We unfortunately find ourselves living in a polarized world. When we are polarized is it almost impossible to see the merits of the “other side.” The “other side” almost always has some merits! Today’s political climate is a perfect example. Most of the grid lock we find in Congress is because politicians rarely sit down and just have a respectful conversation. I often see this on a local level with different business, political and public sector organizations. I have always thought that it is easier to have an aversion to someone from afar, while it is hard to have those same feelings when you are sitting across the table from that same person having a cup of coffee.
The City Club of Central Oregon was formed in 2007 to help break down barriers with the thought that conversation creates community. We have emulated the City Club of Portland which formed over 100 years ago. I feel a deep responsibility to participate in civic organizations that make a difference in our community. The City Club is certainly one of those entities. It is the place to have the conversation and discuss important international, national, statewide and local issues that affect us all and yet do so in a spirit of respect for open dialogue and differing opinions.
We accomplish this by hosting monthly non-partisan forums relating to public issues that are of interest to Central Oregon residents. We attract speakers with expertise in both the private and public sectors. These speakers are asked to share their viewpoints on timely and important policy issues so that our members may learn and, in the process, become informed and involved community citizens. Questions from the membership play an integral part in each forum’s design.
One of our most talked about forums was on Global Climate Change. We invited two experts to address our members and guests. One speaker was from the National Hurricane Center in Miami who stated “This is the most important issue to face the next generation.” The next speaker was from a well-known university who stated, “What global climate change?” Our purpose as an organization was not to take sides but to have the conversation. After each speaker addressed the audience for 20 minutes, members discussed the issue for 15 minutes at their tables before having an opportunity to ask the experts questions. Some other global topics have included The Middle East is Boiling and The Muslim Faith- Is it About Love or War?
A recent national topic was the immigration debate. Few topics are as divisive and complex as the subject of foreign nationals on U.S. soil without authorization. Yet, no matter how one views the issue, all agree the immigration system is deeply flawed. Statewide topics have included Oregon’s educational system and The Port of Portland’s import and export capabilities. Local topics have included Rebuilding Third Street in Bend and Redesigning Non Profits for a New Age.
Special guest speakers have included our current and past Governors, our US Senator and famous authors.
I think we can all agree that Central Oregon is an amazing place to call home. Very few people relocated here because of a job. Historically many people have described Central Oregon as “poverty with a view” Unlike most places around the country as well as the world, most of us live here by design rather than by default. We are here because we consciously decided that this is where we want to live, grow a business and or family or even retire. I like to use the term “possibilities with a view.” If there is one common denominator among the City Club’s membership it’s that members are motivated to improve our Central Oregon community. I believe that so many people have stopped listening. Dr. Stephen Covey states, “We must listen to truly understand. This opens one up to other perspectives, ideas and emotions.” Communication is a miracle but when used effectively it can move mountains.
City Club membership is open to every community member. Live forums are televised on Bend Broadband’s COTV. To learn more about the City Club of Central Oregon, please visit www.CityClubofCentralOregon.com.
David Rosell is President of the Rosell Wealth Management in Bend. He is the President of the City Club of Central Oregon and the Past Chairman of the Bend Chamber of Commerce. David can be reached at (541)385-8831 or www.RosellWealthManagement.com.
