I spend a lot of time in book stores--I love books! Usually I spend most of that time in the American History/Political Science/Biography sections. Too often I see book after book by either a conservative or liberal writer--slamming the other side! Titles like "Why Liberals Are Stupid" or "Conservatives Are Nazis" or "How Liberals Are Destroying Our Nation" or "How Conservatives Are Selling Us Out" and the list goes on and on and on! Most of these books rarely offer well thought out solutions as well as ideas and ideals on how to solve our nation's problems. They just attack the other side, make fun of them, call them un-American and basically they raise the level of hate in this country!
Sadly, I never see titles like "How We Can All Come Together And Rebuild Our Nation" or "Out With Partisanship And In With Unity" or "Bridging The Partisan Divide." Such titles of such books, simply would not be as juicy and would not play to the base of the two major political parties. Such titles don't get people as stirred up and whipped into a frenzy. The purpose these days in politics and political leadership--is rarely to inspire and motivate people to go make a difference and invest in their nation, state, and community. Instead, more bridges keep being burned and ideas and ideals matter less and less and high toned rhetoric carries the day--while often NOTHING USEFUL gets done for the people! Sam Rayburn once said "Any jackass can kick down a barn."
But we can change that!
I'm not against the two party system. However, I am against extremism and I am against putting party politics before national and community needs! The average American does not care about the ins and outs of party politics. They don't care about making a precinct meeting or a senatorial district convention. However, many of these same folks do vote, they pay taxes, they go to jury duty, and they work and contribute to society! I think President Nixon called such folks "The Silent Majority." These hard working families don't want to hear about President Obama being called the "Anti-Christ" or a "Communist" anymore than they want to hear about some of Sarah Palin's personal life issues or how her daughter's ex-boyfriend is running for mayor in her hometown.
They want to hear about what we are gonna do about strengthening the economy. They want to hear how we will remain safe abroad and at home. They want to see unhealthy immigration tempered and changed instead of a war of hate and words between the Governor of Arizona and Obama Justice Department. They want to see an end to entitlements and unhealthy/enabling of welfare--without hurting families who really do need help.
And in the community, we want to hear about how we will finance and then execute repairing streets and old water utilities infrastructure, storm drains, better public safety, and how to avoid cutting needed local programs during tight budgets.
We can do all those things and more and do them well! If we move beyond the heated and hateful rhetoric of the current partisan divide! Republicans and Democrats don't have to give up all their core values to be willing to work together and get things done. Campaigning for reelection should start the next day after the election. WHEN DO WE GET DOWN TO GOVERNING?
I've never been a big fan of Newt Gingrich--but at least he writes books that offers well thought out solutions and ways of making things better from his vantage point--that are not just political attack books! Lets start debating methods and strategies of how we should fix problems and not hate each other because we just don't agree!
If conservatives and liberals started talking more and getting to know each other, they might find a lot of areas they agree on. And many of us who don't consider ourselves in either category, get tired of being lumped into one or the other because of certain positions we may have on the issues. I am pro-life and anti-gay marraige--but that does not make me a hater of people who don't agree with me on those issues. I believe there are some areas that government needs to play a part in, when a major financial collapse is about to take place--but that does not make me a socialist. And no matter where my views are, I don't have to have my way on everything--and many of our members of Congress need to learn that they can't have their way on everything--that they may one day have to actually compromise and work together to get something needed done for the people!
We need to lower the degree of harshness and intenseness. We need to stop questioning each other's motives and suggesting that those who may disagree with us are just bad people!
Both George W. Bush and Barack Obama both promised to "change the tone" in Washington. But reality is, under both presidents--we are more divided than we've ever been! Let us learn to sit down at the table of brotherhood and actually learn from each other and consider each other's views. What do we have to lose? ITS TIME TO CHANGE THE TONE!
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Saturday, July 31, 2010
SEEKING COMMON GROUND
In my quest and desire to encourage Democrats and Republicans to sit down and listen to each other more, to emphathize more, and get better at questioning differing policies and views while not questioning each other's motives--I will say I have A LONG WAYS TO GO! But thats ok--I persevere because our nation, state, and community is worth the effort!
Recently I challenged the presidents of the Mesquite Republican and Democratic Clubs to sit down with each other and look to find common ground--and for their respective clubs to sit down once a year and break bread together and to participate in a community project together. This has not happened yet, but I will keep urging such communication and efforts.
There are great needs and challenges our nation and communities face! There is nothing wrong with citizens having differing views and opposing ideas. But there is something wrong when problems remain unsolved because those in political power in both major political parties refuse to work together. There was a time when partisanship ended at the water's edge in this country. Today, most Democrats and Republicans in politics--whether elected or not elected--DON'T EVEN KNOW EACH OTHER!!! Thats sad!
Let us remember, that in many of our nation's previous wars--many Democrats and Republicans fought side by side and gave their lives on the battlefield because they both loved their nation, they both loved freedom, and they both believed in the Constitution--though they may have had some differing politcal views.
We would do good to follow in their footsteps! Learning to find common ground and work together to do the people's business--doesn't mean we have to give up our core beliefs and values or compromise on principle. But it does mean we have to listen to each other, try to empathize with one another, and care about the common good of the nation and our communities before partisan politics.
We are a good and great nation. We can do better! I believe our greatest days are ahead! But we have to stop shouting at each other and hating each other and start listening and caring for one another.
God bless the United States of America and all the communities within our nation.
