Journal News
February 16, 2010
Why should anyone today — in a world of texts and Tweets — take any interest in civics?
We should consider the potential. An engaged general public might prove to be the decisive grass-root factor in shaping the future of Hamilton, Ohio, USA.
Clearly, there is a lot at stake, because — well — there is a lot to get excited about living near Hamilton: historical districts, art, farmers’ markets, a low cost of living, public utilities, and new schools, to name a few.
As a horticulturalist and sustainable gardener, I praise the fertile soil and the life-giving water just underneath the ground we share. All of these wonderful things are worth working toward protecting and enhancing for future generations of Hamiltonians.
While recently attending an event at Miami University Hamilton’s Downtown Civic Engagement Center, I was introduced to a recent report on civic health. I would like to share some findings from the “2009 Ohio Civic Health Index Report.”
It states: “Civic renewal is the effort to engage more people in the life of communities, through greater involvement in public life and work of all kinds.”
The process of reading this report proved to be educational. Its findings included: Ohioans favor employment in local or small businesses, noting that “small local businesses garner trust from individuals, and Ohioans continue to see how their votes impact elections.” It went on to say that younger Ohioans, for the first time, are volunteering more than their older generational counterparts.
There are ample opportunities to volunteer and participate in the community. Thinking for yourself and voting are simple and inexpensive ways to aid the democratic process.
Public officials can be contacted and your political voice can be heard. Interacting with the media can help you stay informed about pertinent issues. Persuading friends and or colleagues to work together to change local policies is another example of strong citizenry.
An engaged general public creates a stronger, more vibrant and livable community. This empowerment can prove to have large economic benefits as well.
This topic will be looked at with much greater detail at the “Growing Communities to Grow Economies” conference on Feb. 23 at Miami University Hamilton. This unique affair is looking to serve as a stimulus for important conversation about the economies of communal health. How will this necessary, but not immediately achievable or recognizable topic play itself out?
Local chamber of commerce members are participating in efforts to promote a positive change as well.
Proudly, I would like to announce that Renck’s Landscaping and Garden Center will be donating fresh homegrown organic produce to One Way Farm to fight hunger. This small gesture is just one example of a way to give back to the community.