Since moving to Maryville on July 31, I have attended at least three “town meetings or listening posts” for the Maryville Daily Forum. But to be honest, these “listening posts” always had something missing — the leadership views from the other side of politics.
I realize northwest Missouri carries a conservative clout in this region, and the citizens of Maryville probably voted in who they want to represent them. It is the American way, and under the Constitution of the United States, we have the right for the representation we select on an election day. I am not disputing this right.
But I also believe in the concept of an educated decision, which means knowing and seeking both points of view because many current issues may personally affect our neighbors and the community as a whole. Otherwise, you may be cutting yourself short in the full picture of primary issues.
I guess I am disappointed the agendas at some Maryville town meetings are purely political; the Republican point of view. My question is: Has the Democratic Party or an independent party ever been invited to engage in a local meeting with Republican leaders representing Maryville and Nodaway County?
I have attended “listening posts” meetings and dialogues including Sam Graves, Brad Lager and Mike Thomson. To be honest, the “buzz words” and political correctness of the speeches and discussions are — well — practically identical. Okay, I understand their point of view. It is what they believe in and embrace. It is the agenda for their party.
What I am asking for is that the “town meetings/listening posts” announcements be re-titled to read “political rally” because these meetings are not bipartisan.
Has the Democratic Party or an independent party been invited to speak in a local forum with community leaders? If so, I would like to know. If not, I would like to know why not?If the other parties have declined, I would like to know why?
As citizens of Missouri and the U.S., we are facing logjams at both the state and national level because the inability to compromise on issues including health care, unemployment benefits and financial reform; therefore, the country is not moving forward and aggressively seeking solutions.
Northwest Missouri’s Republican party — I am listening to what you are saying.
Okay, now I am ready to hear the other side.
-Sharon Dunten is the managing editor of the Maryville Daily Forum
Maryville, Mo. —
