Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Jackie's Essay
Our West Liberty Community is planning on making a new cities institute group. That means that a certain group of citizens are going to get together and produce a group to help make West Liberty a better place. Such as if they think that Morgan County needs a new extension to their education department. If the citizens believe we need a better place for the community to go for fun such as a bowling alley or arcade games. By using the political linkages I am going to compare each one to the plan that the group has. I am going to starting with the political parties of the level and explain that first. Political parties are a very important part of the government’s actions. For our plan political parties can help support our group. Such as if we need political help or opinions you could go to a political party for help. The party could support the idea and talk about it to other politics, to get their opinion also. Interest groups are the next part of the level. Interest groups are the groups that are interested in a plan and want to help and participate in the plan. Such as the Women’s Club, Kiwanis’s Club, and etc. Can help support and participate in the plan. Media is the process of radio, newspaper, flyers, and the community in general. The radio can announce certain points to your plan. The radio or the newspaper can advertise your plan to the community. The citizens of the community may not have computers etc. to get information from them so they could get information from the newspaper or radio. Public opinions have a lot to do with the level of political linkage the public has opinions of their own that count very strongly to the plan. If the public doesn’t agree and like your plan then they won’t vote for the plan. Then your plan won’t pass to be processed in the community. The last level would be elections which is the voting of the citizens. If elections didn’t happen then your plan would never be in progress. Such as if the citizens don’t like the plan then they won’t vote for the plan. Then your plan won’t pass from the government’s part. If you don’t have the political linkage level involved and interested in your plan then your plan won’t pass in the process. If you use the political pyramid then your plan will have a better chance of working.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Keisha's Essay
Key officials and the planning committee met and discussed the plans on making West Liberty a new city in order to make it a better place to live, better recreation and more jobs.Civic groups and concerned citizens will be working together in order to improve the recreation for the youth of our community. Key officials for the city of West Liberty and county government officials will be working together trying to come up with the proper infrastructure to bring more jobs to the citizens of our community.The political parties will be a very important part of this plan. Without support from our political parties the voice of the citizens may not be enough to make this happen. The political parties can talk to other members of the parties and get their support of the plans set forth.Support from other groups such as the Lions Club. Kiwanis Club and our local Woman’s Club can voice their opinions and help set the plan in motion. These support groups, key officials and concerned citizens will discuss the improvement of the skate park, construction of an arcade game center inside the community center and having better hours to serve the community and having better access for the youth.City, County officials, and all political parties involved will be laying out the plans and contacting factories and automobile makers like Toyota with the possibility of constructing a factory in our new city.Our local radio station and newspapers will be our source for getting the word out to the community. Flyers with important meeting dates will be available at different areas in the county. Keeping the citizens informed gives this plan a better vote toward yes.It is very important that all officials city, county, state, civic groups and concerned citizens all working together to make our new city a very prosper and worthwhile place for the people of all ages to be proud of. The political pyramid must be used in order for this plan to work.
Melissa M's Essay
Economic growth, prosperity and the abilities to compete, provide and thrive in a fast pace world. These are all of the elements that consist in making a productive and functioning society. But how can we make that happen here, in our hometown?
One way is to get active. Letting our voice be heard, having our needs and desires weighed and appreciated. But how do we get that as citizens? One way that has seemed to make progress in any governmental action is by joining voices with others, by way of interest groups. Our new cities group is an interest group that will provide for a voice for the public as well as assist our local government in pursuing the wishes of the public. And keeping the public informed on our progress.
Our group will do this by a variety of venues and instruments. One of the most powerful forms is word of mouth. Sometimes this can affect areas of our population such as older members of our community who may not utilize the internet. But as citizens of our community their needs and thoughts for our growing city and its success are just as important as anyone else’s.
We can conduct phone interviews, go door to door. Our group could have meetings as well to get our fellow citizens active. Everyone wants prosperity here in Morgan County. We want to see our beautiful little city grow. I have already spoken to several people here in our community who has to go out side our county to find work. Some of these are in factories that would rather be working here in their own home town. These people don’t like to drive many hours away from family just to find a job that could be provided here. They are paying county and city taxes through their jobs to other counties where they work but do not live. Those tax dollars could help our county and provide jobs for our people.But how do we get this done? We will consult with our local government leaders our chamber of commerce and local citizens to establish their needs and desires. The New Cities Group will then provide the best action plan. We will keep our citizens aware of progress and victories by means of the licking valley courier, our local paper, by our blog site here on the internet and by radio.
We need to try to work together for the good of our community, despite our party affiliations. Asking ourselves what is best for our people. Of course by hearing the needs and seeing possible petitions signed by hundreds of people willing to work here in Morgan County, our government leaders are probably not apt to overlook such a mass of probable voters come election time. We can get their attention by means of petitions and numbers we have active in our plan for Morgan County. We must strive for their attention to our needs.
Above all else our county must progress and provide for its people. Beyond party, beyond ego, and beyond the great and all consuming "I" must come the future of our city. Providing future opportunities here in education, the job market and for our future citizens, our children should be our goal. Morgan County must be moved forward and everyone will have to get their hands dirty to see it through.
One way is to get active. Letting our voice be heard, having our needs and desires weighed and appreciated. But how do we get that as citizens? One way that has seemed to make progress in any governmental action is by joining voices with others, by way of interest groups. Our new cities group is an interest group that will provide for a voice for the public as well as assist our local government in pursuing the wishes of the public. And keeping the public informed on our progress.
