Other witnesses included Rich Piazza and Ruthie Johnson. I only wish the KREM cameras had captured the 'Summit on the Plaza'. No offense, JimmyMac, but it would have blown your Rudy handshake right off the air! For the record, I've always found Dang to be considerate and friendly in person. We can agree to disagree on some issues, without worrying that I'll come under attack, either on the blogs or behind my back. I like that in a person, especially if they are ardent enough to put their time, money and reputation on the line for causes they believe in. Yep, after the Dang/DFO event, I was no longer interested in the Rudy thing, so like DFO I left. It would have been a tough act to follow anyway. ;)

DFO: John, you left out the part when I told Gookin how much I was looking forward to this fall's municipal elections b/c they were going to send my page-views through the roof. And how Gookin (who reportedly is considering a council run) merely stared at me and didn't respond. I don't think the era of civility is going to last once Gookin and his followers are forced by election deadlines to play their hand. Then, we'll know who Ron and Al are going to throttle -- and whether the anti-LCDCers, with a major assist from Duane Hagadone, have the fire power to win Dixie Reid's seat.

---

---