We are in an unprecedented era of technology and change and our individual ability to affect the lives of millions. It is our duty and responsibility to share our lives and our personal observations of the world with those who freely search your opinion.
It is important to follow the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States and use them as the template of proper order of government on all levels. It's important for the people, citizens of this nation, to know that they have been given the power and responsibility to provide a descent government for themselves. If such a government fails to truly represent it's people then they may be elected out. Every now and then a major change may need to be made. Our Fathers knew this in light of their relationship with England. They've provided the outline for peaceful transitioning of new government if it be the will of the people. How important this piece is to the safety and continuation of this great nation. In a modern time where we are having a spread of anarchy in the streets it's good to know that peaceful means of change is possible and in fact advocated by our Fathers.
May we all remember our civic and national responsibility to tend to our own government for the sake of our happiness and accountability. Today is the day to vote! For those that have put the pencil to the paper for my name I thank you tremendously. For those who did not yet did go to the ballot box I thank you immeasurably for the discharge of your duty.
No matter what side of the “green”
aisle you are on I would hope that we can all agree that the United
States has been severely sold out by not only the oil industry but
also government leaders. Our dependence on oil has reached epic
proportions and we can't be so blind as to not share the blame along
with several entities for allowing it. This crisis has brought green
technology to the forefront of debate. This was also at the heart of
a meeting which took place on Wednesday, 12 October, 2011, at the
Shenandoah High School Auditorium.
A very informative presentation was
presented to the public by Growth Energy which is chaired by Tom Buis
and co-chaired by Retired General Wesley Clark. The presentation
involved an almost one-hour-long film and piggybacked on the precepts
and success of our own Green Plains Renewable Energy. Alternative
fuels was strongly advocated but specifically the use of corn –
hence ethanol.
For me, personally, I understand that
there are always sixteen sides to every issue and it's important to
understand them all before making any firm and informed decisions. I
do know that we are way too involved and dependent in foreign oil.
I'm all for liberating people from tyranny and oppression but when
our military is sent into places where there may be our “energy
interests” at stake then that's where a line needs to be drawn and
we, as a nation, need to take a good look at ourselves.
Don't get me wrong. I wholly support
our military servicemen who protect our interests overseas and seek
to reduce the power of Al-Qaeda. However, we live in a society of
many layers of unmentioned reasons and intentions for every action.
I have to believe that a part of why we are so involved in the
fighting effort, no matter how small that part may be, is because
without THAT oil over there our own livelihood and economy would
crumble. This is where the shame is and this is what I mean when I
say I support the military effort but question the entirety of our
reasons there.
Really, this is a quagmire that's been
forming for decades. Any leader in office feels compelled to protect
those interests because to not do so would make that leader unfavored
among his/her constituents. For decades we have been weened from the
skill of independence to a culture of servitude and dependence.
Great modern cities and palaces are being built in desert sands with
the wealth we supply while hundreds of thousand of our own men, women
and children suffer to live under bridges or in appalling conditions.
There is an obvious disconnect here and it takes the form of a noose
with which we shall one day hang ourselves with lest other action be
taken.
The presentation was interesting. A
few things I learned in the presentation were:
The corn used for ethanol is by
and large not the corn we consume but rather the corn used in feed
lots for livestock. This was interesting because I've heard many
times the allegation that ethanol production is raising the cost of
food. Apparently this was inaccurate.
The corn used for ethanol is for
the most part returned as feed source in the form of ethanol
byproduct. This is product that is produced or left over after the
entire ethanol process is complete.
Algae production right here at
Shenandoah's GPRE is having much success and is even at stage 2.5
out of 3 from being commercialized.
Ethanol is not new. Henry Ford used ethanol before gasoline exclusively from the beginning of his
company up until the start of Prohibition. That was interesting to
me!
The cost of an hybrid or flex fuel
vehicle is a sham. The actual cost to make a car compatible with
ethanol 85 is about $40-$50. The difference is the coating of the
tank, some type of fuel line and a microchip. That's it!
Green Plains in Shenandoah uses
the city's gray water and not the water feeding into our homes. This
waste water is used as a coolant at the plant.
There were many more things learned but
it's important to note that we are releasing carbon into our air
supply by burning a non-renewable source. The healthiest initiative
is to harness the power in our own environment. Corn for ethanol is
renewable. Algae is renewable. The same can be said for wind and
solar. I also didn't know that there is an increased demographic of
ailments among populations near oil refineries. If true than it's a
testament that we need to steer into a new (or old according to Henry
Ford) direction.
