Rick, the group you mention reminded me of Benjamin Franklin's group the Junto. He formed the group of leather-apron men to discuss philosiphy, different authors, and current local concerns. The group you were invited to sounds like it lacked openness.

I have often admired Franklin for all his deeds. He never once patented any of his inventions because he wanted everyone to be able to use them.

In context of this thread, I can say that I have often wished to see such do-ers as Franklin. Politics on a grand scale in my opinion, pale in importance to what we can do for ourselves at a local level. It all begins at home.

The only thing I'm doing locally is teaching Vancouver's children's choir this summer. How that ties in I don't know!

Margie