McCormick, other Dem hopefuls, to visit Greencastle

Thursday, September 5, 2024

Democratic candidate for governor Jennifer McCormick will be among four state-level candidates to take part in a Sept. 29 meet and greet at the Inn at DePauw.

With the Putnam County Democratic Party calling the event “A Local Response to Washington’s Partisan Politics,” the afternoon will also feature U.S. Senate candidate Dr. Valerie McCray, U.S. House District 4 candidate Derrick Holder and State Senate District 24 candidate and former Greencastle City Councilwoman Veronica Pejril.

Doors open at 3 p.m. with speeches beginning at 4.

Local Democratic leaders hope for “an event dedicated to bringing our community together and focusing on the real issues that affect us here at home. Unlike the divisive and partisan politics that dominate Washington, D.C., this event is about unity, collaboration and making tangible improvements for everyone in Putnam County.”

“While Washington is consumed by partisan battles, here in Putnam County we know that what truly matters is finding solutions that work for our neighbors,” said Vincent Aguirre, chairman of the Putnam County Democratic Party. “Our candidates are committed to serving every resident, regardless of political affiliation, and this meet and greet is an opportunity for the community to engage with leaders who are focused on practical, local solutions — not the political games played in D.C.”

The candidate meet and greet will offer residents a chance to meet local Democratic candidates, ask questions and discuss issues such as affordable housing, fiscal responsibility and public safety — concerns that impact every family in the community.

“This event is about putting aside political labels and working together to build a stronger, more connected Putnam County,” Aguirre said.

“Whether you’re a Democrat, Republican, Independent or simply someone who’s tired of the partisan rhetoric coming out of Washington, this event is for you,” Aguirre added. “We believe that here in Putnam County, we can achieve great things by focusing on our shared goals and values. This event is about rolling up our sleeves and making our community a better place for everyone.”

The event will feature presentations from the candidates, followed by a Q&A session and opportunities for one-on-one conversations. It’s a chance to directly engage with people who want to represent your interests and work for the good of Putnam County.

To participate in the Candidate Meet and Greet visit https://secure.actblue.com/donate/putnamunity

Comments
View 69 comments
Note: The nature of the Internet makes it impractical for our staff to review every comment. Please note that those who post comments on this website may do so using a screen name, which may or may not reflect a website user's actual name. Readers should be careful not to assign comments to real people who may have names similar to screen names. Refrain from obscenity in your comments, and to keep discussions civil, don't say anything in a way your grandmother would be ashamed to read.
  • So, no partisan statements will be made. That would be interesting and amazing.

    -- Posted by beg on Fri, Sep 6, 2024, at 8:42 AM
  • *

    Hope to see you there, Beg!

    -- Posted by Vincent Aguirre on Fri, Sep 6, 2024, at 9:57 AM
  • *

    Oh, please... Run as an independent before pontificating your self-righteous prioritization of bipartisanship. You won't do that because we all know that it wouldn't get you the votes or support you need or want. So, this little self-rewarding purity test you're trying to pass for the public isn't working (at least, not for anyone around here with an IQ level above 1 single point). Don't kid yourself: You're just as partisan as everyone else is. The games you claim not to be playing is nothing more than another tired political ruse your team loves to use to place yourselves onto podiums in your never-ending quests for more virtue. Your mastery of projection is truly breathtaking.

    -- Posted by DouglasQuaid on Fri, Sep 6, 2024, at 12:10 PM
  • *

    DouglasQuaid, you're welcome to join us at the event. If you're not comfortable with that I'd gladly meet you to break bread. You must not know me already based on your comments. The values that we, the PUTNAM COUNTY Democrats, are leading with are exactly what we wrote above. You can try your hardest to disagree, but our actions will speak louder than your words. This event is literally headlined by the last elected republican superintendent of education in Indiana.

    I understand the frustration that can come from feeling like politics is all just a game, with each side claiming moral high ground. But here in the Putnam County Democratic Party, our focus is different. We’re not trying to pass any "purity tests" or play the blame game. Instead, we’re committed to bringing people together across party lines to work on the real issues facing our community—whether that’s affordable housing, fiscal responsibility, or public safety.

    At the end of the day, it’s not about political labels or scoring points. It’s about delivering results for the people who live here. We’re ready to roll up our sleeves and get to work, and we invite everyone—regardless of political affiliation—to join us in that effort.

    -- Posted by Vincent Aguirre on Fri, Sep 6, 2024, at 2:21 PM
  • *

    Vincent - You the chairperson of the PUTNAM COUNTY DEMOCRATIC PARTY. Just own it. Wave your flag.

