I’ve been a reader of the FlashReport since its inception. I had no doubt in those early days that Jon “Do You Have My Business Card?” Fleischman was just the person to sustain such an effort over the long term…that with his contacts and drive, the FlashReport would become a daily “read” of choice by many polunkies around California.
And, yes, for those of you new to this site, what was then an e-mailed collection of news articles and opinion from across California, supplemented by Jon’s preceding commentary, became a must read, thanks to every day getting himself up two hours early and reading darn-near everything.
So, when Jon announced he was taking the FlashReport to the next level, with a website, links to the important news around California, and blogs by experienced pols and pundits, I encouraged him.
But be-jeepers, when I saw Jon’s list of chosen blog-posters and realized that Duane Dichiara was the MAN from San Diego, I almost called the bank and issued a stop payment on the encouragement. Politics is far more nuanced and subtle in San Diego (and everywhere, for that matter) than it is a publicly-stated commitment to overtly pursue world domination, is it not?
Fortunately, Jon came to his senses and decided he would like some blog-balance from the southern end of the state.
In all seriousness (and just in case Mr. Dichiara thought I was kidding before), it is a privilege for me to be included on these pages. I am pleased to share some “San Diego space” with Duane, a most worthy, experienced and successful consultant, with a passion for advancing the cause. I think he would agree with me that those of us way down here in the hot sun often feel we are on the short end of the stick, and that doesn’t just mean for highway funding. Admittedly, the City of San Diego and Duke Cunningham do make for some interesting news coverage of late, but aside from scandal, there is a dearth of media interest when it comes to San Diego politics.
My hope is to mix some postings about the San Diego political scene with some occasional notice of the extraordinary – or ludicrous – taking place in local government around the state (not just the daily insanity from the City of San Diego). What about that Republican councilmember from Weedville with the stupendous free-market idea for saving his city big bucks, yet it will garner nary a blurb in anything but the weekly rag? Let’s share it. Send me those stories, or – alternatively – send me the inane. A ban on Silly String? Let’s hear about it. (Read it here.)
I look forward to your input, and I look forward to being part of the FlashReport.
Ban this Now!