Recently I challenged the presidents of the Mesquite Republican and Democratic Clubs to sit down with each other and look to find common ground--and for their respective clubs to sit down once a year and break bread together and to participate in a community project together. This has not happened yet, but I will keep urging such communication and efforts.
There are great needs and challenges our nation and communities face! There is nothing wrong with citizens having differing views and opposing ideas. But there is something wrong when problems remain unsolved because those in political power in both major political parties refuse to work together. There was a time when partisanship ended at the water's edge in this country. Today, most Democrats and Republicans in politics--whether elected or not elected--DON'T EVEN KNOW EACH OTHER!!! Thats sad!
Let us remember, that in many of our nation's previous wars--many Democrats and Republicans fought side by side and gave their lives on the battlefield because they both loved their nation, they both loved freedom, and they both believed in the Constitution--though they may have had some differing politcal views.
We would do good to follow in their footsteps! Learning to find common ground and work together to do the people's business--doesn't mean we have to give up our core beliefs and values or compromise on principle. But it does mean we have to listen to each other, try to empathize with one another, and care about the common good of the nation and our communities before partisan politics.
We are a good and great nation. We can do better! I believe our greatest days are ahead! But we have to stop shouting at each other and hating each other and start listening and caring for one another.
God bless the United States of America and all the communities within our nation.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
WHY SO LITTLE GETS DONE
Happy Independence Day everyone! We often see on the news shows, how there is so much fighting and ugliness in Congress and how so often when important issues are on the table that our nation desperately needs results on--OFTEN NOTHING GETS DONE!
I believe deeply, that it is because all we do is shout and hate and close our minds and really don't much care about our fellow citizens and our nation--we just want what we want and to hell with everyone else! No, I don't think this is reflective of everyone in politics--but it is indeed a problem our nation faces.
Whether it is financial reform, healthcare, foreign policy, campaign finance reform, immigration reform to name a few--often nothing gets done because each side has too much of an "ALL OR NOTHING ATTITITUDE!"
All throughout our nation's history, there has always been partisan wrangling and tough fights--dating back really to just a short time into Washington's first term--as he bitterly fought having political parties--but by 1800--it was a reality. The famous and controversial election of 1800 put party politics squarely before the nation with Jefferson and Madison's Democratic Republicans versus Adams and Hamilton's Federalists (although Adams and Hamiliton hated each other.)
But whether it was Whigs working with Democratic President Polk in the war with Mexico or War Democrats working with Republican President Lincoln during the Civil War or Democrats like Senate Majority Leader Lyndon Johnson and House Speaker Sam Rayburn working with a Republican President Dwight Eisenhower to build a national highway system--often both sides have worked together to get things done for our nation and its people! Not so much so today.
I believe the first thing that needs to change--is that partsian politics needs to take a step back! I am not suggesting that we end the two party system per say. But for sure--THE TWO PARTIES NEED TO START TALKING MORE ABOUT WHAT THEY CAN AGREE ON AND WHAT THEY CAN ACCOMPLISH TOGETHER INSTEAD OF CONSTANTLY FOCUSING ON THE NEXT ELECTION!!!!!
For this to happen, cooler heads of wisdom and calm leadership need to push out the extremists in both parties. Former Senator Barry Goldwater though a great American--was simply wrong when he said at the 1964 GOP National Convention "Extremism in the defense of Liberty is no vice." Anytime we have to yell and hate each other--that is too extreme! The nation gets hurt when that happens! The "Tea Partyers" who are cozied up to the Republican Party and the "Greens" and "Ultra Left Wingers" who cozy up to the Democratic Party both ultimately hurt the debate on important issues. This whole "NO COMPROMISE" thing both sides have going--IS NOT AMERICAN! Such is not the precedent of the rich and great history of our nation! And let me add--that the old days of often times not being able to tell the difference between a Republican or Democratic politician when it comes to both selling out to special interests is not what we are looking for either!
And whether its George W. Bush or Barack Obama, if those presidents are not doing anything that is impeachable or illegal--then making statements like "they should be removed from office" or other hateful statements really just hurt the nation! We should always still respect the office, even if we don't like the man. I often did not agree with President Bush's domestic policies and a few of his foreign policy decisions--but he was always "my" president. The first 9 months of his presidency, I was pretty irritated with him--but on the days following 9/11--I loved him and prayed for him daily! I don't always agree with President Obama, but he is our president and has incredibly difficult decisions to make daily and he walked into office with a very complex and difficult set of national problems--and he needs our prayers and support. Support does not mean agreeing with him all the time, but it does mean toning down the hate and rhetoric. Same to those who are beyond the "Moderate Democrat" label--but who are far left to the core--bashing and making fun of Americans who are conservative in their religious and moral values and have deep beliefs on issues like abortion and same sex marraige--lets tone down the harshness and disrespect. There are many good citizens who vote more Republican and conservative who are not out in the streets shouting racial epitaphs or throwing bricks into windows like we recently saw at some of the Tea Party rallies.
Whether a politician is a Republican or a Democrat, both should be men or women of the highest integrity, be Americans first, and look out for the interests of their constituents before the wishes of their political party. Which means at some point, we are going to have to really get serious about doing something about campaign finance reform. At some point, we need to level the playing field of political campaigns. From the way we gerry mander to the way campaigns are financed, too often congressional and state legislative races are usually a foregone conclusion of who will win simply because of how the districts are written and where the money comes from.
