PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Publisher’s letter

Interdependency

In an average election year, just over half of eligible voters go to the polls, and primary races draw far fewer voters. In 2016 many chose not to vote due to the choice of candidates or other reasons. In one fell swoop, there went Roe v. Wade.

In 2020 after many were feeling the effects of Covid and a mounting divisive atmosphere along with three new Supreme Court judges, people went to the polls in record numbers (66% of eligible voters), the highest since 1908. That still leaves out a large swath of voters who sit on the sidelines and don’t exercise the freedom of having their voices heard. Voting is freedom and the ability to shape your society.

Why are people so passionate or don’t care at all? A Pew research paper showed that almost 20% of voters were not interested in the outcome. Of the young people in America that are 18-29, less than half vote. The centrist or “non-partisan” Brookings Institute paper suggests we, like many other countries, including Australia, should make voting compulsory.

I’m sure the sideliners aren’t too happy about gas prices, and many young potential homeowners wonder why interest rates suddenly are making housing less affordable. We must participate in how and who makes decisions affecting our lives. Votes have consequences, as evidenced by the election and appointments of three conservative judges that long-held Roe v. Wade to be unconstitutional when most Americans consider it settled law. Elections had consequences, and this is overflowing evidence.

Far too many people, particularly young Americans, are not participating in elections.

At the state and local levels in Texas, the elections of state legislatures have redrawn redistricting maps, which will affect the outcome of elections for many years to come. Cities and state leaders are now left to sort out these many new laws. Voting has far-reaching results.

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26415 Hollow Stone Lane | Cypress, TX

List Price $1,000,000 | MLS#87997531

This meticulously maintained Byers Custom Estate Home is adjacent to the #1 Tee Box of the North course of Blackhorse Golf Club in the exclusive gated section. This stately home is situated on over a half acre with breathtaking views of the golf course.

Annie Farmer | Keller Williams | 832-564-5694

5119 Kenton Place | Fulshear List Price $599,995 | MLS# 23283035

Fabulous Trendmaker home located in Cross Creek Ranch features 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 1 half-bath and 3 car oversized garage! Steps away from paths to the elementary school. Elegant architecture with open concept design and a front foyer with a high ceiling.

Tammy Canon | Berkshire Hathaway | 713-898-7366 26 W Shore Dr. | Bentwater

List Price $1,599,000 | MLS# 405434169496377

Luxury lake living in this beautiful custom home on the #5 hole of the Miller Golf Course. Wall of windows for fabulous views of Lake Conroe in gated community. Primary bedrooms connected by an elevator and all have private balconies and breathtaking views and gorgeous sunrises.

Beverly Smith | Coldwell Banker Realty | 713-569-2113

5655 Locke Ln | Briarcroft List Price $1,475,000 | MLS# 83962829

Large open living areas with modern, clean finishes, high ceilings, tons of natural light, hardwoods throughout. First floor includes primary bedroom, gourmet kitchen, study, wine grotto, utility / mud room & butler’s pantry. Second floor has 3 bedrooms, gameroom, den and computer nook. Garage apt has full bath, kitchen and W/D.

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