Our group will do this by a variety of venues and instruments. One of the most powerful forms is word of mouth. Sometimes this can affect areas of our population such as older members of our community who may not utilize the internet. But as citizens of our community their needs and thoughts for our growing city and its success are just as important as anyone else’s.
We can conduct phone interviews, go door to door. Our group could have meetings as well to get our fellow citizens active. Everyone wants prosperity here in Morgan County. We want to see our beautiful little city grow. I have already spoken to several people here in our community who has to go out side our county to find work. Some of these are in factories that would rather be working here in their own home town. These people don’t like to drive many hours away from family just to find a job that could be provided here. They are paying county and city taxes through their jobs to other counties where they work but do not live. Those tax dollars could help our county and provide jobs for our people.But how do we get this done? We will consult with our local government leaders our chamber of commerce and local citizens to establish their needs and desires. The New Cities Group will then provide the best action plan. We will keep our citizens aware of progress and victories by means of the licking valley courier, our local paper, by our blog site here on the internet and by radio.
We need to try to work together for the good of our community, despite our party affiliations. Asking ourselves what is best for our people. Of course by hearing the needs and seeing possible petitions signed by hundreds of people willing to work here in Morgan County, our government leaders are probably not apt to overlook such a mass of probable voters come election time. We can get their attention by means of petitions and numbers we have active in our plan for Morgan County. We must strive for their attention to our needs.
Above all else our county must progress and provide for its people. Beyond party, beyond ego, and beyond the great and all consuming "I" must come the future of our city. Providing future opportunities here in education, the job market and for our future citizens, our children should be our goal. Morgan County must be moved forward and everyone will have to get their hands dirty to see it through.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Non-traditional student meeting overview.
Hi, Everyone this is just a quick re-cap of last Tuesdays meeting.
At the meeting Tuesday night there was some active discussion about some possible long and short term goals for our communities improvement. One of the short term goals discussed was a community clean up project such as planting trees and flowers and other things that would be benificial for our local enviroment. The other short term goal discussed was an improvement project on the football field.
There were a few long term projects discussed one of which was a better recycing center for our community. Other ideas that were discussed were things such as an animal shelter, a redevelopment of main street, and there was also a suggestion to add some new things to old mill park.
Thanks everyone for attending and contributing your ideas!
There will be another meeting this Tuesday at 6:00 pm.
At the meeting Tuesday night there was some active discussion about some possible long and short term goals for our communities improvement. One of the short term goals discussed was a community clean up project such as planting trees and flowers and other things that would be benificial for our local enviroment. The other short term goal discussed was an improvement project on the football field.
There were a few long term projects discussed one of which was a better recycing center for our community. Other ideas that were discussed were things such as an animal shelter, a redevelopment of main street, and there was also a suggestion to add some new things to old mill park.
Thanks everyone for attending and contributing your ideas!
There will be another meeting this Tuesday at 6:00 pm.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Meeting!
Hello ,
I would just like to give a little reminder for all the non-traditional students that there will be a meeting held at the MSU center at 6:00 P.M. Tuesday the 24th. This meeting will be a good opportunity for everyone to express there ideas about what they would like to see the new cities intiative do for our community.
I would just like to give a little reminder for all the non-traditional students that there will be a meeting held at the MSU center at 6:00 P.M. Tuesday the 24th. This meeting will be a good opportunity for everyone to express there ideas about what they would like to see the new cities intiative do for our community.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Government Assignment
The New Cities Institute Initiative is, in my opinion, a very worthy cause for the community. This initiative, if done properly can impact the community in a positive light. Of course, there are certain things that must be taken into consideration before such a project can be implemented. Such things include the public’s opinion on the project, interest groups within the community, the media, political parties, and elections.
Obviously, nothing will get accomplished if the public does not agree with what the people of the project want to do. The people of the project needs to keep in mind that what they do will be scrutinized by the community. By understanding this, the decisions that are made for the project should, in part, reflect what the public wants. The people of the project can determine what the community wants by having a meeting. In this meeting, all of the community members would be invited to give their opinion on what the project should focus on. The meeting would give the people of the community a chance to voice their opinion and quite possibly their support. It is important to have the public’s support because the more people who support the project, the more the project can do. The reason for this is because the more support available to it, the more attention it will get from influential people.
Another linkage that must be kept in our minds while we formulate this plan is to understand how interest groups can affect the project. Some of the interest groups within west liberty would be the women’s club and churches. Interest groups within the community, obviously have a great deal of power. They acquired this power because people of the community support them. Influential people are members of interest groups. Of course, these influential people have ties to people in office who can accomplish things for the project. If interest groups of the community support the project, then it will gain even more support to be able to do what has been stated. The more backing that the project receives, directly affects how much the project can accomplish. Of course, different interest groups could band together for the project. Unity would, of course, make things even better because everyone would be on the same page as far as the project is concerned.
Media also plays a role in the project because it can be used to add more light to what it is about. Radios, newspapers, and internet mediums would be the most viable options to get the project to the people. Without the media’s help, a large amount of people may never hear of the project. It is very important to at least get the basic information to the people. If the media is not used, optimum support will not be achieved and what the project may accomplish will be limited. It is not as complicated as it may sound. A simple radio message stating what the project is about or a group organization on facebook can draw a great deal of people to the project. Of course, each media outlet will appeal to different people. Facebook will tend to draw people of the younger generation while radio ads may very well draw people who are older. Each media outlet must be understood before it can be implemented effectively. Certain techniques that would work for facebook may not work for the radio which, in turn, may not work for television. Each media outlet is unique, and needs to be seen as such.
