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"Witch Doctor" Trial in Chambers 02/28/08

Contributed by: DR. SEAN REIF D.C. on 3/9/2008

FREEDOM OF SPEECH
Free speech is essential for people to develop, to learn, and explore what they want. It also spreads knowledge to more people, and is essential for social change. Governments must allow people to exercise free speech in public places, in areas where people traditionally gather to express themselves. The freedom to engage in association for the advancement of beliefs and ideas cannot be separated from the freedom of speech.

The American governmental system is a representative democracy with a key fundamental element - the right to vote. The system operates as a process of peaceful argument. People take sides, debate, and VOTE to reach a decision. Even the smallest minorities, by participating actively, may influence a democracy. Voting provides the means for change.

The idea of democracy stems from the equality of people. Individuals matter. Persons have the right to an opinion. They have the right, and duty, to be informed and to participate in Public Discourse, and it implies the freedoms of expression and association, alongside the right to vote.

PLAN? WHY PLAN?
Everyone plans. People make travel plans, work plans, dinner Organizations and firms plan for strategic action and implement those strategies to help them gain an edge. Plans help us to organize our time and work toward our goals in a step by step procedure. Planning enables us to look before we leap and avoid costly and embarrassing mistakes. Through planning we come to understand where we are now and what must be done NOW and in the FUTURE to achieve our goals. We can then put together a plan of action to accomplish tasks on time.

Planning makes GOOD SENSE.

Disorganized people have a hard time with accomplishing much; the same applies for disorganized communities. We all know communities that ACT TOO LATE. Stumble their way along with outdated ideas. Planning forces us to think and organize our time, resources, and efforts. Planning makes sense for municipal budgets as well as household budgets.

Community planning affects peoples' lives. Tough choices must be made about the financial, natural, and manmade resources within the community. We listen to the opinions of others, and we are willing to ensure equal treatment. Community planning is intended to serve the best interests of the community. A community plan shows private landowners and developers the location and type of development the community wants.

Many towns have functioned, and continue to function, without a comprehensive plan. Others have plans that are decades old. The key ingredient for small tcities is local leadership.

CONDUCTING IN PARLIAMENTARY DECORUM
"The True Gentleman" is a man whose conduct proceeds from "Goodwill and an acute sense of propriety. It is an underlying principle in my life. He's kind of a punny character. He has been admitted into merry speeches and pronounced at the Council Chambers.

Make a Main Motion to the Floor if it doesn't conflict with any laws, or bylaws : "Commissioner Dr. Sean Reif should be removed from the Northglenn City Planning Commission?"

And it dies for lack of a 2 nd,

A 2 nd, isn't a vote, it isn't really approval of the motion. It just means that you are open to talking about it. Where as the maker of the motion doesn't have to vote for his own motion, nor does the 2 nd but both are willing to discuss the motion. Several of my motions have died due to lack of 2nds, to me that is blatent, hostile and stonewalling my rights to contribute to the deliberative assembly.

Or a 2 nd.
There, that gets it on the floor to be discussed by the members.

We can post-pone to a specific date- then we will take it up as unfinished business (none of that 2/3 majority vote to bring it back off the table, business), it just comes up as unfinished business, But this motion requires debate, and so we had better talk about it, in, discussion. After discussion, Y / N "to post-pone to specific date and time." Y / N

Or, we can send the question to committee, upon a 2 nd, and a Y / N vote to sent to a standing committee or to a board, or one created for this special purpose, but before we Vote Y/n we must discuss.

Yes would Create a chairman / and at least 3 committee members, and people can talk about it, set times and places where they will meet, and they can talk about the different things that I have written, researched, speechified, projects I have done with people here in Northglenn, Thornton, Greater Denver, United States of America, and in the International World at Large.

I draw much from my own experiences. It's about goals - "work" - and attainment of goals. These are expectations of a champion.

People can see that I am FIT to be a Planning commissioner, and to be the Vision-Caster. Because ultimately, it comes from the people. Talking it over. Just like all those Neighborhood Plans Community Development Groups that we are organizing in conjunction with Amendment to the Comprehensive Plan. An issue that I campaigned, platformed for the last 2 years, and in November running for the Ward I City Council position, now filled by Councilwoman Ward 1.

Urbanization, Industrialization, Innovative Economy, Post-Secondary Education Campus Development, Job Creation, Student housing stock, rental property, condomiumization, duplex development, infrastructure, storm water drainage, density, maybe a mausoleum, community garden, Carl's Farm Dairy development; the Urban Land Institute, retaining walls, fences, telecommunications, Opens spaces, Planned Unit Developments. HOAs. Trails. And sidewalks / and streets.

Then the committee comes back, with a report back to Council. They talked about it in Informal discussion. And they talked about a whole lot of other stuff, because that's the nature of a committee, talks in INFORMAL discussion. And they made decisions upon those discussions.

The People do. When called upon, our people will, create our future. The council can act upon the question. And there will be DISCUSSION. And during this DISCUSSION. Any member may make a higher ranking motion, to Limit Debate by shortening the time say to perhaps 15 minutes, because if there isn't a time limit set, that person can talk, for a very- long -time. And he has the right to.

