More Tales from the Trail

Once again, first, I must thank all the citizens for opening their doors and signing my petitions. I want each and every one of you to know that for me, regardless of the outcome, meeting you, talking to you, and listening to your issues will be something I will never forget.

Politicians may believe that you don't really matter, except once every four years, but the truth is that you are ALL that matters, because without you, nothing can truly change.

I see the frustration in your eyes; I see the disbelief that, even with all the casino money we've received, nothing has changed. That, my friends, is not entirely true. What has changed is as follows: the size of government (doing less with more); patronage; jobs (buying votes at the expense of the citizens); bickering among elected officials (stopping progress; remember, "if it's not my idea, I won't support it!"); party politics (endorsement or no endorsement); raising cash to control not only the candidates, but also the voters (don't forget, "negative ads work and confuse the issues!"); and finally, studying the issues, rather than actually solving them (more taxpayer dollars being paid to political supporters).

Now, I need to ask you: is this really the kind of change we want? Do any of these improve the quality-of-life issues we citizens face every day? Do their games and friends-and-family policies make you feel any safer walking in your neighborhoods? Has the money spent on studying the problems actually solved any of them?

Almost eight years with one constant direction. More people leaving, more homeowners selling, more businesses closing, and more subsidized housing being built. Time to stop the bleeding. Time to take control of your future. You have the power; your vote controls not only their future, but the future of the entire city. Regardless of the games they play, look around, be part of the solution, and get out and vote for true change. As always, your voice, your choice, and your future.