06/20/2020

John Gaccione

Subject: In the Beginning

From: The Memo Desk

Four years ago this month the first “Memo to the Faithful” was posted. It created something of a stir with the status quo folks because of its title, content and use of humor to comment on the political foibles of the KPPCSD Board and in our small village.

A prominent group in our community claiming they controlled 1200 faithful voters inspired the “Memo to the Faithful” idea. How and why just a few people could control a majority block of voters cried out for a response.

The memos were designed as a mash-up of club newsletters, corporate memos, religious tracts and political broadsides. Issued by “Headquarters” and later the “Executive Steering Committee” the memos outlined the correct position the faithful should espouse on hot button issues.

It was an effort to interject some much-needed humor into the mix of harsh political posts. Hard to believe, but over the years there have been over 50 memos posted on ND. (they can be found at: https://kensingtonca.org/humorous-tidbits/ ) Judging by the assortment of replies, the memos succeeded in generating a few lighter moments in otherwise contentious political exchanges.

Not all of the replies were positive. Critics opined that satire and humor had absolutely no place in political exchanges. Objections were raised suggesting the memos were disrespectful and used shaming. Clearly the memos did not amuse the folks supporting status quo views.

Thankfully many things have changed over the past four years. Change has come to the KPPCSD with the separation of the COP/GM positions, improved accounting, updated administration procedures and four progressive directors.

By far the most significant positive change has been iCOP Simpkins herculean efforts to transform the KPD into a professional department. Can I get an amen?

“Nobody gets irony anymore, as we are now living in the post-ironic age. Once George Bush gets a library, our irony is dead.” (Eric Idle)