We what are the requirements? What has he done before? What has he done since? Has he done anything wrong?

And yes, we can Lay the question On the Table. The motion requires a 2 nd. And an easy majority vote. BUT. . .next week . . to bring the Main Motion back it requires 2/3 majority. And those may be hard to get, so we usually avoid putting the motions on the table. Because if you don't pick the Main Motion up at the next meeting, The Main Motion DIES on the Table. "Good riddance. Done business." If someone really wants it, they can bring it up under new business, NEXT MEETING.

And if it seems that the meeting is getting off track, any member may Call for a Point of Privilege, or for the Orders of the Day. And that member may Interrupt, because we are not talking about the business at hand.

Or rise to a call of Order, to object to the consideration of the question, call for a Parliamentary inquiry, or for a Point of information, or to raise a complaint with the Chair, Demand a rising vote. These are incidental motions that arise, incidentally, and demand a decision immediately by the Chair.

And at any time, any member may move for a recess, or to adjourn to a different day or time. These are the highest ranking motions. And no other business may be conducted while this motion is on the floor, though recess may be amended, longer or shorter.

And after a Main Motion comes back from The Table or Committee, the Main Motion can be amended, or Y/n vote. But before Y/n, there will be what ?. . That's right . . Discussion. And it is really frustrating for someone who doesn't want to discuss the issue, or just wants to "rubber stamp" recommendations, for someone, who want to "get out of here to watch the Dancing with the Stars." (Those 2 commissioners I am happy to say are no longer on the Commission.)

And it really is an ignorance, really! And it is sad, it's an illiteracy, caused by not reading, studying the Rules of Order. And it separates people by their class. Please do business by the rules.

And I have to commend Mayor that I rarely catch her in a breach of the Rules, some times a motion to table doesn't need to be discussed, but you did, nobody's rights were infringed; that's your discretion as presiding officer.

Just like that motion to Table made by Councilman from Ward 3 made Concerning the City Managers severance Pay to be tabled until tonight, if not brought up again, it DIES. And that is not a BAD thing, that is just the way it is. But if nobody, made a motion in Unfinished Business, to bring the Motion off the table, requiring a 2/3 majority vote, IT DIES.

Madame Mayor,

On December 11, 2007 the Madame Chairman handed me a unanimous letter "requesting" my resignation. They didn't have the guts to bring forth in our meeting. Instead they enter into a secret "pact", meet without notice, and conspiring against "me." A violation of open meetings laws. Binding the society into a contract without permission from that society by a vote.

As John Adams said, "The majority has eternally and without one exception usurped over the rights of the minority. The PEOPLE have been as unjust, tyrannical, brutal, and cruel as any king or senate possessed of uncontrollable power."

Throughout history governments have restricted the freedom of speech. They fear the free flow of ideas will threaten their power.

Madame Chairman is the Supreme Justice Chairman of the Planning Commission. To the presiding officer Commissioner, I say , "Please control your meetings." Has anyone called for a point of order? Or for questions of privilege? Called for the orders of the day? Or to appeal the Decision of the Chair. Any member can bring forth these motions WITH interruption. In a deliberative assembly her informal rules do not promote order, courtesy, justice or impartiality. If I knew we knew the chair was impartial and in control of the situation, things might stay in control. But as they say," It takes 2 to tango."

The letter speaks of "malfeasance" - unlawful behavior - those are strong allegations. I have never been arrested for anything! This is slander per se. "Words have meaning."

I vote on the 1 vote of many 1 - 6 votes. Though I vote alone, I may know that my vote is never lost.

Mistakes in parliamentary procedure are caused by members who do not know parliamentary procedures, or who misapply it because they don't understand the underlying democratic principles. These mistakes lead to confusion, and in some cases, intimidation and loss of member's rights. I have refused to be intimidated.

These are to ensure the rule of the majority while protecting the rights of the minority. The minority has the right to be heard and its ideas are taken seriously. I have been OUT - SPOKEN and PROLIFIC in my campaign toward change in the Comprehensive Plan.

I have made motions as another opportunity to debate the question. Apparently, it "ruffles a few of their feathers," "I invite you to study, to prepare, to participate in discussions and debate. It takes work."

"Neglect of duty" , "That is absurd", I put in at least 10 hours per week in preparation for these future meetings. I don't just attend when I want to speak, but I am there to promote the regular interests of the Commission, and my perfect attendance merits consideration.

Membership on the Planning Commission has obviously been important to me or I wouldn't have joined the Planning Commission. For whatever reason, a group decides to take away membership, it should be something that is supported by more than just a few members who might have a grudge. Taking away an office is a very serious step, one that might change a person's standing in his personal life, his work, and his community.

I am looking to speak up and make a difference to put forward my point of view. As I have since the first day of my appointment to planning commission. I work to see the pros and cons come out in discussion and debate on Planning and Zoning of Land Issues.