Political parties also play a role in the project. In a way, it ties in with some of the other linkages. If public opinion is in favor of the project, then politicians will try to associate themselves with it. The project will then gain a great deal of support from a large amount of people. However, some politicians will be wary to attach themselves onto the project due to the fact that the project could be a failure. If this does happen, the politician and his particular party affiliation will suffer because of it. They will suffer because that will give the other parties an opportunity to criticize the party for not having better judgment than what they had. It is a delicate process. In some cases, it doesn’t take much to sway voters from one party to another. In Morgan County, the party dynamic is democratic. Obviously, the democrats do not want to lose this power. Of course, their power could be lost if they make a hasty decision to support this project. That is the very reason as to why politicians will be cautious to associate themselves with the project. For the most part, politicians want to associate themselves with something that is popular with the public. Another way that political parties plays a role in the project is that whomever is in office at the time will impact what the project can accomplish. If the person in office agrees with the project, obviously, a good amount of things can be accomplished. However, if the people in office are against the project then, of course, the project will be limited as to what it may accomplish. This is another reason why the public must be taken seriously when the goals of the project are analyzed. The project needs to do things that the public wants to see accomplished.
Politics plays a role in the last linkage as well. For example, if an election was coming soon; politicians would be very careful to associate themselves to this project. Elections are, of course, a key process for politicians. No politician wants to associate themselves with something that will tarnish their career; especially during an election year. For instance, if someone was running for election and the project was popular; it would be obvious for the politician to try to associate himself with the project. The main thing, for most politicians, is to get elected. Of course, if the project was not popular and this was an election year; the project would not receive a great deal of attention from most politicians. As I stated in a previous paragraph, no politician wants to attach themselves onto something that they think will ultimately be a failure. They do not want to for two primary reasons. The first reason is, of course, because they do not want to hurt their future chances, and the second reason, perhaps most important, is they do not want to hurt their particular party. They fully understand that if they do something to hurt their party, it may take years before it can bounce back to the way that it was. Of course, the next election isn’t until next year, but that doesn’t mean that the local politicians will not be doing things now to ensure that they are elected or reelected back into their office. That is exactly why, if the project is popular, that the politicians will try to attach themselves to it so they can gain more support for themselves.
Obviously, nothing will get accomplished if the public does not agree with what the people of the project want to do. The people of the project needs to keep in mind that what they do will be scrutinized by the community. By understanding this, the decisions that are made for the project should, in part, reflect what the public wants. The people of the project can determine what the community wants by having a meeting. In this meeting, all of the community members would be invited to give their opinion on what the project should focus on. The meeting would give the people of the community a chance to voice their opinion and quite possibly their support. It is important to have the public’s support because the more people who support the project, the more the project can do. The reason for this is because the more support available to it, the more attention it will get from influential people.
Another linkage that must be kept in our minds while we formulate this plan is to understand how interest groups can affect the project. Some of the interest groups within west liberty would be the women’s club and churches. Interest groups within the community, obviously have a great deal of power. They acquired this power because people of the community support them. Influential people are members of interest groups. Of course, these influential people have ties to people in office who can accomplish things for the project. If interest groups of the community support the project, then it will gain even more support to be able to do what has been stated. The more backing that the project receives, directly affects how much the project can accomplish. Of course, different interest groups could band together for the project. Unity would, of course, make things even better because everyone would be on the same page as far as the project is concerned.
Media also plays a role in the project because it can be used to add more light to what it is about. Radios, newspapers, and internet mediums would be the most viable options to get the project to the people. Without the media’s help, a large amount of people may never hear of the project. It is very important to at least get the basic information to the people. If the media is not used, optimum support will not be achieved and what the project may accomplish will be limited. It is not as complicated as it may sound. A simple radio message stating what the project is about or a group organization on facebook can draw a great deal of people to the project. Of course, each media outlet will appeal to different people. Facebook will tend to draw people of the younger generation while radio ads may very well draw people who are older. Each media outlet must be understood before it can be implemented effectively. Certain techniques that would work for facebook may not work for the radio which, in turn, may not work for television. Each media outlet is unique, and needs to be seen as such.
Political parties also play a role in the project. In a way, it ties in with some of the other linkages. If public opinion is in favor of the project, then politicians will try to associate themselves with it. The project will then gain a great deal of support from a large amount of people. However, some politicians will be wary to attach themselves onto the project due to the fact that the project could be a failure. If this does happen, the politician and his particular party affiliation will suffer because of it. They will suffer because that will give the other parties an opportunity to criticize the party for not having better judgment than what they had. It is a delicate process. In some cases, it doesn’t take much to sway voters from one party to another. In Morgan County, the party dynamic is democratic. Obviously, the democrats do not want to lose this power. Of course, their power could be lost if they make a hasty decision to support this project. That is the very reason as to why politicians will be cautious to associate themselves with the project. For the most part, politicians want to associate themselves with something that is popular with the public. Another way that political parties plays a role in the project is that whomever is in office at the time will impact what the project can accomplish. If the person in office agrees with the project, obviously, a good amount of things can be accomplished. However, if the people in office are against the project then, of course, the project will be limited as to what it may accomplish. This is another reason why the public must be taken seriously when the goals of the project are analyzed. The project needs to do things that the public wants to see accomplished.