Yes, this presentation was a plug for
ethanol and a push to raise awareness of our oil dependence. I know
that there are perspectives, pro and con, to every side. I know that
by shifting energy sources you cut a job in the oil industry and a
source of income for a family. However, if the claimed benefits of
ethanol and renewable energy sources is true then it must be the
avenue we need to take. Furthermore, if we can steadily create jobs
in the process of this shift even approaching the workforce of the
oil industry than we can accomplish energy independence while
adapting our own culture to the changing times.
Right here in Shenandoah we have a
great opportunity to learn how GPRE works. We also have cutting edge
technology and research taking place right here with algae. The more
we learn the more we can contribute and teach others.
It all starts in the home. We must
teach our youth the need of independence and self reliance. Do this
in the home. Do this that they may maximize their integrity and self
worth when they live out in the “real world” and raise their own
families. Teach them the value of energy and how it's brought to
bear both in the oil industry and ethanol. As we raise this
independent awareness we'll be better prepared as a community to
support initiatives that help cut the ties of financial and energy
dependence.
I don't classify myself as “green”
or even pro oil. I do, however, consider myself an American that is
FOR the American family and especially the surety of it's future.
Right now my focus is on the American families in Shenandoah, Iowa.
I believe we live amidst opportunity. I believe we have energy
sources all around us both that we have technology to harvest and
even sources yet not identified. For us in the Shenandoah area I
believe we need to embrace ethanol and have pride in where it's being
produced.
From this meeting I have gained a
deeper appreciation for Mother Earth and what she's supplied us with
– opportunity!
Shenandoah has a great asset in
Tisovec, Slovakia. Tisovec is Shenandoah's sister city. At
Tuesday's (10/11/11) City Council meeting we heard the report of a
recent trip there by a Shenandoah delegation. The entire report was
superb and full of hope. The Tisovec
people, especially in the parliamentary leadership, were moved by
Shenandoah's gesture of goodwill. The delegation was even invited to
a school program about 9/11. They thought they were going to hear
student reports of the dreadful day but instead it was actually a
chance for the Slavic people to ask us (the delegation) our own
feelings of 9/11. The report was that everyone in attendance was
greatly moved. These kinds of events further bind cultures. We are
truly blessed to have a friend in the community of Tisovec, Slovakia.
The Sister
Cities International program is a great way to connect the world.
It's a “win win!” Great strides seem to have been taken to warm
relations and strengthen future ties. As a gesture of goodwill
Shenandoah proposed a tree planting ceremony on Tisovec ground as
symbolic of a solid foundation of relations between our two great
cities. This tentatively may take place in the spring of 2012.
As part of my “wish list” of things
to happen in Shenandoah while in my proposed tenure of City
Councilman At Large is the hope that individuals in our community may
organize through this Sister City International delegation to
communicate personally with individuals of the sister city of
Tisovec, Slovakia. Ongoing communication may help create friendships
and foster even economic ideas to benefit each other.
Constantly improved technology can make
this process easy. With the help of Facebook and even the premiere
of Google+ exchanges can take place daily. Google+
especially comes to mind because there are simple avenues to have
webcam “hangouts” in circles. This can be not only fun but also
productive as far as economic ideas and cultural exchanges are
concerned.
I plan to look into this process
immediately to see it's relevance.
Some knowledge is taken for granted.
Some knowledge is so essential yet simple that it often needs to be
reminded by even a simple voice in a noisy world. Such is the case
just last week. Often, we in southwest Iowa feel isolated and cut
off from opportunity and those activities that make city life look
exciting. I was reminded just last week of a treasure that we have
right here in Shenandoah. A treasure that I also grew up with in the
Isolated Nebraska town of Avoca and even Nebraska City. The treasure
is – isolation.
Don't get me wrong. This is not some
dark dismal rendition of some kind of grandeur of being away from the
more populated world. I only want to expound on one aspect of the
isolation that we have - yet take for granted. Are there things to
learn and remember from living in an area with exponentially less
traffic? Are there good things that come from living in an area
where most people still don't lock their doors? Is there a softer
sense of safety when our children go on their walkabouts? Consider
these things and then consider the future.
I remember when I lived out in the
country in Avoca, Nebraska. We were trailer house tenants on a
farmstead that had lots of crops and lots of cows. I remember that
maybe four or five times a year we'd wake up to cows in our yard
because they escaped the fencing somehow. It was interesting running
to the car while dodging the landmines left by our guests. We didn't
lock the door because there was no need to. There was nearby
vegetation to go exploring in and there was a hay barn just up the
hill where my brother and I used to play and jump on the huge rounds.
These are memories that, now looking back, contributed to my entire
makeup today. It fostered courage and curiosity. It also allowed
the principle of self reliance and endurance to prevail.
Avoca is home of the Quack Off!
