By Staff
We're always glad to see our state and national elected officials pay us the honor of a visit.
Next Monday, Congressman Sonny Callahan, R-Mobile, will hold a town hall meeting in Poarch.
In attending previous meetings, we have heard the congressman talk about the state of politics in Washington, what he expects, what he hopes won't happen and where he stands on certain issues.
We've seen him field questions on broad subjects down to why someone in Atmore couldn't get assistance with a particular problem.
These town hall meetings give citizens the opportunity to ask questions, give an opinion, or "lobby" for a cause. The word "lobbyist" is usually thought of in negative terms. But we all "lobby" when we try to influence someone to our way of thinking or doing.
All too often, we sit back and complain about our government. Sadly, all too often, we continue to sit back and complain when we have someone come to our community who could address our concerns.
But town hall meetings are not just about problems. If you want to know why things are the way they are in Washington, why a particular piece of legislation was passed or not passed, come out next Monday and ask.
You may not get instant answers or results, but we've seen Callahan's staff take information and promise to get back to the concerned constituents.
This is the first town hall meeting that Callahan will hold in this area since George W. Bush, also a Republican, was elected president.
What the president and Congress do affects us all. Items under consideration in Washington include Social security and Medicare, debt reduction, education reform, military pay raises and patient protection.
Got an opinion? Tell the congressman.
Got a question? Ask the congressman.
The town hall meeting will be held Monday, March 26, 8 a.m., at the auditorium at the Poarch tribal center.