Date: Thu, 27 Mar 2014 15:52:01 -0400
From: leela ellis
Subject: Norman Clark
Years ago I was working on campus when a very aware, intelligent, and centered man approached my desk and told me that he was with the fire department and it was time for them to do an inspection of the many-storied building where I was working. The man’s name was Norman Clark. Many lives lived, slept, and worked in the building where I worked. Captain Norman took the time that was needed to truly listen to the people who spoke with him. He took the time to truly inspect and work with those who maintained the building. He was intelligent, kind, focused and aware of the needs and importance of his work and the needs of the people who were impacted by his presence and his responsibilities. Although many years have passed since that 1996 encounter, I still remember thinking, “thank God there are people like him who work to help make the lives of the public safer”. I still remember thinking that if I were involved in a fire or any kind of difficult situation, it would make my heart and soul happy to look up and see that the situation was being handled by a man with that kind of integrity, presence of mind, intelligence, true kindness, and compassion.
Hmmmm …. I read today in the Chatham Chatlist that a man by the name of Norm Clark will be running for Commissioner. Is it the same man I remember? If so, he is older now. He may be disabled and currently unable to carry me or others from a burning building, but I don’t think that a mind, an intelligence, a responsible presence, an aware kindness like his — I don’t think those qualities ever get “disabled”. I think the proper words are “better and wiser”. If it is the Norm Clark I remember who served us all as Captain of Chapel Hill Fire Department, I will surely vote for him as Chatham County Comissioner. And I will strongly encourage others to support and vote for Norm Clark to serve us as Commissioner.