What if we had a system in place, where campaign money was publicly financed (it could be paid for in a way that does not hurt taxpayers)--where the top two candidates are given a budget of equal amounts and those candidates actually have to really work neighborhoods, go to local debates and forums and share their beliefs and ideas with voters--instead of everything being done with slick mail and tv ads?
And with regards to everyone shouting at each other--what if both major polical parties--made a committment to start talking to each other more? What if starting at the top--the National Republican and Democratic Party leadership met at least once a year to talk about issues they could agree on and work together on? What if then the leaders of each of the state party leaderships on both sides met at least once a year to do the same? What if then all the local county and municipal party leaderships or clubs started meeting at least once a year to discuss needs of the community where they could work together?
What if in Mesquite, Texas--the local Republican Club sat down and broke bread with the local Democratic Club at least once a year--and committed to working together on a local project where there was a real need that needed to be met? Maybe helping Mesquite Social Services or helping some of our poorest kids have back to school supplies or helping widows whose homes are in disrepair? And what if in that time, friendships were made and people from very differing political and other views began to at least understand each other a little better and could find some areas of common ground that would ultimately better our community, state, and nation?
Is that such a crazy thought?
Lets have a conversation.
I believe deeply, that it is because all we do is shout and hate and close our minds and really don't much care about our fellow citizens and our nation--we just want what we want and to hell with everyone else! No, I don't think this is reflective of everyone in politics--but it is indeed a problem our nation faces.
Whether it is financial reform, healthcare, foreign policy, campaign finance reform, immigration reform to name a few--often nothing gets done because each side has too much of an "ALL OR NOTHING ATTITITUDE!"
All throughout our nation's history, there has always been partisan wrangling and tough fights--dating back really to just a short time into Washington's first term--as he bitterly fought having political parties--but by 1800--it was a reality. The famous and controversial election of 1800 put party politics squarely before the nation with Jefferson and Madison's Democratic Republicans versus Adams and Hamilton's Federalists (although Adams and Hamiliton hated each other.)
But whether it was Whigs working with Democratic President Polk in the war with Mexico or War Democrats working with Republican President Lincoln during the Civil War or Democrats like Senate Majority Leader Lyndon Johnson and House Speaker Sam Rayburn working with a Republican President Dwight Eisenhower to build a national highway system--often both sides have worked together to get things done for our nation and its people! Not so much so today.
I believe the first thing that needs to change--is that partsian politics needs to take a step back! I am not suggesting that we end the two party system per say. But for sure--THE TWO PARTIES NEED TO START TALKING MORE ABOUT WHAT THEY CAN AGREE ON AND WHAT THEY CAN ACCOMPLISH TOGETHER INSTEAD OF CONSTANTLY FOCUSING ON THE NEXT ELECTION!!!!!
For this to happen, cooler heads of wisdom and calm leadership need to push out the extremists in both parties. Former Senator Barry Goldwater though a great American--was simply wrong when he said at the 1964 GOP National Convention "Extremism in the defense of Liberty is no vice." Anytime we have to yell and hate each other--that is too extreme! The nation gets hurt when that happens! The "Tea Partyers" who are cozied up to the Republican Party and the "Greens" and "Ultra Left Wingers" who cozy up to the Democratic Party both ultimately hurt the debate on important issues. This whole "NO COMPROMISE" thing both sides have going--IS NOT AMERICAN! Such is not the precedent of the rich and great history of our nation! And let me add--that the old days of often times not being able to tell the difference between a Republican or Democratic politician when it comes to both selling out to special interests is not what we are looking for either!
And whether its George W. Bush or Barack Obama, if those presidents are not doing anything that is impeachable or illegal--then making statements like "they should be removed from office" or other hateful statements really just hurt the nation! We should always still respect the office, even if we don't like the man. I often did not agree with President Bush's domestic policies and a few of his foreign policy decisions--but he was always "my" president. The first 9 months of his presidency, I was pretty irritated with him--but on the days following 9/11--I loved him and prayed for him daily! I don't always agree with President Obama, but he is our president and has incredibly difficult decisions to make daily and he walked into office with a very complex and difficult set of national problems--and he needs our prayers and support. Support does not mean agreeing with him all the time, but it does mean toning down the hate and rhetoric. Same to those who are beyond the "Moderate Democrat" label--but who are far left to the core--bashing and making fun of Americans who are conservative in their religious and moral values and have deep beliefs on issues like abortion and same sex marraige--lets tone down the harshness and disrespect. There are many good citizens who vote more Republican and conservative who are not out in the streets shouting racial epitaphs or throwing bricks into windows like we recently saw at some of the Tea Party rallies.
Whether a politician is a Republican or a Democrat, both should be men or women of the highest integrity, be Americans first, and look out for the interests of their constituents before the wishes of their political party. Which means at some point, we are going to have to really get serious about doing something about campaign finance reform. At some point, we need to level the playing field of political campaigns. From the way we gerry mander to the way campaigns are financed, too often congressional and state legislative races are usually a foregone conclusion of who will win simply because of how the districts are written and where the money comes from.
What if we had a system in place, where campaign money was publicly financed (it could be paid for in a way that does not hurt taxpayers)--where the top two candidates are given a budget of equal amounts and those candidates actually have to really work neighborhoods, go to local debates and forums and share their beliefs and ideas with voters--instead of everything being done with slick mail and tv ads?
And with regards to everyone shouting at each other--what if both major polical parties--made a committment to start talking to each other more? What if starting at the top--the National Republican and Democratic Party leadership met at least once a year to talk about issues they could agree on and work together on? What if then the leaders of each of the state party leaderships on both sides met at least once a year to do the same? What if then all the local county and municipal party leaderships or clubs started meeting at least once a year to discuss needs of the community where they could work together?
