How we show up matters as much as what we stand for
It Starts with Showing Up
Community conversations don’t just happen in meeting rooms—they happen on sidewalks, at parades, and in everyday interactions.
Today was a reminder of that.
We started the morning at the Spring Fest Parade in Miamisburg. Even with rain moving in and the event being cut short, people still showed up. That alone says a lot about the strength of a community.
But one of the most meaningful moments came before the parade even began.
A Simple Act of Kindness
After arriving early, I parked along a nearby street to stay clear of the parade route. The homeowner whose house I was in front of came out to greet me.
She kindly asked if I could move to allow for a delivery—and then generously offered her driveway instead.
She didn’t have to do that.
That moment set the tone for the day.
Respect. Courtesy. Community.
From Miamisburg to Oakwood
A few hours later, we headed to Oakwood for That Day in May.
The weather held (at least initially), and Shafor Boulevard was lined with families, kids, and neighbors enjoying the event. It was great to see so many people out, smiling, and engaged.
Events like these remind us what connection looks like in real time.
When Conversations Turn
Not everyone agreed with every message we shared—and that’s okay.
Our “Abolish Property Tax” sign sparked conversations, which is exactly what it was meant to do.
But there were a few moments where someone who thinks differently turned into heckling and even booing.
And that’s where we need to do better.
Disagreement Doesn’t Have to Mean Disrespect
We don’t all have to agree.
In fact, different perspectives are what help communities grow stronger.
But how we express those differences matters—especially in front of children who are watching and learning from us.
Civility isn’t weakness.
It’s leadership.
If we lose the ability to have respectful conversations, we lose the opportunity to find real solutions.
What I’m Hearing from People
Over the years, I’ve had conversations with thousands of people.
Many of those discussions come back to the same concerns:
- The growing burden of property taxes
- The challenge of managing rising costs
- The frustration of feeling unheard
These aren’t extreme viewpoints.
Most people are right in the middle—just trying to live their lives, take care of their families, and plan for the future.
Moving Forward
If we want better outcomes, it starts with how we show up.
✔ With respect
✔ With openness
✔ With a willingness to listen
Because real progress doesn’t come from shouting louder.
It comes from understanding better.
Final Thought
Today wasn’t just about parades.
It was about people.
It was about the small moments that remind us what community really looks like—and the bigger moments that challenge us to do better.
I’ll continue to show up, listen, and engage—because that’s what this role should be about.