    And the meet & greet is affiliated with ActBlue - a known Democratic Party machine. Seems partisan.

    If it is "not about political labels or scoring points", where are the PUTNAM COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY candidates...to roll up their sleeves and get to work...as members of the community and to give people a "chance to directly engage with people who want to represent your interests and work for the good of Putnam County".

    -- Posted by dreadpirateroberts on Fri, Sep 6, 2024, at 3:27 PM
  • Republicans don’t need to attend outreach events in rural Indiana. They already have a stranglehold on those seats and they’re fully aware of it. The opposite goes for Indianapolis and the other large metros.

    -- Posted by techphcy on Fri, Sep 6, 2024, at 3:56 PM
  • *

    Hey dreadpirateroberts, feels like you've been MIA for a while. Welcome back! No one is hiding the Democratic Party affiliation. However, the Putnam County Democratic party is planting it's own flag and part of that is welcome all who feel comfortable and would like to participate. If that makes anyone uncomfortable then I guess I'm sorry. 🤷‍♂️

    I can't speak for the Republican Candidates. They're welcome to attend this event if they want.

    I'm talking about the good work the Democratic party of Putnam County would like to do. When more Democrats are elected I expect those candidates will prove this to you and others.

    If anyone doesn't believe in what the Putnam Dems are saying in press releases then please come meet us.

    I've personally invited elected Republicans to attend this event. Is that unconventional, maybe, but the Putnam County Democratic party is far less worried about being conventional and way more interested in making our community the best version of itself.

    Have a great weekend!

    -- Posted by Vincent Aguirre on Fri, Sep 6, 2024, at 5:22 PM
  • Vincent,

    Your intent is real but... I am very observant and spend time on the hill lobbying for my industry.

    The reality is that, eventually, all give into party leadership. That is factual on both sides.

    I, for the 3rd election in a row, will leave my Presidential part of the ballot blank.

    I will admit I may to be to practical. I loved Donnelly but voted against him for Braun (not a fan of) to try and keep the two houses balanced.

    Sad but true.

    I love your spirit but, in the end, the democratic state leaders have no desire to find compromise positions with the right to the middle of their perspectives.

    I trust you enough to know this is true and that you do also.

    I appreciate your efforts. If the ENTIRE conversation(s) are made available in proper context, I will listen.

    If not, I know we just have another partisan meeting.

    So, example- what key issue do you agree that the opponent has a better position?

    Where WILL you say your party is wrong on their position?

    Time to put your bi partisan positions on record

    -- Posted by beg on Fri, Sep 6, 2024, at 5:48 PM
  • *

    Rebrand everything to exclude the word "democrat" then, Vince. If that makes you feel...*legitimately unbiased*...then I guess I'm not sorry.

    🤷‍♂️

    In fact, here's a great idea: Just stop being a blowhard about how all of this is sourced by our precious little Putnam County democratic lambs in general and do away with the party paint jobs. Be the avatar of unity I keep being told you guys are all about! Reach across the aisle with an outstretched hand of love and compassion, show us your bipartisan humanity and how inclusive you all are! How you're the real party of diversity and that beloved equity thing we're told we all need! C'mon, man! Let's *re-imagine* this! Correct the this political Gimbal Lock we're all in and show the people of Putnam County how you could care less about needing to prefix everything with the word "democrat!"

    We're all about bipartisanship, right? Put your money where your mouth is then and relabel the entire event without any single political affiliation identifiers or sponsorships. Be the blank slate...a real trailblazer of cultural change. Show everyone just how bipartisan you really are: Throw away the democrat badge of fealty!

    ...bet you won't.

    -- Posted by DouglasQuaid on Fri, Sep 6, 2024, at 6:03 PM
  • I am not a democrat but I did like Jennifer McCormick when she headed the schools- she has my vote

    -- Posted by MM1927 on Fri, Sep 6, 2024, at 7:30 PM
  • *

    I’m going to play my role here by calling out the last sentence and link included in this published press release. I think it speaks to itself what the intended purpose of the event is. It’s a fundraising event. It’s ok. There is plenty of Democratic money to be had in Putnam County. Nobody blames anyone for grabbing all the dollars you can. There really isn’t any need for deflection. It’s ok to be politically motivated in politics.

    -- Posted by Mayor Humdinger on Sat, Sep 7, 2024, at 2:44 AM
  • *

    Mayor, if you're willing to pay for the food I'd be happy to make the event free. Where can I send the invoice? Thanks, friend!

    -- Posted by Vincent Aguirre on Sat, Sep 7, 2024, at 10:29 AM
  • *

    MM1927, we would love to see you there. We are open to ALL.

