As regular readers know, the Guardian just celebrated a second anniversary. And the mastermind – some would say the “evil genius” – behind the effort convened a low-key celebration at a local franchise food establishment. (I’d mention ’em by name, if they’d given Dave some free pizza – ha!)

It was a treat for me to meet with Dave, and his better half, and several regular Guardian contributors and readers.

As you might guess if you weren’t there, the topics of conversation were not “Hot enough for ya?” and “How about those Steelheads!”

It was interesting to me to observe how different we are in many ways, and how alike we are in others.

One fella who was there (and who contributes his ideas regularly) declared how “right-wing” so much of the local media are. (Which took others of us by surprise, who see the same voices as “left-leaning.” It all depends on your point of view, obviously.) When asked where his politics were, he said “somewhere between Socialism and Communism.” Hmmm.

Since I tend to see “the government” as part of the problem, rather than part of the solution (grin), we’re obviously poles apart on the politics chart. Yet, we share the common interest of love for this community and our desire to preserve what we have. And the conversation was very cordial and friendly between everyone who showed.

To those who have read, but not written… PLEASE share your voices. A voice not heard is of no value. Two years of history have proven that we can have differing opinions while still maintaining a respectful and meaningful dialogue. And the Guardian is a great venue (unlike some of the unmoderated forums out there, where 90% of the content is juvenile name-calling – YUK!). And – you can remain as anonymous as you want to.

Kudos once more to Dave – THE GUARDIAN. He deserves the moniker. And warm salutations to all who have contributed to the effort. Despite Dave’s noble efforts, if he’d gone at it alone, it would have been a flop. I think he would agree.

In the words of Tiny Tim (NOT the “tiptoe thru the tulips guy), “God bless us, every one!”

Oh, oh! With all these compliments coming in, yer probably gonna get a swelled head! 🙂