MARCO ISLAND — Keith Flaugh is a true believer. He believes that GOOOH, the group for which he is the Marco Island organizer, is going to make over the United States House of representatives to a form they find more acceptable, more accountable to “we, the people.”
He’s not stopping, or starting, there, though. Flaugh hopes to have a GOOOH-approved slate of candidates run for and win the four Marco Island City Council seats up for grabs this year, and is holding meetings to push the process forward.
GOOOH – and they pronounce it “go,” not “goo,” said Flaugh – stands for “Get Out of Our House.” Nationally, the group’s aim is to vote out of office every Congressman and woman currently serving, and replace them with GOOOH-approved candidates. Locally, it would seem a little easier to win municipal elections, but still a pretty tall order.
The Marco contingent of GOOOH held a meeting Monday evening at Mackle Park, to hold a dry run of their candidate selection process. About 25 people showed up, and were divided up into groups of six. Each participant filled out the organization’s questionnaire, designed to help choose the best candidate – in this case, for city council.
Questions included “are you FOR or AGAINST a having a new city resolution that declares our nation was founded under Judeo-Christian principles and is One Nation under GOD?” and for or against accepting Federal grants until the Federal government passes a balanced budget amendment.
After answering the questions, each of the “candidates” laid out their beliefs in a brief talk. In general, all appeared to be strict conservatives, with a strong libertarian bent.
“I’m a conservative, way to the right of Attila the Hun,” said John Putnam. “I’m a real Newt Gingrich guy.”
“Everything is just disregarded. It’s supposed to be a government of laws,” said Grace Swanchak. “I was never too involved, but now I’m obsessed day and night.”
Then they took turns interviewing each other. A hum of conversation filled the room as the tablemates took turns comparing notes and beliefs. Ruth Putnam and Lourdes Alaimo both agreed they would “support our elected County Sheriff’s authority to protect the Citizens of our country against unconstitutional federal and State overreach of ‘the people’s’ rights.” Given the imbalance of forces possessed by the U.S. military, this could be problematic, but the group doesn’t let the details get in the way.
While some of the questions seemed designed to have only one right answer, there were some on issues which could divide islanders, including water and sewer rates, and impact fees on businesses. Carol Smith took her stand.
“In a condo or a private home, people should pay the same utility rates,” she said.
The candidate selection process was time-consuming with two dozen, but Flaugh hopes to get 1,000 people to participate this spring, in a series of forums, and narrow down the group to the four strongest candidates. Once they win the election, he said, they would be held accountable to the pledge they would have to sign to win the GOOOH endorsement.
“It’s a tiered process. The cream rises to the top,” he said. “We need a minimum of a couple hundred people. We’ve reached out to every church group, MITA, MICA, veterans’ groups and condo associations.” He hoped the participants in Monday’s forum would come back and bring more people, he said.
“The office holders are supposed to represent the people. They commit to vote according to the letter they signed. It’s a pledge of honor.” If the councilperson feels, based on new information for instance, they need to change their position on an issue, they are supposed to poll their constituents via the internet, and commit to only make the switch if two thirds of the respondents agree, and give their permission.
“We’re trying to break the power of the special interests,” he said. “It’s so hard to wake people up.”
For some of the participants Monday, the attraction seemed to be the opportunity to talk with like-minded folks who share their views. That’s important, too, said Flaugh.
“What are you hearing tonight? Civil discourse,” he said, “a non-emotional discussion of the issues.”
GOOOH will hold additional meetings at Mackle Park on March 1, 3, and 5, and then, with enough participation, the “cream” of those selections will advance to the next round on March 10.
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Comments » 21
KlausStoertebeker writes:
“I’m a conservative, way to the right of Attila the Hun,” said John Putnam. “I’m a real Newt Gingrich guy.”
Americans idol Attila the Hun!?!?!?!?????????
Same level like Newty the yesterday man?!?!?!!!
In Florida, Mitt Romney won the Republican presidential primary election just for one reason. He beat Newt Gingrich handily. Political analysts believe that elderly voters in Florida rejected Newt Gingrich because of fears that he would eventually leave them for a younger state.
