By Tim Baldwin
New Year’s here! It’s time to reflect on what we’ve done and what we can do better. America has much to be thankful for, but we are not immune from the consequences of flawed decisions and principles. What can America do in 2016 to improve our political and societal state. I have four proposals.
First, the federal and state criminal justice systems should be reformed. Too many Americans’ lives are destroyed by prosecuting and punishing people who have hurt no one or society. Too, these systems unnecessarily cost us billions in taxes.
Second, congressional acts that created America’s banking system should be reconsidered. Too much power to control our fiat currency rests in the hands of global bankers, notably the Federal Reserve. The corruption of money dis-serves humanity and our nation and leaves even Congress susceptible to that influence.
Third, America should find ways to stay out of war. This requires us to follow the first principle, commit no act of aggression except in self-defense. America has meddled in foreign affairs for decades. The consequences are incalculable and caused so much confusion as to what’s right and reality.
Lastly, reignite the principles enumerated in the Declaration of Independence: life, liberty and pursuit of happiness. This is mostly accomplished by the individual, not government. Let’s help create those opportunities so individuals and the nation can flourish.
Happy New Year!
By Joe Carbonari
Suppose, for the entertainment of it, that you could make 2016 a year that was memorable for your personal “luckiness.” Maybe you can. Three Princes from the Isle of Serendip did it according to myth. They enjoyed discoveries everywhere they went – largely unrelated. They focused by chance, perhaps on something of interest and then let their minds wander. They often found patterns of action, structure, or composition that surprisingly fit totally different things as well – serendipity, it became known as – available to all.
If you learn something new about something or somebody that seems interesting or important, make a point to remember it, especially if you are not sure why. Sometimes the reason, serendipitously, will fall into place, especially if you take the time to think about it, to focus.
In 2016, as a community, I would hope that we will find it “serendipitous.” I hope that those who are involved in the decisions that will help define our future will put us in opportunity’s path. I hope to see momentum maintained on the redevelopment of Kalispell’s core area. I hope to see our historic downtown Kalispell continue to grow in quality, diversity, and fun.
We live in a valley. Our lives and livelihoods are interconnected. We should continue to plan and to work together. The valley as a whole is worth more than the sum of its parts. It should be viewed, treated, and presented that way. Serendipity might strike.