Diane vs Uriel ?

[Mc Resident]

Well, the Mayoral race is easy, Uriel Macias has it hands down.
But what about the council candidates? I think Joe Rocha is great but the choice is going to be hard for the other candidate. I like both Donnelson and Carrillo. The others are not even in the running for me after the forum we had here at the cove. Anyone know if there is going to be another Mayoral forum somewhere? I want to see Dianne get her behind kicked again!

[Critical Thinker]

Does anyone else notice that there seems to be one poster who is obsessed with bashing Ms. Chagnon and singing the praises of Mr. Macias on this board? There are several different names being used for the poster, but the writing style and obsessive bashing are the same. It's getting old. Who's posting all this? "Come out, come out, whoever you are!"

[Another Macias Supporter]

All I know is that I had to laugh when I saw Diane Chagnon's mailer which listed all of her supporters.

It looked like the "You scratch my back and I'll scratch your back" committee. Labor unions, oldtime city officials who proved to be impotent, hopeful future candidates (you know who you are), etc.

No, I think I will vote for change. Azusa has had enough BS and needs to move on. This latest action with buying the furniture store for $1.4 million and selling it to a former city official for 1/3 the price is DESPICABLE! Can I be next? I would like to start a business by buying a property at 1/3 the value, be able to turn around and refinance it in 60 days, pull out all the equity and finance the construction of the new businesses! If Martha Stewart went to prison for her actions, then the entire sitting City Council deserves to sharing jail cells with a guy named BUBBA.

Can you believe that this was sold to the former city official without even a competing bid? It is no different than if the City Council bought one of the few homes in Mountain Cove from someone who still hasn't done their landscaping, for say about $650.000, and turned around and sold it to a former city official for $225,000 as long as the former city official promised to spend another $200,000 on upgrades. What a farce!!!

Vote Uriel Macias For Change!

Vote Diane Chagnon For Status Quo!

[Elction Watcher]

Wow!! What do I do to get me one of them there city council jobs!!

[Another Macias Supporter]

"YOU SCRATCH MY BACK AND I'LL SCRATCH YOUR BACK COMMITTEE"

A list of Diane Chagnon's contributors, as reported in today's edition of the SGV Tribune:

Between July 1 and Dec. 31, Chagnon picked up $13,700, including $750 from Vulcan Materials Co. PAC, $1,000 from Arthur Services of Industry and $300 from Dan Baccani of Monrovia. She shows an ending- cash balance of $9,764 without any outstanding debts.

That was made possible with $1,000 contributions from IBEW Local 18 Water and Power Defense League and the Azusa Police Officers PAC.

[CoveWalker]

I agree with you Critical Thinker. I was thinking the same thing. I just spoke to a friend of mine who is an attorney that specializes in internet cases. He told me that he could find out who this person or people are. We could get the names of these people who spread lies and twist the facts and give the information of who they are with copies of the posts to the city council so they know who they are dealing with. I could even post their names on this message board so that the neighbors know who they are as well. I’m going to talk to the editor to see what he thinks.

[Mc Resident]

Critical Thinker,
I really can't see what you are tallking about. What I see on this thread is a lot of different people's personal oppinions or information based on the facts that have either been spoken about by the candidates themselves or published by the newpapers. Just because others may not share in your views doesn't mean they are wrong. I don't see anyone putting words in anyone's mouths. Get over yourself. Others are intitled to their oppinions. And by the way I also do not share your views on the same person posting, I think you just find it hard to believe not everyone shares your "enlightened views".

[Another Macias Supporter]

Cove Walker,

What is this...reborn McCarthyism?!

Why don't you start by posting your own name and address, you hypocrite.

It should be known to all the Mr. & Mr Editor of this board both appear as supporters of Diane Chagnon, so any consenting opinions to Diane Chagnon are likely to be met with such opposition. Threats of putting the names and addresses of Macias supporters on the board. HAHA...drive around the neighborhood and you will already be able to find us by the signs we have proudly planted on our lawns! ;D

[Bill]

Critical Thinker has it right. I'm guessing there are one, two, maybe three (but doubtful) who are constantly monitoring these boards for any pro, wait, even any neutral-to-positive thought or emotion towards Chagnon. You can't even pose a question and expect to get a well-thought out answer.

I wonder if Uriel endorses these posts by the pro-Uriel folks on the board - they seem a bit venemous.

