More on the Pledge of Allegiance

Priscilla, a decorahnews.com reader, e-mails Mr. Answer Person: "There is an excellent Vision Statement on the City of Decorah home page. Since I don't believe the City Council is planning to overthrow our government and thus needs to reaffirm their commitment by the Pledge I do want them to adhere to the Decorah Vision Statement I suggest the Vision Statement be read at the beginning of each meeting by Mr. Arendt and be a integral part of all deliberations."

Mr. Answer Person says: Here's the vision statement Priscilla refers to: "TO PROVIDE, in partnership with the community, an outstanding City in which to live, work, play and visit.  TO PROVIDE quality service in an efficient, effective manner.  TO IMPROVE the livability of our community through personal dedication, integrity, accountability, innovation and sensitivity.  TO ENSURE an even better community for future generations.

This is a wonderful Vision Statement, which certainly could be read in addition to reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.  But if you're suggesting this should replace the Pledge of Allegiance, I think you'd have a tough time convincing the majority of the Decorah City Council to do that.

It reminds Mr. Answer Person of the words to that old song:
"You don't tug on Superman's cape
You don't spit into the wind
You don't pull the mask off that old Lone Ranger
And you don't mess around with the Pledge of Allegiance."