What if in Mesquite, Texas--the local Republican Club sat down and broke bread with the local Democratic Club at least once a year--and committed to working together on a local project where there was a real need that needed to be met? Maybe helping Mesquite Social Services or helping some of our poorest kids have back to school supplies or helping widows whose homes are in disrepair? And what if in that time, friendships were made and people from very differing political and other views began to at least understand each other a little better and could find some areas of common ground that would ultimately better our community, state, and nation?
Is that such a crazy thought?
Lets have a conversation.
Monday, June 14, 2010
CHANGING AMERICA BY CHANGING OUR COMMUNITIES
We as individuals may not be able to have a lot of direct influence on what goes on in Washington. We may not be able to stop or start health care legislation. We may not be able to determine whether or not we will have financial reform on Wall Street. We may not able to determine how foreign policy will be ran. Now I am not saying we as American citizens and voters do not have a say--but typically it has to be a pretty big collective say.
What we can do however to make our nation better--is go to work to change and better the municipalities and towns in which we live. In Mesquite, Texas where I have lived since I was a small boy, we have a wonderful city. Many of my friends I grew up with who have since left Mesquite after high school--would surely have to admit that in many ways--Mesquite was good to them. Mesquite has certainly been good to me. Scripture teaches us that to those who have been given much, much is expected. And while Mesquite is still the wonderful city it was when I was a boy growing up--its not without its challenges and struggles!
We just had a very heated city council race. And while I did not like the outcome of that race, I am glad that people felt the need to actually get out and vote. Sadly though, we can barely get 2000 votes in a city of a 140,000 plus people with over 75, 000 registered voters I believe. (My figures could be a bit off). And that kind of apathy, shows us just why we have the problems we do in Mesquite--APATHY!!!! And even those who vote--often times have apathy--but just expecting the elected officials and the city staff to take care of everything--and taking no responsibility themselves for addressing problems and needs our city has.
I am so proud of the partnership between The Mesquite Ministerial Alliance and the City of Mesquite in their "Addressing Mesquite" day each year! Where Christians go out with the help of the City, to help fix up homes that are in need of repair and clean up. What is stopping churches all over town from doing this more without having to wait for a special day to do it?
What is stopping citizens from starting crime watches in their neighborhoods--and not just rely on the police department? When we ban together in numbers, we have power! The Mesquite Police Department has a great set of community officers that help start crime watch programs!
What is stopping each Mesquite resident from taking advantage of the City's Recycling Program and helping the environment and helping the City make a little money which in turn helps off set costs when the city's budget is tigher than ever due to the slowly healing but still struggling economy?
What is stopping each Mesquite resident from volunteering in a number of worthy endeavors such as PTA or local charities like Mesquite Social Services or Sharing Life? Or my church, At The Cross is always looking for volunteers to help and serve the poor and the forgotten of Mesquite!
What is stopping more Mesquite residents from applying for positions on some of our local city boards and commissions? It is a great way to help our city goverment and to better learn how the various city departments work.
What is stopping more business owners from joining the Mesquite Chamber of Commerce, a wonderful organization that helps keep our local economy strong?
What is stopping us from getting more proactive in stopping crime and ugliness at places like Town East Mall, where many of our citizens will no longer shop? For us to enjoy our nice parks, our police and fire protection, potholes being fixed and more--we need every nickel, dime, and quarter from our sales tax revenue--and TERA (Town East Retail Area) is a very critical part of our tax base.
These are but a few things we can do to better our city and ultimately, the quality of life of our families.
Yes, lets get more involved in our local elections. Yes lets communicate more with our local elected officials. BUT LETS EACH OF US--ROLL UP OUR SLEEVES AND GO TO WORK AND DO WHAT WE CAN TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Whose ready to join me and go to work to better our city?
What we can do however to make our nation better--is go to work to change and better the municipalities and towns in which we live. In Mesquite, Texas where I have lived since I was a small boy, we have a wonderful city. Many of my friends I grew up with who have since left Mesquite after high school--would surely have to admit that in many ways--Mesquite was good to them. Mesquite has certainly been good to me. Scripture teaches us that to those who have been given much, much is expected. And while Mesquite is still the wonderful city it was when I was a boy growing up--its not without its challenges and struggles!
We just had a very heated city council race. And while I did not like the outcome of that race, I am glad that people felt the need to actually get out and vote. Sadly though, we can barely get 2000 votes in a city of a 140,000 plus people with over 75, 000 registered voters I believe. (My figures could be a bit off). And that kind of apathy, shows us just why we have the problems we do in Mesquite--APATHY!!!! And even those who vote--often times have apathy--but just expecting the elected officials and the city staff to take care of everything--and taking no responsibility themselves for addressing problems and needs our city has.
I am so proud of the partnership between The Mesquite Ministerial Alliance and the City of Mesquite in their "Addressing Mesquite" day each year! Where Christians go out with the help of the City, to help fix up homes that are in need of repair and clean up. What is stopping churches all over town from doing this more without having to wait for a special day to do it?
What is stopping citizens from starting crime watches in their neighborhoods--and not just rely on the police department? When we ban together in numbers, we have power! The Mesquite Police Department has a great set of community officers that help start crime watch programs!
What is stopping each Mesquite resident from taking advantage of the City's Recycling Program and helping the environment and helping the City make a little money which in turn helps off set costs when the city's budget is tigher than ever due to the slowly healing but still struggling economy?
