Appearing at a scheduled press conference beneath the clock tower in the market square, the Governor stepped up to the podium to speak.
~~
Good afternoon.
A year ago in May, the citizens of this city hired me to do a job, to lead this city. My opponents at that time, prominent citizens of the city, engaged in much of the same rhetoric that you are hearing this year, from new opponents.
There were saber-rattlers and those who insisted that city services could only be improved by instating taxes, or by expanding the bureaucracy of the city to effect changes that were - honestly - oppressive and intrusive upon the freedoms and personal lives of the everyday citizen of Rhydin. I said then, and I say it again, that this city does not need that kind of leadership.
During the past year, I have made it my job to prove that we could come together as a community to improve the quality of life in this town, to enjoy the privileges of freedom - and the responsibility that comes with it - without creating a cumbersome and costly administrative infrastructure. We have enjoyed many successes from our efforts. I am very proud of what we have accomplished, including:
" The institution of the Governor's Advisory Council - a volunteer body that meets publicly to debate community issues, provide a voice for the people of this city in the governing of this city, and create an array of opportunities for everyone;
" A massive community response to the RBF crisis, including creation of a network of response teams and health clinics - both physical and magical;
" Establishment of a public calendar and recognition of 13 distinctly RhyDinian holidays, including a week-long celebration and promotion of the Duels;
" Institution of the Governor's Service Medal program, recognizing local heroes, and the annual Special Service Recognition awards for Founders, Hosts and Duel callers;
" Participation of the city government in the Fair Labor Agreement, taking a public stand against economic support of the business of slavery;
" Creation of the Small Business Relief Fund and establishment of a private network of investors willing to provide start-up capital to new ventures;
" Refurbishment of the Welcome Center network and expansion to include the promotion of tourism in RhyDin;
" Strengthening and expansion of the coordinated network of private security teams working in collaboration with the local Watch houses and the RASG; and
" My personal support, participation and attendance at numerous community events - both those sponsored and hosted by the city and those sponsored privately.
What have we done this past year" A tremendous amount. But there is more to be done and I believe that together, we can accomplish even greater successes. I ask for your show of confidence, and your support, in the coming elections.
Thank you.