    -- Posted by Vincent Aguirre on Sat, Sep 7, 2024, at 10:30 AM
  • I always try and keep >97% correct about any and everything, but have to admit being consistently outscored by the good Mayor above. There are non-partisan people all over the place, but they generally don't lead political parties. So do away with the gaslighting hokum, please.

    Dems should keep in mind that their gubernatorial candidate was elected Superintendent of Public Instruction as a Republican. Once the job was abolished (which I opposed), she threw a hissy fit, took her toys home and switched parties. How nice. We know the state and local parties are in the tank right now, but couldn't they find an actual Dem to run for Governor? And you should be so proud that Darth Cheney (whose actions in office I vehemently opposed, and still think merited a life sentence at hard labor) has now come out in support of your oh-so democratically selected presidential candidate. With the censorship complex and lawfare waged by the Harris-Biden administration, the Dem mantra is "we have to kill democracy to save it". Appalling.

    -- Posted by luna maximus on Sat, Sep 7, 2024, at 12:07 PM
  • *

    To some of you it doesn't matter what I say and I accept that. My actions, and the actions of the Putnam County Democratic Party will speak for itself. Have a great weekend everyone!

    -- Posted by Vincent Aguirre on Sat, Sep 7, 2024, at 12:33 PM
  • That is an insightful comment. Why do you suppose that is the case? Who/ what is to blame? When you look internal, what do you think needs to happen for your words to be accepted.

    What can you do to help them be accepted? What about your party contributes to the partisanship?

    -- Posted by beg on Sun, Sep 8, 2024, at 10:04 AM
  • *

    My initial comment wasn’t hard hitting but seemed to get a snarky reply. Where should you send the invoice? Well The Whisk has seemed to be open to providing services as an in-kind donation in the past. Are they not willing to donate their services this time? Who is catering this event? Are they being hired/paid or are they donating their services? What is per plate cost for a pretzel and soft drink? How much of the required fee covers food and what portion is a political donation? What is the division of the proceeds between the candidates and the county party? Who is covering the cost of attendance for “students”? I guess I’m fully vested now. I can’t cover the bill without these answers. I want to know all the details for this bridge building event as it has been described in the comment section.

    I’ll get my answers I suppose from the next round of campaign finance reports. The Putnam County Democratic Party should also update their committee information with the Secretary of State. You wouldn’t want to miss important communications being sent to the past local leaderships address and email address.

    The lesson here is stop the spin when it comes to things that don’t require spin.

    -- Posted by Mayor Humdinger on Sun, Sep 8, 2024, at 12:14 PM
  • *

    Mayor, feel free to reach out. I'd love to get you involved. That's if you actually care more about being productive than you do trolling under an anonymous account. Chair@becomedistinct.com

    -- Posted by Vincent Aguirre on Sun, Sep 8, 2024, at 12:17 PM
  • *

    My favorite part about being trolled in the comments is when my Republican, independent, libertarian, and Democrat friends all text me and tell me to keep up the good fight against those who choose to only instigate. Love y'all!

    -- Posted by Vincent Aguirre on Sun, Sep 8, 2024, at 12:19 PM
  • *

    Who is trolling you? I was a fan but I am no longer. You have lost a supporter in me.

    -- Posted by Mayor Humdinger on Sun, Sep 8, 2024, at 2:29 PM
  • *

    I’m reminded of a course I facilitated at DPU in which on the first day I had each student declare what their professional ambitions were upon graduation. Most had grandiose plans filled with optimism that everything in life would go exactly as they expected. If you asked the tough questions on how they were going to get there, how they would handle the inevitable adversities, and what would be an acceptable backup plan - you were a mean old dream killer.

    The rub of all this is you have no idea one’s ideology, background, or motivations. Public debate, including those right here in these comments, have a day to day impact on what happens in this community. I’ve been behind the closed doors and seen in it an action. What would I know though? Maybe we can bike path our way into being the next Carmel.

    -- Posted by Mayor Humdinger on Sun, Sep 8, 2024, at 3:08 PM
  • *

    And there we have it, folks! With a little elbow grease, the rock gets turned over to reveal what hides underneath. Honestly, I'm a little disappointed. I was expecting a better challenge than this. After all, it only took a few posts to get him to start lashing-out at voters with accusations about trolling and the use of a victim card.

    Just look at his responses... He can barely go a single post without prefixing endearing descriptors with "Putnam County Democratic Party" or just "democrat." The number of times he does this says everything about his views of our IQ because he clearly thought everyone on here would be too stupid to see what he's doing. And when confronted about it, he tried the "higher-road" deflection without realizing how that strategy only works when the attackers are actual attackers that lack legitimate substance and not just people asking honest questions that he doesn't want to have to answer...

