Northwood News ♦ February 2009

President’s Message

By Carole Barth

At a recent political event, I was talking with a couple about all the challenges the new President will face.  We talked about crises that need attention, as well as the less glamorous but equally important “behind the scenes” tasks of government.  They talked about why they have remained active and involved despite countless frustrations and often feeling as though it’s impossible to make a difference.

Then the wife turns to me and says, “So, what are you doing to make things better?”

I responded that I’m mainly involved with local issues and began telling them about NFCCA and the issues we are involved in.  The conversation ended with them thanking me for all that our community does together.  They recognized that local government has a huge impact on what kind of community we live in, which, in turn, is a big determiner of our day-to-day quality of life.

How hard is my commute?  Where can I go for a respite from the stresses and strains of modern life?  Are my kids getting a good education and forming diverse friendships?  Do I feel safe in my home?  Can I rely on the water supply, the power grid, and trash pickup?  If disaster strikes, can I count on my neighbors for help?

While all these systems operate within a structure of federal law and policy, much of the implementation takes place at the state and local level.  And, of course, we elect representatives to handle that for us.  But we can’t stop there if we want a community that (1) meets our needs and (2) forms a strong foundation for the future.

So what power do we have to effect change?  What we really have are time, attention, talent, and commitment.  We take time to read the newsletter, to post items to the listserv, to attend meetings, to send in comments, and to come together as a community for creek cleanups, National Night Out, and other events.

We pay attention to whether our elected officials “walk their talk.”  We pay attention to what goes on around us and call the police when our “spider sense” tingles.  We pay attention when someone cuts trees in the park.  We look out for the stray dog, the crying child, or the elderly neighbor who might need a hand shoveling snow.

We apply our knowledge and expertise for the betterment of our community, whether it’s writing an article, providing music, building a sign, designing a garden, or analyzing a proposed budget.

In reality, no one has all the skills or knowledge required.  No one has enough time or energy to do everything that needs doing.  But if everyone makes the commitment to do what they can, we will change things for the better.

So what will you do in 2009 to make things better?   ■