Being in a trailer house on a farm was
brutal during the winter. I remember the pipes freezing up every
year and the only true warm room in the house was the bathroom which
was located right next to the furnace. It served as a family room
because we brought in the little black and white television (with tin
foil for reception of course). I remember us having to bring the
dishes into the bathtub to be washed. Also, don't even get me
started on the toilet. That was an indulgence that we may now sit
comfortably and read the paper but at that time our system of family
restroom turns was extremely disgusting. Remember, no plumbing and
frozen water lines. You do the math and use your imagination. Yet –
it was a memory that contributed to who I am today.
I loved walking a half mile to the
small town of Avoca and walking the streets having fun with friends.
My brother and I often went to the small laundromat to play Space
Invaders. It was one of two video games there. I loved and continue
to cherish my memories of my school there. Though not used as a
school no more, and old and musty, it still bears memories good and
bad for many past students. These too contributed to my being today.
In Nebraska City I enjoyed the liberty
of walking the streets. It was safe as far as I allowed it to be in
my rebellious years. We did lock our doors more but the town was
just small enough to enjoy the privilege of walk and curiosity –
with an added touch of trouble I might add. Still, these added to
who I am.
Nebraska City is the home of Arbor Lodge.
Shenandoah is no different for our
children. I often hear them scourge at the lack of things to do and
their desire to go to the big city. However, what they don't realize
now is that fifteen or twenty years down the road they will look back
with gratitude of the latitude and liberties they had. These
freedoms were dependent largely because of being in a smaller city in
a greater rural area.
This is the treasure which we have
here. In order to retain the fond memories for our youth of the
nature of Shenandoah we need to give them things to enjoy and to
create their own environment in. We do have a great many activities
and places to visit here. Our rising generation have many local
generosities of a wide variety of scholarships to partake of. Yet
there is always more that can be done.
Take a drive down Shenandoah!
I submit that we need to continue
striving toward community involvement and interaction. Acquiring the
sense and knowledge that you are part of something larger is
fulfilling and encourages happiness. I believe that there should be
greater dialogue between the public and the officials they elect.
Through this, perhaps we can expand the activities available so as to
further inspire and interest all kids across the diverse spectrum
here in Shenandoah.
Our “isolation” is a gift which we
can benefit from immensely. It's an opportunity to create
opportunity in a community ripe with talent and occasion to serve one
another. All this is made possible by the blood and courage of the
United States military past, present and future. They continue, as
they always have, to protect those simple things in life that we take
for granted yet reap the benefits from down the road.
Honor our defenders, honor our rising
generation, honor citizenship and honor the memories of Shenandoah.
Always be engaged in a good cause. Let's roll up our sleeves for the
betterment of this community.
I've heard many residents of Shenandoah
bewildered at the use of funds to renovate the City Hall approach.
With other uses that tax payer money is going to it can be difficult
for some to realize the purposes of some projects.
I advocate this use of funds. The end
result of the plan is to have the City Hall more cosmetically
coordinated with the downtown area. More importantly though it makes
the City Hall entrance safer and more inviting for the Shenandoah
residents and visitors.
The sidewalk has always been an eyesore
and a safety hazard in my opinion. It's nothing short of a miracle
that legal action hasn't been taken. At least none to my knowledge.
The City Hall represents a communal ediface in which all who reside
in it's jurisdiction should have equal opportunity and ease for
entering therein.
Serving our fellow citizens is part of
purpose and joy. We have so many people in our community willing to
help when the call is given. Passing this great ethic and virtue on
to the rising generation is an important responsibility for all
adults. I've found that many of our youth who seek opportunities of
community service lack the knowledge as to where to ask or find it.
I advocate an ongoingly publicized
central initiative for youth, whether individually or as an organized
group, to go to and receive ideas and projects to help the community.
We have a few Boy Scout troops in the area. We can offer them ideas
of what we feel the community needs most by way of service. Service
helps them learn and to fulfill advancement requirements.
In addition, it's at my attention that
a certain amount of documented community service hours are required
to be rendered by our High School Seniors. It would be an excellent
idea to give them a place to look for these opportunities.
Community service builds character and
teaches lessons of selfless service toward others. This benefits the
community in countless ways. From a budget perspective community
service can help in that area as well. Most of these opportunities
are accepted without monetary compensation yet are often recognized
in the media. Given that coupled with a group of youth beautifying
or benefitting the community is nothing short of a “win win”
situation for everyone.
Again, I advocate the idea of a
centralized portal where people can go to swiftly and effectively
serve their community. There are few better ways to truly connect
the community to those whom the community elected as their leaders
and councils.
Veterans Day is a very special day of
the year. It is has a grounded place in my heart as well. My
military service is vague to most people who know me. This article
will serve as a clarification or history of my own brief military
service.