What is stopping each Mesquite resident from volunteering in a number of worthy endeavors such as PTA or local charities like Mesquite Social Services or Sharing Life? Or my church, At The Cross is always looking for volunteers to help and serve the poor and the forgotten of Mesquite!
What is stopping more Mesquite residents from applying for positions on some of our local city boards and commissions? It is a great way to help our city goverment and to better learn how the various city departments work.
What is stopping more business owners from joining the Mesquite Chamber of Commerce, a wonderful organization that helps keep our local economy strong?
What is stopping us from getting more proactive in stopping crime and ugliness at places like Town East Mall, where many of our citizens will no longer shop? For us to enjoy our nice parks, our police and fire protection, potholes being fixed and more--we need every nickel, dime, and quarter from our sales tax revenue--and TERA (Town East Retail Area) is a very critical part of our tax base.
These are but a few things we can do to better our city and ultimately, the quality of life of our families.
Yes, lets get more involved in our local elections. Yes lets communicate more with our local elected officials. BUT LETS EACH OF US--ROLL UP OUR SLEEVES AND GO TO WORK AND DO WHAT WE CAN TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Whose ready to join me and go to work to better our city?
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Why The Mesquite City Council Runoff Is So Important
I have worked in many campaigns over the years and was a candidate for public office twice--but I didn't win! :) Never has an election been more important for the future of Mesquite. I am going to try to really explain here why I believe it is so important that we elect Gary Ward to be our next city councilman.
We face unparalleled times economically and socially. Our city's life blood, retail, is not what it once was when people were spending and times were good. We work and labor continuously to bring in manufacturing and companies who will bring in revenue and jobs--but like the rest of America--companies are not investing a lot these days. Although nationally, I think we are slowly turning a corner. Pockets of our city's youth lack guidance and the mentoring they need to not just be successful, but to not become a drain on our community. Section 8 housing has put a real burden on neighborhoods. (Not all section 8 residents, but enough are not working to be contributing citizens to make things tough). We have a wonderful police department that requires the highest standards of its officers--and they are doing great work--but crime is such that they surely have their work cut out for them. Our neighborhoods need strong and efficient crime watch programs back in place to partner with the police. We have out of state slum landlords who don't take care of their properties or don't hold their tenants accountable. And these slumlords give a bad name to many of our local business owners who own rental properties who do play by the rules.
These are but a few of the many opportunities and challenges our city faces. Never has their been a time when strong leadership, experience and a track record of accomplishments for the community been more paramount than now!
I have heard a handful of very well meaning friends say they want to see more youth on the city council. I value that statement. When I was 19, my best friend ran for city council and I mangaged his campaign. When I was 29, I ran for a seat in the Texas Legislature. No one better appreciates such statements as me. However, while youthful vigor and energy are important--even youthful city council candidates need to have at least some civic involvement and leadership experience. When I ran for State Representative, I had served on the City Planning and Zoning Commission, Historic Mesquite Inc., was active in the Chamber of Commerce, served on a PTA board and managed a multi-million dollar business. I was young, but I had a track record of doing what I said I would do. Youth and new blood is wonderful! But we don't just turn the keys to city hall over to someone who happens to be young and one day just decides they want to be a councilman!
Leaders need to have been tested. Leaders need to have done something productive and useful for the community besides just having made money. Leaders need to have a track record of being consistent and steadfast. We need to know something about their record, what they stand for, how they might conduct themselves as an elected official.
I don't doubt that Brian Hutcheson is a well meaning young man. But the challenges Mesquite faces requires MUCH more than some good intentions and a fresh face. The only civic involvement or track record Mr. Hutcheson has--was a fairly recent appointment to the Mesquite Board of Adjustment--a very important decision making board that affects things like carport extensions and such. Mr. Hutcheson attended one meeting--and then resigned?
There are other legitimate concerns about Mr. Hutcheson that have been raised such as a Texas Driver's License that reflects a City of Dallas address? But honestly, my greatest concern is simply--what has he done and what record do we have to look at?
Gary Ward, whether you like him or not personally--has given and served his nation and our city faithfully for over 40 years! When his nation called him to go serve in a very unpopular and painful war in Vietnam, Gary did not hesitate to go serve. And serve he did as a Combat Engineer with the 101st Airborne Division. Gary saw friends lose their lives and struggled because he did not have the skills to help them stay alive. He vowed then that one day he would do work that allowed him to help save people's lives. So when he came home, after doing some construction work for a short period, he went to work for the Mesquite Fire Department. And for almost 37 years Gary rode ambulances and fire engines and dealt with every kind of difficult and unimaginable situation we can imagine--all to protect Mesquite families and save lives. He certainly did not do it for the money. For many years, both our firefighters and police officers had to work second jobs just to take care of their families. Gary's hard work to bring about better working standards and pay for our public safety employees has changed all that today.
In the 1990s, Gary served a term on the MISD Board of Trustees. Some of his fellow trustees and some staff who were opposed to Gary then politically. The first few years I was involved in local politics, I was opposed to Gary politically and there were some hard fought battles. But what I learned back then and what some of those school leaders learned--was that whether you agree with Gary or not--you really can't question that he is passionate about doing what is right for the people of Mesquite. Today, myself and some of those retired school trustees and staff are working hard to elect Gary--because we know he cares deeply about Mesquite and that even if we sometimes disagree with him--we can dialogue with him and have a discussion about what is best--and often compromise and unite to do what needs to be done! Gary is supported by five former Mesquite Mayors--most of whom at one time or another was in a heated battle politically with Gary in the old days. But all of them like me, know there is no better man to have in your corner and who you can work with to get needed things done for Mesquite. Mesquite has no better man to be in our corner than Gary Ward!