Politics plays a role in the last linkage as well. For example, if an election was coming soon; politicians would be very careful to associate themselves to this project. Elections are, of course, a key process for politicians. No politician wants to associate themselves with something that will tarnish their career; especially during an election year. For instance, if someone was running for election and the project was popular; it would be obvious for the politician to try to associate himself with the project. The main thing, for most politicians, is to get elected. Of course, if the project was not popular and this was an election year; the project would not receive a great deal of attention from most politicians. As I stated in a previous paragraph, no politician wants to attach themselves onto something that they think will ultimately be a failure. They do not want to for two primary reasons. The first reason is, of course, because they do not want to hurt their future chances, and the second reason, perhaps most important, is they do not want to hurt their particular party. They fully understand that if they do something to hurt their party, it may take years before it can bounce back to the way that it was. Of course, the next election isn’t until next year, but that doesn’t mean that the local politicians will not be doing things now to ensure that they are elected or reelected back into their office. That is exactly why, if the project is popular, that the politicians will try to attach themselves to it so they can gain more support for themselves.
Creating Your Lobby
Assignment Today:
Today (Wed. March 11th) I’d like for you to work on the following in class assignment:
As you all know, we’re creating a Special Interest Group, or Public Lobby, to help get out the word about our New Cities Institute Project. This project will ultimately yield some specific ideas and solutions to make the community of West Liberty a better place. For that to happen, there has to be consensus on the challenges the community faces, agreement on the solutions, and efforts to implement these solutions.
Before any of this can happen the leaders of the community who seek to ultimately find a common agenda must create means by which they can communicate with area citizens. You’re going to play a special role in that communications.
What I’d like you to work on today is the creation of that group we’ve talked about. Specifically, I’d like you to caucus among yourselves and select fellow students from this class for the following positions:
President: This person will work closely with me to coordinate an overall strategy for our group.
Youth Group Leader: This person will work with the President, persons in their early twenties and still in high school, and me to design a communications strategy for Morgan County youth.
Non-Traditional Students Leader: This person will work with the President and me to design a communications strategy for a very vital group: the 30 and 40 year old population of Morgan County. This is a very big group and consists of both educated professionals and persons in more traditional occupations, such as blue collar workers. You can help bridge the gap between these adults because of the fact that you straddle the two populations.
YG Facebook Leader: This person will be the front person on Facebook and, if necessary, MySpace. They’ll work with their leaders to design a strategy and will be responsible for implementing that.
NT Facebook Leader: This person will be the front person on Facebook. They’ll work with the leaders to design an FB communications strategy and will be responsible for implementing it.
YG Blogger: This person will be the person on the blogs for the YG.
NT Blogger: This person will be the person on the blogs for the NT students.
Event Coordinator: This person will be responsible for coordinating events and working with the YG and the NT student wings of our group.
Secretary: The secretary makes the minutes at all meetings and reports them to the group so we’ll stay on task.
Assistant Secretary: Same as above… this position is created to help keep the minutes and to work in the absence of the secretary… such as events where we split into our two groups, YG and NT Students.
YG Outreach: This person will be responsible for beating the bushes to get folks out. They’ll make phone calls, hand out fliers, etc.
NT Outreach: This person will be responsible for beating the bushes to get folks out. They’ll make phone calls, hand out fliers, etc.
Assistant to the Legal Counsel: I’m the counsel. You’ll work with me. I want the folks who don’t get elected to the posts above to be in this capacity. I assure you there'll be plenty to do, but not any more than the others.
By the end of class you should choose these positions. Keep notes of your meeting and let me know who’s serving in what capacity. Two weeks from yesterday, that is the 24th of March, there’ll be group meeting in both the high school (during the day) and at the MSU Center in the evening for 30-40 year olds. I’ll probably need to communicate with several of you next week so make sure that I have your best email.
The President should prepare the following for me and get it to me by the end of the week in an email:
A list of who’s in what position.
An email list so I can contact folks.
Any ideas, suggestions that may come out of your meeting today.
I think this is fairly easy. Don’t over analyze. Just get the job done. This is an important part of our political process and I want you to experience it without me so you’ll get the full affect.
Today (Wed. March 11th) I’d like for you to work on the following in class assignment:
As you all know, we’re creating a Special Interest Group, or Public Lobby, to help get out the word about our New Cities Institute Project. This project will ultimately yield some specific ideas and solutions to make the community of West Liberty a better place. For that to happen, there has to be consensus on the challenges the community faces, agreement on the solutions, and efforts to implement these solutions.
Before any of this can happen the leaders of the community who seek to ultimately find a common agenda must create means by which they can communicate with area citizens. You’re going to play a special role in that communications.
What I’d like you to work on today is the creation of that group we’ve talked about. Specifically, I’d like you to caucus among yourselves and select fellow students from this class for the following positions:
President: This person will work closely with me to coordinate an overall strategy for our group.
Youth Group Leader: This person will work with the President, persons in their early twenties and still in high school, and me to design a communications strategy for Morgan County youth.
Non-Traditional Students Leader: This person will work with the President and me to design a communications strategy for a very vital group: the 30 and 40 year old population of Morgan County. This is a very big group and consists of both educated professionals and persons in more traditional occupations, such as blue collar workers. You can help bridge the gap between these adults because of the fact that you straddle the two populations.
YG Facebook Leader: This person will be the front person on Facebook and, if necessary, MySpace. They’ll work with their leaders to design a strategy and will be responsible for implementing that.
