George,

There has rarely been a more dedicated public servant than Blake Caravati. He comes prepared to discuss issues, is quick to respond to his constituents concerns, and for the last 20 years in Charlottesville, has served on numerous board and commissions.

Whether it is housing, city planning, offender restitution, parks, services to low income citizens or budgeting, Blake has the experience to understand and reach a decision on these issues. And best of all, while serving with him on a number of committees, I know that he does it with a ready smile and great sense of humor.

Bern Ewert, too, has devoted most of his life to the public realm. Early on he worked here as our Deputy City Manager, helping to create the Downtown Mall, the McGuffey Art Center, workforce integration of Blacks and women, housing rehabilitation and planning for human services.

Among other positions, he continued his career as City Manager of Roanoke and County Executive of Prince William County. Now he consults on urban and rural planning and development.

As the first teacher of his son, I have worked with Bern for over thirty years. Knowing him as well as I do, I asked, "With all of your experience and innovative ideas, will you dominate City Council and not compromise?" He said, "Peggy, I like to get things done and I know I can not unless at least two other people agree with me."

Peggy Van Yahres (electronic mail, February 18, 2002)