    Vince, tell your text-messaging Niagara Falls friends we all said "hi" and remember this experience, everyone: Whenever someone touts things about bipartisanship combined with refusals to denounce party allegiance, it's 100% BS.

    -- Posted by DouglasQuaid on Sun, Sep 8, 2024, at 3:22 PM
  • Douglas, I am proud of you for taking a break from the grainy you tube vids and the incessant watching of news channels who are being funded and influenced by Iran, Russia, and China.

    Keep up the good work buddy, you can do this!

    -- Posted by Koios on Sun, Sep 8, 2024, at 3:56 PM
  • Vincent,

    Never trolled you. Never called you names. First comment in this thread was upbeat.

    I have asked legit fair questions that, once answered, would shine more light on the goal of the meeting.

    I may have a different definition of troll than you. I will withdraw from attempting to engage with your comments going forward.

    Enjoy your Sunday.

    -- Posted by beg on Sun, Sep 8, 2024, at 4:41 PM
  • *

    Koios, you'll never know how much your feedback means to me.

    -- Posted by DouglasQuaid on Sun, Sep 8, 2024, at 5:27 PM
  • *

    Elbow grease? It didn’t even take a sneeze. We went from positive morning walks, Kumbaya, and a better Greencastle to everyone is a bunch of trolls. Maybe in 2084, on Mars, we won’t have these problems. Until then I guess we are stuck with more of the same old same.

    -- Posted by Mayor Humdinger on Sun, Sep 8, 2024, at 10:50 PM
  • *

    Beg, I was not referring to you. I apologize for the confusion. DouglasQuaid and Mayor, what are you trying to prove here? What are your legitimate good faith questions? As I always say, I'm happy to engage in person, but I'm not seeing a good faith effort from either of you to actually have this conversation. It appears, from my perspective, that both of you are trying to win online brownie points and/or just try to break me down for some reason. What is that reason? Be honest.

    -- Posted by Vincent Aguirre on Mon, Sep 9, 2024, at 1:39 PM
  • *

    Vince, we've been honest about everything and when you're the arbiter of "good faith," we can talk about fulfilling those expectations. Until then, you'll just have to enjoy your sled ride across the voter's purgatory coals... I'm not holding your hand in this. If you're either too lazy to take notes along with doing the research it merits or have problems comprehending the points being made by myself and others about true bipartisanship and how we just don't believe you when you tout being all about that, then that's on you. Either way, I'm not *trying* to prove your false character anymore because that's already been done: You're just another partisan hack.

    Are you willing to leave the democrat party and register as an independent? To publicly renounce your party membership? To disassociate from party-specific sponsorships and ties? And rebrand yourself (and whatever campaign efforts you may be attempting) to reflect a party-agnostic design? If no, then there's nothing else to discuss.

    -- Posted by DouglasQuaid on Mon, Sep 9, 2024, at 3:41 PM
  • DOUGLAS QUAID, thanks for the masterful writing. Enjoyed it immensely. I would have stood up and applauded after reading it, but I didn't want to draw attention to my already boisterous MacDonald's group.

    Same to MAYOR HUMDINGER!

    KOIOS, for the Dems, it's always going to be Russia, Russia, Russia. I got it. No matter the issue, it's always going to be Russia, Russia, Russia.

    BEG wrote, "So, example- what key issue do you agree that the opponent has a better position?

    Where WILL you say your party is wrong on their position?

    Time to put your bi-partisan positions on record."

    Precisely.

    -- Posted by Prince of Stardust Hills on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 12:37 AM
  • There is a reason MAGA has essentially lost 3 straight elections (2018, 2020, and 2022). You are seeing part of the reason why.

    -- Posted by Koios on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 5:54 AM
  • This poor sap is lost in a hollowed-out party just like the hollowed-out husk of our still current President.

    (yeah, it's hard to remember he is still the figurehead in chief, what beach is he on today?)

    What is this group bringing to Greencastle that we need more of? Identity politics, teacher union anti-child policies, whatever the national communist party drips down to the locals.

    Who the hel* wants these policies?

    open borders, children's genitals being chopped off, violent crime that doesn't get punished, defund the police, sanctuary cities and states, spending that adds another trillion dollars every 100 days, inflation that is drowning us all, the green new deal, 20 million illegals-a lot more coming, non-election elections, high food prices, high gas prices, wars in the middle east and Ukraine, mandatory medical vaccines that aren't safe or effective, free speech can get you in jail

    There is no end to this madness if left in power!

