December 27, 2006

As the year of 2006 comes to a close, I think it is only right to reflect on the good that has been done in our community. Too many people are always quick to condemn or complain, and only a few will voice the good things. As a citizen in Alton, I can see many things that need to be changed, but that is not a problem, it is a challenge for our community to work through. But let’s look on the bright side of things for a change. Our city has great drawing attraction of the antique shops, and soon the eagles will be soaring over the city bring in tourists to see them.

We have an excellent police force that is very professional. Yes, mistakes are made, but they are human too. They have added more equipment that many think is frivolous, but if you analyze the threats in our society, the costs can be justified. It is pleasant to see a police officer drive by and wave and smile as they have done with me. Then there is our fire department that protects us and is there to help in emergencies. Like the police department the equipment they have is necessary, and I am sure both agencies need more, and as a citizen, we need to help ensure this happens.

Doctors are returning to the area, and our hospitals have grown to help keep people in the community healthy. Alton School test scores are up, and this could not happen without the help from teachers, school officials, and most of all the parents. Our city has just completed the Hellrung Park and places for the children to play and we have many other parks as well. Gordon Moore Park is a magnificent specimen and many people from different parts of the county come here to play in tournaments.

These are just a few things that make me happy about our community. I totally agree with people that things need to be fixed, but instead of seeing the negative side all the time, try looking at the positive side of accepting a challenge. More can be done if we would gather as a team and work as a team. Unity is just another challenge to look at, but with positive outlook it can be a trip to take that could change your complete lifestyle. Be proud of where you live and look to make a difference. Give it a try, and join me in 2007 to make a difference in the city of Alton. Happy Holidays everyone.

December 22, 2006

Kudos to the Allstate agents that help give away free gas in Godfrey! What a wonderful thing to find out when you pull up to the pump and they say they are going to give you 10 gallons of gas. Happy holidays all.


ARTICLE ON THETELEGRAPH.COM

Free gas!

It wasn't hard to find a smile Thursday at the Godfrey Moto Mart on Godfrey Road where Max Heinz, left, was one of 100 people to get an unexpected gift of free gasoline pumped by Allstate Insurance agent Angela Grote, right. Several agents were on hand to give away 10 gallons of gas to people who happened to stop at the station, starting at 10 a.m. and lasting about two hours. Allstate has been conducting the giveaway at selected stations during the holiday season. "It is one of our random acts of kindness, early holiday gift promotions," spokesman Eric Scott said.

December 20, 2006

Happy Holidays everyone. I am trying very hard to be sensitive to every one's prospective of the season. I respect every one's right in how they celebrate the season.

As we approach the end of 2006, I wonder how many people reflect on the past year. Many make New Years Resolutions and wonder how many succeed. My person opinion is many people set unrealistic goals at the new year and set themselves up for failures. That is why I never have a New Years Resolution. I do set goals and review them periodically, but I make them attainable.

Every since I was a teenager, I have set goals, short range, medium range, and long term. For example short range goal today is helping in setting up meetings to organize a Green Party delegation in Madison County. Medium range is to enter the political arena in the next 2 to 3 years. And my long term goal which I set in place when I was 12 years old, was I am going to live to be 100 or more. Now that may be a challenge, but I am up for that. With today's medical technology, it is a very attainable goal. And to help get there, I am at my doctor's office every six months and get a physical every year. So many men do not do this, and could live longer if they would do this.

December 2006

Another storm, wow. I was lucky this time and kept my power. But the city seems to be doing very little to help its citizens again. Where is our mayor? Not one word has come out of his office on any assistance, or how to get help. Such a sad state our city is in these days.