let's talk, not yell at each other

There seem to be some folks who have difficulty sharing a dialogue without it becoming an opportunity for them to vent their somewhat, at least to me, extreme anger. That's too bad, because when people are able to actually discuss the points at issue, compromises can be reached, or some better understanding of one another's opinions be achieved.

Although I am sure that Lew Mayhew finds it hard to be civil with me, he has consistently been exactly that. Completely civil. I cannot, however, say the same for that entire family. Recently, Kathy Mayhew apparently felt fully justified in raising her voice and pointing her fingers into my chest in public, following a candidates forum. She said, if I understood her correctly, that neither the Mayhews nor anyone associated with them has ever said anything in the way of attacks or personal attacks against the Nemee family. (Mike and Michelle Nemee, and their sons, 3 year old Sammy and 3 month old Nathan, have been attempting to open the Trinitas project on Ospital Road.)

I clearly disagreed with her because there have been constant personal and public attacks against the Nemees for at least the past two years! I also believe, despite the fact that the Mayhews, even though they have been invited many times, have never actually been to the golf course at trinitas, have repeatedly, and during recorded public meetings, made outrageous statements that are simply not supported by facts.

Mrs. Mayhew further indicated, again if I understood correctly, that I have been mean, made mean statements about the Mayhews and Keep it Rural, KIR, and those statements have been personal attacks! Admittedly, there may be some thread of truth in this point. I probably have made statements that come across as mean because they directly challenge the Mayhew's view of the world. I tried to make it clear that anything said by me, has had my name on it, and I try never to use 'anonymous' as a method of hiding my identity. I further said that I mostly ask questions that seem to get under their skin. I will gladly apologize if shown openly and face to face that something I've said is incorrect. Since that hasn't yet happened, I haven't apologized.

I have made this and similar offers in the past: why not have an open public forum or debate during which we can each present our cases and reasonings. But please leave the histrionics, high strung emotions and raised voices at the door. Those things are seldom helpful in moving any discussion forward.

If there are any takers, contact me at darrylrusk@aol.com, or call me at 559-9972. You should be aware, however, that if truthful and honest statements have hurt in the past, I will do my best to provide even more evidence and accuracy during any such debate. Again, any takers?

I have tried always to follow certain principles. For instance, if I say it, I'll sign it. Seems simple enough, but it has been a stumbling block for many others. Also, I believe that open and reasonable dialogue can open doors to better understandings and greater civility. Finally, for today, I think that silly behind the back whispering attacks are for very immature elementary school children, not adults.

Agree or disagree, or even violently disagree, I hope each person reading this has a splendid and safe autumn day -- it is beautiful!