My friend, Chris, and I left our homes
when we were seventeen. Both disturbed by the pressures of the world
and youth in general. We got ourselves an apartment and barely
survived our Senior year of High School there. I admired Chris
because he was more grounded and much more sure of his future. He
wanted to be a doctor and I all but gave up on any kind of a future
for myself.
I remember approaching Sergeant Trumble
in our High School commons area. She was a recruiter representing
the United States Army. Knowing my own personal plight it didn't
take me long to put the pen to the paper. “Officially” the buddy
program no longer existed but the option was there to get an
automatic promotion to E2 status if we get another signed up. Chris
wanted to be a doctor yet neither one of us had any money. Allured
by the prospect of having paid education through military service
Chris saw the wisdom in the decision and signed up as well.
Both of us officially entered the
military under DEP on October 25, 1990. DEP stands for Delayed
Enlistment Program. Both of us mid-termed our Senior year and
shipped off to Basic Training at Fort Benning, Georgia on January 18,
1991.
At this time Iraq had already invaded
Kuwait and tensions were high. While at boot camp we met occasion
when our platoon was brought together. It was announced to us that
we were now at war with Iraq. I remember watching the missiles light
up the skies over Baghdad on CNN. I remember Drill Sergeant Davies
telling us that we will be going over there. I was actually grateful
for that news.
Anyhow, I never made it there. Not
only did Desert Storm offer brief headlines but I also suffered a
medical problem during training. Outside of what's commonly known as
the “gas chamber” I fell down into an epileptic seizure. A
condition unbeknownst to me I was completely bewildered when I
briefly became conscious on the medivac helicopter. Drill Sergeant
Raleigh said the epic words that would help define my future. “Son,
you had a seizure.” All went fade to black after that until I
awoke in the base hospital.
I was medically discharged March 5,
1991 from the United States Army. The entire incident left a big
hole in my life and soul for many years. It took quite some time to
realize the direction what Higher Power had in store for me. I left
the base with $900 in my pocket and no firm direction. I could've
gone anywhere and just disappeared. I'm grateful that the stronger
power brought me back to the Midwest.
There are those who consider me a part
of the brotherhood of military who have served. I do not and cannot
since I didn't serve in the capacity I intended to serve originally.
Back in 2007 or so I did inquire at the Shenandoah National Guard
Armory about reenlisting. However, knowing what my discharge status
was from 1991 I knew that I was ineligible for such an honor. Even
today just as in Desert Storm I watch servicemen come and go to
active tour and a part of my heart goes with them. Though not enough
I hope it will serve as much for the time being.
To this day I remain a patriot loyal
and true. Though unable to serve militarily I have helped in other
capacities. In the past I have helped organize efforts to assemble
and ship school kits for Iraqi children. Perhaps to serve here at
home and abroad in other capacities is the direction I was intended
to take. I believe that America and those who defend it have a
divine protection and foundation that qualifies them for greatness if
worthy. I believe this country and it's military have a high
standard to uphold. To be an example of liberty and personal
conviction is an inherent duty and responsibility of a service
member. The fruits of freedom in the eyes of those who don't have it
demonstrate the potential of man. This is the example that propels
them to greatness. It's the heart of a volunteer! It's that same
heart that triumphed the first responders at 9/11 and it's the same
heart that sets men free of tyrant leaders around the globe.
At the 9-13 Shenandoah City Council the Iowa Department of Transportation unveiled plans to increase a third lane for traffic northbound turning into the Walmart construction sight. Plans are moving ahead and the equipment is running.
This segment of the meeting turned lengthy as it led into discussion of dangerous traffic on Highway 59 especially due to the Interstate 29 closure. The Iowa DOT admitted that they haven't done a traffic count along 59 since probably 2008. Shenandoah Police Chief announced that traffic has increased three-fold since the detour took affect. The DOT may utilize resources to check the traffic count north and southbound on 59, but they are firm that the third lane will be built.
A suggestion came up during the meeting that we need to investigate into the possibility of installing traffic cameras in a couple locations on Highway 59 within the Shenandoah city limits. Though becoming unpopular in places such as California these cameras may benefit the cause of safety for the effected stretch of road.
I am for this idea of traffic cameras. The pressures on truck drivers is understandable. They are squeezed for time on an already tight schedule. The detour doesn't help any. However, safety must and should always prevail especially within city limits. I don't mean to focus on truck drivers but rather local resident drivers as well. This matters to not only fellow drivers but also to the safety of pedestrians. There are a great many Shenandoah residents who's occupation is located at Orchard Corners or the several businesses along Highway 59. Walking this stretch of road is extremely dangerous and hazardous.
The entire stretch of road is a disaster waiting to happen. In order to control the situation steps must be taken to tone down the speed and and level of aggressive driving currently taking place. It's not just "through" traffic. Because of the detour many of the businesses have prospered under single to double digit percentage increase in business. We've got through traffic as well as increased traffic turning onto 59 that must be considered.