I want to rise to the challenge, to learn new things, and be successful at them. My input is a valuable part of this Commission. I am what this Commission NEEDS!

The most important principle is being lost. The presiding officer no longer represents all members, but the mob rule, the Planning Commission has become. She can no longer keep control of her meetings, and she blames me.

This is a COMMUNIST witch doctor hunt. These conditions - these people were here planning the City long before me, before I got here. I am the freshman commissioner. I'm not Republican or Democrat or Dominican Republican. But there are a lot of things that I am. I am a Rotarian; I am a chiropractor. I am a father. I am a conservative. I am a vegetarian parliamentarian. I know about serving in the community. I'm here on the Main Street of town, serving the health care to our public, in their times of need and suffering. I am an American.

Officially, you have to STAND to be recognized by the Chair. Most times a flip of the hand, raise of the eyebrow, or a nod will do, But to realize that this is a courtesy by the presiding officer. She may miss your intentions to speak, but if those signals doesn't work to catch her attention, you do have to stand, and stand, and stand, until recognized. "Is there a reason why you stand?"

Stand.
"I call for a parliamentary inquiry."
The Chair or Secretary or Parliamentarian has to rule.

Stand.
"I request a Point of Information."

Stand.
"I demand a rising vote."

Yes, IMAY interrupt, and these incidental motions don't require 2nds, and there is no vote.

The Rule of the Majority, while protecting the rights of the Minority. Main motions. In rank with precedence. Incidental Motions, at any time, and the Chairman, keeps order of it all. And to her credit. She does an fair job. But doesn't understand the rules of formal discussion and debate.

Yes, it is a mental discipline, being a presiding officer, keeping up with the business. It is a thinking man's game. And I wish more people knew, because with today's very complex society we are creating associations with people, and having meetings, which work best with Roberts Rules of Order and Parliamentary procedures.

Don't be in a hurry to make a bad decision. Sometimes the best decision is no decision at all. Don't play the game.

The more educated we become, the more we have to discuss. I am a Doctor of Chiropractic. I am a father. I am a Citizen. I give people what they need, not necessarily what they want, That's what good doctors do. And in case of crisis, we look for the Uncommon Man. It is because I am the kind of person who comes here; I am very committed. I am very UNUSUAL. I am a LEADER of LEADERS.

So breathe over it. If anyone, or everyone, were to be afraid to speak up in a meeting, for fear of being extracted from his duty, there is no LIBERTY in this land. That is why I am not afraid. Because I understand the principles, and I understand FREEDOM.

Because when this is all over. I will still be a citizen of Northglenn with all the power of one citizen constituent, and while that may be enough, The City needs my leadership.

Thank you,
Dr. Sean Reif D.C.


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Showing 1-6 of 6 comments
Submitted By: DR. SEAN REIF D.C.
posted on 4/7/2008 @ 5:53:47 PM
Rated Story
INFAMY - The only reason I can suggest as to why my commissioners are spreading such ugly rumors is that they have it infamy.
[Report as objectionable]
Submitted By: DR. SEAN REIF D.C.
posted on 3/29/2008 @ 12:46:28 PM
Rated Story
Gutter language puts a drain on society.
[Report as objectionable]
Submitted By: DR. SEAN REIF D.C.
posted on 3/20/2008 @ 7:46:43 PM
Rated Story
He was not only a great wordsmith, but also a cunning linguist.
[Report as objectionable]
Submitted By: DR. SEAN REIF D.C.
posted on 3/12/2008 @ 9:59:39 AM
Rated Story
The arse is decidedly middlecrass- conventional, obtuse. Reason, abuse, Are equally no use. It is a platitude that only a halter can alter the middlecrass assitude.
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Submitted By: Henry Robert
posted on 3/10/2008 @ 1:11:53 PM
Rated Story
Sounds like Council led your "Unusual" self to the door! Politicians and public servants spend most of their time trying to be mainstream, of the people, and your selling point is that you're weird? The city needs to get work done, and your efforts go to fighting city hall and trying to revolutionize procedures? Sounds like you were a horrible fit. From another author's article here, it sounds like your fellow Rotarians didn't care for you style either. Devote your energies to your practice -- chances are you haven't been winning clients over lately!
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Submitted By: DR. SEAN REIF D.C.
posted on 3/9/2008 @ 7:01:51 PM
Rated Story
“Profanity never did any man the least good. No man is the richer, or happier, or wiser for it. It is disgusting to the refined; abominable to the good; insulting to those with whom we associate; degrading to the mind; unprofitable, needless, and injurious to society. He that indulges in it is no gentleman. I care not what clothes he wears, or what culture he boasts. Despite all his refinement, the light and habitual taking of God’s name in vain, betrays a coarse and brutal will.”
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Showing 1-6 of 6 comments
CONTRIBUTOR INFORMATION

DR. SEAN REIF D.C.

THORNTON , CO

DR. SEAN REIF D.C. has posted 1030 stories and 1195 comments since joining on 9/14/2005. DR. SEAN REIF D.C. 's average story rating is 3.04.
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