NT Facebook Leader: This person will be the front person on Facebook. They’ll work with the leaders to design an FB communications strategy and will be responsible for implementing it.
YG Blogger: This person will be the person on the blogs for the YG.
NT Blogger: This person will be the person on the blogs for the NT students.
Event Coordinator: This person will be responsible for coordinating events and working with the YG and the NT student wings of our group.
Secretary: The secretary makes the minutes at all meetings and reports them to the group so we’ll stay on task.
Assistant Secretary: Same as above… this position is created to help keep the minutes and to work in the absence of the secretary… such as events where we split into our two groups, YG and NT Students.
YG Outreach: This person will be responsible for beating the bushes to get folks out. They’ll make phone calls, hand out fliers, etc.
NT Outreach: This person will be responsible for beating the bushes to get folks out. They’ll make phone calls, hand out fliers, etc.
Assistant to the Legal Counsel: I’m the counsel. You’ll work with me. I want the folks who don’t get elected to the posts above to be in this capacity. I assure you there'll be plenty to do, but not any more than the others.
By the end of class you should choose these positions. Keep notes of your meeting and let me know who’s serving in what capacity. Two weeks from yesterday, that is the 24th of March, there’ll be group meeting in both the high school (during the day) and at the MSU Center in the evening for 30-40 year olds. I’ll probably need to communicate with several of you next week so make sure that I have your best email.
The President should prepare the following for me and get it to me by the end of the week in an email:
A list of who’s in what position.
An email list so I can contact folks.
Any ideas, suggestions that may come out of your meeting today.
I think this is fairly easy. Don’t over analyze. Just get the job done. This is an important part of our political process and I want you to experience it without me so you’ll get the full affect.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Ashley's Essay
The leading officials of Morgan County, has made a rather huge decision. They have decided to take on a new project called “New Cities”. With this we are prepared to bring big changes to West Liberty. The first thing on the agenda would have to be to spread the word, which means tell the local business owners and the other orgnazations such as churches, and youth groups, because without their support “New Cities” might not get anywhere.
Another thing is to set up a meeting, invite anyone who is interested,for or against, and tell them their opinion counts. We need all the help we can to get this going. After we’ve posted the date and made sure everyone knows about it. We have the meeting.
During the meeting, we will discuss what we want to bring to West Liberty. For agruements sake we’ll say we want a walmart. Then we will contact WAlmart, but first we need someone to advocate for us. Such as a owner of a big business,and have them contact Walmart and tell them why it is a good idea for them to come to West Liberty. We then need to get it advertised like on WLEX18 or WKYT27,or 102.9. Getting public opinion on our side is #1, then they can write letters to walmart saying why we need them here.
Using Interest groups will help too. Political linkages is the only way to go to get a Walmart to West Liberty. And I believe “New Cities” with political linkages can do it.
Another thing is to set up a meeting, invite anyone who is interested,for or against, and tell them their opinion counts. We need all the help we can to get this going. After we’ve posted the date and made sure everyone knows about it. We have the meeting.
During the meeting, we will discuss what we want to bring to West Liberty. For agruements sake we’ll say we want a walmart. Then we will contact WAlmart, but first we need someone to advocate for us. Such as a owner of a big business,and have them contact Walmart and tell them why it is a good idea for them to come to West Liberty. We then need to get it advertised like on WLEX18 or WKYT27,or 102.9. Getting public opinion on our side is #1, then they can write letters to walmart saying why we need them here.
Using Interest groups will help too. Political linkages is the only way to go to get a Walmart to West Liberty. And I believe “New Cities” with political linkages can do it.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Amanda's Essay
Political linkages connect the American government with its people; these linkages make it possible for the individual citizen to have a voice in how their city, state and even country are run. Public opinion, interest groups, the media, political parties, and elections are examples of these linkages between the government and the people it governs.
The political linkages would play an integral and important part of the new cities initiative. The first political linkage that is likely to come into play is interest groups. Which in the city of West Liberty would be comprised of church groups, community improvement based clubs such as the Kiwanis and the Rotary club, and groups such as our student group. These interest groups would begin the process by presenting the problems they feel exist in the community and would create forums for other citizens to voice their feelings about the problems in the community. These interest groups would also most likely try to come up with different solutions to the problems to this community. For instance if one group felt that drugs were the most serious problem in West Liberty they may present a community involvement program as a solution to the problem. Interest groups could also lobby for different solutions that the new cities initiative leaders come up with. If something that the leaders come up with as a solution to the communities problems is of particular interest to them they will put their support behind it.
One of the most important components in the success of the new cities initiative would have to be the media. This includes our local newspaper and radio, as well as our readily available internet resources such as facebook and our blog. Accessible internet resources such as these allow the individual private citizen to voice their opinion about what should be done in the community. The members of the new cities initiative as well as members of the interest groups getting involved could utilize these sources to publicize the new cities initiative and the plans it is making for the community. The media is also a great way of getting the community involved in the project. Creating a facebook group and a blog are both excellent forums for community feedback. Newspaper articles and radio spots are both great ways to publicize meetings provide snippets of information on what it is the committee is doing.
Then of course as we provide forums for the community to share their opinions on our plans the public opinion of the community will begin to play a very important role in the project. We will not only be taking into account what our interest groups and committee says we will also be taking into account the opinions of the public in the community. If the community as a whole is expressing a very negative opinion they will be very unlikely to continue on with whatever it is that the public are so opposed to. Public opinion is a very powerful thing mostly because of the effect public opinion has on the outcome of elections.
