Looking Back Moves Islanders to Thinking Forward
Kaleidoscope by Berni Steinbach
Is the end of 2013 going to be remembered most for the Duck Dynasty freedom of speech controversy? I hope not!
In an annual speech to Congress in 1941, President Franklin Roosevelt stated, “Every realist knows that the democratic way of life is at this moment being directly assailed in every part of the world–assailed either by arms, or by secret spreading of poisonous propaganda by those who seek to destroy unity and promote discord in nations that are still at peace.”
Politicians, national media outlets, and social media participants have consistently reported–sometimes not so accurately–on American values and how they affect our identity. So why all the fuss at the 2013 winter solstice? Simply put, because Americans once again come face-to-face with the business realities of commercial entertainment. We admire good TV programs, and we support characters with whom we have some idealized affinity, but the American public forget too easily that programming decisions are ultimately not pinned to any one national identity, whether it be religious, political, or social.
“The confrontation of minds” remains a keystone to awareness and progress, so for the citizens of the Bass Islands the national news fervor might just be a clarion call: a poignant reminder of our responsibility to live, in work and play, as a cohesive unit.
I suggest we remember 2013, in spite of losses and hardships, as a year of excellence in our community. The absolutely incredible September celebration of our history at the Bicentennial of the Battle of Lake Erie comes to mind first, but smaller events illuminated our environment as well. Recall the official stamp and coin releases; the Put-in-Bay Arts Council spring, summer, and fall events; the Chamber of Commerce sponsored Blessing of the Fleet, Island-Wide Garage Sale, Founder’s Day, Pyrate Fest, and Oktoberfest. Remember the Island Employee Spaghetti Dinner (courtesy of the Catholic, Episcopal, and Lutheran churches), the Miller Boat Line 5k, and the Put-in-Bay Fire Department Clam Bake!
Yes, retrospection paints a favorable picture for which we give thanks, and from which we can move into a delightful 2014 founded on positive and constructive relationships. Happy NEW Year!
