I just took part in an action that I realize is more historically significant than the issue itself.
There is a little local brouhaha going on about the behavior of a member of the Board of Selectmen.
Follow this link to one of the items about this on Sturbridge Political Watch. This item is a call to sign a recall petition to recall the board member.
The value of the internet in this event cannot be underestimated.
- The Internet Is A News Source
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I have always felt at a disadvantage in local politics, because I found it hard to be as informed as one can be with respect to national politics. You just never get enough news coverage of what is going on locally. True the author of the Sturbridge Political Watch is a Board of Selectman member, but the other members are free to write their own blog if they want.
Also this is not my only source of information. After being alerted to this story, I had opportunities to hear from eye witnesses.
- The Internet can promote timely calls for action
- This email I received is a great example
Hi.
The recall petition is circulating this a.m. at the recycling center until noon. This afternoon some residents are collecting signatures around various neighborhoods in town. I'm unsure if they plan to be in your neighborhood?You may also stop by our house to sign at 85 Breakneck Road. Our number is 347-9216.Thanks. It's slow-going, but we are continuing to collect signatures and hoping to hit the 1300!Jennifer Babcock - The Internet is awakening a new level of democracy
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As a result of seeing the news items about this issue, having the time to mull it over, and then receiving a reminder about the petition, Sharon and I drove over to the Babcock’s and signed the petition..
Had the internet not been available, I might not have taken action after I missed my opportunity to sign the petition outside the polling place for a recent local election.
Local politicians can no longer depend on the apathy of the local electorate nor the local electorate’s ignorance of what is going on.