All our fears up to this point have been aimed at the recent history of the detour affects. Now compound on that the fact that we are fast approaching the snow and ice season.
I advocate an extra stoplight at the intersection of 59 and the south entrance to Orchard Corners and/or the installation of traffic cameras both there and also at the current stoplight by Mondo's. I'd strongly suggest that from now into the foreseeable future and beyond we all take extra care in our surroundings while driving the new "Interstate 59."
September 11, 2001 – 9/11 – 911, or
whatever else it may be called. Few epic moments define our modern
world and the United States of America. Arbitrarily, the Republic was shaken to the core in downtown
New York City. I remember that day though it was a couple thousand miles
away in the Midwest. As I reflect may I offer a few observations for
the future.
I was working in a warehouse in the
small community of Riverton, Iowa. Riverton has always jokingly and
seriously been known as the town that floods when it sprinkles.
Situated squarely between Shenandoah and Hamburg, Riverton resides
right on the Nishnabotna River. The setting is given when we heard
that the north tower had been struck. That was a pivotal moment in
the American psyche, that was to define the following course of this country. During those moments we didn't know if it was an accident
or an act of terrorism. We wanted to believe in an accident. Why?
Because the thought of terrorism was too large, too coordinated and
quite frankly too Hollywood to be real. We've lived so long in a
“comfort zone” and just survived the bloated “dot com” boom
that our own pride prevented the consideration of the worst.
There was no television in the
warehouse so we intently and quietly listened to the radio for
developments. Constantly the media projected numbers. Numbers,
numbers, a ceaseless string of numbers! “Up to 60,000 may be
dead!” Though physically we were not in the center of the circus
of vertigo in New York City, emotionally we were connected as one
nation in peril. THAT - was the bonding glue that will survive the
United States of America now and in the future as it did at that
moment.
I remember my supervisor coming in a
while later and with a degree of fear and anger. She said that another
plane struck the tower. She, herself, a long time military patriot
hearkened the innate call of danger. At that moment we didn't know
that it was the other tower that had been struck. We continued to
listen intently for confirmation of the second plane. The resolve
was all but complete – the United States of America had been
attacked. Whether we liked it or not we were now at war with an army
most vague to identify.
Andrew Card informs President Bush the U.S. is under attack.
The confident heart fell as if in a
refiner's fire when the news came that the towers crumbled to the
ground. The towers came down but the curtains opened up to a future
unknown. So vulnerable we felt. So open and helpless became the individual American. So
unprepared was this people as we lingered in disbelief.
After work I hurried home to view the
constant updates and rehash on the news channel. Time and time again
like so many I watched the reruns of the falling towers. For days
the numbers varied and finally settled to a number.
Not long after the symbol of the world
financial institution fell I strongly noticed how still the sky was.
Following protocol the President of the United States was taken to a
safe military bunker. Yet, soon thereafter orders manifest that all
aircraft were to be grounded.
Those white streams in the sky from the
wake of a plane's exhaust disappeared altogether. Especially for a
person out in the rural country those planes represent civilization and the surety that America is vibrant and moving. In other words
“business as usual.” Suddenly in just a few minutes of epic event, American skies were just thrown back to the 18th century
when all that occupied therein were the birds. Yet, even the birds
seemed more somber and reserved. It was as if a divine power which blanket
this great nation called upon all life to mourn.
The rest is history but that is where I
was. No wonderful activity or spectacular place that I was. Yet,
equally important as all other American stories mine will live in
infamy as a chapter in my life to be shared with my own children and
grandchildren.
I will not discuss religious doctrines or
political thoughts. I will share, however, what my life has taught
me of this great nation. For current society and posterity sake may
it serve to expand wider fields to view.
We are a wealthy nation. Yes, we do
have pride here as well perhaps even to a dangerous level. We are also the
most charitable and helpful nation on earth. Whether we are liked as
a nation or not, we are still indisputably sought out and looked
toward for leadership and example. We have a mighty military
commissioned to protect our own as well as allied nations. We have
massive social deficiencies but the foundation, though weakening,
principles of this nation remain in the hearts of so many.
Should this not be so? In such a
whirlwind world should we not count it as an inspired gift that we
have a country constructed in such a way as to encourage and foster
leadership and worthy attributes? The basic heart of man is good and
true. If that heart is given the opportunity to thrive it will
change it's world. This is what liberty has profited us. Our
country has been outlined to provide man liberty and freedom. That
liberty and freedom enables happiness. Happiness derives from
personal initiative in the progress of work and family. Liberty naturally wants to
expand because that happiness in the heart compels the host to share
it and testify of it.
