For me, this is my favorite time of year: the colorful fall foliage against striking blue skies, the cooler weather, the return of more rigid schedules and routines, and beginning to anticipate the holidays. However, this is also the time of year when our communities are consistently blasted with political ads, phone calls, and commercials. That pretty much spoils it for me. Year after year I pay attention to those whose viewpoints, values, and past history are what I look for in leadership—be it on a local, statewide, or national level. Many times, however, I become discouraged because all too often candidates do not uphold their end of the bargain.

It is a natural instinct for us to hope that each new candidate we hear about will bring changes that will positively affect us in various ways. All too often, though, we are let down one way or another—dishonesty, scandal, and corruption reveal themselves even to the least likely. (I am also reminded that we are all human!)

In this issue, I encourage you to read these articles in an attempt to overcome what could turn out badly within your circles of influence. Incorporate the wisdom these authors have written about and surround yourself with the insight you need to rise above the crowd.

Yours in continual learning,

Sarah George, M.S.M. 27 ‘04

Editor