Listening recently to members of both the Republican and Democratic Parties, the public seems to be getting fed up with career politicians and their do nothing “business as usual” attitudes at all levels of government. Most of the displeasure is coming not from what our elected officials are doing, but rather what they are not doing: being honest and working hard to serve the people and not themselves. 

This behavior is becoming the new normal ... and that’s scary. Example: Sure, the North Carolina General Assembly finally passed the budget, but, at what cost? Coming in nearly three months over due at a cost of $50,000 per day makes you wonder where their priorities are. Do the math. How many low wealth North Carolina counties could have been helped with the distribution of several million dollars? No, this is not responsible governance on the state level. I would recommend that the July budget deadline be enforced allowing for only one temporary spending law to be passed. 

After that, except for basic expenses, they should not be paid. The system, as it is, only rewards bad behavior at taxpayers expense.

On the local level, we need to hold our elected officials accountable. We, as voting residents, need to get energized and start asking the tough questions and stop settling for ambiguous promises short on actual facts and details. We need to get more vocal in calling out politicians who continuously do the wrong things for the wrong reasons.

The Fayetteville community needs real leaders in place to move us into the 21st century. Leaders who motivate and inspire people and desire to make Fayetteville a better community. 

We know who they are, so get ready to vote.  

On a side note, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize a true American hero, Fayetteville native Ed Reeder. Reeder, a graduate of Pine Forest High School, went on to play football at Appalachian State University and then entered the U.S. Army. While in the Army, Reeder was part of the elite Army Special Forces, leading troops throughout Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. 

Reeder is thought to be the foremost expert in the Army on Afghanistan and has built relationships that few could have. Throughout his time in the Army, he has continued to call Fayetteville home, and along with his wife, Adrienne, have been wonderful citizens of our community.

Last Wednesday, Reeder, now a three-star general, retired at Fort Bragg. His ceremony was attended by a veritable Who’s Who in Army special operations, where heroes abound. All of them came to honor our hometown boy. Eddie, we are proud of you and wish you nothing but success in your future and look forward to what you continue to contribute to our community!

Thank you for reading Up & Coming Weekly.