We as Americans wear the robes of
liberty. How we exercise it determines their colors. Liberty
thrives only when connected from one heart to the next – and the
next. When we as a nation are bonded as one - liberty cannot be
conquered. After the attack a decade ago we were “one” for a
time. That oneness is what gave us resolution of heart. It's what
gave us the will to stand on our borders, arms locked, till death if
the need were to arise for the preservation of our country and spirit
of liberty.
We have a duty attached to the
expensive liberty which we are to cherish. We have the duty to
preserve order by participating in local, state and even federal
government and policy making. We have a duty to be willing to
protect and preserve this nation and it's tenets. We have a duty to
raise our families to the best of our abilities with our posterity's
interest at heart. It is the rising generation that will carry the
banners of family and liberty forth into the future.
I love this country! I love what it
has provided me and my family. I love the responsibility placed upon
me even by the cries of our Founding Fathers from the grave. I love
that we are able to clasp hands in fellowship even though we may have
differing faiths. I love the liberty-inspired free enterprise and
free market degree that we have. It's what helps to foster personal
growth, expansion and happiness.
I hereby testify that we are a truly
inspired nation. That inspiration put to pen so many years ago is
born into the hearts of every true American whether domestic born or
immigrant. With this liberty we can rise above the political turmoil
which we now suffer. Life doesn't have to be complicated. The
principles of liberty and freedom are not difficult to understand.
Any institution, organization or branch of society that pins it's
will against it's own people in a direction of misdirection and
confusion is not born of liberty.
We of strong hearts and compassionate
minds have the commission, ourselves, to make the difference in this
world. Let us all get out there and serve our fellow citizens with
love and concern. As our conviction toward our neighbor strengthens
our flag will indeed blind all those powers who wish to bring our
banner to it's knees. Long may the flag wave pure and happy!
This post is concerning my views on the
new stop signs erected throughout the city afforded on behalf of the
school district. There are many grumblings of the inconvenience
surrounding this action. Claims are made that it even presents
danger instead of preventing accidents. On the other side, voice is
heard that it makes for a welcome addition to the overall safety and
awareness of not only the students but also pedestrians in general.
This post will be short, sweet and to
the point. It is true, and I do admit, that it was an incovenience
to me to remember to stop at these signs. Especially meeting Nishna
off of Center and also eastbound on Nishna. The many years of common
driving has dulled the need to be watchful of signs and warnings. In
fact i've noticed that more people watch for vacinity police than
they do proper heeding to the signs at hand.
We are not only Americans, residents of
Iowa and contributors to the community of Shenandoah we are
coexisting human beings. Being such we are the most adaptable yet
most complacent life forms on earth. Part of our growth physically,
spiritually, emotionally, mentally and academically is the
willingness to learn and adapt. When the economy is in dark times we
eventually learn to cut down on our expenses and resort to food
storage techniques and more disciplined spending. When storms come,
many of us tend to come out of our shells to help clean up a
neighbor's property. The learning process, especially when it
involves inconvenience, should be a joy and a challenge to anyone who
wants to grow and further develop.
In my own experience over the past few
weeks of the new stop signs i've entered a change. Being compelled
to slow down has offered less tension while driving. In fact the
slower pace has offered a more enjoyable ride. I now welcome these
new signs to the city of Shenandoah. Yes, for the benefit of all
pedestrians but mostly for the compelling need to change from within.
As an added note, the Shenandoah Police
Department has been very lenient and understanding during this time
of transition. They do continue to ask that all drivers exercise
increased caution and awareness of all city signs.
Ground has finally broke in the summer of 2011 for the Shenandoah Super Walmart. It's been the long anticipated action and a perceived stopwatch till completion - and beyond. Dredging up old bickering and whining at this point is mute, pointless and unproductive. This post serves to present my views on this project in relation to the community of Shenandoah.
The ground is torn up and officially broke in the field behind Subway, Chat Mobility and the Elks. Heavy equipment has their predetermined parameters of entrance and exit routes. The mobile construction office is in place and directs the operation. There is no turning back now. No rolling back time or longing for simpler eras. There is only the future.
Let's just cut to the chase. A great anxiety exists in Shenandoah of the possible repercussions of this particular business entering Shenandoah. Stories abound of the Walmart effects on other towns. For instance many blame the relatively new Nebraska City Super Walmart for the close of a main grocery store there. True or not will not be debated here. Yet it is true that businesses small and large have a difficult time competing with Walmart let alone a supercenter. Supercenters that have basically everything from building materials to food to clothing and even a tire and lube easily shadow over smaller businesses. Many of these businesses exist in towns such as Shenandoah for decades if not generations. There are those that say Walmart holds an unfair monopoly of multiple markets especially in smaller communities.
