I want to thank Thom for his help and his friendship in the election. While I am disappointed that I lost, it was indeed a postive experience. I was able to put some ideas on the table, change some minds, meet numerous great people, and hopefully the campaign made some difference. There are too many people to thank here, but it's been a pleasure to have lived through it.
This city has a tough road ahead, and if there is one great negative about the election it is that few came out to vote, and fewer of them took the time to really do the work of citizenship in a democracy. We, as a people, have to learn that elections are about governance, not just a horse race, personality contest, or any personal animosity that may exist. It's a shame that people only turn out (as in the Burke Co School Board race), when there is a fight. We need to adopt a mature attitude towards vision and policies and not just let adrenaline determine if we are going to vote or not.
Government is the vehicle for doing the people's business. Whether we like it or not our money is being used to provide for needs and regulate resources and people. The decisions we made in years past have put us where we are now. And the future is constantly being shaped. I wish the Mayor and Council the best and pray that they will diligently work to improve our lot as Hickoryites.
Again thanks to all . Harry Hipps