Elections themselves could also play an important role in this process because politicians that are active in this community would be keeping elections in consideration as they participate in the process. They will consider the public’s opinion before choosing a stance or making a decision on anything. They will be conscious of what the community is most supportive of and choose to support it as well because that is most likely what will garner support for them in their next election. Elections would also be a very important part of who becomes active and participates in the new cities initiative someone who plans on running for office would very likely be very active and visible in this community improvement project. If only just to get their name out in public and meet voters.
Political parties would also play a role in the process as often happens in politics there would likely be some opposition between the parties about how they believe the communities problems could best be solved. People would be very likely to align with their party and this could cause some un-wanted conflict in the project and this would be one of the obstacles the community would need to overcome in this process. However party loyalties could be helpful for this project as well. If one party is able to really pull together as a party and manage to get state leaders of the party active in their community improvement plan then that could really be helpful in the accomplishment of community improvement.
With the assistance of all the political linkages the new cities initiative could accomplish what it set out to and really improve the community with the help of its leaders and citizens.
The political linkages would play an integral and important part of the new cities initiative. The first political linkage that is likely to come into play is interest groups. Which in the city of West Liberty would be comprised of church groups, community improvement based clubs such as the Kiwanis and the Rotary club, and groups such as our student group. These interest groups would begin the process by presenting the problems they feel exist in the community and would create forums for other citizens to voice their feelings about the problems in the community. These interest groups would also most likely try to come up with different solutions to the problems to this community. For instance if one group felt that drugs were the most serious problem in West Liberty they may present a community involvement program as a solution to the problem. Interest groups could also lobby for different solutions that the new cities initiative leaders come up with. If something that the leaders come up with as a solution to the communities problems is of particular interest to them they will put their support behind it.
One of the most important components in the success of the new cities initiative would have to be the media. This includes our local newspaper and radio, as well as our readily available internet resources such as facebook and our blog. Accessible internet resources such as these allow the individual private citizen to voice their opinion about what should be done in the community. The members of the new cities initiative as well as members of the interest groups getting involved could utilize these sources to publicize the new cities initiative and the plans it is making for the community. The media is also a great way of getting the community involved in the project. Creating a facebook group and a blog are both excellent forums for community feedback. Newspaper articles and radio spots are both great ways to publicize meetings provide snippets of information on what it is the committee is doing.
Then of course as we provide forums for the community to share their opinions on our plans the public opinion of the community will begin to play a very important role in the project. We will not only be taking into account what our interest groups and committee says we will also be taking into account the opinions of the public in the community. If the community as a whole is expressing a very negative opinion they will be very unlikely to continue on with whatever it is that the public are so opposed to. Public opinion is a very powerful thing mostly because of the effect public opinion has on the outcome of elections.
Elections themselves could also play an important role in this process because politicians that are active in this community would be keeping elections in consideration as they participate in the process. They will consider the public’s opinion before choosing a stance or making a decision on anything. They will be conscious of what the community is most supportive of and choose to support it as well because that is most likely what will garner support for them in their next election. Elections would also be a very important part of who becomes active and participates in the new cities initiative someone who plans on running for office would very likely be very active and visible in this community improvement project. If only just to get their name out in public and meet voters.
Political parties would also play a role in the process as often happens in politics there would likely be some opposition between the parties about how they believe the communities problems could best be solved. People would be very likely to align with their party and this could cause some un-wanted conflict in the project and this would be one of the obstacles the community would need to overcome in this process. However party loyalties could be helpful for this project as well. If one party is able to really pull together as a party and manage to get state leaders of the party active in their community improvement plan then that could really be helpful in the accomplishment of community improvement.
With the assistance of all the political linkages the new cities initiative could accomplish what it set out to and really improve the community with the help of its leaders and citizens.
Melissa's Essay
The New Cities initiative for West Liberty is a fantastic idea for our community. There will be a lot of work that must be done to accomplish the plan that derives from the meetings. In order to make the community of West Liberty a “New City” city leaders, business owners, educators, and the public in general need to come together to get the work done. I believe the first step is to hold meetings with community leaders and other influential members of the area, which has already been started since there have already been two meetings.
Whether the plan includes economic growth, recreation ideas, or even to better the educational system there needs to be a lot of brainstorming with fresh and new ideas. The people of the community should be included in the decision making process because they are the ones who will be utilizing the outcome. This can be done by conducting phone calls and by going door to door to find out what kind of changes the people of our community are looking for or needing. They should also be invited to planning meetings. By no means will we be able to make everyone in the community happy, but the people do need to know that their opinions and ideas about bettering our community are appreciated and needed.
Besides going door to door and making phone calls, we can create flyers to inform the public about meeting times and what the New Cities Initiative is all about. We can utilize the Licking Valley Courier, conduct radio spots on Kick 102.9 explain the plan and to get the people excited about what is going on and to get them involved. We could also get in touch with local television stations as well. The internet is also another great avenue for informing the public, especially the younger generations. We can utilize our Facebook group by inviting others to join the group, as well as informing folks about our blog.