That is the truth!!!!
But I believe just 2 of 1000 Americans known what are YOUNGER states. And more sexy. Like Hawaii.
Attila = Newt!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
BS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
blogsmog writes:
It will be easier to throw the liberal elitist out of Washington than it will to throw the Marco mafia out of power. I believe they own the chamber, the knights of Columbus, colllier county judges and donna fiala. For the Marco Island property owner(that's condo owners and home owners) to take back their paradise from these opportunist they must stand together and say enough is enough.
RayPray writes:
"Questions included “are you FOR or AGAINST a having a new city resolution that declares our nation was founded under Judeo-Christian principles and is One Nation under GOD?”"
>>> With the city slipping off the spending cliff & sucker for every $$pecial interest trying to pick our pocket$.
>>> What a bunch of lunkheads!
>>> Forget failed Judeo-Xtian crap. What we really need on Marco is the imposition of Sharia Law!
>>> الله أكبر
lauralbi1 writes:
This is great news. The best thing that could happen for those of us that have the majority vision for the future of Marco Island. Someone forgot to tell them that this was tried in the last election.
Just the fact that GOOOOOOOOOOOOOH is going to be involved will boost the margin between those that have a practical, workable vision and those that want to stop everything (put simply).
Now it will be easy to identify to voters who to vote against. Just do not vote GOOOOOOH. Boy, that will be easy !!!!! And making it a slate, even easier. Oops, maybe I should not put this out this early.
This is Marco Island where the majority are VERY satisfied with our City Council.
Ed Issler
2themoon writes:
There does seem to be mutal network of interests working together on the island. We need to be vigilant in the next election here on Marco and vote for the candidates who will work for the good of the property owners.
BTW: it was a crying shame the lies told to the condo owners last election about the STRP.
marco97 writes:
I don't see any incumbents getting elected this year. Now that the sewers are not an issue I think everyone will come together and vote people in who want to stop the runaway spending this City has been doing for years. I also think the Marco Island Property owners association will play a part in the next election.
Mayor_McCheese writes:
Where do I begin. . .
I don't even think Fox News would run this story.
Why would anyone vote for these people? Being associated with this crowd is a guaranteed one way ticket to an election loss.
Haven't we already learned what happens when politicians sign silly pledges in order to pander to particular constituencies? Remember Grover Nordquist? Thanks to that dimwit, most of the right (read correct) thinking Republicans in the house are barred from any compromise with Democrats on taxes of any sort at all. Now we have these people coming up with even sillier pledges. Also, they want to poll member on the internet before they change their positions?
I prefer my elected officials to have a free mind and free will. I don't vote for them just for their promises, but for their hopefully good judgment.
Perhaps they would like to do away with legislators completely and just govern by internet poll.
Oh, and I can't really finish without mentioning what might be the stupidest comment in the whole article:
“agree to support our elected County Sheriff’s authority to protect the Citizens of our country against unconstitutional federal and State overreach of ‘the people’s’ rights.” Given the imbalance of forces possessed by the U.S. military, this could be problematic, but the group doesn’t let the details get in the way."
Problematic??
I have some other words for it: Treason, anti-Americanism, sedition, etc. . . . .
WhiskeyTangoFoxtrot writes:
I wrote whats below in response to the letter to the editor about the "good ole days of health care" but I believe it is relevant here as well. Goooh may have good intentions but they are misguided being still married to the two party system. The greatest trick ever played on the people was that of divide and conquer pitting donkeys vs elephants. You all sit and watch FOX or CNN while arguing about who is right and who is wrong while your, your childrens, and you grandchildrens futures are being led down the path that is Greece today. People are so dumb and easily fooled. If Hitler had an R in front of his name, and were running against Obama, I guarantee that the Fox news cheer leaders would vote for him. Must Beat Obama!
