Editor, Times-Union: I want to share some thoughts about Dave Baumgartner, candidate at-large for the Warsaw City Council. Dave has been a close personal friend of mine for at least five decades. Our friendship began in elementary school when my father and I visited Dave and his family one evening to offer our condolences upon the death of his mother. Dave is one of the hardest working people I have ever known. Throughout his adult life he has nurtured an entrepreneurial spirit, trying many different “second” and “third” jobs in addition to his profession of teaching. He is an especially optimistic man. He is a great conversationalist who is able to listen as well as express himself. Dave’s ability to motivate others has been demonstrated time and again throughout his teaching career. If Dave is given a task, one can be sure it will be accomplished. Dave has a passion for Warsaw. If elected, he will work tirelessly on your behalf. He is loyal to a fault. I understand that there are other individuals who are bright, hard-working, personable people running for these seats on your city council. What makes Dave different is the fact that he is able to disagree peacefully. He will argue forcefully for what he believes in, but once a decision is made he will have no grudges or enemies and will give his all for the good of the group. In over 50 years I have never had a personal crisis in which Dave was not one of the first present to offer his help and a word of encouragement. As a community pharmacist and (retired) pastor, I know what it takes to work effectively in a group for the common good. I feel strongly that Dave Baumgartner has the requisite skills and nature to do the job effectively. I encourage the citizens of Warsaw to turn out and vote for the election of Dave Baumgartner to your city council. Tom Speicher Milford
