Vernon brings change; Podzimek should stay
Reprinted from The Gazette, Sunday, November 4, 2007, page 14A

I am enthusiastic about our new city council form of government. The residents of Cedar Rapids elected a very good council and the council chose an excellent city manager.

I feel a change is needed in District 2. Sarah Henderson has done OK, but the district needs something beyond OK.
 Monica Vernon is that choice.

Vernon is a good listener, a proven strategic planner, a proven community leader, a business builder and owner, and an authentic voice for a better city. She has extensive community service to both the city of Cedar Rapids and Linn County. Accordingly, she has a large pool of people to call on when she needs support. She has been endorsed by the Cedar Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce and the Hawkeye Labor Council.

Vernon’s blog, www.monicavernon.org, lists her qualifications.

A member at-large candidate who must be re-elected is Tom Podzimek. He is a man with a lot of common sense. Podzimek has brought a unique perspective of economic development and land stewardship to the office. He has worked toward a fiscally responsible government and sustainable growth. He rejects the special interest influence of developers. Podzimek is a strong advocate for neighborhoods. He has a real concern for the environment. Go to Tom’s blog, www.votefortomp.com to check his qualifications.

People of all districts should vote Tuesday to elect the best possible candidates.

Dean Barnum
Cedar Rapids