Saxon Vs. Broun

Bobby Saxon, the Democratic candidate for the 10th congressional district seat currently held by Paul Broun Jr., attended our Watkinsville City Council meeting tonight. I had heard about Saxon from some folks, but had not met him yet.

We talked briefly prior to the meeting, and then again afterward. Based on what he told me, I came right out and asked him the obvious -- if you favor a strong national defense, are conservative on most values-based issues, and frequently disagree with the national party, why are you running as a Democrat? He explained that he grew up poor, goes to church and feels it is his duty to take care of the poor, and that Republicans aren't committed to assisting the poor at all.

"The Democrats don't make the distinction between those who are poor and those who are sorry, and that is too bad," he said. He added that at least they are considering the poor at all.

I can respect that reasoning, even if I don't totally agree with it. We had a wide ranging coversation; some highlights below:

• We discussed the idea that sometimes in politics, pragmatism has to triumph over principle in order to accomplish anything.
• When asked about his favorite past politicians, he listed folks like Lincoln, Reagan, Jefferson, and Sam Nunn.
  
• He is an Oconee County native (grew up on Flat Rock Road). Lives in Jackson County now. Has been a small business owner.
  
• He has served our nation for 8 years as an enlisted man. He has had an overseas tour of duty and has worked in the Pentagon. After 9/11 he gave up a lucrative business to re-enlist as a reservist and has been stationed in Baghdad. He has had top-secret security clerance and seemed very up to date on national security issues.
• Sees immigration as a homeland security issue.
• Supports drilling and a strong alternative fuels effort to end dependence on foreign oil.
  

Overall, I walked away impressed with Bobby and look forward to learning more from him about what he'd like to do if sent to Washington.

Then I hopped in my car and noticed an e-mail -- apparently Rep. Broun announced today that he is unwilling to debate Saxon in Athens or anywhere else in the district, apparently. This is just weak. I guess there is just too much baggage to contend with, and perhaps a front runner doesn't feel the need to debate what many perceive as a long-shot challenger. If you ask me, if you believe in what you stand for and are representing our district in Washington, you shouldn't be afraid to put it on the line, whether it is against an opponent in a debate or with anyone else, regardless of the setting.

If Saxon can meet enough people in the district between now and November to overcome his lack of media dollars, and if there is a strong Democratic push as a result of the Obama energy, this could be a race. Saxon makes a good first impression and is going to appeal to a lot of conservative to moderate folks in the district, especially those who pay attention and have concerns about whether Broun's ultra-principled but ultra-conservative approach in office is indeed what is in the best interest of this district.

Oconee Veterans Memorial Dedication

For the past 16 years, I have spent my July 4 mornings running the Peachtree Road Race. Most years afterwards would then involve either hosting or attending cookouts in Atlanta with friends from Oconee, Berry, and the Atlanta Track Club. A combination of family situations, injuries, and illnesses worked together to cancel those plans this year. To say the least it was certainly a little strange to watch the race on TV this morning after all those years of making the 6.2 mile trek down Peachtree.

But it was a great year to be in Watkinsville on the Fourth. First thing this morning my dad, mom and I went to the dedication ceremony for the new Oconee Veterans Memorial. Dad served in Vietnam, and although he rarely mentions it, I wanted him to be among those honored this Independence Day.

There was a large turnout of veterans, their families, and others on a warm summer morning. The black marble memorial and its manicured surroundings have turned out spectacularly. The dedication ceremony was first class, with moving prayers, speeches, and music honoring the veterans still with us and remembering those who have died for their country. The ceremony was certainly a poignant reminder of the sacrifices that have been made to maintain the way of life that we so often take for granted today.

Regardless of the controversy surrounding its initial conception and fundraising efforts, it is obvious that when the business and government leaders of Oconee County put their hearts into something, it is done first class. Kudos to the Oconee Veterans Memorial Foundation board, the Oconee County Government, and Mike Maxey and Mike Power for their contributions of materials and labor from their personal businesses. I could kick myself for not taking my camera, but I'm sure there will be plenty of photos in tomorrow's Athens Banner-Herald.

Afterwards, Susan, Phoebe, Aaron and I also visited downtown Watkinsville for further festivities, and there was a good crowd enjoying the music, food, and various other forms of entertainment. While I missed running Peachtree and catching up with all of our friends, I sure don't miss being sore and I don't think I could have enjoyed a better, more relaxing 4th of July.

That said, I think one year off is enough. Time to get ready for Peachtree '09.

Veterans Memorial BBQ This Sunday

See below for a message from Chuck Williams. These sort of events are one of the things that make small towns like Watkinsville and Oconee County great. Lets all support our troops and honor our veterans by buying a plate of BBQ on Sunday.
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Friends: Attached is the info on Sunday’s Veterans’ Day event. Please distribute this information “far & wide”; if possible, get word to your respective pastors so that it can be included in Sunday’s church bulletins and announcements. If additional information is desired, or if you wish to volunteer for food prep, serving duty or cleanup, please contact Tom Little’s right-hand lady, Linda Ferrara; her contact info is below. The main things we can do are get the word out and attend the event this Sunday. This is a great opportunity for Oconee County to show our respect for all Veterans and for the supreme sacrifice paid by Joshua Reeves (and others) in Iraq (and Afghanistan). Thanks a bunch… Chuck Wms.

Linda Ferrara
Resource Construction Company
Phone 706 353-2218, Fax 706-549-8909

MEMORIAL BBQ SUNDAY 11/11/07 AT THE OCONEE COUNTY CIVIC CENTER
All proceeds from the BBQ will directly benefit the family of Josh Reeves and also the Oconee County Veterans Memorial Foundation. Everything related to the BBQ has been donated. This Veteran’s Day, please join your friends and neighbors as they show their gratitude to the family of Joshua Reeves and the other soldiers from Oconee County who gave their lives fighting for our freedom. Please wear red, white and blue or a military uniform as a visual reminder of their sacrifice. Donations only for BBQ Plates. Drive thru or eat in.

Checks should be made payable to:
Oconee County Veterans Memorial Foundation
P.O. Box 1836, Watkinsville, GA 30677
Contact: Larry Davison, Chair Phone: 770-725-2609 Email: ltdpreach@msn.com