In Shenandoah the biggest fear is in the retail grocery industry. Shenandoah has six or seven thousand residents and currently two thriving grocery stores. We have a Fareway and also a newly remodeled Hy-Vee Food Store. Both are successful and fierce competitors. Yet, is Shenandoah large enough to successfully support a third grocery store? That's the question! In light of the debate failure is already anticipated by many. Many question the survival of Hy-Vee and/or Fareway in Shenandoah.
Will this be the perceived destiny of Shenandoah? Do we throw up our hands in defeat before the battle is even waged or begun? Even in Shenandoah we are humans. Humans are the most adaptable and innovative species on the planet. Our system of free market and capitalism is the mechanism which we owe our technology and prosperity. Walmart is taking this under their wings. Whether overly bold or not is beside the point where Shenandoah is concerned. As I said - the ground is broke.
As a candidate for City Council it's useless to say i'm for or against a supercenter Walmart in Shenandoah. What I can say is that we can triumph. The use of "we" indicates our various businesses and even our working men and women who fear the future of their jobs. Many new jobs are promised to this community by this addition. Time will tell but I do know that it will be up to us to maintain the spirit of this city and move forward in a direction of prosperity via innovative business techniques in order to compete and survive what's coming.
I've just as much a concern as anybody. My full time job is at one of these grocery stores. In addition my home on Southwest Road is quite literally across the street from the construction zone. I think about increased traffic and also rising property values. In spite of these preoccupation of thoughts we can and will prevail.
As a councilman it will be my duty, privilege and responsibility to listen to citizen concerns and represent the town's best interest in future decisions which may arise in light of our new Shenandoah Super Walmart. Looking toward the future I congratulate Walmart for their successful construction and wish them well. Likewise I wish well and pray for the strength and well-being of our hometown businesses that they may find the correct avenues to take in order to successfully compete with this new endeavor.
The debate rages amidst the new water plant in Shenandoah which was affirmed by the Council several months ago. I've been hearing a lot of hardships regarding the increased taxes. This will be the focus of my post.
The economy is fragile and rumors are looming of an imminent secondary recession coming within months. This kind of news presses deep hardships on individuals and families. Finances have caused verbal as well as physical abuse within the home here in Shenandoah and abroad. This "virus" spreads and extends beyond the home. For the parent(s) who add to the income of the home they can easily become distressed and unhappy in the workplace. They may even lose grip on the drive to continue working thus submitting the household to divorce and/or family and government dependence.
Children are impressed upon by family affairs and issues of money are no different. The rising generation brings these hardships to the classroom by way of attitude and their work performance. Now, much has been touched on over the past year regarding local scores in our schools. Don't get me wrong. I'm not saying that the coming water plant is the cause of school scores. That would be totally uncalled for and misinformed. What I am saying is that the overall foundation of income and expenses in a home CAN and MAY BE a contributing factor to the productive performance of a student.
So where's the "win win" in all of this? First off, I announce that I do support the water plant project. I did not go through the existing plant when they had a public walk through a while back. In fact I was rather indifferent on the subject and searched for more opinions and input. One of the factors that tipped me in a direction of support is a story run in the Valley News. An individual was vehemently opposed to the project and did indeed attend the public viewing. He noted that only after seeing with his own eyes the dilapidated state of the facility did he reflect and saw the need of the new plant.
Why did this have an effect on me? Well, it's an example of humility. Most of us have strong opinions about various things but how many of us are open to different perspectives? How many of us actually seek more information? Here we have an individual who gained a new perspective in light of evidence which he sought. To me the effort and conclusion of this man carries more weight than those who strongly opine yet fail to seek an informed decision.
I support the project yet there are still things we can do to lighten the burden. We are still the Shenandoah community though many of us don't know each other. We are still "one" in many things and it's about time we acted like it. Utility taxes are high and it's no different for me. As a charitable concern for our neighbor and one another we need to seek alternatives in the way we live. Listed here are a few ideas which may help secure good feelings in the project, community and most importantly the home (which is the basic unit and foundation in the country in which we live) and perhaps the continuing education of our young.
A series of community workshops on thrifty living. This would include water conservation, home weatherization and even economical food consumption.
Donate time, talents and effort to further the independent cause of Shenandoah families.
Further examine and find alternate payment methods for water usage.
The list can go on but the point is that what you improve in one area will benefit all areas. If you weatherize your home thus cutting heating you will then be more in a position to cover charges in other areas.
I support the water plant. There will never be a "good" time to further this effort. The current facility is extremely old and there comes a time when the long term benefits of total replacement outweighs the short term convenience of constant improvements and upgrades. Costs are not going to go down. If we don't accept this responsibility now it will be our children and grandchildren who will foot a larger bill in the future.