Gary is accessible and open to the people. I hosted three different events for Gary recently--where average voters could just ask him any questions they have--including some tough questions--and Gary not only answered their questions--but he really listened to them and took their ideas and suggestions about how to better our community! WE NEED LEADERS WHO WILL ACTUALLY LISTEN TO US!
You don't have time to read all the many accomplishments I could list of what Gary has done to benefit Mesquite over the last 30 plus years. But I encourage you to ask questions. Look at his record. Look into your heart and see who really has shown their love for our great city and who decided recently they'd like to be elected to public office. Gary could have easily jumped into the fun and relaxed life of retirement--he certainly had earned it. But instead, he loves our city and is willing to go back to work again--FOR FREE! He has had his name dragged through the mud over and over--had awful lies and cruel things said about him. He has endured things most of us would never want to have to go through--for a job that doesn't pay a salary. But he is still standing, fighting for a better tomorrow for our city. Lets honor his service and his love for Mesquite--and elect Gary Ward our next city councilman!
Bruce Archer
We face unparalleled times economically and socially. Our city's life blood, retail, is not what it once was when people were spending and times were good. We work and labor continuously to bring in manufacturing and companies who will bring in revenue and jobs--but like the rest of America--companies are not investing a lot these days. Although nationally, I think we are slowly turning a corner. Pockets of our city's youth lack guidance and the mentoring they need to not just be successful, but to not become a drain on our community. Section 8 housing has put a real burden on neighborhoods. (Not all section 8 residents, but enough are not working to be contributing citizens to make things tough). We have a wonderful police department that requires the highest standards of its officers--and they are doing great work--but crime is such that they surely have their work cut out for them. Our neighborhoods need strong and efficient crime watch programs back in place to partner with the police. We have out of state slum landlords who don't take care of their properties or don't hold their tenants accountable. And these slumlords give a bad name to many of our local business owners who own rental properties who do play by the rules.
These are but a few of the many opportunities and challenges our city faces. Never has their been a time when strong leadership, experience and a track record of accomplishments for the community been more paramount than now!
I have heard a handful of very well meaning friends say they want to see more youth on the city council. I value that statement. When I was 19, my best friend ran for city council and I mangaged his campaign. When I was 29, I ran for a seat in the Texas Legislature. No one better appreciates such statements as me. However, while youthful vigor and energy are important--even youthful city council candidates need to have at least some civic involvement and leadership experience. When I ran for State Representative, I had served on the City Planning and Zoning Commission, Historic Mesquite Inc., was active in the Chamber of Commerce, served on a PTA board and managed a multi-million dollar business. I was young, but I had a track record of doing what I said I would do. Youth and new blood is wonderful! But we don't just turn the keys to city hall over to someone who happens to be young and one day just decides they want to be a councilman!
Leaders need to have been tested. Leaders need to have done something productive and useful for the community besides just having made money. Leaders need to have a track record of being consistent and steadfast. We need to know something about their record, what they stand for, how they might conduct themselves as an elected official.
I don't doubt that Brian Hutcheson is a well meaning young man. But the challenges Mesquite faces requires MUCH more than some good intentions and a fresh face. The only civic involvement or track record Mr. Hutcheson has--was a fairly recent appointment to the Mesquite Board of Adjustment--a very important decision making board that affects things like carport extensions and such. Mr. Hutcheson attended one meeting--and then resigned?
There are other legitimate concerns about Mr. Hutcheson that have been raised such as a Texas Driver's License that reflects a City of Dallas address? But honestly, my greatest concern is simply--what has he done and what record do we have to look at?
Gary Ward, whether you like him or not personally--has given and served his nation and our city faithfully for over 40 years! When his nation called him to go serve in a very unpopular and painful war in Vietnam, Gary did not hesitate to go serve. And serve he did as a Combat Engineer with the 101st Airborne Division. Gary saw friends lose their lives and struggled because he did not have the skills to help them stay alive. He vowed then that one day he would do work that allowed him to help save people's lives. So when he came home, after doing some construction work for a short period, he went to work for the Mesquite Fire Department. And for almost 37 years Gary rode ambulances and fire engines and dealt with every kind of difficult and unimaginable situation we can imagine--all to protect Mesquite families and save lives. He certainly did not do it for the money. For many years, both our firefighters and police officers had to work second jobs just to take care of their families. Gary's hard work to bring about better working standards and pay for our public safety employees has changed all that today.
In the 1990s, Gary served a term on the MISD Board of Trustees. Some of his fellow trustees and some staff who were opposed to Gary then politically. The first few years I was involved in local politics, I was opposed to Gary politically and there were some hard fought battles. But what I learned back then and what some of those school leaders learned--was that whether you agree with Gary or not--you really can't question that he is passionate about doing what is right for the people of Mesquite. Today, myself and some of those retired school trustees and staff are working hard to elect Gary--because we know he cares deeply about Mesquite and that even if we sometimes disagree with him--we can dialogue with him and have a discussion about what is best--and often compromise and unite to do what needs to be done! Gary is supported by five former Mesquite Mayors--most of whom at one time or another was in a heated battle politically with Gary in the old days. But all of them like me, know there is no better man to have in your corner and who you can work with to get needed things done for Mesquite. Mesquite has no better man to be in our corner than Gary Ward!
