text: _"Perhaps the man from Austin who also submitted an application is still available."_ -- Frank1
  
  Oh that brings back painful memories. I was in some kind of "citizens interview" group when the three candidates did a pitch and Q&A.
   
  It was obvious that Ruiz had been coached on "Eugene-speak" (which I later found out was indeed true, and Hugh and Sue Prichard had been his coach and "handler.")
  
  The guy from Austin was, to some, and "uninspiring" candidate. Thing is, his professionalism and experience were clear, if "uninspiring."
  
  As the crowd exited, Don Kahle was at my side. He said "That was a 'no-brainer'," and I agreed (thinking the guy from Austin). Then Kahle said "Ruiz is a perfect match for Eugene."
  
  Ever since, for way too many years, Ruiz has had one mission -- to not be caught-out as completely over his head and incompetent to "manage" our city.
  
  But he and Piercy serve each other's purposes well, and so it goes.
  
  -- Paul