A Reflection on Servant Leadership in Divided Times
After 47 years as a business owner, I’ve learned that true leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room or pushing your own agenda. It’s about listening, serving others, and building bridges. Pastor Brown’s message today reminded me why these principles matter even more in public service. When he shared the story of Nurse Edith Cavell, who cared for soldiers from every nation because ‘Christ has called me to care for ALL people regardless of their nationality,’ I found myself leaning forward in my pew. That’s what servant leadership looks like. It’s about serving every person who needs our help, whether they voted for me or against me, whether they’re conservative or liberal.
Greensboro’s Public Safety Crisis: Time for Real Leadership
Greensboro started 2025 with four murders in the first week, and we’ve already seen 13 homicides by summer. With a 1 in 21 chance of becoming a crime victim and our Police Department operating 90 officers short, our public safety crisis has reached a breaking point. While other cities like Burlington offer competitive $55,000 starting salaries to attract top officers, Greensboro’s $46,000 wages are driving our trained police to leave for departments that actually value their service. The current City Council has had years to address this crisis, but instead of supporting our brave men and women in blue, they’ve presided over a steady decline in public safety while our citizens pay the price. It’s time for real leadership that understands what it takes to create an environment where law enforcement can thrive and our community can feel safe again.
Rebuilding Greensboro: Laying the Groundwork for Economic Prosperity
Greensboro stands at a pivotal moment, with our aging infrastructure—roads, water systems, and broadband access—crying out for attention. In 2023 alone, the city repaired over 3,400 potholes, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive maintenance. As we look to the future, investing in our infrastructure is not just about fixing today’s problems; it’s about laying the groundwork for economic prosperity and attracting new businesses. Join me, Nicky Smith, as we explore a strategic plan to revitalize Greensboro’s infrastructure, ensuring a brighter, more connected future for all residents. Together, we can transform our city into an engine of growth and opportunity.