This past week I had the opportunity to spend some time with our country’s foremost scientists: they are developing a clean energy product. Invariably, the discussion of our society’s ills came up as it always does for me when I speak to people. They have a sense that I am a problem solver, a doer as opposed to a whiney pundit. Or for that matter, it also could have been due to my nascent understanding of nuclear-chemical plasma physics and whether or not they could create ‘work’ from an environment as such, something that you might find generating energy in a star wars movie. Cool stuff.

      Nevertheless, they expressed a fundamental concern for our ability in this great country of ours to educate and to teach applied sciences amongst our children. Their keen observation was that it takes time to develop interest and capability within our students; core perceptions of the physical world cannot be understood overnight. The process must start at an early age and continue throughout ones lifetime. In a quantum way of thinking but very apropos, they outlined the fundamental nature of chaos, distraction, demise, and poverty as manifestations or coming realities that our nation is creating for itself. I cannot disagree. Democracy requires education; it mandates a drive to improve, not to destroy but to build. Every generation must pass its mantle to the next…not by example especially today, but through education.

      How can I make a difference, how are you able to help with this dilemma facing our country and our state?

      My thoughts now turn to the philosophy of the NRMC. It is one of camaraderie, of sharing a meal with like minded individuals. We provide a social and business net-work for our members. We also contribute to Clark County in different ways than you might not expect. We engage in a great speakers program: elected officials, pundits, and leaders who are charged with identifying the issues particular to their position in life and respond by offering efficacious solutions. We provide a forum for candidates. We identify and contribute to tactical political decisions that are made here in Clark County. Above all else, we recognize that we are a membership organization and ask for referrals to continue our growth and provide substance during election years. So what is this “substance?” We understand the nature of democracy, we are Republicans.

      Substance means participation. Many opportunities exist if you should wish to volunteer your time and money. For those with little time, may I suggest an e-mail to your elected officials or perhaps writing a check to candidate campaigns or your favorite coalition/PAC or to the CCRP or RNC? Money talks, it says; “Hey, I may not have the time to give, but I do have one of my most precious resources to provide, please accept my contribution of $X.”

      Equally as valuable is your time:   the State GOP and CCRP do have various tactical and strategic plans for physical participation. Our local political leadership has developed a great plan for assigning volunteers to various campaigns and county support roles. Titles mean very little, service counts. You have the opportunity to pick and choose. It is usually first come first served so con-tact them, please. This contribution on your behalf may entail stuffing envelopes, phone banking, graphic design, think tank sessions for ads and strategy, and of course, pressing the flesh. Usually there is something for everyone

      It is my belief the greatest and most gratifying hallmark of service toward the RNC and County would be to run for office and serve in the capacity as a leader. In order to make that decision, please understand your self first; determine if you have the skill set necessary to serve others, to be a servant leader. One must serve not only the individuals who place him or her into office, but those who did not: The opposition…the servant leader listens twice as much as he or she speaks. You must listen to both sides of any debate; otherwise, you may have fallen asleep.

      Make sure that your background has been vetted by an independent review, that it is stable and that your references can provide testimonials to your capability. Endorsements are great but testimonials are far more powerful. Create a short biography/CV and know your strategic direction: be well-versed in current affairs and begin implementing a consensus plan. Make sure that people know the ‘you’. Build slowly and build a strong foundation of support by letting your solutions be known. We all have an idea as to what the problems are…let us hear about those solutions. If you are short on good ideas, then option-solve.

      Some say that the most important factor is to walk the walk and talk the talk. You will be tested at every turn and utterance because you are asking to serve the public trust. It is the very nature of the political process. I learned over the past several years that it so relevant to be true to your convictions, and enlist that strength of character to move forward in a sea of opinion, discontent and processes of option-solving; be results oriented.

      What is your truth? Pick goals and objectives that will repair and promulgate our democratic institutions and thus yield a natural legacy to your leadership. It is never too late to start, nor too early for that matter. Pick three and only three issues of which you will make your case for your brand of leadership. Specifically, know as much as possible about these issues, option-solve when you must, debate, and suggest and/or accept the undone. When serving many, look for the least common denominators.