There is a "win win" and that's in conservation. Accept this project as a necessity for the future. Let us carry the expense by way of improved and skilled living habits in our own homes. The motion has been carried and now it's up to us as a family and community to decide how we will live and carry out to the finished product that we can all be proud of.
In light of the recent dual storms last Thursday it is proper to note the speed and professional manner of the Shenandoah Street Department and also the emergency personnel. These were very dangerous storms including hail and straight line winds. We commend those who quickly clean up and maintain a working functioning community.
At the Shenandoah City Council meeting on Tuesday, 23 August, 2011, Mayor Richard Hunt expressed his appreciation for these personnel on behalf of the City Council.
Many citizens should also gain acknowledgment from the effects of these storms. Sidney, Iowa, by mandate was shut down due to storm damage. Other communities such as Coin and Essex received excess storm damage. Many people from all around pitched in with their gloves and chainsaws to lighten the burden of those fellow citizens. Communities and agencies donated resources for the relief effort.
Though disasters are undesired they do help us "regroup" as a society. It gives us pause and reflection. It serves to prompt us to action for the common good of those around you.
In the summer of 2011 my family went on a vacation to Idaho. It had been over twenty years since I last saw the great Rocky Mountains. As we left Iowa and Nebraska the elevation began to rise and the terrain became more void of the lush green grass that we plentifully have here. It was a trip long overdue for me.
I remember the joy I felt this summer once I spotted the mountains and announced it to my family whom never beheld the Rockies. It was a memory that needed to be embedded into their minds as it did to mine so many years ago. There is a magic and an awe about the grandeur of the mountains. Of course it may not be as much of an occasion to those who live there. Yet for anyone who dares to step outside of their normal routine new adventures and memories can have lasting impressions.
We visited several spots in Idaho and Wyoming. We saw the Grand Tetons with all their splendor. We drove up the side of the mountain until our ears needed “popped.” We marveled how we were enjoying 80 degrees when only a few hundred feet up there was still abundant snow. Then the steep descent gave way to wondrous and spacious beauty all around.
We visited the “R” mountain of Rexburg. This iconic mountain has a huge “R” painted on the side as to commemorate the nearby community. Many such mountains out west have letters painted on them in relation to nearby cities and universities. R mountain is special because it is an inactive volcano. On the north end of Rexburg the geography is so drawn that it is quite unbelievable. As you hit a certain point there is a couple miles of desert-like vegetation. Then, all of the sudden there are sand dunes of the finest sand you've ever seen. After a few short miles of that it's back to potato fields.
Potatoes are the main crop out there. Potatoes like most vegetables are sensitive to the climate. Madison county is perfect for growing massive amounts of potatoes. So much so that in October the schools shut down for a week so that the students can go out and help harvest the bounty. Yet, the county to the north is not so hospitable to the famed Idaho potato. Instead it is perfect for growing seed potatoes.
We followed the character of the Snake River and viewed the refreshing Palisades reservoir. Many wonders exist and are discovered when we take the time to step outside our routine. For me the most sublime fulfillment took place by a strong channel of water.
At the bottoms of the foothills of the Grand Tetons are vast acres of fields, log houses and “old west” types of tourist towns. On a small dirt road we stopped at a channeled current of snow melt water from the Tetons. As I did from memory so many years ago I reached down and cupped the water with my hand and drank thereof. So cool, clear, refreshing and pure! There are relatively few things in life that are truly unique to the individual that has such an impact on an individual as this occasion did for me. It changed my attitude and outlook. Why? Because I reached out and partook of an opportunity unfamiliar from my day-to-day routine.
OK. What does all this have to do with my run for the Shenandoah Councilman At Large? Everything! A leader must have conviction and a stalwart nature. He must know how to lead and to represent. Most of all he must know how to serve those whom he represents. Note that I do mean he or she. Now all these attributes I do not claim. For these attributes are to be judged by those who elect their representatives.
Yet, my main purpose of this “mountain” trip excursion I'm taking you on is that a leader cannot afford to be remiss of new ideas and experiences. To willfully, even though sometimes unknowingly, be blind of new possibilities and prosperity is dangerous to the community as a whole. Regardless of our own opinions there are other opinions out there to consider. It is our duty to learn these opinions in order to be well informed and to stand as a good representative of the will of the whole.
It is my position to take the time to listen to opinions and views of the people. Without this duty true representation would be for naught. It took me a thousand mile trip to gain a much needed new perspective on the world and the possibilities for the area in which I live. Though not everyone can take a vacation I exhort the people of Shenandoah to keep their minds open to the vast potential of this area. If we are true, tolerant and caring of our neighbor we will realize these potentials.
I humbly ask for your endorsement for the position of Shenandoah Councilman At Large.
