I’m a multi-generation Texan and an Independent voter. Too many of us have been mislead by political rhetoric and calculated manipulative psychology. At the State and National levels. We can be easily lulled into a false sense of security that progress is moving as it should, until we take the time to do our homework, dig below the scrolling news surface and better inform ourselves. Once we’re better informed, we can take those “pesky facts” and influence more productive conversations with family and friends. Trust-building and collaborative partnerships will then make a huge difference in our civic engagement effectiveness. Come see what you think. LET’S MOSEY!
Read moreEEYORE'S SAD, BUT I'M NOT. IT'S SO BAD--THAT I'M ENCOURAGED!
Our perpetually sad friend Eeyore, on my leather hippie hat...circa early '70s
Today is Eeyore’s Birthday. He’s perpetually sad and downtrodden, as many of us have felt politically over the past several months. However, things got so bad over the past few months that the resistance backlash is positive and undeniable, and I’m encouraged about the potential to turn this mess around. There are many substantive and powerful signs of constructive civic engagement. Come join me as I outline a few. You’ll have many of your own. LET’S MOSEY!
Read moreTHE LEGACY AND PROMISE OF LEADERSHIP...NOT A MOMENT TOO SOON
Ann Richards was my friend, and one of Texas's most popular politicos. She worked all sides of the aisle with charm and facts. Made lots of friends and admirers in the process. Her daughter Cecile, after an impressive 12-yr. run as national spokesperson for Planned Parenthood, is carefully strategizing her next significant political move. She's one of the best prepared candidates I've seen in years. We'll all be well-served wherever she lands. Come gain some insights about them both. LET'S MOSEY!
Read moreIT'S APRIL FOOLS. BUT THE KIDS AREN"T KIDDING...
It's April Fools, but the kids aren't kidding. The living Florida high school shooting victims and their peer supporters have come on like gangbusters to hold all adults accountable. To call "B.S." on politicos that use deflection rhetoric to avoid dealing with comprehensive gun regulation. And to pressure adult political constituents to step up to hold their elected officials accountable for action, not just thoughts and prayers. I'm optimistic that this momentum may be the real deal. Naturally, it's up to us to rise to our occasion. UT Prof superstar Raj Patel has a great approach to setting community priorities. Come join me. Let's Mosey!
Read moreSXSW, Conor Lamb, The Parkland Students...Catalysts For Change
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!
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