Gary is accessible and open to the people. I hosted three different events for Gary recently--where average voters could just ask him any questions they have--including some tough questions--and Gary not only answered their questions--but he really listened to them and took their ideas and suggestions about how to better our community! WE NEED LEADERS WHO WILL ACTUALLY LISTEN TO US!
You don't have time to read all the many accomplishments I could list of what Gary has done to benefit Mesquite over the last 30 plus years. But I encourage you to ask questions. Look at his record. Look into your heart and see who really has shown their love for our great city and who decided recently they'd like to be elected to public office. Gary could have easily jumped into the fun and relaxed life of retirement--he certainly had earned it. But instead, he loves our city and is willing to go back to work again--FOR FREE! He has had his name dragged through the mud over and over--had awful lies and cruel things said about him. He has endured things most of us would never want to have to go through--for a job that doesn't pay a salary. But he is still standing, fighting for a better tomorrow for our city. Lets honor his service and his love for Mesquite--and elect Gary Ward our next city councilman!
Bruce Archer
Friday, May 28, 2010
FOR OUR VETERANS
In 1953, my dad was drafted into the United States Army. He was very much afraid he would either freeze to death or be shot in Korea. But by the grace of God, while dad was in basic training at Ft. Bliss, President Eisenhower signed the armistice that for the most part ended that very painful and difficult war. My dad went on to serve at Ft. Monroe, Virginia as an air defense radar operator. His primary job was to make sure no aircraft got within a certain range of Washington. Dad actually received an accomodation for saving a commercial airliner from being shot down at the last second one day. When dad passed away, President Clinton sent us a very nice letter thanking my dad for his service, which I cherish greatly.
There are so many others who have paid the cost of freedom on our behalf--some gave limb and flesh, some gave a few years of their life, and many paid the ultimate price. This blog is dedicated to all those who have served our nation in uniform since the Revolutionary War.
For the patriots who served at places like Saratoga and Bunker Hill during the American Revolution--thank you.
For the U.S. Marines and Navy men who fought galliantly against middle eastern pirates on the Barbary Coast to protect our shipping--thank you.
For the soldiers who fought at places like Baltimore, Lake Detroit, and New Orleans during the War of 1812--thank you.
For the U.S. Marines and Army troops who smashed through the walls of Montezuma in Mexico City and fought at places like Vera Cruz during the War with Mexico--thank you.
For the soldiers who fought at places like Bull Run and Chatanooga when our nation was almost torn apart forever--and the commander in chief who ultimately gave his life saving our nation in that desperate war called the Civil War--thank you.
For the sailors who gave their lives aboard the U.S.S. Maine and the soldiers TR led up San Juan Hill during the War with Spain--thank you!
For the Army soldiers who fought at places like Chateau-Thierry and Belleau Wood in World War One--thank you.
For the Soldiers, Sailors, Airman, and Marines who fought at places like Pearl Harbor, Sicily, Midway, New Guinea, North Africa, Iwo Jima, and Paris during World War II--thank you.
For those Americans who fought at places like Seoul and Inchon during the Korean War--thank you.
For those Americans who fought at places like Saigon, Hue, and Dak To during the Vietnam War--thank you.
For those Americans who fought and died at places like the Iranian Desert during the Iran-Hostage Crises, the marine barracks in Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, The Mediterranean Sea, Kuwait, Somalia, and Bosnia--thank you.
For those Americans who have and are still fighting and dying in places like Baghdad, Fallujah, and Kabul--thank you so much!
For all those men and women who have worn the uniform of the United States Military, who have stood a post, cleaned latrines and the head, who have dug trenches, who have worked in military hospitals, who have served in peace time, and who served period--thank you so much!
May the Lord bless all those who have and who continue to serve. May HE bless our great nation--and may we be a nation worthy of HIS blessing!
Happy Memorial Day veterans!
There are so many others who have paid the cost of freedom on our behalf--some gave limb and flesh, some gave a few years of their life, and many paid the ultimate price. This blog is dedicated to all those who have served our nation in uniform since the Revolutionary War.
For the patriots who served at places like Saratoga and Bunker Hill during the American Revolution--thank you.
For the U.S. Marines and Navy men who fought galliantly against middle eastern pirates on the Barbary Coast to protect our shipping--thank you.
For the soldiers who fought at places like Baltimore, Lake Detroit, and New Orleans during the War of 1812--thank you.
For the U.S. Marines and Army troops who smashed through the walls of Montezuma in Mexico City and fought at places like Vera Cruz during the War with Mexico--thank you.
For the soldiers who fought at places like Bull Run and Chatanooga when our nation was almost torn apart forever--and the commander in chief who ultimately gave his life saving our nation in that desperate war called the Civil War--thank you.
For the sailors who gave their lives aboard the U.S.S. Maine and the soldiers TR led up San Juan Hill during the War with Spain--thank you!
For the Army soldiers who fought at places like Chateau-Thierry and Belleau Wood in World War One--thank you.
For the Soldiers, Sailors, Airman, and Marines who fought at places like Pearl Harbor, Sicily, Midway, New Guinea, North Africa, Iwo Jima, and Paris during World War II--thank you.
For those Americans who fought at places like Seoul and Inchon during the Korean War--thank you.
For those Americans who fought at places like Saigon, Hue, and Dak To during the Vietnam War--thank you.