    -- Posted by direstraits on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 7:28 AM
  • *

    Does anyone know how many ratchet straps it takes to secure a canoe to the top of a Tesla Model 3? Also, any good places to eat in Greencastle on a Tuesday? The Fairway is closed on Tuesday. Asking for a friend.

    -- Posted by Mayor Humdinger on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 8:34 AM
  • *

    ...and then you have people like Koios who can still somehow see Trump floating around in their bowl of Cheri-O's despite about 26 different N95 face masks obscuring their vision...because everything that's been discussed up to this point or how it's been discussed has a lot to do with President Trump and or making America great again...

    -- Posted by DouglasQuaid on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 9:47 AM
  • I was reminded that this should have been on the list of "policies" as a result from the current administration.

    https://nypost.com/2024/08/21/us-news/biden-harris-admin-loses-track-of-320000-m...

    -- Posted by direstraits on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 11:31 AM
  • *

    DouglasQuaid, I don't understand your obsession for me to leave the Democratic party to accomplish bipartisanship. You seem very intelligent so I'm sure you don't need me to remind you of the definition of the word, but since we're missing each other somewhere I'll put it below just to make sure we're on the same page.

    "involving the agreement or cooperation of TWO political parties that usually oppose each other's policies."

    Mayor, Dire, , Prince, and Doug - I truly wish you the best. You likely don't believe that since you don't believe anything I say.

    However, I'm willing to admit I learned a few things in these comments. I'll grow from this and I'll keep working to give Greencastle and Putnam County the best version of me because it deserves it and the people of this county deserve nothing but the best.

    I'm always willing to chat in person or on the phone. You all know how to reach me. In fact, I'm pretty sure a couple of you talk to me already. Your own comment histories give me everything I need to know about your desire for productive conversation and actually coming together for good.

    I truly believe it takes ALL OF US to make our community the best version of itself. It seems like you disagree and that's your right. That's part of what makes our country great. We can disagree.

    However, I'm going to keep working on building bridges, and the door will always be open to you, regardless of what happens here in the comments.

    Call any time. Love ya lots.

    -- Posted by Vincent Aguirre on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 11:52 AM
  • *

    Vince, this is the last time I'm responding to you in this because I have absolutely no confidence that you'll finally have your penny-drop moment that others like you never seem to have when it comes to exchanges like this... The "obsession" isn't about abiding by technical definitions of words. When we go down that path, everyone can nitpick how words are used until they're blue in the face. Since you're beginning to go down that path, I can see that everything I've said up to this point has either gone over your head or else you're just being obtuse with your faux misunderstanding of my views and trying to deflect to save face. Either way, you have to look beyond the syntax and think about substance. This is the key. Use whatever lens of critical analysis you have and understand that if you waltz into a mixed-company venue (like this communal website) bragging about how you embrace values corresponding to principles like unity, compassion, and so on, that you have to do that by vacating partisan affiliation as that would be a true testament of being the person you *think* you are who tries to transcend beyond party lines. Yes, doing so would translate to needing to work even harder for things any campaign is dependent on like financial support, arranging events, networking with voters who can't see beyond said lines, etc., but that's the only way anyone will ever truly believe anything you say when it comes to those heavy statements you made about yourself. Otherwise, spare us the delusions of grandeur, the self-endearment, and the lectures of virtue, and just accept that you, like everyone else in politics, is just another player in the game who has smelly scat like everyone else does.

    If you don't get that, then you're as hopeless as Koios.

    -- Posted by DouglasQuaid on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 12:20 PM
  • Just wanted to alert the uninformed that participation in the child trafficking or involuntary genital mutilation cannot be overlooked. The laws not being enforced now cannot be absolved later; they shouldn't be.

    That's just here and now.

    The Bible is clear: https://biblehub.com/luke/17-2.htm

    -- Posted by direstraits on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 1:30 PM
  • Vince,

    Breaking my word already!!!!! But do want to defend you.

    My perspective- let a few things go and all will be better.

    Example- twice you have ignored my questions. I get it. I understand why you don't want to answer them. The silence is the answer and I won't ask them again. I understand to move on and the silence really is the answer.

    I live in the middle politically. I don't believe most really want partisanship. What they really want is all to agree with them.

    I actually don't think you are seeking partisanship. I do think you are seeking civil conversation when in disagreement. Being listened to and respected in an open manner. That should be the baseline and support you doing so.

    I attempt (don't always succeed) to do that and make my own conclusions coming on the backside of those conversations.

    As for the specific instance- this is a party led meeting. What you are really hoping for are the "undecided" and "persuadable" voters to show up. You want to reach across the aisle to bring people over. Reaching across the aisle notes that you don't really want to come across the aisle when part of all the solution may be on the other side of the aisle.