Remember, we're all neighbors here and live in the same city.

[Oph]

Gee, uhhh, "critical" thinker (or should I call you writing expert instead?), I can tell you that there must be more than one person on here making these opinions. Seeing as how I witness other posts besides my own sharing my same opinions. By the way, it's my opinion that your post and "Covewalker's" post are remarkably similar.

I suggest to "Coverwalker" that you really know nothing of what you're talking about, and that you're "both" trying to dismiss these comments by implying there must be some kind of scandalous conspiracy. Does this come from the same camp that's still perpetuating their "Macias is a pawn" conspiracy theory?

I don't mean to sound insulting when I say "you know nothing of what you're talking about," but honestly that's true. I doubt that you just called an attorney at 8:00 in the morning, but that's not why I'm skeptical. You see, I work in a profession where I need to be aware of basic internet privacy laws. I'm pretty sure the mod of this board can see the internet address number of a post, and if he saw fit, could restrict access to someone if they were causing trouble on here (and there are MUCH worse things on this message board than what you're talking about). Nothing in this thread has said anything defaming to Chagnon or Macias for that matter, it's not "illegal" to be critical of someone..... beyond that they're considered public figures and are fair game for discussion compared to private residents. You would have to demonstrate law violating activities and get a court order for an internet provider to turn over someone's identity to you. I'm sorry, but your attorney friend or whoever really needs to revisit law school.

[To Cove Walker]

Hey Cove Walker, on the same token someone can get your info just because they don't agree with you, disclose your name and information then when does it stop? Just cause Diane Chagnon has a real good chance of losing does'nt mean you have to resort to scare tactics. On election day we all will know who the real winner is. We here at the Cove are just a fraction of the entire city, and Macias really does appeal to the average person in the city. Why you ask?? He really does come off as being sincere, and the worst thing I've seen posted about the guy is that he has $3000.00
of his own money, which can be proven. Diane on the other hand catches alot of attention. If a percentage of what people are saying is true, I'd worry.
By the way, I could not help nut wonder what really took place with the starbucks deal. Now the city is going t be involved in a lawsuit.
I really do understand why she appeals to some people
here at the Cove,but just cause she's been in council for 11 years does'nt mean she's more qualified. Forget the fact that Macias is giving up his stipend,although it's very noble. He clearly can see where we need to go and how we can get there, without breaking the bank.
Getting back to your idea of identification of individuals who don't agree with you...did'nt naziism end years ago? Why would anyone today think of that? I can understand if some law was broken like a death threat or hate crime type of posting, but because of a difference of opinion? I think our site moderator would no longer be a "moderator" if he agreed with you.

[Oph]

Bill, I know your posts and I believe I know who you are even and I'm really surprised you would align yourself with that rather paranoid sentiment. If you honestly believe that the rest of these posts come from me and "maybe" one or two other people.... and beyond that, you believe Uriel Macias is behind it, I suggest you contact him yourself and get the answer directly from him so you're no longer "wondering" if he condones it.

I have his campaign office phone number right here. It's 812-7770 and there appears to be other contact info on his web site www.maciasformayor.com

[McResident]

OPH
On your last post.... slam dunk with authority! Cove walker has an attorney in the house (yes I know who it is ) but I see positive and negative things (oppinions on both sides) just read Vested if you don't believe me and yes we all know who vested is too. But that's fine everyone is entitled to their opinion don't take things so personal it's not you who is running. Yes, we will all will be neighbors after this election is done, and we should remember it's O.K. to be different isn't that what America all about, being able to express your opinion without fear of reprisal? You guys should know that!
A moderator should not impose their way of thinking on everyone on this board. That is not very democratic is it?

[Oph]

Thanks but be careful McResident, people might start saying you ARE me.... Oh and about those yard signs, I hear they're all from the same person living in several different houses!

Honestly, it seems like these people grasp at straws and beat their heads against the wall to come up with something bad to say in regards to Macias. This whole latest thing was really at the bottom of the barrell.

[McResident]

Yeah, I know what you mean! It's really getting kind of wild isn't it? Ohh I better not forget my sunglasses!

[Board Observer]

It is worth noting that the Editor of this forum, Mark, besides having all of his businesses platered all over the website, which is fine as it is his website, also appears on Diane Chagnon's mailer, along with his life partner?, Lester, as supporters of her campaign.