The problem is lobbiest in DC. The health insurance industry doesn't want competition in the industry. You can't buy from a cheaper insurer in another state, that would cause competition. Then you have the pharmaceutical industry wanting their patents to never run out so they can charge what ever they want for their drug. Then you have the lawyers who will never allow tort reform. I could go on, but basically, if you don't like it, call your congressman. He might tell you he gives a crap, but he doesn't. All these groups are contributing to his campaign making him rich. He has no worries about his health care plan, when he's asked to join the same plan as the common American moron, he will say, hell no! The fact that the morons (voting Americans) allow this is f'ing crazy. Of the people, By the people, For the people! They work for you! Morons!
Government health care will be a disaster. Just like the student loan industry, Post office, Fannie & Freddie, HUD, Medicare, Social security is a looming disaster and I could go on but there is no point. If you can't see what is happening (99% can't) you deserve what you get. That will be people being turned away from the health care system and dieing. I know, I know, that can never happen in America? The financial system will never collapse, the people will be able to pay for the ever rising health care costs forever, there will never be riots in the streets like there are in Greece today? Keep telling your self that. We are becoming a nation of fools. By the time the 99% of people realize they are being screwed every time they turn around it will be too late. I do not mean 99% as in the occupy movement. I am truly convinced that 99% of the population is ignorant of whats happening around them, and completely ignorant of history.
Although in a sick twisted way I am kind of looking forward to that moment when 99% of the morons (USA citizens) realize they have just been smacked in the face with a two by four by the same fools they continue to vote for in every election. You reap what you sew morons!
ed34145 writes:
Well said, Mayor_McCheese!
KlausStoertebeker writes:
"This is Marco Island where the majority are VERY satisfied with our City Council."
Ed are you drunk or asbestos contaminated. The majority is happy if Marco Island get a new city council with common sense and responsibility. That is the truth.
KlausStoertebeker writes:
"If Hitler had an R in front of his name, and were running against Obama, I guarantee that the Fox news cheer leaders would vote for him."
\
This statement is a shame for all brave Americans lost their life to go rid of Hitler and gives Germany his freedom back. I guess you never understand the American revolution and the American constitution.. I am not surprised.
lauralbi1 writes:
Klaus and others: I can only state that the same blogs were taking place before the last election. If you think that the STRP was the issue in the last election, then I encourage you to stick to that belief. There is a comment above that states that the incumbents will not get re-elected. I beg for you to stick to that belief.
I assure all of you that the majority of voters do not blog here, do not attend MITA meetings, do not attend Council meetings, but they will vote. And if you think you represent the majority, then please, please hold on to that belief all the way to the voting booth. That inlcudes you, Klaus, or whoever you are.
We will all work hard for what we believe to be best for Marco Island's future. But the same small group of people, over and over again (even with GOOOOOH), will not change what most of us want.
Ed Issler
KlausStoertebeker writes:
Eddi, always nice to share your thinking with me. Unfortunately you are wrong like usual. The last election was a referendum about STRP. Nothing else. Pro sewer in, against sewer out. Do you really believe the majority of Marco Island will vote for Waldi or Gibbon under normal circumstances? The alternative last time were very valuable and very well educated people like Butch Nylon and Roger Hall.
The last election was by the results and the reality Marco Island stays today a disaster for Marco Island. Take a look at the debts situation. Take a look at the attraction of Marco Island. Paradise time is a long time ago. It is over. Why is the real estate market so extremely hurt? Marco Island losses his attraction and value for to many people. Eddi face the reality. An over extended living community spend money not available anymore and not exists can not survive. Marco Island needs political leader with responsibility, brain and integrity. And visions!!!! outside of the level of a PUTT-PUTT facility or two. Seriousness of political purposes. People like Fay Biles or me. The majority Ed will an attractive and very well financed beautiful Marco Island best managed. Never this Marc Island today. Packed with scandals, mismanagement and political led in the wrong direction. That is not what the majority will Ed. They are tired of Marco Mafia Member (MMM). People tell every day what good is for the people of Marco Island just concerned of their own pockets. Ed - keep your believing. You are a member of the minority of Marco Island. A very small minority. Yesterday people. To much asbestos inhaled people. But I respect your opinion. But I will not change mine opinion against your opinion.