Interest groups such as the Kiwanis Club, Ministerial Association, local churches, educators, and the Chamber of Commerce need to be included because they may have connections that someone else may not. They may also be able to help the plan become a reality especially if it is beneficial to them as well as to the community as a whole. Interest groups can also help with fundraising and possibly donate money to the cause. If economic growth is the concern of the “New City” committee, the Chamber of Commerce is essential because they aid in helping the businesses of our county. At last check, there were 42 members of the Chamber of Commerce here in West Liberty. They could aid in bringing new jobs to the area.
We might also need to enlist the help of local, district, or state leaders to get the “New City” plans accomplished, which might include asking our Judge Executive, Mayor, State Representative, or our U.S. Representative to help us get the plans approved. We may even include the Governor. These leaders may also be able to help us get the money needed to accomplish the plan. Political leaders should want to help especially if the public is really behind the plan because all the leaders in our community want to be re-elected and care about how the people view them as leaders.
In closing, I would like to say that I am really excited about the West Liberty New Cities Initiative because we need more economic growth in our community and we need good change. It will take us all working together across party lines to get the job done.
Whether the plan includes economic growth, recreation ideas, or even to better the educational system there needs to be a lot of brainstorming with fresh and new ideas. The people of the community should be included in the decision making process because they are the ones who will be utilizing the outcome. This can be done by conducting phone calls and by going door to door to find out what kind of changes the people of our community are looking for or needing. They should also be invited to planning meetings. By no means will we be able to make everyone in the community happy, but the people do need to know that their opinions and ideas about bettering our community are appreciated and needed.
Besides going door to door and making phone calls, we can create flyers to inform the public about meeting times and what the New Cities Initiative is all about. We can utilize the Licking Valley Courier, conduct radio spots on Kick 102.9 explain the plan and to get the people excited about what is going on and to get them involved. We could also get in touch with local television stations as well. The internet is also another great avenue for informing the public, especially the younger generations. We can utilize our Facebook group by inviting others to join the group, as well as informing folks about our blog.
Interest groups such as the Kiwanis Club, Ministerial Association, local churches, educators, and the Chamber of Commerce need to be included because they may have connections that someone else may not. They may also be able to help the plan become a reality especially if it is beneficial to them as well as to the community as a whole. Interest groups can also help with fundraising and possibly donate money to the cause. If economic growth is the concern of the “New City” committee, the Chamber of Commerce is essential because they aid in helping the businesses of our county. At last check, there were 42 members of the Chamber of Commerce here in West Liberty. They could aid in bringing new jobs to the area.
We might also need to enlist the help of local, district, or state leaders to get the “New City” plans accomplished, which might include asking our Judge Executive, Mayor, State Representative, or our U.S. Representative to help us get the plans approved. We may even include the Governor. These leaders may also be able to help us get the money needed to accomplish the plan. Political leaders should want to help especially if the public is really behind the plan because all the leaders in our community want to be re-elected and care about how the people view them as leaders.
In closing, I would like to say that I am really excited about the West Liberty New Cities Initiative because we need more economic growth in our community and we need good change. It will take us all working together across party lines to get the job done.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
New Cities Needs Community Involvement to Work
People rarely accomplish anything by themselves. It takes a group of people working together toward a common goal in order to get things done. These principles also apply to interest groups. By itself, one small interest group cannot accomplish much. If it get others to support it, however, things become much easier. The goal of the West Liberty New Cities Initiative is to make West Liberty a better place. This can only be done by working with people outside New Cities. By taking public opinion, the media, fellow interest groups, political parties, and elections into account, we will be able to get the support it needs and come up with a plan of action.
Since the purpose of New Cities is to improve our community, we to know what our community needs and wants. This is where public opinion comes in. In order to find out what the public wants, however, a little research is required. Methods such as surveys, interviews, and polls can be used to gage the citizens’ opinions. We must keep a couple of things in mind, however, when considering public opinion. First of all, it would be impossible to make everyone happy, as people have clashing views on issues and the resources necessary to carry out some projects may be hard to come by. Compromises will be made. Second, and most importantly, there is no guarantee that the public will be cooperative. How, then, do we tip the odds in our favor?
The answer is simple: the media. By using the media, we can inform the citizens about our cause and persuade them to take part by conveying a positive image of New Cities. In order to accomplish this, we need to leave our mark in as many facets of the media as possible. In Morgan County, this includes radio, newspapers, and the Internet. As for radio, we can buy advertising slots on stations such as KICK 102.9 ,as well as send our representatives for interviews with the radio personalities of the most popular stations within eastern Kentucky. As for the newspapers, we can place ads and request articles to be written in papers such as The Licking Valley Courier or The Shopping News. As for the Internet, we can not only promote New Cities via this blog and our Facebook group, but also receive feedback from the community. People can post comments both on the blog and on Facebook, allowing us to directly communicate with the masses.
The ordinary people in our community are not the only ones we will be dealing with, though. There are other interest groups that will serve to either help or hinder our cause. Let us say that we want a Wal-Mart in West Liberty, for instance. A few interest groups, such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, may support a Wal-Mart, citing benefits of low pricing and job creation. Groups like this would be willing to give money or land for the store. In contrast, groups such as local churches may be against a Wal-Mart, citing questionable business practices and impact on small businesses. They would take actions such as informing the public of their views and protesting. We must take the views of fellow interest groups into account before deciding on a final plan of action for any of our ideas, making compromises and perhaps even abandoning projects if the going gets tough.