For those Americans who fought and died at places like the Iranian Desert during the Iran-Hostage Crises, the marine barracks in Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, The Mediterranean Sea, Kuwait, Somalia, and Bosnia--thank you.
For those Americans who have and are still fighting and dying in places like Baghdad, Fallujah, and Kabul--thank you so much!
For all those men and women who have worn the uniform of the United States Military, who have stood a post, cleaned latrines and the head, who have dug trenches, who have worked in military hospitals, who have served in peace time, and who served period--thank you so much!
May the Lord bless all those who have and who continue to serve. May HE bless our great nation--and may we be a nation worthy of HIS blessing!
Happy Memorial Day veterans!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
DIFFERENT SEASONS FOR DIFFERENT KINDS OF LEADERSHIP
I just finished the book "Presidential Courage" by Michael Beschloss. It was very interesting to look at how various presidents offered different kinds of leadership at just the right times. Some who might be opposed ideologically to those presidents might not view leadership the way Bschloss does. However, I think his book makes a real case for the fact that our nation needs different leaders of different political viewpoints at certain times and seasons of our nation's life.
For example, as much as my heart is more aligned with the Jeffersonians of the early Republic--Washington showed great courage and leadership in sticking with the authors of the Jay Treaty which helped us keep out of war with Britain--at a time when we really could not afford such a war so soon after achieving our Independence.
However, a few years later when Jefferson became president--it was time for new leadership and new thinking that moved away from too much focus on business interests and pro-Britain thinking--and a greater support for the common man--which would surface again when Andrew Jackson became president.
When Franklin Roosevelt became president in 1933--he did not really come in with policies that just remedied and fixed all our economic problems. NO PRESIDENT CAN REALLY DO THAT! What FDR offered was an invigorating and enthusiastic flavor of rallying the people--letting them know that we could indeed get through the difficult times. The people needed some more liberal monetary policies--even if those policies would be costly later--sometimes we do what needs to be done to survive the moment. My dad once taught me that politically in our nation--that anytime the pendulum swings too far one way--it has to swing back some the other day. Thats why I am so adamant that extremism be it either liberal or conservative--is very harmful for our nation. Thats why I get concerned when I see more and more moderate politicians being pushed out for either ultra liberal or ultra conservative.
And yet--when Ronald Reagan became president--after many years of the follow up of FDR's legacy with Truman, JFK, LBJ, and Jimmy Carter--it was time for new more conservative leadership. It was time for hard hitting foreign policy--against a most formidable Soviet Union. It was a time for more conservative economic policy to create some real activity in the markets. Whats interesting though--is that FDR and Reagan both had a leadership style in common--they both knew how to communicate with the people to reassure them that better times were ahead. If a leader can simply do that--that can often make the difference!
We need leaders who can look beyond what the polls say--who can really see what the nation needs long term. Be they Republican or Democrat--we need leaders who are willing to make tough decisions. Sometimes making a decision--even if it does not turn out to work that well--is better than doing nothing!
I am convinced that in every crises and situation our nation has faced--one style of leadership and political views and ideology--has never been a "one size fits all."
I hope that in our classrooms all over the nation today--we are building up future Republicans, Democrats and Independents who can one day lead this nation--or just plain good men and women who will be good citizens and make a difference for their communities and their nation.
What do you think? Lets have a conversation.
For example, as much as my heart is more aligned with the Jeffersonians of the early Republic--Washington showed great courage and leadership in sticking with the authors of the Jay Treaty which helped us keep out of war with Britain--at a time when we really could not afford such a war so soon after achieving our Independence.
However, a few years later when Jefferson became president--it was time for new leadership and new thinking that moved away from too much focus on business interests and pro-Britain thinking--and a greater support for the common man--which would surface again when Andrew Jackson became president.
When Franklin Roosevelt became president in 1933--he did not really come in with policies that just remedied and fixed all our economic problems. NO PRESIDENT CAN REALLY DO THAT! What FDR offered was an invigorating and enthusiastic flavor of rallying the people--letting them know that we could indeed get through the difficult times. The people needed some more liberal monetary policies--even if those policies would be costly later--sometimes we do what needs to be done to survive the moment. My dad once taught me that politically in our nation--that anytime the pendulum swings too far one way--it has to swing back some the other day. Thats why I am so adamant that extremism be it either liberal or conservative--is very harmful for our nation. Thats why I get concerned when I see more and more moderate politicians being pushed out for either ultra liberal or ultra conservative.
And yet--when Ronald Reagan became president--after many years of the follow up of FDR's legacy with Truman, JFK, LBJ, and Jimmy Carter--it was time for new more conservative leadership. It was time for hard hitting foreign policy--against a most formidable Soviet Union. It was a time for more conservative economic policy to create some real activity in the markets. Whats interesting though--is that FDR and Reagan both had a leadership style in common--they both knew how to communicate with the people to reassure them that better times were ahead. If a leader can simply do that--that can often make the difference!
We need leaders who can look beyond what the polls say--who can really see what the nation needs long term. Be they Republican or Democrat--we need leaders who are willing to make tough decisions. Sometimes making a decision--even if it does not turn out to work that well--is better than doing nothing!
I am convinced that in every crises and situation our nation has faced--one style of leadership and political views and ideology--has never been a "one size fits all."
I hope that in our classrooms all over the nation today--we are building up future Republicans, Democrats and Independents who can one day lead this nation--or just plain good men and women who will be good citizens and make a difference for their communities and their nation.
What do you think? Lets have a conversation.
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