As the president-elect stated – the election was not about him – it was about our country.  Last night we made a choice to hold our ideals as a  nation high.

This election has been a long time coming.  I personally feel excited and proud of the choices our country made in this election.  So many of our fellow citizens chose to be active in their citizenship by casting their ballots.

As the child of immigrants – my parents always said this is a country which rewards hard work.  This is a country where a person can stand on their own feet and rise as high as their aspirations take them.

Last night we stated clearly why so many in the world look longingly to the US as the beacon of liberty.  Personally I will not dwell on the past and throw stones.  There is work in front of us and a future to prepare for.

Last night said a lot of who we as Americans are – and what kind of people we aspire to be.

This morning – the sunrise was definitely brighter.

Quo vadis is a Latin phrase literally translated as “where are you going?”

Many have asked me my thoughts of the presidential race – I have been clear on the following points:

• At so many levels, the current administration has been a failure
• Partisanship has become shrill
• Party dogma seems to trump diplomacy
• These are sad times in Federal politics.

I take heart in looking at our council – we have a group with strong opinions and are not afraid to respectfully confront our differences. Each of us has been at the end of a 4:1 vote – but we recognize the larger purpose of why we have been elected. We are here to serve.

• Service is something both candidates understand and have demonstrated.
• Both candidates are thinkers and not afraid to step in directions away from dogma of their party.
• I have tremendous respect for each of the candidates

Those points stated – what do I see is the role of the president? First and foremost the White House is the cradle of our best vision for our country. While many will talk of “Washington Gridlock” it is clear the Oval Office sets a direction for the country. Quo vadis is a question we ask the candidates – and we decide by virtue of our votes if the vision and direction is one we wish to follow.

I am enthusiastically supporting Barak Obama‘s candidacy and vision. I believe the vision for our country described by Mr. Obama can be achieved with his leadership. I hope you will join me in supporting his candidacy.

Jackie Speier announced her candidacy for US Congress representing the 12th district which includes San Carlos.

Jackie has been a champion for the folks in San Carlos as County Supervisor, Assembly member and Senator. I’m happy to join so many of my colleagues with my enthusiastic endorsement of her candidacy.

Jackie is running for the seat currently being held by Tom Lantos. The retiring congressman has served the 12th district since 1981 and my sincere wishes for his family and his good health are with him.

Today we get to exercise our right to raise our citizen voice and shape our government.

I recall growing up when my parents were not yet citizens and we kids, not old enough to vote. As a family we longed for the day our voice would be heard.

When my parents became citizens and registered to vote – the saying around the house was “Now we count! Now we can vote!”

When my sisters and I turned 18 – we piled into the car as a family and drove to the voter registration office and registered to vote.

I hope on this wonderful day you will realize – you count. Your voice needs to be heard. Please vote!

If you are interested in the progress of the PAMF application, there will be a meeting of the Planning Commission on Tuesday September 18 at 7PM at Hiller Aviation

You can learn more by clicking here