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the gad-fly cometh, it cometh from the north

from the wikipedia)

In modern and local politics, gadfly is a term used to describe someone who persistently challenges people in positions of power, the status quo or a popular position. The word may be uttered in a pejorative sense, while at the same time be accepted as a description of honorable work or civic duty

The first time I was called a Gadfly in print it was by John Pope in the Times Picayune a number of my friends and other local activists took this to be an insult.

With a last name like mine you get called a lot of things, in my childhood I was called Gabby Gadbois, in spite of the fact I was actually a pretty quiet child. I myself would have preferred to be associated with Guy Gadbois a Jerk of all Trades so to speak.

When Adam Nossiter of the NYT employed the phrase I took a little time to look deeper into the etymology of the phrase.

And I don’t think anyone would like to be classified as a horse fly but with in the current state of the recovery here in New Orleans pestering has reached an art form.

Last night I was given a certificate of recognition by the Carrollton United, I was surprised that the woman who introduced me read aloud the description of gadfly and that everyone in the room nodded in agreement that what this City needs is more gadflys.

Well I think we have them and they are all over the place. Some with higher profiles than others but if you listen you can hear them, see them and feel them.

Let us know who you think deserves to be recognized for their ability to be a Gadfly.

Tags: , gadfly, karen
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  • Innovative people build resilient cities. In New Orleans, and across the Gulf Coast, individuals have been making the difference, when governments and public agencies have proven ineffective in addressing the enormous challenges facing the city. What have emerged are tenacious, solution-seeking people not afraid to question common wisdom, challenge accepted practices, and advocate for policies and programs that better serve the needs and aspirations of the citizens of the city. For a definition of gadfly, click here)

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