[Winona Online Democracy]
I think this is a hard question to answer. It goes back to a previous discussion about civic involvement. Many people with whom I interact have no involvement past writing out an occaisional check to an organization that lobbies for something they value. They may get all their information through the local paper or radio news. I, personally, feel like I'm better informed (than I used to be) about local issues because I participate in online democracy, but I feel so stretched already with committments to people and organizations that I immediately resist adding more. I think there is a phenomemon of "the same few folks" being the ones who get involved in action. I've seen and experienced it in organizations I've served and I suspect a similar thing happens in a community. I've never really heard or experienced an answer to the problem of the same few folks being overextended while other possible supporters are under-utilized. Does anyone out there have any answers? Kathy Seifert Happy T Day.. online democracy folks, I've pondered some Dwayne Voegeli's call for forums on Trains and Health Insurance. I've also reflected on Fred Peterson's essay in the Winona Daily News regarding the school board's attempt to be very transparent in their decision making allowing for much citizen input and questioning. I wonder in our democracy how do we as concerned citizens take action? Forums certainly have worth-I think the community benefited greatly from the event held at City Hall in the aftermath of 9/11. But in picking up on Fred's comments, how do we as citizens work with our elected boards? How much transparency in their decisions do we see? Do we know the reasons behind the decision? What role can we have in being heard when decisions are considered? What role does online democracy play? Could there be more use of it by elected officials in learning from the community (although we have 225 subscribers- I think we all talk with others thus magnifying its reach)? How do we bring actions and concerns forward-agenda setting so to speak to deliberative bodies? So considering the action question- I've mentioned forums, trying to galvanize ideas for elected official consideration, encouraging elected officials to utilize online democracy more.. What do other people thinkŠ How do we take all this good conversation to actions steps? -- Randy Schenkat 1419 Conrad Dr. Winona, Mn 55987 507-452-7168 _________________________________________________________________ Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com/intl.asp --------------- This message was posted to Winona Online Democracy Please visit http://onlinedemocracy.winona.org to subscribe or unsubscribe All messages sent to the list must be signed with your actual name. Posting of commercial soliticitations is not allowed on this list. Report problems or questions to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
