Yelling and ranting--it used to be considered uncouth. Today however, it seems the loudest gets the attention. And so it goes with our leaders in Congress, as well as the general political warfare, given the ties into fiscal (lack of) responsibility.
When mainstream evolves; whether in media or in social life, we feel the effects. But much like when you haven't seen a growing niece or nephew for months to a year and then you see them again, you take notice to the physical changes because you aren't witness to them daily. I now bare witness to this same observation of our political leaders since I had kind of tuned out for several years for various reasons and desires.
Watching the debt ceiling battle and ongoing nightmare has reminded me to consider this: Once that show is over; what's the fallout for small towns like Martinez? Certainly we know of budgets and that they start at the top...and so California, and the counties and then cities therein shall see as the shortage of funds trickles its way.
I think back to that new sign that promotes downtown as you drive down Marina Vista and the cost vs. benefit that some have mentioned here on Patch over the last months. Was it worth it? Or the redevelopment snags and successes that are initially an idea to perhaps fruition...or the victim of redtape and budget shortfalls. Do they have a purpose that makes a value-difference?
The answers are uncertain but one factor remains: To have pride in where you live or work, to feel comfort in the place you call your community - these are the things that make your life journey the best part. So even if fiscally it seems impractical on paper, the lesson we all can learn is that we invest in what we become. It works for schooling the children of our future, supporting local small, responsible business-people who have shown the test of time and those just embarking with betterment to the region.
So the next time you think about maybe going out, change it from maybe to yes! Taking a walk or short drive to downtown for a brew, or some live music, or to pick up something unique for that loved-one friend/relative, perhaps think about making it a reinvestment in your quality of life by doing so here, locally. Think about the printing businesses locally and support them, even if you have previously ordered from elsewhere.
Try the Friday night art strolls or Martinez On The Main events, get some free music and kick a few bucks tips to the bands who work so hard in that sunshine and bring a difference to the town, or buy that art piece that is calling your name by that local artist who is providing something beautiful and special to this, your world.
For no matter what the big guys decide, all of us locally can help make a fiscal difference in supporting our local region. This is what makes a community, a village...and that's all it takes!
