Romer's run told in tales fond, bitter
Dick Kreck
Denver Post Staff Writer
Sunday, May 30, 2004
One of the most outspoken and controversial governors in Colorado's history, Roy Romer also made an indelible impression on those who worked around him.
The man who ruled from 1987 to 1999 and is now superintendent of the sprawling Los Angeles Unified School District, is remembered, not always fondly, in "Roy Romer Is Alive and Well and Living in California," reminiscences from 50 former employees, friends and associates, including ex-Gov. Dick Lamm, "Chips" Barry, Cole Finegan, Sue O'Brien, Cindy Parmenter, Ken Salazar and Helen Williams, who also compiled and edited the collection.
They recall his peculiar eating habits, catnaps, love of flying and, most often, his competitiveness and candor.
Romer could be gruff and dismissive. Barry, who was executive director of the Department of Natural Resources and now heads Denver Water, recalled a rafting retreat. "About 100 yards into the excursion the governor looks around ... then exclaims, 'Jesus Christ, doesn't this river move any faster than this?"'
He also would snap at staffers who had spent hours researching an appearance: "So ... what am I doing here and who is the audience?"
Romer nevertheless engendered a fierce loyalty. Those who knew him best admired his ability to listen to all sides, then decide based on his gut. One-time policy director Alan Salazar marveled, "He is a fascinating man and a deeply rewarding person to have as a friend."
Interestingly, there is no reminiscence from B.J. Thornberry, Romer's longtime aide and, it was rumored, much more. The power she wielded is made clear by the number of those noting that major policy questions went through her first.
In addition to being an eyewitness tribute, "Roy Romer" will become a valuable historical look into the inner workings of the governor's office.