WhiskeyTangoFoxtrot writes:
Instead of Hitler, how about we put an R on the devils forehead and put him on Fox. Same people will vote for him. Must...Beat...Obama!! Even though the outcome of the next 4 years will be the same no matter who is elected.
KlausStoertebeker writes:
Your statement will be not better. An ordinary American has to protest you nationwide. Never on Marco Island.
President Obama is a great guy. With a lot of charismatic. He will be re-elected. No doubt about that.
marcofriend writes:
Just so you all know, the last election was not the "slate" you all mentioned. It was when Magel got voted in under the "bullet" vote by the Marco syndicate, Joe Batte got voted in by the majority of the people, and Charles Keister was re-elected. One can make their own assumptions, but the bullet voting worked for Mr Magel as he would have lost to Ted Forcht, who would have been re-elected, again which shows Marco wants a change from the "same ole" politics handed down by a small group of wealthy men who are control freaks.
Like it or not, the truth is we had a City Councilman who left last time who had lost property through foreclosure on Key Marco, and almost lost his own home. Then our current Council Chair lost his home and was forced to live in a small rented condo, our dentist/lawyer, who is in foreclosure on his personal property along with his business property, and finally our last hold out who is in foreclosure of a home given him by his mother. Remember that these people were put in place by that small group of wealthy men and are making all tax and budget decisions for us. I think the people want people in place that care about the whole island and not just the private agenda group.
That same group of weathy, private men controlling the island love to keep all of the voters divided as it keeps their men in place. I personally think Marco Island voters are much smarter now and will no longer tolerate being led lown a destructive path.
Finally, before someone thinks I have the "private agenda", if anyone runs on a negative attack agenda (whether from the syndicate controled group or the public), I will not vote or support them. The people I made reference to above don't deserve to lose because they have financial troubles, but they don't deserve to win because a sydicate is driving their bus.
KlausStoertebeker writes:
"The people I made reference to above don't deserve to lose because they have financial troubles, but they don't deserve to win because a sydicate is driving their bus."
Your are right. The referendum election was as Trotter was re-elected and Recker, Waldi and Gibbon came in. The last election shows that Marco Island want independent council men or women not reporting to MMM. At least with the re-election of Chuck Kiester, best city councilor unfortunately never got the chair, Marco Islander demonstrated their political maturity. And the last thing Marco islander want is puppets on the string of GOOOOOOOH!!!
lauralbi1 writes:
You know it is hilarious to read how some want to make excuses for candidates that won by what is defined as a Landslide margin. I always like to make my comments germain to the article that I am commenting on. The By-Line for this article is that GOOOOOOOOOOOOOH wants to come up with a slate of candidates that are representative of the majority. The only way that can happen is if their slate gets the majority of votes (this has no come close in past elections). The problem for GOOOOOOOOOH, MITA, Marco Island Homeowners/Propert Owners Association and most of the bloggers (a VERY, VERY small minority of voters) is that starting out their views, for the most part, are not shared by the majority of voters on Marco Island. If that changes, then so be it. But e3lection results, and not some small group of people, are what is dictating the future and direction of Marco Island.
Anyone or any candidate that thinks that GOOOOOOOH is going to be beneficial to winning a seat on the City Council is dreaming. But as I said before, I am very encouraged that it will be easy to identify candidates that that are supported by GOOOOOOOH leading up to the election. As a voter, it will assist very much.
Ed Issler
KlausStoertebeker writes:
So what you say is: Chuck Kiester was re-elected by a minority. How could t he win?
ajm3s writes:
Excellent post!
2themoon writes:
The political lanscape on Marco is vile.
The above post brilliantly illustrates the exact problems we face here. I am outraged as a condo owner the 'line' we were fed by these big shots during the STRP debaucle. We were told if the STRP was shot down the Marco homeowner would win and we the condo owner would lose..what a bunch of horse biscuits! I have seen my utility bills skyrocket since the STRP passed. These clever 'syndicate' members were so 'calculating' in dividing the Condo owner from the homeowner. I live every day enraged by the fact I was duped by these individuals. It will not happen again!
signed,
a very angry
resident the Sands condo complex
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