    I commend your work and efforts. I think your heart is sincere. I think you truly believe the Democrat party is proper political theology.

    I get that. I believe the same about practical and realistic political theology.

    Here is a great example. In my lifetime, I think the two best Presidents were Reagan and Clinton. Both had flaws but still had positives. Clinton's Fannie Mae/ Sallie Mae decision on handing out mortgages was awful, in the end, but doesn't make him a bad President (BushII got blamed for it anyway). Reagan seemed to ignore AIDS and compromised on government spending with Dems to get his military budget.

    Income to government was not the issue. Reagan spent for military and Dems spent on everything else. No way was it possible to pay for all the spending. Overall, though, an excellent President.

    Then FDR- considered a great President by most (especially your party) yet he ordered the internment of a group of people based on race/ ethnicity. Took their assets. Even our Past President hasn't done that(no, I don't support the past president).

    For me, one of the worst ever. Actually stole the lives of people based on their race/ ethnicity.

    Sooo, after this long winded though not done explanation, I think your desire for civility and conversation is great. I support and defend it. I just think the bipartisan term is not accurate. You really aren't seeking that.

    I am ok with that. I think the first part is the bigger and more important goal. I applaud you for that effort.

    When framed this way, I think most people would agree with you.

    Why do I believe this- on two different articles, you would not address very honest and fair questions. I had a person teach me once to listen with one ear and watch with two eyes. I rebuked this at first but the more I experienced, I came to agree with it.

    Next tuesday thru thursday, I will be on Capital Hill to lobby for my industry. I will be reminded of two things:

    1. Citizens can access their government if they desire

    2. There are many in the senate and house who are just left and right of middle. Sadly, their party leadership won't allow them function in that political geography. Neither does the media.

    So sad.

    Even when I have disagreed with you, I have been respectful of you and your perspective. I will continue to do the same and actually impressed you try to engage on this format.

    Stay passionate about what you believe is best. Keep a true open mind on where the solutions may lie.

    -- Posted by beg on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 1:52 PM
  • DQ,

    Koios is not hopeless.

    I disagree with him often. Other times I don't. Other times I am neutral in his/ her/??? position.

    That being said, Koios seems to be willing to discuss issues. Over the last 12 months, has moved away from name calling for the most part, and will even use humor to remind me of his position (Nutrition bill example).

    I don't know if change of opinion is an option but I do respect because I can follow the logic and I have seen a softening of personal attacks in our interactions here.

    I really respect that and have no issues with Koios.

    Always remember- people are entitled to their wrong opinion! (lol). Just having fun Koios.

    -- Posted by beg on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 1:58 PM
  • *

    Thanks, Beg. I owe you a much more thorough response than this and maybe I can carve out time soon to do so, but I do wish we would have this discussion in person.

    In short, my 9 months on city council have shown me to be obviously bipartisan. I led the charge to allow UTV's which in my conversations with constituents became a very partisan issue.

    Those who know me also know that I am always curious to learn and expand my view point. I allow myself, and even go out of my way to see from the other side.

    I say what I mean and I mean what I say. I'm sorry if I don't spend enough time giving enough of my political views in this comment section.

    However, please know we DO want Republicans in the room for this event. We mean that. We want everyone in the room. We don't expect everyone to walk out of the room holding hands and singing songs, but we feel it's important to be in the room. I can't speak for the R's. I don't think it's my place to tell them how to run their party.

    But we, as the Putnam Democrats, while I am chair, want everyone in the room as long as they want to be there. Like I said before - some people further left of me might think that makes me a bad chair. (it seems those further right of me do too). But that's just how I operate. Always have and always will. Only time will tell if that works out for the Putnam Dems, but it's worked out for me just fine in life.

    I've changed my mind many times after learning more facts. My fraternity brother from Farmersburg opened my eyes on the value of small government, proper gun safety, and many other topics I was not exposed to growing up.

    I'm a lifelong learner - open to discussion - even if that means I have to spend way more time than I'd like to responding to banner graphic comments.

    Have a great day. I hope this answers more of the unanswered questions. I don't mean to ignore any. I'm just very busy and should not be spending as much time in these comments as I do.

    But public figures need to be in the public and I hope to lead by example.

    -- Posted by Vincent Aguirre on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 2:07 PM
  • *

    Beg, I'll decide for myself if he's hopeless, and due to a plethora of interactions I've had with him in the past and observed from afar, and seeing his absurd opinions, impulse and ignorant assumptions, and other noise he's responsible for, I've concluded that he *is* hopeless. If you want to chalk him up to being your baby boy that you feel obligated to come to bat for, so be it. Just don't expect me to feel obligated to powder his bottom, too.

