Wife makes pitch for her husband, Shock, the candidate
Letter to the Editor,
I would like to introduce you to Michael Shock, Libby City Council candidate, my husband and my best friend.
Running for election can be nasty, with many accusations, assumptions, rumors, unkind remarks, etc., but I speak to you from experience of daily living with Michael for 20 years. Of course, I’m biased, but who knows one better than the mate of 24/7?
He is honest and has made an extreme effort to run a clean, above-board campaign. Despite a few “trick” phone calls and individuals’ goading conversations, he has not “bashed” any other candidates.
He has stated his disagreements and criticisms but not in a demeaning way. His campaign has been “run on a shoestring” and funded totally by us – no contributions from anyone – just some positive verbal support from some very fine folks. He has no ties to any government agency, no conflict of interest and no obligation to any contributor, individual or organization. He will only be true to the taxpayer of Libby.
Despite untrue allegations of aligning him with a present and past councilor, he thinks, speaks and acts his own mind and words. He does take time to talk to everyone who is respectful whether he agrees or not, because, he says, “I am not afraid of anyone who doesn’t agree with me, I just might learn something.”
He is open-minded, non-judgmental and slow to react without having all the facts. He tries to look at all aspects of an issue with fairness. For someone as opinionated as I am, that trait can be frustrating— and it surely provides for some rather heated discussions at our house.
His experience includes many years of working with city/street and water departments as well as having a vast knowledge of construction and plumbing terms and codes (something the present council lacks). He also has seven years of work in providing for the elderly and disabled, so he understands their needs. He understands the plight of those on fixed incomes and the choices they must make, because we are on a fixed income, ourselves.
There are many major issues facing a new council: Water and sewer rates, which will undoubtedly increase (the present council has already indicated that); construction of the Flower Creek dam; many unfinished water, street and sidewalk projects; construction of a new street and sidewalk on Balsam Street from the bridge to the elementary school; and many others. Michael is equipped to meet the challenge, and he knows some will be unpleasant.
Michael is here to stay. He has no plans to move out of town or travel extensively. He is here for you. I’m going to vote for Michael – I wish you would, too.
— Anita Shock
Libby