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Sep
5
Optimism v. Pessimism
Filed Under Democratic Party, Gary Indiana, Republican Party | 2 Comments
Both the DNC and RNC have held their conventions and a good number of Americans tuned in to hear what Barack Obama and John McCain have to say.
The thing that strikes me is not any specific policy idea or goal, it is the difference in outlook between the two major American parties.
The Democratic party continued with its pessimistic themes — much as it has year after year. Spending too much time listening to or reading Democratic party rhetoric is somewhat depressing. People are losing jobs, America’s greatness has past, and the bar keeps on moving so that no matter what an average person does he or she is basically screwed.
Gary, Indiana. Table for One -- Photo by KM Photography
The secondary Democratic party message is that reminds me of over protective parents — the kind that won’t let their kid move out of the house, even though he’s 42. They’ll promise to shelter, protect, and provide everything that anyone might ever need. The problem here is that just like mom wanting to keep her son safe and sound in the basement, the government just can’t fulfil its promises. Look at any major city’s public housing projects for an example. People lining up at the Trustee’s office early in the morning waiting for hours and hours to get government assistance. The whole scene causes anyone witnessing it to feel hopeless about their personal future.
The GOP always does a good job of presenting an optimistic message. A little hard work and some effort can result in rewards. We see the same thing in our own lives in our workplaces and neighborhoods. People who are working hard usually end up doing well. Times might be tough, but we’re going to pull through — just as we have in the past multiple times. America is still great — no matter what some of those other countries say. We still control our futures. We don’t have to fear anything.
When I was younger, the Democrat’s message was inspiring to me. It made me feel safe to know that there was possibly a parentalistic government out there that would take care of me if I failed to find a job. However, behind such thoughts is a pessimism that one is unable to take care of ones own needs and problems. Just as moving back into mom’s basement would provide safety and security, it also limits ones personal growth and opportunities.
Gary's Methodist Church. Photo by KM Photography.
And, the reality of the Democratic promise can be seen in person in many blue cities across the nation. North Lake County has been dominated by the Democratic party for years. The dream has turned into a nightmare for many as businesses and families have moved. Those who stay have been subjected to higher taxes and lack of efficent government services. Complaints abound from trash pick up, to crime, to educational failures.
All of these failures in the urban core lead to the cycle of despair that fuels the Democratic party rhetoric. You need us, the Democrats say, because there are no jobs and criminals are threating your community with drugs and violence. But, no one ever looks to see if the failures of the public educational system, taxation and other governmental policies are to blame for creating conditions in which crime and general hopelessness thrive? No wonder the Democratic message always implies that we’re all screwed. For many in “blue” areas, a harsh life filled with chaos, violence, and a lack of opportunity is a reality.
I’ve seen what the Democrats have done to Lake County. I can see what they’ve done and what they’re doing to Illinois. No thanks, I’ll pass on all of that.
Jul
14
Mai flys with the Thunderbirds at the Gary Air Show
Filed Under Gary Air Show, Gary Indiana | 1 Comment
Mai Martinez rides with the Thunderbirds who performed at the Gary Air Show this year.
Video: Mai Martinez flys with the Thunderbirds at the Gary Air Show
It’s great that the Gary Air Show is able to attract the Thunderbirds and other great acts to its annual air show at Marquette Park along beautiful Lake Michigan.
Video: Full video of Mai Martinez’s flight with the Thunderbirds at the Gary Air Show
