The South By Southwest Festival is in town, and the emphasis is so much more than music, film and food. The common denominator is the dynamic of change. And how we react and respond. Pennsylvania congressional winner Conor Lamb and the Parkland students are other agents of change, having a significant positive influence on our national conversation. Our elected officials need our help. Let's explore. LET'S MOSEY!
Read moreOUR KIDS ARE SUMMONING UP THEIR COURAGE. IT'S OUR TURN.
The Florida school shooting may be the long-awaited catalyst that turns this mess around. The kids are summoning up their courage, and we owe them no less than to join them in addressing the key issues of the day. They're not going to let us forget them. Most notably, comprehensive common sense firearm regulation. However, this specific issue is also a great metaphor for the resolution of many other challenges for healthy communities. Come join me in the discussion. LET'S MOSEY!
Read moreWe're Better Than This. The "New Normal"? Not On My/Our Watch...
Many cynics, skeptics and pundits are saying we're in a "new normal" of incivility, tribalism, irresponsible government and civic apathy. There is certainly considerable evidence to make that case, but we're not going to let that happen. Not on our watch. We are the seeds of positive change. And it's not even Spring. LET'S MOSEY!
Read more"The Post," Fake News And Our Challenge To Be Informed...
Thriving democracies require a free press and responsible journalism. I recently saw "The Post" movie, and was reminded of the important pillar of a free press to self-governance and a free society. Trump's assault on the media is a shot across our bow. We have many reasons to rise to our occasion with support for those who keep us informed. Journalists need our support, and we need their information to best equip us for engaged citizenship. Join me to reflect on these considerations. LET'S MOSEY!
Read moreLET'S MAKE HISTORY...NOT REPEAT IT!
West Texas singer/songwriter Mac Davis wrote of his fondness for "Lubbock In My Rearview Mirror," and I'm sure that most of us are eager to celebrate the same fate for 2016/2017. We really don't have a choice. What's did is did. Time to move into the New Year. But first, let's reflect on this recent history to figure out how not to repeat it. We can and must do better. It starts with our friend in the mirror. I look forward to working with you to build better communities. Happy New Year! LET'S MOSEY!
Read moreTHE SIMMER'S BECOMING A BOIL. TIME TO JUMP?
We've been simmering in this governance and political nightmare, but the heat has gone up so fast that we're being given the opportunity to leap to safety. To leap to better. As usual, our friend in the mirror has an important role. We'll have plenty to do in the New Year. For now, here's some perspective to prompt your community heart and conscience as you wind down in this most trying year. Wishing you health, peace of mind, family and friends, good art and music and a Happy Holiday Season! LET'S MOSEY!
Read moreOn Gus, Obama, Mueller, Trump and Us
In "Lonesome Dove," Gus McCrae, Robert Duvall's character earned his Texas Ranger spurs with spurs, guns, a sense of humor and fresh-made biscuits. He could be tough or gentle, as circumstances warranted. This Country is in desperate need of strong, high-integrity, compassionate and collaborative leaders. We might consider "Gus" as we ask our friend in the mirror, "Are you effective, or just busy?" Our communities need us. LET'S MOSEY!
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