There may or may not be an opportunity for impartiality on this forum.

[Oph]

You know what's funny, I found out that the moderator of the Azusa online boards and his life partner are personally big supporters of Uriel Macias.... Though I read that they won't be using the web site to endorse candidates..... I met them a few weeks ago at the Macias open house and they were so nice, kind of like artistic type young men.

I think it's just senseless that the Chagnon campaign fliers have this theme about Democratic ideals when it's pretty obvious that Macias's positions on social issues are basically the same if not more progressive. Anyway when the heck did this become a partisan politics election?

[Bill]

Dear Oph, exactly the opposite, I believe Uriel is actually a pretty stand up guy... I have been impressed by his communication skills and real-world business experience. I think he has a lot to offer Azusa.

What I was trying to communicate (sounds like it didn't work) was just the underlying harshness that seems to be prevalent when anyone suggests Chagnon as a prospect for Mayor. And no, I don't think Uriel would condone that harshness if he knew it was going on.

I think I posted before about Uriel's experience in making tough decisions in the public (as in City politics) spotlight. In that post, I suggested Diane might be better prepared to make those tough decisions going forward.

Taking Azusa from "here" to "there" isn't going to be easy. We are reversing decades of slow-to-no growth. There will be opposition the entire way.

-B

[Adrian]

Guest-Board said:

It is worth noting that the Editor of this forum, Mark, besides having all of his businesses platered all over the website, which is fine as it is his website, also appears on Diane Chagnon's mailer, along with his life partner?, Lester, as supporters of her campaign.

There may or may not be an opportunity for impartiality on this forum.

um, that's not Mark's life partner. That would be me ;D

[Advisor]

Bill, you are a very decent and level headed individual whom I respect and admire. Don't listen to the negative comments that are issued under the guise of an anonomous code name. It amazes me how nasty and malicious people get when they can hide behind a message board. If the one or two people (at the most--FYI writing style and consistent usage and pattern of words does give you away) posting negative emails about Diane are truly four or five different people, why not come forward and express your opinions publicly. If you feel so strongly about Macias what harm would it do to make your identity known? By the way our former city treasurer appears to have spent in excess of what he's raised on his campaign. You would think that a treasurer would have more business sense. (see Tribune article in the 3-1-05 issue). Let's be honest, Macias isn't capable of effecting any more change than any other person on the council. He will not magically solve the city's problems as he is only 20% of the vote. Also, his experience in no way compares to Ms. Chagnon's and I don't want a mayor that spends more than his budget allows for. Quite frankly, that frightens me. Ms. Chagnon has always been fiscally conservative and has never engaged in malicious attacks against her opponent nor have any of her supporters. At least we know who has dignity and class and who doesn't. Even if Macias isn't condoning your behavior on this board, hasn't it occured to you that you're making him look bad by attempting to slander Ms. Chagnon and her supporters? Many in the cove have already expressed their disdain and contempt for your trailer trash tactics and believe me when I say your efforts are fruitless and you and the other members of your "Anti Chagnon Family" should get a life and devote your time to a more positive approach to politics. Afterall, this is a relatively small town and it's only a matter of time before your identity is known. Have a good day and be kind to others as you might one day need the very person that you are degrading.TEXT

[To Advisor]

Advisor,

First, you should lead by example, what is your identity? This website is for everyone in Mountain Cove to use, express our opinions, and inform ourselves of what is happening at Mountain Cove and in Azusa. May the best candidate win!

[To Advisor]

Advisor,

First, you should lead by example, what is your identity? This website is for everyone in Mountain Cove to use, express our opinions, and inform ourselves of what is happening at Mountain Cove and in Azusa. May the best candidate win?

[Oph]

Advisor, thanks for your advice. Speaking for myself, Oph is not a "code name", it is short for my first name which I have used several times here. I'm probably not as popular as you are, so chances are that you don't know me personally. Pardon me if I don't reveal you my middle name the is what I go by with my friends, last name, or my address.

Since you're giving such sanctimonious advice, why don't you take it yourself? You just criticized Mr. Macias for using his OWN money, and failingly tried to tie that to his performance as city treasurer..... which you and I both know is full of garbage considering his performance as Treasurer has been top notch. So why not attach your name to that criticism? Oh and I never accused Bill of being "indecent." (I'm sincerely sorry Bill if I left you that impression or insulted you.)

