James Ryan and his wife Lisa like to tell their friends from out of town that they live in “Heaven’s Corners.”
That’s the way they feel about the place they’ve called home for most of their married life.
Hales Corners is “a good place to be in the world,” Ryan said at a ceremony outside Village Hall, which was renamed in his honor.
The Ryans’ four children, their spouses and all the grandchildren were present for the ceremonies.The people who live here have warm feelings for their Village President too, so about 350 showed up this afternoon to pay tribute to the unassuming man who has given the last 28 years of his life to public service.
After brief ceremonies on the east side of Village Hall, a new sign was unveiled, “James R. Ryan Municipal Building.” The Board of Trustees unanimously passed a motion earlier this month to honor Ryan after the long-time Village President announced his decision not to run for re-election in April 2008. Trustee Robert Ruesch told the crowd which gathered under sunny skies that Ryan had presided over 3,456 meetings.
Nobody even thought of running against him in recent years – he’s too popular. Even God couldn’t be guaranteed of election if His name were to appear on the ballot.
Ruesch quoted Trustee Linda Teschendorf who has calls Ryan a “voice for reason.” Even when he doesn’t agree with someone, Ryan is always a “true gentleman.”
One of Ryan’s greatest achievements, according to Ruesch, was doing away with so many various committees and, instead, making decisions as a Committee of the Whole. Ryan also deserves credit for redevelopment in recent years.
Mark Gundrum, State Representative of the 84th District, grew up in Hales Corners and became acquainted with Ryan’s children in school. Gundrum said he doesn’t usually have his family accompany him at public appearances, but today was different. He wanted his children to be present and see this public leader who has earned so much respect.
Later, in his acceptance remarks, Ryan asked everyone to support Gundrum’s family as the legislator is called to Iraq.
In some of the neighboring communities there’s tension and bickering, but not in Hales Corners, Gundrum said. He credits Ryan with the cooperative spirit and goodwill which prevails.
Village Attorney Jesse Wesolowski also had a few words to say. At the last Village Board meeting, Ryan paid him the best comment he’s ever had.
“Thanks for being our champion,” Ryan told Wesolowski. Today Wesolowski returned the compliment verbatim: “Thanks for being our champion,” he told Ryan.
After the unveiling of the new wooden sign, designed by Jerry Ziemer of Design Craft, Ryan had a few words for the crowd before everyone headed downstairs for refreshments and to sign the guest book.
Holding public office is something one never does alone, Ryan said. At the top of his list of supporters is his wife Lisa.
“To do this work was an honor for me,” Ryan said. “Many people who get elected to public office believe they gain 30 additional IQ points,” Ryan said.
What they need to remember is that it is a relationship between themselves and the people they serve. There is no place in government for arrogance. The effective public servant behaves humanly to everyone, whether he agrees with them or not. He makes decisions based on ethics and values, and he understands the importance of teamwork.
Continuing with the teamwork analogy, Ryan commended Village Administrator Mike Weber. “He’s been my Most Valuable Player – my MVP,” Ryan said.
As the outdoor ceremonies ended dozens of people raised red hearts overhead – their sign of love for the man who has served almost 20 years as Village President.
For more information:
Journal Sentinel story on Jim Ryan
Community Newspapers' story