    -- Posted by DouglasQuaid on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 2:48 PM
  • At least I’m not of the view that the J6 perpetrators are heroes and deserve an award. The broke the law and need to pay for their transgressions. Same with Antifa and all the others.

    At least I’m not of the view that the 2020 election was stolen. Multiple dozens of lawsuits filed by Trump and his “lawyers” tell a different story, with legal facts not conspiracy theories.

    I could go on but I’ve got chores to do. Meanwhile, it would serve some well to look at the facts, not the alternative universe.

    -- Posted by Koios on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 4:23 PM
  • *

    Thanks for all the suggestions. I went to Long John’s Silvers for lunch. Boy has that place changed. Everyone there spoke Japanese, I could barely figure out the menu, and apparently they no carry hush puppies.

    -- Posted by Mayor Humdinger on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 4:52 PM
  • Get the poke bowl, you cannot go wrong with that selection. It’s very customizable as well.

    That place blows Long Johns dinghy out of the water, in my estimation.

    -- Posted by Koios on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 5:16 PM
  • I prefer Shashimi. Always concerned when buying Shashimi in small town places that don't have appropriate price attached to the quality and freshness. Could go south fast.

    I love the new concept but admit I miss the extra crunchies with the clams and fries!!!!

    -- Posted by beg on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 5:22 PM
  • *

    Absurd opinions...check.

    Impulse and ignorant assumptions...check.

    Other noise...check.

    -- Posted by DouglasQuaid on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 6:28 PM
  • DQ, I’m confused, is your post autobiographical? Interesting format, kudos.

    -- Posted by Koios on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 7:24 PM
  • *

    It's proof...that you don't (or can't) keep up.

    -- Posted by DouglasQuaid on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 8:26 PM
  • Shame on you Koios for not keeping up!!!!!

    -- Posted by beg on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 9:18 PM
  • *

    Beg, you're not the type to understand why I even said that to Koios. Do yourself a favor and stay on the shore.

    -- Posted by DouglasQuaid on Tue, Sep 10, 2024, at 10:29 PM
  • *

    Now who has a good recipe for grilled cheese? I’m responsible for the entree at the Wednesday night meeting of Citizens Against Progress.

    -- Posted by Mayor Humdinger on Wed, Sep 11, 2024, at 3:01 AM
  • Springfield Ohio should tell you everything you need to know about the Trump/Vance ticket.

    -- Posted by Koios on Wed, Sep 11, 2024, at 6:13 AM
  • Springfield Ohio is a city of roughly 58000 residents and they have had a fast influx of 20000 Haitians. These people have arrived along with disturbances in the streets, flipping of cars, bullying residents, restricting daily activities such as shopping, and just roaming the streets 24/7.

    -- Posted by MM1927 on Wed, Sep 11, 2024, at 8:17 AM
  • KOIOS wrote, "Springfield Ohio should tell you everything you need to know about the Trump/Vance ticket."

    Koios, for those of us who are not tuned into the Democrat, progressive, liberal, social, pro-alcohol wavelength, what exactly does the above tell us, and can you explain how it relates to Trump's official view concerning American intervention in the Russian/Ukraine war, if it tells us everything? Awaiting your insightful reply. Thanks.

    -- Posted by Prince of Stardust Hills on Wed, Sep 11, 2024, at 8:52 AM
  • After reading the above 54 comments (a new 2024 record?) all I can say is I wish the other city councilmen and mayor would bless us with their own comments at times. I'm not sure, but I can't recall any of them doing so on this forum.

    -- Posted by Ben Dover on Wed, Sep 11, 2024, at 11:45 AM
  • M&M

    Why are there 20,000 in Springfield OH and how did they get there?

    Who put them there?

    Also, a curious city official was looking for recipes for Public Park geese & duck?

    Maybe neighborhood cat and dog recipes, too?

    Any info would help enlighten the good folks of our town!

    You never know, we should be so lucky as to experience new and exciting cultural cuisine, too!

    -- Posted by direstraits on Wed, Sep 11, 2024, at 11:56 AM
  • Okay, let's say I'm naïve enough to accept the invitation from the Putnam County Democrats to attend their rally for the benefit of ALL the county's residents.

    https://secure.actblue.com/donate/putnamunity?fbclid=IwY2xjawFOshpleHRuA2FlbQIxM...

    Do I really have to pay or donate to accept Vincent's invitation? What kind of invitation is that?

