FROM THE DESK OF REPRESENTATIVE DE BOEF

February 24, 2005

The legislative session is moving along very quickly!  It is really hard to believe that we are getting close to the halfway point.  This week we observed two days in Joint Session with the Senate.  The first one featured Major General Ron Dardis of the Iowa National Guard in a “State of the National Guard” speech.  The second of our Joint Sessions was not business as usual.  The Legislature hosted Michael Josephson, a motivational speaker. 

Coming to Iowa from California, Mr. Josephson  gave a presentation on civility and also supported the “Character Counts” organization.  Governor Vilsack had invited him to address the members of the House and Senate as civility plays an important role in compromise.

He urged all members of the legislature to abide by a higher standard of civility.  We were encouraged to reject participation in the negative rhetoric that has surfaced in many of the recent campaigns.  This past election was exceptionally negative and it can be difficult to put the personal attacks behind us.  This in turn makes it hard to compromise on legislation.  Mr. Josephson challenged us not only to practice civility during Session, but carry the ideas into our campaigns as well.  He encouraged us to avoid the personal attacks and mud slinging that we often see in campaign rhetoric.

Before concluding his speech, Josephson offered a five point doctrine of rationalization we should strive to live above.  These points included:

1.)    Decrease of relative filth – “I’m not as bad as long as the other is worse.”

2.)    Fighting fire with fire.

3.)    I have no choice – ethic don’t allow a different standard.

4.)    Everyone does it.

5.)    The end justifies the means.

To bring his presentation to a close, Michael Josephson read a poem he had written.  I wanted to share an excerpt with you.

“What will matter is not what you brought but what you built,

not what you got but what you gave.

What will matter is not your success but your significance.

What will matter is not what you learned but what you taught.

What will matter is every act of integrity, compassion, courage or sacrifice that enriched,

Empowered or encouraged other to emulate your example.

What will matter is not your competence but your character.

What will matter I not how many people you knew,

but how many will feel a lasting loss when you’re gone.

What will matter is not your memories but the memories of those who loved you.

What will matter I how long you will be remember, but whom and for what.

Living a life that matter doesn’t happen by accident.

It’s not a matter of circumstance but of choice.

Choose to live a life that matter.

The other Joint Session was convened with the intention of hearing the State of the National Guard.  Major General Dardis began by thanking Iowa for being one out of 15 states that offered benefits in six separate categories ranging from education benefits to family support to tax breaks for the soldiers.  He spoke eloquently about the Global War on Terror.  The Major General referenced the commitment the Iowa National Guard has made to the efforts in Afghanistan and Iraq.  Currently, 17% of the available force is deployed in Iraq.  This is significantly less than the 50-80% that has been deployed in the past two years.  These percentages ranked us number one n the nation at many different times.  He added that he is very proud of being at 100% strength.  The Iowa Guard was recognized last month as being number one in recruiting since it has the most students signed up for the National Guard Tuition Program.  Not only does Iowa excel in recruiting, but we are number five in the nation for retention, retaining over 85% of their members every year with last year’s rate at 94%.

Major General Dardis spoke extensively of his trip to Afghanistan and how much hope we have brought to such a destitute country.  Dardis took the time during his speech to He honored war heroes from Iowa.  Specialist Ron Lukes from Protivin and Specialist Michael Johnson from Red Oak were recognized.  In addition, tribute was paid to the 30 brave soldiers and the families who have paid the ultimate price for our freedom.  The Major General extended comfort to them.  Towards the end of his speech, he said, “My profound hope is that they sense the love and support of so many and they realize our eternal gratitude for the price they have paid.  Be assured that they are not alone in their loss.  They now share a common bond with other families and with all members of our military family.  The sacrifice they have made will never be forgotten!” 

In conclusion, I would like to quote the inaugural address of President George W. Bush where he said, “Life is fragile – evil is real – courage is triumphant.”  An appropriate thought as we remember these who are engaged in the fight for freedom.

Question of the Week…

Would you support raising the speed limit on interstate highways?

I would appreciate your input.  My phone number at the Capitol is 515-281-3221, or e-mail me at bdeboef@legis.state.ia.us.  I would welcome visitors at the Capitol, too!