Can I ask what you're talking about this "slandering" of Ms. Chagnon? Did someone accuse her of a crime? Criticizing a politician's performance in their position is not slander. Since you're being so indignant, why not chew out those people who were calling Mr. Macias the "pawn" of the current mayor Cruz-Madrid? Or the phone calls from Chagnon's campaign telling us we should be "suspicious of Macias's motives?" Or the infamous man knocking down yard signs? Or whoever put up Chagnon's signs in yards that never requested them. I know personally of two people that happened to here in Mountain Cove....... Since you call simple criticism of a politician's performance a "trailer trash tactic", I wanna know what would you call those tactics I just mentioned.... "classy"? Sorry, I'm just pointing out the obvious hypocracy that's going on in what you said.

[Connected]

oph,

I'm confident that your allegation that Diane's "people" were calling voters and telling them that they should be suspicious of Macias is an blatant lie. How do I know this? Because I have seen the script for phone bankers and know all of the volunteers city wide and no one has done anything remotely similar to what you're describing. Diane would never condone that and as a matter of fact Diane's callers have only remarked favorably when it comes to Macias as clearly he is not seen as a threat to anyone. He seems like a perfectly nice guy. If someone received a Chagnon sign and didn't ask for one it was probably just an innocent mistake. That is providing it did happen in the first place. At least you don't see her signs in all the common areas and posted on fences and lightposts, which I believe is a violation of the rules of campaign conduct. Diane's team is not out to hurt or defame Macias. She considers him a very valuable part of the city's team and publicly says that she has nothing against Uriel and the campaign is in no way personal. I admire her tactfulness and the manner in which she conducts herself. She is an expereinced, educated and dynamic leader with a vision for the city's future that far surpasses anything else I've seen thus far and she doesn't have to resort to name calling, criticism or negative mistruths to win the support of the people. I think all that we are saying is that you can deal with and talk about political issues and politicians without being so vicious. Just because you can do something doesn't mean you should.

[McResident]

Oph,
Another slam dunk with authority! Maybe we arrre clones? I couldn't have said it better myself. Ohh and by the way vested and the last poster before you sure sound like the same person to me! It's funny that they think it's only a couple of people who support Macias isn't it?
Some people are going to be on the "outs" when he wins!

[MC Counselor]

By the way, it's not just Mountain Cove people that use the message board. Several people city wide post things here. City employees, council candidates, gun club users, etc. No one should operate under the assumption that people using this board are all residents of Mountain Cove. Also, don't believe half of what is posted here unless it's written by the editor. Often it's a few people just trying to see what kind of reaction they can get, how much they can stir the pot, and turn people against one another. Think for yourselves and don't be fooled!

P.S. Vote for Diane Chagnon!!!!! She has the experience, know how and connection to higher governement!!!! She is honest, open and of high moral character. She is just the image we need for the City of Azusa.

[unimpressed]

It'd be a whole lot better if Chagnon were trying to repair her frayed connections with half of the Azusa community instead of worrying about her connections to higher government.

[To Connected from Oph]

Hi Connected,

What happened in the phone call it most certainly not a lie because happened to me directly, but it was past the part of the script. If it helps you out, it was a female caller. I was very nice to her and she to me, but when we discussed Mr. Macias and I brought up that I had more trust in him because he was putting it on the line by running at the end of his term, the caller asked me if I ever wondered why someone would leave a higher paid position of Treasurer to try and become mayor. A couple days later I read a poster say the same thing happened to them but that the caller used the word suspicious. I also know personally of a major supporter of Diane who keeps spreading a quite stupid lie that Macias is "the chosen one" of the current mayor.

You're right that it's unfair to blame Ms. Chagnon herself. If I were her running for office there are some people behind her that I'd rather not have in my corner. But I thought it was very hypocritical that someone came on here insinuating that all these terrible things were "only" happening to Chagnon herself. Unfortunately it happens on both sides.

[Guest]

FYI. it is highly probable that Mr. Macias will follow in the footsteps of the current mayor and become her pawn IF he's elected.
According to the Tribune, Mike Esquivel (La Flor de Mexico), is one of his biggest contributors and he also happens to be Cristina's long-time boyfriend.

[cool raul]

Its time for a change !!!
Mr. Macias you have my vote!!