Ask Billie

Wharton's future is going to be different. Will it be better? We do not know, we believe it will, and we cannot shirk our responsibility for making it happen. We do know that a lot of our leadership will be different.

What about leadership? We are hearing and reading that word a lot recently but what goes into a good leader? That is something that a person cannot confer upon themselves, it has to be earned. We have seen professed leaders who look behind and no one is following.

This is a great time for exciting things to happen. In a week we will have elected a new Mayor and if you do not vote, you will be the weak link. When I voted at 5 p.m. on Monday, fewer than 200 people had cast a vote.

That is not acceptable. The new Mayor will be joined by two new City Councilmen and that will bring new ideas and new energy. They need the enthusiasm of those of us who follow if they are successful.

What are their goals and visions for our community? We do not know yet, simply because we have not asked. Again, are we complacent or where is our news media?

Are we going to be involved enough in city government or do we expect less than a dozen people to make all the decisions for our future?

Have you thought about a wish list for Wharton and if so, have you shared it with our elected officials? I believe topping my list would be a City Planner or someone with the expertise to guide our future. If we do not have a plan and work toward a common goal someone will have a plan for us and it may not be what is best. There is a great difference in a plan and a "happening."

Other changes

Wharton Independent School District has a new Superintendent and that is always exciting. He brings new dreams for faculty and students.

There is no doubt education excellence is our greatest need. If discipline in many of our grades is lacking, it is a community problem as well as a school problem and not acceptable.

Our schools have never turned down volunteers and there is nothing more rewarding than helping a child.

We have so many wonderful folks who are retired and who would make great tutors. No, this is not a need for a rocket scientist but a person who cares.

If we are thinking schools will soon be out for the summer and no need for volunteers, consider the Boys & Girls Club.

A few hours a week can make a difference. It does not take a special talent but a big heart helps.

A new look

The corner of Houston and Burleson Streets has taken on a new look with the opening of Stewart Title. You will not want to miss the Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting Thursday, May 8 at 4 p.m.

That building has housed a business in Wharton since the beginning of our city.

Now it has been totally transformed into beautiful offices that add another element to our attractive historic downtown.