There are a few small seldom conscious moments in our lives that provide the opportunities for small actions to make a statement. If we individually take our own small actions consistent with our values, we have the opportunity to make a statement collectively. I personally believe and hear it consistently here that we all have a right to be heard. Here in Mitchell County we have had people in positions of influence further their personal agenda because of their job position. They have been able to silence a majority and a moral compass by editing the narrative or ignoring us, the citizens of Mitchell County. The opportunity provided for us to individually make a statement was provided by Andy Ashurst the editor of our local paper. Mr. Ashurst chose to further HIS agenda by selectively editing a letter to the editor I recently submitted...through strategic silencing, he was able to manipulate my message to fit his agenda. This is FAR from the first time Mr. Ashurst has done this as many can attest. Just as our leaders are defined by their actions and not their rhetoric, so are we as citizens. I urge everyone to make a statement with our actions about how WE feel about being silenced through selective editing by an editor furthering his agenda. Feel free to contact Tom Wood or Joel Jenkins tel:(706) 548-0010, managers Community Newspapers Inc., the ownership of MNJ..I will not be purchasing the MNJ going forward, and ask you do the same and urge others to take the same small individual actions...maybe as a group we can take a first baby step to making a statement. For the record a copy of the letter I wrote is below.....this is my work and not the work of Andy Ashurst that was published in the local paper.. My letter below; Recently I was motivated to connect with a group of concerned citizens. I was asked to do an economic summit. 28 years’ experience and an advanced degree give me the ability to comprehend economic analysis. Having no interest in holding political office gives me the security to be truthful. Through other group member connections we were lucky enough to have world renowned economist, Dr. Mike Munger of Duke University as a guest speaker. Given the status of our guest speaker and the energy of community comments privately, we anticipated a solid attendance from our leaders and community. Our thought was there was no way good caring leaders and an engaged community would miss THIS opportunity. We were wrong. I spent my own finances and time to present a fairly in depth analysis. Previously I have offered to sponsor events in the community. Our “leaders” showed such little respect, that they did not respond on eight separate occasions. I met with other professional leaders in our community that were so engaged that they answered email during our scheduled "meeting". Having been in successful in business for 28 years this was mind boggling. After the event many asked me why the doom and gloom? The simple, consistent answer is; because the numbers are gloomy. I was asked if our situation is reversible, and the honest answer is absolutely yes it can be "fixed". We presented ideas as possible fixes. I was also asked my opinion as to would we be successful, and that honest answer is, I do not think we will succeed. You see, can we and will we are very different concepts. The truth is that I sense total apathy, no belief and no desire to change course. We look at our leaders as the ones in charge and forget they are accountable to us as citizens. Governing is a tough job made tougher when the community does not participate. When leadership also disrespects its citizens the situation becomes almost impossible. Citizens are obligated to share their vision as much as leaders are obligated to listen. It is the responsibility of both sides to participate. As citizens our obligation goes beyond our vote and paying our taxes. I would like to personally thank; WTOE, Mitchell News Journal, and Commissioners Bill Slagle and Joe Street for representing the county commission. Thanks also to Senator Ralph Hise and Representative Josh Dobson. I also appreciate the response in advance from Robert Branch of Mayland and Commissioner Keith Holzclaw that they would not be available. As citizens we should all be disappointed that no one in our school system, local college or the EDC found Dr. Munger, the local economic picture or citizens efforts important enough to listen too or thank. I hope we will remember people and leaders are defined by what they do or do not do … and not by what they say. We have the opportunity to express that we understand that concept daily and at the next election.
Posted on: Thu, 05 Sep 2013 03:02:02 +0000
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