There are two other groups that are more influential than any single interest group, however: the Republican and Democratic parties. People from these two major parties are who we elect as government officials and representatives. In turn, interest groups turn to (i.e. lobby) them when they want something done. The views of party the government official/representative belongs to, though, more often than not determine what ideas and projects will be supported by them. Since Morgan County has community leaders from both parties (ex. John Will Stacy is a Democrat, while Tim Conley is a Republican) we are not immune to partisan struggles.
Therefore, we must consider the views each party would most likely have on certain ideas. While some measures would undoubtedly be non-partisan (ex. funding for drug rehab programs), others would involve more conflict (ex. increasing taxes ). Again, cooperation and compromise are the key to working with people that have opposing views.
Finally, we must consider elections. It is no secret that everyone in office fears losing their office. As an interest group, we will have to take advantage of this fear in order to advance our agenda. After all, what better way for a politician to show their worthiness to remain in office by taking measures to help the community? Using this argument against incumbents will more than likely increase our chances of receiving funding from them as well as influencing their vote in a favorable way if the incumbent in question is a state representative or a Congressman. Also, although elections are still a long time away, once election time comes, we can support candidates who will further the goals of New Cities. Still, even when we get support from the right officials and representatives, we must be wary of sabotage by the opposition, especially in higher offices such as those for Congress.
In conclusion, New Cities cannot succeed alone. In order to come with a proper plan of action, we need people outside the our interest group. By taking public opinion, the media, other interest groups, political parties, and elections into account, we will receive the support we need, albeit with plenty of cooperation and compromise along the way.
Since the purpose of New Cities is to improve our community, we to know what our community needs and wants. This is where public opinion comes in. In order to find out what the public wants, however, a little research is required. Methods such as surveys, interviews, and polls can be used to gage the citizens’ opinions. We must keep a couple of things in mind, however, when considering public opinion. First of all, it would be impossible to make everyone happy, as people have clashing views on issues and the resources necessary to carry out some projects may be hard to come by. Compromises will be made. Second, and most importantly, there is no guarantee that the public will be cooperative. How, then, do we tip the odds in our favor?
The answer is simple: the media. By using the media, we can inform the citizens about our cause and persuade them to take part by conveying a positive image of New Cities. In order to accomplish this, we need to leave our mark in as many facets of the media as possible. In Morgan County, this includes radio, newspapers, and the Internet. As for radio, we can buy advertising slots on stations such as KICK 102.9 ,as well as send our representatives for interviews with the radio personalities of the most popular stations within eastern Kentucky. As for the newspapers, we can place ads and request articles to be written in papers such as The Licking Valley Courier or The Shopping News. As for the Internet, we can not only promote New Cities via this blog and our Facebook group, but also receive feedback from the community. People can post comments both on the blog and on Facebook, allowing us to directly communicate with the masses.
The ordinary people in our community are not the only ones we will be dealing with, though. There are other interest groups that will serve to either help or hinder our cause. Let us say that we want a Wal-Mart in West Liberty, for instance. A few interest groups, such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, may support a Wal-Mart, citing benefits of low pricing and job creation. Groups like this would be willing to give money or land for the store. In contrast, groups such as local churches may be against a Wal-Mart, citing questionable business practices and impact on small businesses. They would take actions such as informing the public of their views and protesting. We must take the views of fellow interest groups into account before deciding on a final plan of action for any of our ideas, making compromises and perhaps even abandoning projects if the going gets tough.
There are two other groups that are more influential than any single interest group, however: the Republican and Democratic parties. People from these two major parties are who we elect as government officials and representatives. In turn, interest groups turn to (i.e. lobby) them when they want something done. The views of party the government official/representative belongs to, though, more often than not determine what ideas and projects will be supported by them. Since Morgan County has community leaders from both parties (ex. John Will Stacy is a Democrat, while Tim Conley is a Republican) we are not immune to partisan struggles.
Therefore, we must consider the views each party would most likely have on certain ideas. While some measures would undoubtedly be non-partisan (ex. funding for drug rehab programs), others would involve more conflict (ex. increasing taxes ). Again, cooperation and compromise are the key to working with people that have opposing views.
Finally, we must consider elections. It is no secret that everyone in office fears losing their office. As an interest group, we will have to take advantage of this fear in order to advance our agenda. After all, what better way for a politician to show their worthiness to remain in office by taking measures to help the community? Using this argument against incumbents will more than likely increase our chances of receiving funding from them as well as influencing their vote in a favorable way if the incumbent in question is a state representative or a Congressman. Also, although elections are still a long time away, once election time comes, we can support candidates who will further the goals of New Cities. Still, even when we get support from the right officials and representatives, we must be wary of sabotage by the opposition, especially in higher offices such as those for Congress.
In conclusion, New Cities cannot succeed alone. In order to come with a proper plan of action, we need people outside the our interest group. By taking public opinion, the media, other interest groups, political parties, and elections into account, we will receive the support we need, albeit with plenty of cooperation and compromise along the way.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Blogger Invitations
FYI... I've invited all the GOV 141 students to become a blogger on this site. That's where you'll park your essay that's due Monday. I sent the invitations to your MSU email accounts. If anyone has trouble getting it up here just let me know.
Thanks. Good luck.
Thanks. Good luck.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Who We Are
We are a coalition of local citizens consisting of 19 MSU students and one adjunct professor. Our group is named the MSU New Cities Student Initiative. We will be helping the community of West Liberty promote their New Cities plan. We will be opinionated and our opinions are our own, not necessarily those of the community, others in this group, or the West Liberty New City planners.
We hope you'll visit often.
We hope you'll visit often.
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