    And if I was dumb enough to attend and pay the INVITATION price, how much of my ticket revenue goes toward abortion initiatives, or the DORA project legitimizing the open consumption of alcohol by those who can't mingle without it? How many dollars will be siphoned off to fill the 80 million dollar gap left by the Lilly donation?

    So many questions. Vincent's invitation appears to be a trick to get money from the gullible.

    If I'm wrong that the invitation does not require a donation, please correct me.

    -- Posted by Prince of Stardust Hills on Wed, Sep 11, 2024, at 1:45 PM
  • *

    Prince, I'll make you a deal. Send me an email and I'll pay for your ticket. Always happy to help!

    -- Posted by Vincent Aguirre on Wed, Sep 11, 2024, at 4:12 PM
  • MM, you forgot to mention the eating pets part in your list. Or did you intentionality leave that part out because it is just not true?

    Here is what Republican Governor Mike DeWine said yesterday about Springfield.

    Republican Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said Tuesday he doesn’t oppose the Temporary Protected Status program under which some 15,000 Haitians have arrived in the city of about 59,000 people since 2020, but said the federal government must do more to help impacted communities.

    He said the Haitians who have moved to Ohio are generally hard-working people who love their families and who are seeking to escape the violence in their home country for good jobs in Ohio.

    Nothing about eating pets. It’s all about the Economy. Wake up, before it’s too late.

    Prince, if Trump is willing to lie about this, I’d bet he’s willing to lie about Russia/Ukraine. And just about anything else as well.

    -- Posted by Koios on Wed, Sep 11, 2024, at 4:27 PM
  • Vincent, THAT would be very big of you, but it would be wrong and against my values. Nowhere in the BANNER article does it mention that the invitation was extended only to me. In fact, so far, a great deal of energy has been spent on inviting all interested Republicans. Am I not correct?

    While I would, indeed, enjoy attending and accepting your kind invitation, I think it is only right that you offer free attendance to ALL the Republicans you invited. That is only fair.

    I don't suggest that you, alone, are responsible for inviting the opposition to a get-together to find some commonality, but inviting potential friends to a meeting only to hit them with a 35 dollar surcharge at the door makes a mockery of the invitation and is a bit rude. Not exactly what I expected from you.

    On the other hand, maybe it was deliberate.

    -- Posted by Prince of Stardust Hills on Wed, Sep 11, 2024, at 5:32 PM
  • *

    Prince, I'd love to attend an event you organize sometime. Please keep me posted. I won't critique though. My mother raised me right.

    -- Posted by Vincent Aguirre on Wed, Sep 11, 2024, at 9:28 PM
  • Vincent, I wouldn't invite you to any event I organized without telling you first that there was a door charge. Your mother would no doubt consider that proper.

    However, if I did, I would pay your way. I believe you would be a lot of fun.

    -- Posted by Prince of Stardust Hills on Wed, Sep 11, 2024, at 9:51 PM
  • *

    How’s the road construction going downtown? Have we put Taco Wapo, Myers Market, and the Vape Shop out of business yet?

    -- Posted by Mayor Humdinger on Thu, Sep 12, 2024, at 4:40 AM
  • -- Posted by direstraits on Thu, Sep 12, 2024, at 6:23 AM
  • Infowars, lol. That’s a good one. That’s like citing a QAnon newsletter. Those MAGA are so gullible they’ll believe just about anything.

    -- Posted by Koios on Thu, Sep 12, 2024, at 6:39 AM
  • those were just regular citizens relating their lived experiences

    you're a fool

    -- Posted by direstraits on Thu, Sep 12, 2024, at 1:35 PM
  • *

    It only took one ratchet strap to hold that canoe on top of the Tesla. We were going to launch off 231 and the Big Walnut bridge but our battery died. Greencastle doesn’t have a supercharger so we had walk 9 miles to Walmart get a generator, a gas can, duct tape, and some jumper cables. It only took 23 hours to charge up enough to make it back to town once we walked back. We killed some time by taking a nap in one of the overturned dumpsters at the now defunct Jacks Trash office. Maybe the weather will hold out and we can float down to the poop plant.

    -- Posted by Mayor Humdinger on Thu, Sep 12, 2024, at 1:47 PM
  • Regular citizens huh? Didn’t even want to leave their names in the article. They probably didn’t want to formally get caught up in this lie. Or knew they were lying. Whichever.

    -- Posted by Koios on Thu, Sep 12, 2024, at 6:39 PM
  • I appreciate Vincent's transparency about his identity.

    Any comments from people hiding behind a screen name are for entertainment purposes only.

    -- Posted by bevaallmanmiller on Fri, Sep 13, 2024, at 5:33 PM
Respond to this story

Posting a comment requires free registration: